When arriving at the front entrance of Fella’s one can’t help but wonder, “Where is the rest of the restaurant?” But the stairs lead up to an enormous space with a stage, a bar, a restaurant, and a kids’ play area with an enormous ball pit and slide. Let’s not forget the deck wrapped around the restaurant with views of the lake. The setting is reminiscent of south Texas where sitting on the porch with an iced tea overlooking the bayou is a perfect Saturday pastime.
James Adams and his parents Lizbet and Jason joined us on a hot Saturday for a lunch on the wooden deck and a play session inside the kids’ area. James is from the US and attends Beanstalk International Bilingual School (BIBS) in Shunyi. In his free time he enjoys soccer, singing, and cooking shows. “I love this restaurant as I can play and run around,” James exclaims before he even takes a bite of food.
The Adams family was very impressed with the surprising space of Fella’s, and as mom Lizbet explained, “I am so happy to see that the first page of the menu is for kids, as when we go out, our first concern is if it will be child friendly.” And the menu proved that it was. The kids menu was extensive, with cheap prices ranging from RMB 10-30, and a mixture of American fare; from pizza and salads to wraps, there is something for all taste buds.
As beijingkids spoke to the owner of Fella’s, Gregory Maclsaac, it was evident that he is truly a man of all trades, with fingers in many projects and adventures, one in education and the other in food. Hailing from Canada and living in Beijing for 23 years, Maclsaac aka Fella has been the owner of Fella’s for 2 years now. Turning a biker bar into a family-friendly community hub has been his latest mission. Inside the restaurant, visitors will find displayed art from young and upcoming artists and a safe space for kids to play. Board games are available for families and friends to have a competitive night out. There’s a big podium for bands and regular salsa nights.
James tasted the chicken wrap with fresh sweet potato chips. He was enchanted by the chips and stated, “These are my favorite for sure!” Maclsaac contently offered James “sweet potato chips for life at Fella’s.” Such a generous offer needed to be in writing, and now it is!
Fella’s
Everyday. 10am-9.30pm, bar open until 11pm. 2F, 8 Laiguangying Dong Lu, (off the Airport Expressway) Chaoyang
(100m north of WAB main entrance)
朝阳区来广营东路(北京京西学校旁边)
Photos by Dave’s Studio
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