Legend has it that back in the 1600s a feisty Irish bar maid by the name of Nellie used to exact revenge on her ruder customers by drinking dead mice into their beer mugs before serving. She acquired the name “Durty” once her victims found her out. Nowadays, however, the name “Durty Nellie” is more famous for warm welcomes, cheerful crowds and good food and drink. The flaking woodwork of the main entrance is slightly dwarfed by the huge neon advertising of the Liang Ma Flower Market, but there is no mistaking Durty Nellie's wide and mischievous grin as she watches you, Guinness in hand, from across the car-park.

Once you make your way past the “how to brew Guinness” cartoons around the entrance and down into very bowels Durty Nellie herself, you are greeted by the happy sounds of friends enjoying relaxing moments together. With peaceful Irish music wafting through the soft, comfortable light, you and your family or friends can enjoy your meal nestled together in one of the many cozy booths around the main bar. Alternatively, you could simply enjoy a pint of Guinness or another one of Durty Nellie's refreshing brews around the table football or the dartboard. If ever starved of conversation, simply take a glance around the pub… all manner of Irish ironware and historic drawings and posters seem to adorn every available space.

Here is one of the few places in Beijing where you can enjoy a proper Irish Beef Stew. If you're in need of a bit of “Home”cooked fare then Durty Nellie's is the place for you, The Dublin Bay Prawns they serve here are simply delicious.

Apart from the warm welcomes from cheerful crowds and good, hearty foods that are synonymous with Irish pubs around the world, the other main staple is, of course, Guinness-said to be a meal in itself.

Establish: 1998

Tel: 6593-5050

Seats: More than 300

Parking: Not for free but enough, more than 50 vehicles RMB2/hour

Booking: Yes, during the Christmas period you have to book earlier

Open: 17.30pm-1am