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Nuage

<p>With its burnished red tables, hanging lanterns, converted-cyclo chairs, and silk-clad waitresses, Nuage is a little slice of old Saigon in downtown Beijing. The sense of Vietnamese authenticity is only reinforced by the water views; the restaurant is set right on the Qianhai lake, where lovey-dovey couples can be seen strolling along waterside paths (for the best views, ask for a table on the beautiful roof terrace). The menu here is traditional—standout dishes include fresh mint-and-shrimp rolls; lemongrass-infused tilapia; and <em>phô</em> with rice noodles, beef, and snow peas. For dessert, try the light but completely delicious fried pineapple glazed with honey and sesame seeds. </p> <p><strong>Tip: </strong>If you're taking a taxi here, have your hotel concierge write down the address to give the driver; the restaurant's in a rabbit warren of streets where it's easy to get lost. </p>