1 Jaan

The French say it best, the French cook it best and in this case, the French also do it best. This 1924 ballroom and restaurant is Beijing’s testament to fine French dining complete with fabulous food and a grand piano to swoon your mommy into a Parisian reverie. Tel: 6526-3388

2 A-Che Bar & Restaurant

On weekends let mum feel the low Latin ramba and let loose! Amazing Cuban fare and creative cocktails fill the menu at this cozy south-of-the-border Havana restaurant. After lining the stomach, take mom for a spin around the little dance-floor as a Cuban trio-band play salsa and Latin pop songs. Tel: 6417-2201

3 Nuage

Breaking away from the usual fare, this cavernous Vietnamese restaurant is hot with the young, rich and trendy of Beijing. Lake views, artistic cuisine and stylish Oriental and modern decor, plus the posh downstairs dance club make it a swanky rendezvous spot. Tel: 6401-9581

4 Cabo

Their bubbling, simmering, spicy Mexican food is some of the best in town. Fridays and Saturdays the warm, earthy décor is blasted with swing and salsa combos from Latin parties. There’s even an atrium swing, for a girlish moment swinging under the stars. Tel: 6515 6826

5 Durty Nellie’s

This pub is f-uuun. While the traditional fish ‘n’ chips or a la carte menu are plain fare, with a couple of draught beers, it’s the perfect kick-back spot. On weekends the live classic rock and other oldies pull couples from pub games to the wooden dance floor. Tel: 6532 5905