(Beijing weekend)
Updated: 2007-06-28 09:08

Out of all the watering holes dotted up and down Nanluogu Xiang, the festive food and drink menu, relaxed ambiance, and international patrons of Salud set it apart from all the rest. The bar was recently re-opened this past March. The new flare of the establishment is evident in the flavor of its food and drinks, as well as its style of service.

The prior charm of the lofty venue has been preserved by the new owner, expanded by sleek renovations of the natural wood interior. Although the outdoor marquee has been replaced, familiar fans of the Nanluogu Xiang hutong will recognize the pixilated logo of the previous Salud. The cafe caters a daily brunch menu, house-made rum specialties, and a list of mouth-watering tapas that will be expanded later this summer.

Food portions are as large as they are delicious, set at a reasonable price for Western fare, with starters ranging from 18 to 35 yuan per plate. While many dishes are prepared for individual dining, family style servings are allowed. The 15 yuan sangria makes the perfect drink to wash down a plate of tasty tapas.

"Salud", in Spanish-speaking countries, is the common expression used to toast for good health. Likewise, tapas are Spanish appetizers, popular fare throughout the Mediterranean coastline. Touches like these add to the Southern European atmosphere of the cafe.

The European zest of Salud can be credited to General Manager, Nicolas Pelissier, who was "basically doing the same kind of work, managing the same kind of bars" before he moved to Beijing from France. Under new management, Pelissier hopes to refine the cafe's prior reputation as a neighborhood bar and live music jam spot.

A range of live music acts have been booked for performance at Salud on Wednesday nights throughout the summer, starting at 9pm. "We want to have more entertainment like this in the future," said Pelissier. The bar is also open for private party reservations, as well as company and community events, and will host a documentary screening about the Burning Man art festival on Sunday, June 24, at 7:30 pm (in English with Chinese subtitles).

Opening time: 9am-2am.
Address:66 Nanluogu Xiang, Dongcheng District.
Tel: 010-6402-5086.