Salud Beiluoguxiang

Salud's latest second home after the closure of their Sanlitun venue in late 2014.

The French-managed Spanish tapas bar that specialises in homemade rum and vodka is back, and this time with a twist.

Situated just a stone's throw from the original Nanluoguxiang venue, the Beiluogixiang place is – perhaps obviously – just a short walk north, but the claret red walls and the homely stash of quality rums seem to be the only obvious connection with its sister venue.

It's much smaller and therefore more intimate than the Nanluo spot, although it lacks that genuine hutong den feel.

Two double-glazed patio doors mark the entrance where you're greeted with a smile as a selection of drunken hipster locals hang off the high tables on the ground floor. Upstairs, the first floor is a far cosier affair with sofas and swinging chairs before you get up to the – as of yet, unopened – roof terrace.

Atmosphere-wise, warm welcomes all round with a friendly atmosphere plus prompt service with a smile. The ground floor hosts the cosy main bar area, and follow the twisting iron staircase to find the upstairs is a much more funky-lounge style – with table service and superior seating.

Musically this place is much more DJ-focused than the original Salud. That said, don't expect to hear the sounds of the underground here: think Pit Bull, Carly Rae Jepsen, Britney, Snoop Dogg et al.

Friendly vibes and a great spot for some Gulou pre-gaming, if you can handle the soundtrack. Or, if cheesy pop-based dance and hip-hop is your bag then you could make a full night of it here. Must-tries are coffee-flavoured vodka, the homemade rums and their raspberry beer.

The opening of the terrace in the summer might bring some extra cool panache.

Salud Beiluoguxiang: 93 Beiluoguxiang, Dongcheng district