A Tour Round Sanlitun Courtyard No.4, Pt. 2
Chances are you’ve probably visited Sanlitun Courtyard No.4 before, however you might not know it by that name. It’s the courtyard that’s just a stone’s throw from Sanlitun Taikooli, located off Gongtibei Lu and Nansanlitun Lu, that’s home to some of Beijing’s most popular eateries and bars.
We already did a part one of places in Courtyard No.4, starting in the north and working east, now we’re heading down south for this part two.
Q Mex
The very first branch of Q Mex opened up in Courtyard No. 4 back in June 2012, making it one of the oldest occupants on our list. Although they now have five branches around the capital, their Sanlitun branch is where it all started! Serving up a range of great tasting Mexican food along with other Western fare like burgers and pizzas, both of which have placed them highly in previous Beijinger Burger and Pizza Cups, they’ve become a staple in both the expat and Chinese community. Their large Sanlitun space features a pool table and also hosts weekly quiz nights.
Q Mex
Opening times: 10-2am
The Rug
Opening up at the end of 2013, this is the second branch of popular all-day brunch spot The Rug. The restaurant underwent major renovations back in 2020 and relaunched their menu, really upping their game. The chic new look complete with a William Morris inspired mural and coffee bar built from transparent glass bricks instantly made it into a wanghong spot. Their menu still features plenty of brunch itmes like their Shakshuka (RMB 108) or Hot-Cake Boba and Cream (RMB 88), but also has more options for other times of day such as a range of pasta dishes and pizza.
The Rug
Opening times: 10am-10pm
abboCCa
One of the newest additions to Courtyard No.4, abboCCa came into being late last year. Dubbed a bistrotecha, abboCCa serves up Italian food with a twist: the menu is small, and you're instead encouraged to order what you want from their two fresh food counters in an alimentari style. All of the food served here is incredibly fresh and they even make their own mozzarella in house. However, it’s not just the food that’s impressive with the architectural design of the space also being worthy of note. With a bright orange, olive green and white color scheme that evokes strong Mediterranean vibes, it has its own distinct look that you won’t find anywhere else.
abboCCa
Opening times: 10.30am-midnight
The Local
Another Courtyard No.4 stalwart, The Local opened up in 2013 and, just as the name intended, has become a local favorite for foreigner and Chinese alike. Offering up classic US dishes with a side of reasonably priced drinks and a variety of live sport screenings, its easy to see the appeal. With a large seating area both up and downstairs, along with a pool table it’s the perfect place for an evening of casual fun with friends. They also did a big menu update last year that will make any cheese lover jump with joy, adding a whopping ten varieties of Mac and Cheese (RMB 50-70) to the menu.
The Local
Opening times: 11-2am
Jazz-Ya
Although Jazz-Ya’s original branch, which opened in 1995, just off Sanlitun Bar Street closed late last year their Courtyard No.4 spot it still going strong. Having opened this branch way back in 2004, this is the oldest occupant on our list by far! They serve up Japanese-style pub grub -- everything from sushi and yakitori to ramen and steak – all with a side of jazz and some great cocktails, their Long Island Ice Tea (RMB 60) is particularly potent.
Jazz-Ya
Opening times: 10.30am-2pm, 5-9.30pm
Noodlology
The last spot on our tour round Courtyard No.4, Noodlolgy, also opened up last year. This chic noodle bar has a minimalistic design and is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. They specialize in fusion noodle dishes and have some pretty intriguing options, like their Indian Style Chicken Leg Saag Noodles (RMB 78) or Aburi Mentaiko with Wild-Caught Shrimp Noodles (RMB 68). However, for those looking for something more traditional they also do a Homemade Beef Noodle Soup (RMB 48).
Noodlology
Opening times: 11am-2pm, 5-9pm
Sanlitun Courtyard No.4
Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区工体北路4号院
READ: A Tour Round Sanlitun Courtyard No.4 Pt.1
Images: Uni You, Vivienne Tseng-Rush
