VIBE

Exhibiting the kind of out-of-the-box thinking expected of oh-so-avant-garde boutique hotel Opposite House, laidback lounge Mesh manages the incredible design feat of feeling light, airy, and sexy despite being themed around clunky chain mail. Delicate silver mesh drapes seem to float overhead, while the swinging chain-link curtains dividing the space hardly make more than a smooth swish. The swank décor builds on black-on-brown minimalism (and the mesh, of course) with deep burgundy leather banquettes, a chilled-out soundtrack, and flattering low lighting.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Go for laidback sophistication. The post-work crowd sports suits, but we’d wear a sleek skirt, an eye-catching top, and flats.

GO HERE WITH

Colleagues or clients; a date; girlfriends

CROWD

An affluent, international mix of professionals looking to unwind, glam grownups out on the town, and hotel guests drinking in the scene.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Great sense of style, lovely location, and superlative service. This is a stellar spot to start a sophisticated night on the town: Mesh’s smooth moves will put you in the mood, and if you’re planning on moving to another Opposite House venue or sampling the many other delights of vibrant Sanlitun, you won’t have far to go. Because it rarely gets too crowded, this is also a good spot for talking shop with colleagues or potential clients.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The backless leather banquettes may be easy on the eye, but they’re not so easy on the lower back.

GOOD TO KNOW

Mesh is one of the most gay-friendly lounges in town, regularly hosting upscale mixers for Beijing’s LGBT community. There’s Wi-Fi available (much appreciated by the laptop-toting media types who pack in). All major credit cards are accepted, and there’s a standard 15% service charge on all orders.

CLOSEST COMPS

ADCB (Los Angeles)