Sanlitun

"Sanlitun is the place to see and be seen, as well as the epicenter of many expats’ existence. This posh commercial district bordered by pristinely kept embassies revolves around the multi-floor Taikoo Li shopping center. A manageable mall with an open center, it hosts domestic and international luxury brands, eateries, and pop-up shops.Even if burning through some RMB doesn’t entice you, take a stroll around the ground level as the window displays are works of art. The Korean sunglasses brand Gentle Monster store, for example, seems more like an interactive art exhibit than a place to pick up something as mundane as eyewear.The Sanlitun neighborhood, which centers around a north-south running street by the same name, provides a ton of dining options. Nali Patio and Moka Bros are popular with expats and visitors; the latter is a great place for health-conscious, casual fare.In the evening, the street is bumping — each bar seems to try to drown out the sound of its neighbors. For something more low key, check out the beautifully retro movie theater Cinker Pictures. They play current and old films, with classic titles like Taxi Driver and Before Sunset making their marquis." - MATADOR_NETWORK