Cash-strapped Beijing drinkers turn to unlicensed homebars

In Beijing, Ken and Dolores operate an unlicensed homebar in their apartment, offering cocktails at significantly lower prices than traditional bars, reflecting a shift as consumers turn to affordable options amid economic downturns. This trend, emerging before the U.S.-China trade war, highlights a broader crisis in the catering industry, with profits plummeting and many upscale establishments struggling due to reduced consumer spending and an oversupply of eateries. The situation has prompted hospitality entrepreneurs to explore informal venues like homebars, as many former customers in finance and tech sectors face substantial income reductions.