The buzz: This tiny Chinese-themed bar takes over from Bao & Buns next to the original Peppina pizzeria. While the setting is undeniably retro, the drinks are anything but old-fashioned. 

 

The decor: The candle-lit space exudes oriental cool through vintage Chinese tea boxes, rows of waving lucky cats and splashes of red all over. A slender outside counter seats just four, while inside is a mix of bar stools and cozier red leather corner-fitted couches—just don’t expect too much privacy. Behind the bar you’ll spot many jars containing Chinese herbs and infusions. 

 

The drinks: Bartenders in white lab coats whip up creations from one of the guys behind Q&A cocktail bar. Expect plenty of infused spirits and Chinese twists in the likes of the Oolong Tea & Orange Sour (B280), a take on the whiskey sour made with oolong tea and orange peel-infused Wild Turkey 81 bourbon. Just as exciting is the house-infused chrysanthemum vodka—try it in a shot (B280), which tastes just like chrysanthemum tea, or a cocktail like the Chrysanthemum Vanilla Fizz (with vanilla syrup, lemon, egg white and soda, garnished with chrysanthemum, lemon and orange, B280). For something even more adventurous, there is the Bakkwa Old Fashioned (B340), which features rosemary-infused bourbon, chili and cinnamon syrup, angostura and orange bitters, and orange peel, garnished with bakkwa (Chinese salty-sweet dried pork similar to jerky) and spices. 

 

The food: As the owners also run Xiao Chi (at The Commons), and previously Bao & Buns (now defunct), it’s little surprise bar snacks stick to theme. Try the platter of four different types of crispy pork (B320), a play on French cold cuts, or the rich and delicious Hong Kong-style congee (B220). There will be more dim sum dishes in the near future.

 

The music: The very hip soundtrack flits between electro-pop, indie rock, jazz and even the odd Chinese song.

 

The crowd: Dapper young professionals with their finger on the pulse, and expat run-off from Peppina next door. 

 

Why you should go back: A themed bar that’s not pretentious, Dim Dim makes for a fun, casual yet kitsch night out, where you’re guaranteed excellent cocktails. Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj