Here are all the new restaurant and bar openings we featured in our November 2019 issue:
Hola
To start off the night, we ordered a fail-safe option, chips and guac (RMB75). The guacamole tasted fresh, had the right amount of zest and came with plenty of chips for dipping. For our mains, we had an order of four tacos, split evenly between pastor and beef (RMB75-95).
Image by That’s
The soft tacos came packed with lip-smacking seasoned meat and a generous sprinkle of cilantro and onions. To temper the hot sauce that we were dabbing onto our tacos, we tried the ‘Horchata Water’ (RMB30), which is best described as a milky cinnamon-flavored beverage, served cold. The carnitas (RMB105) were also recommended by our server and were essentially braised pulled pork simmering in its own juices and tucked away in tinfoil, with tortillas served on the side. Simply delicious.
Price: RMB150-200
Who’s going: festive friends, carnitas-loving couples
Good for: authentic home-cooking, tacos al pastor, tequila
Nearest metro: Shopping Park Station (Exit B), 4 minutes’ walk
Read our full review here. See listing for Hola.
Corvidae
The menu is divided into three sections: There’s meals if you’re riding solo, small sharing plates or feasts for larger groups. Full disclosure: We’re not the biggest fans of tomatoes but the seasonal tomato salad (RMB65) has us sold. The ripe tomatoes are paired with fresh curd, apricot and basil sauces.
Next, we move onto the ‘Kinda Healthy Chicken’ (RMB105), which contrary to its name is actually a moist, juicy pheasant. This is not the most adventurous dish on the menu but is delicious and sure to please. If you’re looking for something casual, Corvidae offers four different types of bao (RMB30 for one or RMB100 for four). We’d recommend the fried chicken bao or the pork belly bao.
Image by Phoebe Kut/That’s
For the adventurous palate, venison tartare (RMB65) with white truffle is a prime option. Don’t be startled by the appearance, the meat is fresh and makes for a nice, light appetizer.
Image by Phoebe Kut/That’s
Price: RMB150
Who’s going: hungry urbanites, yuppies
Good for: sweet and savory bao, fried chicken
Nearest metro: Shopping Park Station (Exit D), 4 minutes’ walk
Read our full review here. See listing for Corvidae.
3. Roots House
What pairs best with the smooth soulful rhythms of jazz? An equally pleasing drink in hand, of course. This spot has an extensive drinks menu, where you’ll find wines, cocktails, Irish whiskeys and all that jazz.
Image by That’s
To start the night off, we ask for something sweet, and so ‘The Rose’ (RMB98) is first to arrive. The Rose is named after Bette Middler’s namesake single and boy oh boy, is it sweet. Right from the get-go we detect the familiar scent of cinnamon whiskey. Ah, yes. Our old friend, Fireball. The spirit forms the base for the cocktail, and when mixed with a whole ’lotta rose and ginger syrup, the outcome is one of the sweetest beverages we’ve ever tasted – there’s no subtlety here.
Next, we try the ‘Beijing Workers Stadium’ (RMB108). The actual stadium in reference is a multi-purpose venue that hosts sporting events and concerts (including some jazz ones?). The drink comes with a hawthorn garnish and a red star at the bottom of the glass. Though this cocktail innocently looks like an Aperol Spritz, don’t be fooled: a 96% ABV Polish vodka is the main ingredient. Yes, this one will give you a kick alright.
Price: RMB128
Who’s going: those in need of a stiff drink at the end of a long week, the avant garde
Good for: live music, cultural exploration, strong cocktails
Nearest metro: Huaqiaocheng Station (Exit A), 17 minutes’ walk
Read our full review here. See listing for Roots House.
Read more Shenzhen restaurant reviews, bar reviews and cafe reviews.
[Cover image by That’s]
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