Coco Park’s newest bar, Baron sits proudly on the corner of the bar street, offering hookah, kebabs and mighty fine cocktails.
Baron takes its name from the moniker of owner Aydin Meden, who also owns the Luohu Istanbul restaurant. The night we stroll into his establishment, he looks regal, sitting and smoking hookah (RMB128/pipe) on the patio, observing everything through a fine film of melon-flavored smoke.
His nickname equally suits the bar, which opened in January and hopes to attract “well-mannered people who can hold their alcohol,” in the words of one bar manager. In the vein of the refined vibe they’re going for, the drink menu focuses on specialty cocktails (all RMB48) and single malt whiskeys. To ensure high-quality, real spirits, Baron’s staff works directly with alcohol company representatives and not distributors.
Berry lovers should order the raspberry, made from raspberry puree, vodka and cranberry juice with a mint leaf garnish. It’s beautifully refreshing and simple. For spicy alcohol, try the mint hint. Lime, mint, sliced cucumber and chili get added to a base of tequila and Campari. The refreshing mix goes down with a subtle burn thanks to the final ingredient: Tabasco sauce. The lychee and rose martini is a flowery, tangy mix of vodka lychee and rose syrup, but, compared with the other drinks, is too sweet and less refreshing.
Baron also offers Turkish food cooked by Turkish chefs. Doner kebabs, the most popular menu item, get prepared right in front of the bar, next to the giant meat rotisserie stand. Sold in chicken (RMB38) and beef (RMB48) variations, they can be purchased anytime, as Baron stays open 24 hours. The chicken option with tomato, cabbage, mayonnaise and mustard is filling, and the spice from the mustard lingers in the mouths until long after the last bite.
In the weeks to come, Baron’s management plans to add events and specials to their lineup. Currently, the bar runs a drink special of buy-one-get-one beers every day of the week, 12 noon to 9pm.
Lunch and afternoon tea with Turkish tea will soon be available, and from this month, a belly dance performance will be held twice weekly. Now that’s a hard prospect to shake off!
Price: Approx. RMB90
Who's going: Well-mannered people, kebab and shisha lovers
Good for: Spicy food and drinks, lounging, Turkish delights
// Listing.
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