PROOF CREATIVE REDEFINES HUTONG CULTURE WITH TIAO十条 AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL

BEIJING, 12 NOVEMBER – Step into the heart of Beijing’s heritage with Proof Creative’s latest project at the Mandarin Oriental’s new location in Qianmen: TIAO十条. Nestled within the city’s iconic hutongs, this bar offers guests a modern twist on Beijing’s past. Created in collaboration with Mandarin Oriental and Proof & Company, TIAO十条 celebrates the charm of Beijing’s historic alleyways while bringing a world-class drinking experience to the capital.

Beijing’s Cultural Tapestry: The Timeless Charm of Hutongs

In the heart of Beijing lies a network of alleys that have served as the city’s cultural and architectural foundation for centuries—the hutongs. These narrow alleyways, known for their distinctive architecture and siheyuan courtyard homes, hold a special place in Beijing’s heritage. Each hutong carries the spirit of the past, fostering a lifestyle centred around community, family bonds, and shared history. To walk through these alleys is to experience Beijing’s identity, shaped by generations who built lives in close-knit neighbourhoods that echo with stories from bygone eras.

One of the most notable hutongs is Caochang Shitiao, a 225-meter stretch originally used for straw storage, or “Caochang” in Chinese. This historic alley is now preserved as one of Beijing’s 25 Historical and Cultural Preservation Blocks, epitomising the beauty and communal spirit that make hutongs so beloved. For locals, the hutongs are not only a link to the past but a living celebration of Beijing’s architectural and social heritage.

Mandarin Oriental’s TIAO十条: A Toast to Beijing’s Golden Era & Heritage

In this storied landscape, the newly opened Mandarin Oriental in Qianmen seamlessly integrates the elegance of modern luxury with the authenticity of old Beijing. Nestled within the hutongs, the hotel offers guests an immersive experience that bridges the past with the present. Visitors are welcomed to experience Mandarin Oriental’s sophistication while being surrounded by the essence of Beijing’s most iconic neighbourhoods.

It is within this setting that TIAO十条, a bar conceptualised by Proof Creative, finds its home. Drawing deeply from the legacy of the hutongs and the allure of early 20th-century Western hotels, TIAO十条 pays homage to Beijing’s living heritage. Named after the surrounding alleyways, specifically the 10th Lane of Caochang Hutong, TIAO十条 captures the essence of community, tradition, and connection.

With a refined cocktail culture that blends tradition with modern sophistication, TIAO十条 embodies the spirit of the hutongs. Its thoughtfully crafted ambiance fuses Beijing’s historical charm with the elegance of a world-class drinking destination, inviting guests to savour a genuine taste of heritage.

TIAO十条: A Cultural Crossroad of Flavors

The ambiance of TIAO十条 and its innovative cocktail program pay homage to a pivotal era when Western influences began weaving their way into Beijing’s rich cultural fabric. Each cocktail tells a story, blending local ingredients with global spirits in ways that are both inventive and deeply connected to Beijing’s heritage. Signature drinks combine flavours like Chinese Osmanthus wine and Baijiu with refined international counterparts, such as aged rum and Cognac, creating a unique tasting experience that reflects the cultural crossroad of early 20th-century Beijing.

At TIAO十条, communal drinks are presented in beautifully crafted ceramic vessels inspired by traditional Chinese plum wine jars, evoking the visual charm of the hutongs while enhancing the sensory journey. Adding a layer of playful nostalgia, the bar incorporates traditional Chinese games, such as cricket fights and bean bag toss, which harken back to the leisurely pastimes of old Beijing. Local folklore and legends are also woven into the menu, with cocktails inspired by ancient tales, capturing the essence of Beijing’s storytelling tradition.

The food menu at TIAO十条 offers a creative reinterpretation of Beijing’s beloved street foods, elevating familiar flavours with refined techniques and modern twists. Each dish thoughtfully bridges the rich culinary traditions of Beijing with international influences, creating a unique fusion that enhances the bar’s innovative cocktail offerings.

More Than a Bar: A Hub for Beijing’s Cocktail Community

At TIAO十条, Proof Creative and Mandarin Oriental have created more than just a place to drink—they’ve crafted an immersive experience that brings the rich history of Qianmen to life. In the luxurious embrace of Mandarin Oriental, TIAO十条 is also proof that Beijing’s heritage can thrive in the modern world, offering a shared space where the community can celebrate the city’s timeless traditions and dynamic future with each sip and every story shared.