Robust Flavors

This popular Shanghai chain has finally arrived in Beijing, bringing with it an extensive menu of delectable and healthful treats. Planting ourselves in the corner, the high ceiling and tall windows offered lovely ambience and natural light. We were served by polite English-speaking wait staff who made sure our meal was well-paced. We dived straight into their list of healthy smoothies, indulging in the “flu fighter” (RMB28)—a mix of kiwi, orange and blueberries—and the “passionate peach” (RMB28). We ordered the homestyle macaroni with mozzarella and parmesan (RMB58), which we topped with a well grilled chicken breast (RMB28). The combination was successfully executed, without the usual lavish heaviness of cheeses. We would have liked the dressing on our greek salad (RMB68) a little sharper, but the wonderful large bowl of olives, feta cheese, tomatoes and lettuce was a fresh, crisp meal in itself. The “chocolate lover’s delight” (RMB38) was a light mousse with a graham-cracker crust, a good sweet pick for the more health-conscious diner but not quite enough to satisfy a true chocoholics’ cravings.
Juliana Loh