Sip on Japan's National Tipple at One of Beijing's Only Specialized Sake Bars
If you've ever been to Japan you'll know that the Japanese take their sake very seriously. It's the type of drink that warms you from the inside and has the same effect on the conversation, bringing together friends, family, and colleagues and filling the gaps where the more restrictive aspects of Japanese culture don't always allow for free self-expression. Despite Beijing's large Japanese population, there are surprisingly few bars dedicated to this particular rice wine, most likely because you must usually visit a restaurant to imbibe, sipping (or downing) in between nibbles of sushi and yakitori, as is traditional. Thankfully, for those of us who want a more tailored experience, This is C5sake Bar is here to guide us.
Located directly north of Sanlitun, just behind the Canadian Embassy, C5sake's simple white-walls, intimate space, and row upon row of curated bottles are intended to provide a portal into Japanese culture. With over 30 varieties on offer, everyone from sake aficionados to first-time tasters are likely to find something they like. But be warned: with only eight seats available, visitors are recommended to make reservations in advance. The bar also hosts a monthly sake-tasting course to initiate more eager novices.
Staff are on hand to explain the particularities of C5sake's stock and, in the process, make the drinking experience a true education. On the suggestion of the bartender, we sampled the Kimoto and Ginjo-shu varieties. The Kimoto (RMB 88 per glass) had a yeasty and dry character with a distinctive milky texture as a result of its specialized fermentation process. The RMB 78 Ginjo-shu (referring to its method of fermentation), meanwhile, proved sweeter and very drinkable, its additional sugar belying its high alcohol content and making it a good choice for a summery sake and for novice drinkers.
In all, This is C5sake's decent range of sake and noticeably knowledgeable staff makes it a small but suitable home to test your rice wine knowledge.
This is C5sake Bar
Daily, 6.30pm-12.30am. Bldg F, 5 Xiwu Street, Chaoyang District (185 1988 9089)
朝阳区三里屯西五街5号F座
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Photo: Hannah Feldsluh, courtesy of This is C5sake Bar
