It’s not every day you get to try out a restaurant before it’s open to the public, but naturally we know the right people. So, in the name of keeping you completely up to date with all things fabulous and Beijing-related, we bring you some exclusive snapshots of the brand new 1949 Hidden City2 complex on Jinbao Street.
Those who have been to the original 1949 will know that the Sanlitun branch is located in a former factory complex. Exposed red brick and quirky sculptures are the order of the day and it’s a great place for a relaxed evening meal with friends.
By contrast, 19492 is a much grander, 3-storey building arranged around two traditional courtyards. Designed by the same architects as the Hong Kong Jockey Club a few doors down, it’s resplendent with colourful painted eaves, pine trees and plenty of elegant Chinese touches with a modern twist.
Given 19492’s prestigious neighbours on Jinbaojie (Burberry, the Jockey Club and Mazerati dealerships) – and its proximity to Wangfujing and Tiananmen– this venue is without doubt aimed at impressing local VIPs. But that’s not to say it’s a forbidding or exclusive place, far from it. This is about as fun and special a setting as it gets for a duck dinner in the center of town. With a whole collection of wood fire duck ovens in the central courtyard, all visible to diners, and Elite Concept’s take on the Beijing Hot Pot coming this winter, there’s plenty for tourists and old China hands alike.
Bespoke Beijing got to try the very first duck out of the new ovens, roasted to perfection over the wood of fruit trees to add a delicious sweet flavour. We’re pleased to report (as if you ever doubted it), that it was every bit as good as the Sanlitun branch. 1949’s owner tells us he’s made some minor improvements to both the sesame buns and the pancakes, but we didn’t really notice. They’ve always been the perfect accompaniment (along with the beautifully presented hoi sin sauce and vegetable accoutrements) to what we think is still the best duck in town.
Other dishes that were a massive hit? The sweet and sour garoupa fish, which looked spectacular and tasted even better; a naughty but nice shredded fried potato dish, foie gras on miniature toasts and some fantastically flavourful and smokey stir-fried fresh vegetables.
In conclusion, we’re huge fans already, so when the builders leave and it opens at the end of the month, we urge you to go – it’s an absolutely quacking new venue.
(Sorry).
1949 Hidden City2: Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng District (6521 2221 – Duck de Chine)