1 Astor Grill

Pinch-purses stay wary, you’re going to spend some money here but it's worth it. Lying snugly in a dimly lit corner of the St. Regis Hotel, this resto is perfect for ordering arguably the best steak in town and drawing your sweetheart near. Tel: 6460-6688.

2 The Loft

A cavernous club filled with authentic European style dishes, authentic European techno beats and authentic European hotties. Dishes are prepared by executive chef Bob who spent years working in Spain and Greece. Guest DJs and bands every weekend night. Tel: 6589-7877

3 Peter Pan

If your lifelong, desperate search for really good Italian has hit an all-time low in Beijing, then take heart. Skip the delivery and enjoy authentic Italian pizza and spaghetti with classic music performances on the weekends in this cozy bistro. Tel: 6465-1661.

4 Die Kochmützen

Feel “begrüßt” like nowhere else in Beijing in this warm, rustic German tavern. The kitschy chef hats that serve as lampshades are all that distract from the bratwurst and sauerkraut. They also make their own beer on site, which is, quite frankly, spectacularly drinkable. Sundays, feast on Euro-brunch to a private string quartet. Tel: 5869-3830.

5 Mughals Beijing

Word is, this Pakistanian restaurant is—gasp—authentic. Running from classic Indian-style garlic naan and chicken or beef tandoor, adventurers can opt for Xinjiang while enjoying the nightly song and dance shows. Tel: 5136-5575