3 Best Bars in Wuhan, Eastern China

The sleek lobby bar at Wuhan's chicest hotel wouldn't look out of place in New York. The bar takes its name from long wooden counters that run the length of the lobby and doubles as reception desk and watering hole. It's a beautiful space, with a blond-wood floor, a wall of books, and light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Nearly anything you could want to drink is available here. In summer, cool off with the bar's signature cocktail PuYu Sparkles, made with sparkling wine, rye whiskey, lemon and pineapple juices, ginger, and a little bit of sugar. The Long Bar has a small menu of savory and sweet snacks (think chicken and lamb satay or churros with lemon curd and chocolate) and also serves afternoon tea (Y188 per set, includes two hot drinks). For our money, we recommend The Long Pour happy hour (6–8), when most beers and cocktails (which run about Y65 each) are two-for-one.

The friendly staff, live sports on its many screens, and Belgian beers make this lakeside bar a favorite for visitors, expats, and locals. Its owned by David Wilmots who also owns Brussels Beer Garden two doors down. Expect a similarly extensive selection of Belgian beers like Chimay Red, White, and Blue, as well as a few other imported beers like Guinness, and cider. Food will take you right back to the States, with burgers, pizza, and Tex-Mex. There are tables indoors, on a terrace overlooking the lake, and next to the lake itself.

Overlooking West Lake is this small expat haunt, owned by Belgian David Wilmots. This is where you'll find Wuhan's best selection of Belgian beer, with Vedett and De Koninck on tap alongside Krombacher Pils from Germany. Two dozen Belgian beers are available by the bottle, including La Choufe and Delirium Tremens. There's plenty for non-beer drinkers, including standard cocktails and well drinks. The small food menu is mostly burgers, fries, and their ilk, but there is one vegetarian-friendly dish—a Greek salad.