Isolated from the hustle and bustle of downtown Pingtan, an oasis nestles amid the urban jungle. Pingtan is a rising international tourism island in China. 

“Old Place” strikes a chord between "retro" and "forest" for first-timers. Green creepers sprawling over the fence and verdant vines give this garden bistro a mysterious vibe- like a secret garden.  

Pushing open a wooden picket fence gate leading into the secret garden, we came to the patio. Small and somewhat underwhelming at first glance, albeit Old Place Bistro is well-put-together. Lush vegetation partitions the space into three different booths decked with vintage wooden chairs and tables, recreating an al fresco dining experience.  

Roam around the patio and let out your heart sing with the blooms of spring. Diners who love flowers would definitely be delighted with this impromptu serendipity.  

Plantains with huge leaves, hibiscus with pink stamens, fast-growing white hydrangea viburnum, sedum with yellow flowers, and dozens of species such as philodendron, Chinese roses, pomegranate flowers, striped Barbados lily, Schefflera heptaphylla, and Spider Brake are eye-dazzling.

In the corner of the patio, you can also inadvertently find exquisite ornaments such as stone mills and driftwood, a reflection of the owner's ingenuity and taste.

The interior of the dining bar is divided into different functional areas such as the main hall and the separated booths. Retro decorative paintings, old Shanghai-style chandeliers, French-style tables and chairs, leather sofas, and other soft furnishings are arranged in an orderly manner.

On one wall of the parlor, craft beers from all over the world neatly filled the wine racks. The refined and vintage decor gives this quaint watering hole a unique quality.  

The most intriguing thing is the open-air courtyard, converted into a sunroom, allowing this indoor "terrarium" to bask in the warm spring.

In the evening, the table is laden with an assortment of "munchies": Honey Chicken Wings, Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Grilled Pork Belly, Corn Skewer, and other cold dishes which pair well with a pint of cold beer.

These dishes are all made with the freshest ingredients. Imported spices such as mint and rosemary are incorporated to add a dash of exotic flavor.

Honey Chicken Wings

Baked Shrimp with Garlic 

Grilled Pork Belly

Tomato Pasta with Black Pepper Beef

The succulent and tender Honey Chicken Wing is marinated with the house's secret honey sauce and then slow-grilled over the fire. Each bite melts in your mouth! The Baked Shrimp with Garlic is deveined and sprinkled with ground garlic and other spices. Absolutely divine! Pop a piece of Grilled Pork Belly and wait for the greasy goodness and lovely spices to kick in, waltzing your tastebud with the burst of flavors. The tangy and creamy Tomato Pasta with Black Pepper Beef...

A conscious homemade cuisine is infused with love that leaves a lingering aftertaste. 

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