Valentines day is here. Although I don’t miss the consumerist and commercial nature that this holiday often takes on in many western countries, I am happy to be reminded that spending time together with your spouse is as important as spending time with the kids. Spending this type of quality time, just the two of you, can often also seem impossible at times. Recently, I discovered that Shunyi has some great culinary surprises. In order to make your Valentine’s day a bit more romantic (and hopefully to guide in the planning), I have collected my finds in one happy list of Shunyi eats. A romantic date night does not have to involve an onerous trip downtown (though some restaurants are worth a drive out of town). My Shunyi insiders have given me plenty of great ideas for restaurants where parents can have a great Valentine’s Day.
The Orchard is highly recommended, and is an institution among many expats. The restaurant has created a special valentines day menu.
Ernest French Bistro is a great place for a special romantic dinner if you’re looking for some French fare.
Balmain Gourmet Meat and Grill is always a great casual dining spot for meat lovers. They have a new, fantastic pork caramelized onion and red pepper sausage.
Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar is a great place to share some love over sushi and hot teppanyaki.
MINT Vietnamese Pho and Snacks boasts authentic Vietnamese fare. My favorite cuisine in the world.
Redfort is a wonderful place to find some delicious Indian fare along with a great environment. The restaurant also hosts Indian dance shows for entertainment.
Manna Bakery and Restaurant is a good spot for a down-to-earth date with great ambiance and food.
The Yard comes highly recommended. There is the original location, and a new location by the Rome Lake Park, on Zuo Ti Road Hou Sha Yu.
Pauline van Hasselt has been working for beijingkids since October 2016. Born in Wassenaar, The Netherlands, she moved with her husband and her 3 year-old daughter to Beijing in June of last year. Prior she lived in the Netherlands, Belgium, Paraguay, Texas, and London, studying and working as a chef. Pauline enjoys biking around Beijing, finding markets and new restaurants, reading crime and fantasy books in bed, and most importantly, turning her house into a home for her family.
