Oldie but Goodie is a monthly column where we feature noteworthy restaurants, cafes or bars that have been open at least six months and are worth a try.
Set on one of the major thoroughfares of Xinzhou Village, &Cafe is an unusually trendy, urban village-based cafe. Bringing a sleek minimalist design, an impressive glut of alternative background music and a great Wi-Fi connection, &Cafe is an immediately attractive prospect. The front of the shop opens out onto a busy and noisy street, which proves to help imbue the shop with a lively atmosphere.
Image by Bryan Grogan/That's
First up, we tried their ice cream latte (RMB32). A bold choice on such a wintry weekend, we’re sure, but we were keen to be blown away. One aspect of the cafe that we particularly enjoyed was their expansive menu, which features a variety of very different brews. With that being said, perhaps our expectations for the ice cream latte were rather high, and it ultimately let us down.
Image by Bryan Grogan/That's
The saving grace, on the day that we visited, was their grapefruit black (RMB28). Again, we were seeking something a little bit unique, and being fans of fruity coffee, we felt that this drink could buoy our wintry spirits. The pulp of the grapefruit mixed well with the dark coffee. There was very little impetus for us to add any sugar, nor did we find the usual effusive dryness that accompanies black coffee, a very positive sign. It is a light drink, high on mouthfeel and sensuosity.
If you are seeking a quiet, chic ambiance, come to &Cafe for work, to read or for coffee and chats with your significant other. What we loved about this spot is their variety of whimsical drinks, their fast Wi-Fi connection and the quiet, homely vibe of the village outside.
Price: RMB25-50
Nearest metro: Shawei (Exit D), 5 minutes’ walk
Open daily, 8am-10pm. See listing for &Cafe.
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[Cover image by Bryan Grogan/That's]
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