V Plus Lounge

V Plus Lounge—the ‘V’ stands for Vics—cries out from the elevator about how damned important it is, with a special bejeweled elevator button, so your finger feels all VIP just pressing it. Candles and flowers adorn the entrance, while a de rigueur gaggle of solemn-faced greeters take you to your table. The interior of the lounge is fantastic, all dark wooden tables and grand leather thrones, plus a grand view down to the Workers’ Stadium, which is perfect for both skinflint football fans and potential snipers.

A small dance floor sits in front of the DJ, who plays early evening chilled lounge music before changing up a bit to chilled house. A second floor features a whiskey-tasting section and enclosed private areas, while on the other side of the club is a members-only section (annual entry fees begin at 50,000 RMB) with its own private bar. The toilets in this exclusive area have a transparent window-wall that serves up a picturesque urban mural to gaze upon as you sit, while offering, in the overlooking residential towers, prime real estate for telescope-owning perverts.

The drinks list, meanwhile, is extensive: well-prepared and affordable cocktails (50-70 RMB), 20 different bottles of champagne (550 RMB), a vast selection of single malts (upwards of 60 RMB) and a well-chosen, detailed wine list.