Dining News Bites: Kro's to re-open, new branch of Panino Teca

Kro's Nest Gongti is getting ready to open up again after being forced to close for the Olympics. Estimated date of opening is set for this Thursday, Aug 28. The rest of Gongti should also be up and running by weekend. Kro's Nest Beida is already open.

Fans of Panino Teca, the nice little sandwich place just north of the Sanlitun Jenny Lou's, will be happy to know they no longer have to compete for a seat with hungry diplomats as a new branch has just opened up in the southern section of the Village (the new shopping center that Apple and Adidas call home). The new venue has the same menu as the original store but is at least three times the size. Service at the new branch could do with some improvement, but at least you're guaranteed a seat. It's just south of the Tongli Studio strip, across the way from Aperitivo and Luga's.

After launching Blu Lobster at the Shangri-La Hotel into the international spotlight, Executive Chef Brian McKenna will pack up bags on Sep 6 and head over to Chaoyang District to begin preparations for his own shop which is set to open later this year. The new concept is a New York/London-styled brasserie set in a “stunning” location. The 200sqm venue will come with a giant bar and lounge. Stay tuned for more information.

According to Beijing Boyce, Elements Element Fresh in the Village is set to open next Monday. For an idea of what to expect take a look of some reviews of the Shanghai store over at Smart Shanghai. Boyce also notes that Gino's have closed their doors until the end of the Paralympics.

Shanghaiist recently linked to a fun article in the Economist that ranked countries in terms of the comparative price paid for a Big Mac and called it the Big Mac Index. It seems that in China by paying USD 1.41, we're getting a better deal then customers in other parts of the world.

Finally, if you don't like your hotpot spicy but prefer the lots of lamb and sesame dipping sauce, you'll be pleased to know that the famous Chinese hotpot chain Little Sheep has just opened a flagship store by the Military Museum. The chain has branches around the world and many branches in Beijing but this new restaurant is aimed at higher end customers and has space for 240 customers.