One of the first things we thought on chancing upon Panda Cafe is that there are surprisingly few businesses in Shenzhen named after the majestic but endangered species that sits as one of China’s national treasures.
The Central Walk restaurant is impressively large inside, while outdoor seating is also available – well, we say outdoor, but you’re still in a mall. With wooden tables and chairs dotted under large windows and comfy gray linen sofas that make a tasteful complement to the various beige and brown hues, the interior decor and atmosphere are stylish, cozy and relaxed. Near the door, a primary green wall with a tree motif and cuddly toy pandas give a fun and childish feel, making the cafe a good family option.
Iced water drip coffee, tea, waffles, toast, pasta, gratin rice, sandwiches and soups are the main attractions in Panda Cafe. However, there’s a spending limit whereby each person must order at least one dish or drink, presumably to prevent freeloaders sneaking a free sit-down.
The list of coffee covers the usuals, including double espresso (RMB25), cappuccino (RMB36) and latte (RMB36). Iced water drip coffee (RMB48) is a must-try and highly recommended. With coffee, syrup and milk served beside a glass containing coffee-imbued, heart-shaped ice, the drip coffee set is presented on a classy oval wooden tray. Espresso, though, is average and, disappointingly for a coffee specialist cafe, the waiter doesn’t know what kind of beans they use.
Served with a side of potato wedges and tortilla chips, the smoked salmon eggs Benedict (RMB68) is a good, healthy, protein-rich choice for brunch. To make things a bit meatier, the Bordeaux pork with tomato sauce (RMB52) is a fair effort. The pork is not bad, looking and tasting like the Swedish meatballs from Ikea. The sweet and sour tomato sauce is a perfect match for the crispy yet soft bread and actually the highlight of the dish.
For those who have a sweet tooth and eschew diets, pancakes (RMB46) and waffles topped with fruit and ice cream (RMB58) are well worth a look.
Decent decor, a wide selection of coffees and accurately priced fare – it’s not a bad bear to cuddle up to.
// No. 1008, Floor L, Central Walk (southeast entrance), Fuhua Lu, Futian District 深圳市福田区福华路中心城L层1008 (东南门入口) (8322 3989)
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