Once you finally find it, Dali Courtyard is the perfect setting for those sultry Beijing summer nights, providing a dimly-lit escape for a romantic rendezvous or relaxed gathering of friends.

Dining alfresco is the thing to do at this beautifully restored traditional hutong courtyard house. Off-season, outdoor heaters take the chill out of the air, but indoor seating is available year-round.

The taste of Yunnan is front and center at this hutong hideaway.  Influenced by the cuisine of its Southeast Asian neighbors, Yunnan food has that exotic flavor that adds a bit of adventure to this relaxing spot. Offering a selection of prix fixe menus (no a la carte), Dali prepares  dishes featuring seasonal dishes with only the finest market ingredients.

Buried in the hutong of the hip Gulou neighborhood, there are numerous options for extending your night at a bar or club, but no one will blame you for stretching out your stay at this rare gem of a space. It was hard enough to find the place, which makes it even harder to leave.