The Tree

September 28, 2006 [ Updated December 1, 2006 ]
One of the top Belgian beer bars in Beijing. Western atomosphere and clients. Descent food and a great Belgian beer list for a bar in China. Wireless Internet is a plus.

April 16, 2006
This pub is located in the Beijing Chaoyang District, specifically at the infamous Sanlitun Bar Street. As mreeves pointed out, this place is not easy to find as it is tucked away in a dark alleyway off of Sanlitun Bei Lu. Your best bet is to ask any Westerner for directions. Otherwise, face the building with the huge 3.3 sign (the one with the huge video screen) and take the right side street and walk past the Kali bar, turn left and it’s through the gate on the left side. The Tree is a relaxed, cosy place with an red-brick interior and subdued lighting. Very popular with Westerners, the beer menu (a book actually) includes an extensive selection of bottled Belgium beers. The limited tap selection included Hoegaarden and Tsingtao beers. Perhaps more surprisingly is the huge pizza oven stuck onto the front of the building. I didn’t try the food but judging at what the patrons were eating and the Western food menu, the offering are way above pub fare. The bartenders very friendly and service was quick. This place offered a much welcomed Western diversion. I enjoyed this place and plan to visit it again on my next trip to Beijing.

October 28, 2005
Good luck finding this place! It took me forever, but I finally made it. Weird neighborhood, but I bet by the time the Olympics happen in 2008, this will be the happening area in Beijing. Only 4 beers on tap, but an excellent selection of bottled Belgian beers, including such fine selections as Rodenbach, Orval, Rochefort, etc. Bartender was very friendly. I didn’t try the food, but it looks good. Nice Western retreat in the heart of Beijing.