Nestled just below the imposing Wills Memorial Building, which towers above the city centre, is one of Bristol’s favourite Oriental restaurants - Beijing Bistro.

The Venue
Situated on a row of bars, shops and restaurants at the very top of the swanky Park Street, a hill which sweeps up from the jostling harbour side, Beijing Bistro is one of many competing Eastern eateries in the area.

Just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Brandon Hill park, it is ideally situated for a post-meal stroll across a beautiful spot overlooking the entire city.

The People
The waiting staff seat you as soon as you enter Beijing Bistro. A table in the window is a great seat - the huge glass panelled front is thrown wide open in good weather, letting the sounds and sights of the Park Street drift right into the restaurant. This creates a metropolitan air to the place. Even when closed, the front window offers spectacular people-watching opportunities.

If cute and cosy are your criteria for a good dining experience, Beijing Bistro may not be for you. The decor is best described as modern and minimalist. Set across a large split-level dining area, glass, wood and steel prevail.

The menus are plain looking and the tables are bare. Its recessed lighting and white walls emit an aura of style and efficiency, which is often, but not always, matched by the standard of service.

The tables are a little close together, which is not a problem unless you are there on a hectic Friday or Saturday night when it's packed to capacity and it's a struggle to get out from behind the table to either order from the bar or visit the toilet.

You might also find all the hard surfaces quite conducive to a din when there are a lot of covers in. The toilets are limited to one ladies and one gents, which is a bit bothersome when the place is busy.

The clientele vary in age with older couples and younger mixed-sex parties, and there is often the reassuring sight of Chinese students tucking into the Chinese, Japanese and Thai-inspired food on offer.

The Food
The food options here are considerable. To guide you through the seemingly endless choices, the menu is set out in separate rice, noodle and soup sections. Also helpful, is the fact the staff have a good working knowledge of the menu so, if you are flummoxed, they gladly navigate you towards the best dishes.

What is notable are the portions - they are huge. If you want sides or starters, you’d be well advised to share, so as to leave plenty of room for the gargantuan main course.

Irrespective of the amount you get for your money (mains come in at around the £6 mark and sides/starters at £3), the food here does not disappoint. It comes quickly - usually within 10 minutes - it’s fresh and flavoursome and doesn’t come covered in the customary layer of grease that cheap Chinese food so often does.

Watch out for the little red chilli symbol by certain dishes on the menu, as this tells you which dishes to avoid if you’re not a big fan of chillis. If you can’t stand the heat, steer well clear. They also do a good selection of original and tasty desserts if you haven’t already completely stuffed yourself.

The Drink
The beers, wines and soft drinks available come with the usual slightly inflated restaurant prices but nothing shocking. A beer will set you back £3.50, a bottle of wine is £11 and a soft drink is £1.50. They also have a well stocked bar if you fancy a mixer with your meal.

The Last Word
This place is frequented by a considerable amount of regular customers, which says something about its appeal and reliability. Although it’s not the most relaxing venue for a meal, it provides excellent value for money. Serving until 11pm on weekdays Beijing Bistro remains a top choice for a late night bite.

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