5 Hidden Hutong Bar in Beijing: A Must-visit Guide for 2025

Beijing’s hutong bars offer a unique mix of history and nightlife. Hidden in centuries-old alleyways, these bars blend traditional courtyards with modern music, cocktails, and a lively crowd. It’s not just about drinking—it’s about stepping into the city’s creative heartbeat, where old Beijing meets a fresh, international energy.

We hope this guide helps you discover delicious drinks and joy in Beijing’s hutongs!

1, Modernista

• Why we love

Modernista in Beijing has one of most vibrant bar atmospheres in Beijing. Housed in a historic hutong building, it mixes old-world charm with a creative, bohemian vibe. The bar is known for its live music—from jazz and swing to indie bands and DJs—making every night feel energetic and spontaneous. With its art deco touches, vintage décor, and an international crowd, Modernista isn’t just a place for drinks; it’s a cultural hub where locals and travelers come together to dance, mingle, and enjoy late-night cocktails.

• Must-Try

Modernista cocktail 摩登尼斯塔

Save the elephants 大象席地而坐

• Avg. Price:  ¥130 RMB/Person

• Opening Hours: 18:00pm–02:00am Tue-Sun

• Address: No. 44, Baochao Hutong, Dongcheng District 东城区宝钞胡同44号 

2, Great Leap Brewing (Doujiao Hutong Branch) 大跃啤酒 (豆角胡同店)

• Why we love

  Great Leap Brewing is one of Beijing’s earliest craft beer brands. The Doujiao Hutong branch is set in a classic Beijing courtyard, offering a relaxed atmosphere.

• Must-Try

  Fu Zi Beer (a unique blend of Sichuan peppercorn’s mild numbing sensation and honey’s subtle sweetness) 甫子啤酒

Banana Wheat (distinct banana aroma, clear body, and a smooth, sweet taste)  香蕉小麦

Liu Yong Dark Ale (rich and full-bodied) 刘勇乌啤

Light Ale No. 6 (hints of coffee and chocolate) 淡啤六号

• Avg. Price : ¥100 RMB/Person

• Opening Hours:Sun–Thurs: 14:00 pm–23:00 pm Fri–Satr: 14:00 pm–00:00 am

• Address: No. 6, Doujiao Hutong, Dongcheng District 东城区豆角胡同6号

  
  

3, Peiping Machine (Nafu Branch) 北平机器 (纳福店)

• Why we Love

  Peiping Machine’s Nafu branch is renovated from an old factory building, blending industrial style with Beijing characteristics. It offers dozens of craft beer options for patrons to enjoy.

• Must-Try

  Mingqian Longjing Wheat (a clever fusion of Chinese tea and Western beer) 明前龙井小麦

  Mung Bean Paste Wheat 绿豆沙小麦

  Jianbing Guozi (the most outstanding Chinese-style bar snack)  煎饼果子

• Avg. Price: ¥120–150 RMB/Person

• Opening Hours: 16:00pm–01:30am the next day

• Address: No. 13, Nafu Hutong, Dongcheng District 东城区纳福胡同13号

4, Tiao Hai (Chongwenmen Branch) 跳海（崇文门店）

• Why we love

  Tiao Hai is a community-style craft beer bar, offering a variety of craft beers, cocktails, and snacks. The atmosphere feels like visiting a fun friend’s home, where you can relax with a drink and chat with strangers. It regularly hosts themed events and parties, such as open mic nights and movie nights. Follow their social media for the latest updates.

• Must-Try

  Hong Fu Ye Ben 红拂夜奔

  Buddha’s Hand, Pomelo, and Jasmine 佛手香柚茉莉

  Blind Box of Four Draft Beers 生啤盲盒四款

• Avg. Price: ¥80–100 RMB/Person

• Opening Hours: Mon-Thur, Sun 18:00 pm–01:00 am; Fri, Satur 18:00 pm-02:00 am

• Address: No. 7, Dongxiaoshi Street, Tiantan Subdistrict, Dongcheng District 东城区天坛街道东晓市街7号

  
  

5, School (Wudaoying Branch)

• Why we love

  School is a livehouse located in a hutong and is one of Beijing’s iconic rock music venues. It primarily features live music performances and drinks, making it an excellent place to experience Beijing’s underground music culture. Bands perform every night.

• Must-Try

  Wheat Craft Beer 小麦精酿

  Kansas Sausage Kansas香肠

• Avg. Price: ¥80–150 RMB/Person

• Opening Hours: 20:00pm–00:00am

• Address: No. 53, Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng District 东城区五道营胡同53号

Note:

Hutongs are winding, and store signs may not be obvious. Use navigation apps patiently to find your way. Many restaurants are tucked away in residential areas, and the environment might not be as spacious as mall restaurants, but this local charm is part of the fun.

• Queuing and Reservations: Popular restaurants often have long waits during peak dining hours, and trendy bars and livehouses are especially crowded on weekends or performance days. Try to make reservations in advance or visit during off-peak hours.

• Diverse Experiences: The charm of hutongs lies in their eclectic mix. You might stumble upon centuries-old historical sites around a corner or exchange greetings with elderly Beijing residents soaking up the sun at their doorsteps. Slow down and soak in the atmosphere.