There is a belief, surprisingly widely held, that some spots in Beijing are cursed. "Bad feng shui," the locals say, shaking their heads. The nook occupied by Club Fusion is a good example.

It's changed hands more times than a Mongolian hooker. The corner of Sanlitun Lu and Gongti Beilu must have been an old Indian burial ground because for the longest time, this prime patch of real estate languished as a graveyard of a pizza parlor.

Enter Kris Ryan, the Aussie-preneur behind SLT staples, The Saddle and Cox. Opening night at the newly minted Rickshaw and the people were spilling off the balcony. Ryan simplified the space, installed orange booths and turned the mezzanine into a breezy little party spot complete with pool table, TVs kicking out the sports action and one of the best little verandahs in town-all backed by the able barmanship of Luga.

If you stray from the zhapi (why would you for RMB15) try the zombie (RMB40). The comfort-food menu incorporates Cox and Saddle fare, adding in pizzas (RMB25), burgers (RMB40) and even breakfast. If you want to get really wild and crazy, tuck into the banana chimichanga (RMB40) for a one of a kind dessert. Kris Ryan doesn't believe in curses and neither should you.

Rickshaw
Address:Corner of Sanlitun Nanlu and Gongti Beilu
Tel: 010-6500-4330