Hoper Brings a Bit of New Hope, and Strong Whiskey Cocktails, to the Hutongs

It would be an understatement to say cocktail offerings are dwindling in the hutongs, even with beloved mainstays like Bungalow Tiki and Más having shuttered their doors after recent rampant crackdowns and construction. But one impressive relative newbie spot has thankfully bucked the trend and not only begun business a few months before this tumultuous time, but also survived. The name of this hope instilling institution: Hoper.

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And while many bartenders will gladly go off menu to mix something up for a favorite client’s specific palate, Hoper owner James Hao makes that his sole approach, ditching a set a drink list entirely to surprise customers with concoctions based on either their flavored preference, favorite base booze, or other preferences. Those cocktails are priced at pretty reasonable RMB 70.

With his gypsy samurai fashion sense and readily friendly demeanor, Hao makes for a fun and distinctive host who strikes the right balance between making his patrons feel welcome and quizzing them just enough glean their drink inklings, without bawdily overwhelming their evening. More importantly, he makes sure to mix up generously boozy cocktails that feature flavorful homemade bitters.

We were more than impressed by both the hellfire-y rum and pepper and the invigoratingly strong coffee and whiskey cocktails he quickly mixed for us. The nookish tables in the room behind the bar also give Hoper an ambiance that’s as warm and soothing as the buzz brought on by Hao’s drinks.

While the bar doesn't quite match the hutong home-away-from-home vibe by our old favorite Amilal (whose endlessly endearing owner and bartender, Martin Aretino, sadly moved on late last year). But Hoper does comes close, and has plenty of whiskey and stiff drinks to satisfy likeminded alleyway leaning clientele, making this bar a surefire draw in an increasingly gentrified era.

Hoper
Daily 7pm-2am. 6 Huafeng Hutong, Dongcheng District (186 1843 8838)
东城区华丰胡同6号

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Email: kylemullin@thebeijinger.com
Twitter: @MulKyle

Photos: Kyle Mullin