A Product of Intelligent Design: Mokihi Japanese Cocktail bar

“Mr. Darwin, you look in good cheer, if a little giddy. Now, having concluded your observations of Beijing’s bar life, what, pray tell, have you discovered?”

“Most unusual, my good man, most unusual. In the first instance, observation of most classifications of Beijing watering hole lends weight to my well-documented theories of evolution. Those specimens specializing in the broadcasting of live sporting events respond well to their constantly changing environment, developing ever-more sophisticated facilities.

Venues patronized by those keen to ‘see and be seen’ are perennially innovative, beautifying themselves to attract potential mates.

The most primitive specimen, namely the ‘ten-kuai dive bar,’ has largely failed to progress beyond a slime mold-level of existence, and their number is accordingly likely to decline imminently. Survival of the fittest, you see.”

“But the ‘Japanese cocktail bar’ I find quite baffling. Take this Mokihi, for example. Like others of its genus, an impeccably handsome little creature – dark brown wood, and a slender, long bar, with only a handful of seats. Though the Darjeeling martini (RMB 65) was rather peculiar, the drinks are broadly of a rare quality.

I found the smoke martini’s depth of flavor, blending Laphroaig and Tanqueray, particularly fascinating (RMB 70). Three types of Old Fashioned (classic, cherry and apricot) from RMB 60 are all spiffingly good. I discovered even the wasabi martini to be palatable. I am told the proprietor, Mr. Moto, has a stake in another two such ventures: ‘Twilight’ and ‘Apothecary.’”

“Though the notion horrifies me, I suspect specimens of this subset to be the product of … (gulp) … intelligent design. Such thoughts! I must next visit this ‘Japan,’ and commence investigation of the beings responsible for such excellence. I may also partake in several dozen more smoke martinis. Aids the concentration, you understand.”

Good for: Innovative, quality drinks

Also try: Ichikura, Twilight

Mokihi, Daily 6pm-3am. 3/F, C12 Lucky Street (entrance next to Edomae Sushi), Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District (5867 0244) 朝阳区朝阳公园路好运街C12商铺3层

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