VIBE

Hotel bars worldwide get a bad rap for their bland anonymity, but this stylish, ever-buzzing hotspot in the lobby of the Kerry Centre Hotel bucks the trend. The flawless five-star service, talented bartenders, and nightly live jazz pull in a storied crowd of Beijing’s most “very important” of VIPs, making for a colorful, memorable experience. Guests can hobnob with CEOs and diplomats as they sip pricey martinis at the bar, or they can retreat with companions for intimate conversation in plush private booths ringing the room.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Centro is one of the few bars in Beijing where you should dress to impress. The dress code is “smart casual,” but we would even take it up a notch from there: if you’re here on business, a suit, and if you’re here for pleasure, a hip-label cocktail dress and heels.

GO HERE WITH

A date; friends; clients or colleagues

CROWD

This is where Beijing’s high rollers come to network, schmooze, and unwind. It’s a business-heavy crowd, but visiting dignitaries, government ministers, and even film stars have been known to come gliding in.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Possibly the swankest watering hole in town. If you’re looking to impress a date or a client, or just want to show off your latest Louboutins, this is the place to be. Also, if you’re looking to pad out your Rolodex, the bar is an excellent power scene networking spot.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

You need a hefty wallet to be able to fund an evening at Centro. Also, the crowd can be overly dominated by graying men with expensive cigars and designer suits.

GOOD TO KNOW

If you want the Centro experience without the massive price tag, stop by during their daily happy hour (5:00pm-8:00pm), when all drinks are two-for-one. There’s Wi-Fi available, and international credit cards are accepted.

CLOSEST COMPS

Redmoon (Beijing); XIU (Beijing)