As if we need another ‘official holiday’ to feel the pressure of public displays of affection. In the West, there’s Valentine’s Day (Feb 14), the day when restaurants push heart and cupid filled set menus and the price for roses and chocolate suddenly double. In China, we have the Western Valentine’s Day, but there’s also May 20, more commonly known as 520 because in Chinese these three numbers are pronounced “wǔèrlíng”, which sounds similar to “wǒàinǐ” (我爱你, I love you.) Just don’t confuse it with Qixi, the ancient Chinese festival which is also sometimes referred to as ‘Chinese Valentine’s Day‘.
But back to 520… what started as an online slang term quickly caught on with the retail industry and *poof!* a new holiday was born! May 20 has since become a special day for couples in Chinese, as more and more young love-birds are choosing to get hitched, propose, or make their relationship status official on this day. And as someone who frequently forgets holidays and anniversaries, it’s a good chance for a re-do for the Valentine’s Day plan that may have been forgotten, as this year it fell on Chinese New Year during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s also another excuse to call ayi to watch the kids for a couple of extra hours (or the whole night) and spend the time re-living your honeymoon days with your partner. Here are some of our favorite 520 dining deals in the city:
Eat, Drink & Love with Frasca at the Opposite House
Express your love, cherish every moment that you spend with your loved ones, and create unforgettable memories that last forever. Whether you choose the intimate indoor dining room or the breezy spring alfresco dining terrace, Chef Marino at Frasca has got you covered with a four-course menu that is sure to conjure romantic memories of Italy. RMB 520 per person, 5-9pm, Ph: 6410-5210
Michelin Star Crossed Lovers
Also at The Opposite House, experience romantic elegance with an evocative Michelin star tasting menu created especially for the evening by chef Li Dong at Jing Yaa Tang. RMB 1,314 for two people. 6410- 5230.
Great Love Affairs Start with Champagne
If a cheeky drink is more your speed on this romantic evening, you can sip Champagne in style in Union, where all Champagnes will be 50% off throughout the evening. 6410-5180
TRB Forbidden City
Celebrate 520 at one of Beijing’s iconic romantic restaurant. Enjoy a 6-course dinner menu and an unparalleled view of the Forbidden City. RMB 1,314 per person. Ph: 6401 6676.
Maison Flo
Maison Flo may seem a bit out of the way perched at the northeast end of Xiaoyun Lu, but their choice of location becomes clear when you see the extensive outside terrace and garden that’s simply stunning this time of the year. They have prepared two set menus for the evening. RMB 1,688 per person or RMB 1,988 per person. Ph: 6595 5135.
Xian
Enjoy the sun and breeze at Xian, EAST Hotel with a 3-course set menu with your choice of main along with free-flow sparkling wine, house wines, and craft beers.
Migas Mercado
Annie’s
Cafe Flo
If Valentine’s day is for lover only, 520 will be a day for everyone, no matter couples, friends, families, express your love to them on this special day! Cafe Flo is preparing a special Love Cards for you with the chance to win a wonderful prize! Free 520 sharing menu? Sparkling Wine? 10% off on 520 sharing menu? Flo’s cash coupon and top dishes coupon? There are up to 10 different prizes are waiting for you! Get the chance to win on that day at any of Flo’s restaurants.
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Photos: Courtesy of organizers, Remote Land
