Going out for a drink in one of China‘s first-tier cities poses a dilemma—there’s so many cool places to choose from. As a recent newcomer to this league of sophisticated urban hubs, Chengdu already had its share of venues where to indulge in the good life. However, there’s an ongoing buzz and creativity which, as in any great city, spawns striking venues which resonate with a discerning crowd. One of the most striking places as of late, is Bar π in the heart of the city. Situated just off Xiadong Dajie, one of the area’s main thoroughfares, the watering hole features an interior design by Chinese practice iZ. Interestingly, the aesthetic is inspired by speakeasy bars, underground establishments which popped up in huge numbers across the U.S. during the so-called Prohibition from 1920 to 1933. Bar π measures 135 sqm. (1,453 sq.ft.) spread across four intimate rooms, and as a true speakeasy, the front section actually is a retro-style men’s barber shop.
Inside, the chosen design codes are extended, and mind you, they’re inspired by Theodore Melfi‘s movie Hidden Figures (2016) which is set in the 1960s. This has resulted in a series of settings which look like European train carriages, and to a lesser extent, American offices from that era. At the back of the barber shop, wittily named Butcher, elevator doors allow access to the actual premises of Bar π. Interestingly, the height of the bar has been compressed by considerably raising the floor and lowering the ceiling, all for the sake of that train carriage vibe. For patrons who prefer a drink and jolly banter away from roving eyes, a V.I.P. Room with its very own bar is readily available. Furnishings comprise of either custom-made pieces or sourced vintage items, and the classic drafting compass has been adopted as a symbol for π. As such, an entire wall in the front room is decorated with the instrument, and the establishment’s menu lists a number of drinks referencing it.
Bar π
46 Mofang Jie (Jinjiang)
610056 Chengdu
Telephone: +86 185 16735355
Daily 7-2
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