From Burgers to Stews: Jiaguolong's Switch

Let's dish about the latest trend in the ever-evolving restaurant industry. Gone are the days when a restaurant franchise would simply multiply like bunnies, popping up familiar facades across town. Now, it's all about the brand evolution – a sort of culinary Darwinism, if you will. Take Jiaguolong Burger, for example. They sizzled onto the scene last February with their Chinese-style burgers, whipping up a frenzy among those craving a twist on the classic American staple. Their debut was hotter than a grill on a summer day. But just when we had gotten used to their fiery presence – poof! On a leisurely cycle past Jiuxianqiao, we discovered that Jiaguolong had vanished, like a burger in the hands of a hungry teen.

But Jiaguolong isn't the only one shaking up the menu. The food scene is witnessing a parade of parent brands sending their offbeat offspring into the world. From hotdog havens with a skater vibe to pet patisseries serving up dog-friendly delicacies, the capital is a veritable playground for culinary exploration. With all these transformations, we've listed a variety of brands that have taken the leap into adventurous diversifications right here in the capital.

The Curious Case of the Missing Burgers

After some detective work (and by that I mean a quick search on Dianping for 贾国龙中国堡 Jiǎguólóng zhōngguó bǎo), it looks like Jiaguolong Burger has vanished into thin air, only to be replaced by 贾国龙小锅牛肉 Jiǎguólóng Xiǎo Guōniúròu. That's right, Jia Guolong's Small Pot Beef is the new kid on the block, a budget-friendly sibling launched by the esteemed northwestern food chain, 西贝 Xī Bèi. It's like our beloved burger spot had an overnight makeover, swapping out its hip fusion menu for heartwarming winter classics like carrot and potato stew beef. Talk about a plot twist – from fusion to full-on traditional Chinese cuisine! Seems the only place keeping the Chinese-style burger dream alive is Tastien Chinese Burger.

贾国龙小锅牛肉

Rm 11-5, 1/F, 11 Chongwenmenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District
东城区崇文门外大街11号1层11-5
Hours: 11am-9pm
Phone: [phone]

Hotdogs and Pink Decor: Flo's New Venture

And just when you thought you'd seen it all, along comes an underdog (or should we say, under-dog). Flo, famous for its elegant ambiance, has thrown us a curveball with the launch of Oh My Dog – a hotdog brand that's as pink and peppy as a pop song chorus. Nestled in Xidan Joy City, it's got that youthful zest that could very well turn it into a hangout for the skateboarding and wave-riding crews.

OH MY DOG!

Chate Garden, 6/F, Xidan Joy City, Xicheng District
西城区西单大悦城6楼查特花园里
Hours: 11am-9pm
Phone: [phone]

Pampering Pets With Pastries

Paws in the air for Holiland's latest revelation – pet cakes! No, your furry companions haven't suddenly developed a sweet tooth for sugar frosting. These meaty concoctions are a blend of beef, chicken, duck, and salmon, with a side of bone, flower, and toy-themed treats. It's like a birthday bash in a box for your four-legged friends!

Please note that there are currently no physical stores open for purchasing pet cakes. However, you can conveniently order them through Holiland's mini program. Simply enter "好利来" to find a selection of delightful cakes for your pets.

Tea Cat: The Robo-Barista Invasion

Cotti Coffee's been spreading like cream in your java, and now they've got a feline twist with the launch of Tea Cat. Milk tea aficionados, prepare to be served by a robot. With prices that won't make your wallet weep and a menu that starts at the pocket-friendly price of RMB 9, they're stirring up the scene with their debut store in Hopson One.

Tea Cat

144-145, 21 Block, B2/F, Hopson One, 21 Xi Dawang Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区西大望路21号合生汇B2层21街区1444-145号
Hours: 10am-9pm
Phone: [phone]

Bonfire Bakery: A Toast to Bagel Enthusiasts

Last but not least, let's toast to Bonfire Lab's phoenix moment. After the camp-style coffee joint in Langyuan Station closed, it left a campfire-sized hole in our hearts. But hark! Bonfire Lab has risen from the ashes with Bonfire Bakery in SLT, a sanctuary dedicated to the art of baking, with bagels galore. For the carb connoisseurs of the town, this is, without a doubt, the best thing since sliced bread – or, in this case, since rolled dough.

Bonfire Bakery

S3-31 Taikoo Li South District, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District
朝阳区三里屯太古里南区S3-31
Hours: 10am-9pm
Phone: [phone]

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Images: Courtesy of the venues, Uni You, Wangtian

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