Pizza-box fun
Breaking news: Pandas eat pizza! At least, that was the clever idea of Sarah Lee, a student at the British School of Beijing, who was one of four grand-prize winners of a design contest by Gung Ho Pizza. All four winning designs will be featured on upcoming pizza boxes, and each winner will receive a certificate and a pizza party for their friends, while seven finalists in each age group (under 12 and under 18) will get a certificate and a 200-yuan ($32) voucher. Contest organizers say the work was judged on creativity and technique, among other aspects.
Summer tea
Beijing's Waldorf-Astoria introduces a summer-themed afternoon tea in its elegant Peacock Alley lounge. Premium teas and coffee are matched with savory and sweet snacks that include English, Chinese, Indian, Japanese and Thai choices. Look for apricot, plain and an unusual sweet-potato scone, all served with clotted cream, whipped butter and your choice of jam. Price: 388 yuan per set, available daily from 2:30 to 5:30 pm.
No 5-15, Jinyu Hutong, Dongcheng district. 010-8520-8989.
Taste of sea
Rich in protein, niacin, vitamin B12 and iron, the whelk is featured in summer dishes crafted by chef Goh Wooi Cheat at Dragon Palace in the Kempinski Beijing hotel. Traditionally the meat is sauteed and served with spicy sauce, he says, but his seasonal menu adds fruit flavors as well; available through Aug 31.
50 Liangmaqiao Road, Chao-yang district. 010-6410-4200.