Calling All Coffeeholics: A Guide to Getting Coffee in Beijing

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Whether you’re a student with a syllabus to conquer, an avid reader of fiction, or simply someone who likes to sit and enjoy, there are many ways to get your cup of joe in Beijing no matter the time of day.

The basics of ordering

Coffee shops are not only a peaceful sanctuary in the city but an excellent place to practice your Mandarin. Here are some essential words to practice when ordering:

请问 (qǐngwèn) – Excuse me!
请给我(qǐng gěi wǒ) ___ – Please give me _____
浓缩咖啡(nóngsuō kāfēi) – Espresso
拿铁(ná tiě) – Latte
卡布奇诺/卡布 (kǎbù jī nuò/kǎ bù) – Cappuccino
玛奇亚朵咖啡(Mǎ qí yà duǒ kāfēi) – Caramel Macchiato
大杯(Dà bēi) – Large
中杯(Zhōng bēi) – Medium
小杯(xiǎo bēi) – Small

There are many different hot drinks you can warm up with during the winter. Without going into too much detail, it’s safe to say that all cafes will always have the essentials: americano, latte, cappuccino, espresso, and even caramel macchiato.

If you want something comforting but invigorating then lattes and cappuccinos have your back. Lattes are for those who want to sip slowly while basking in the view from the window, while a cappuccino hugs you while retaining its bite. Espresso is there for both old, experienced coffee drinkers and daring newbies. Its single shot bites back yet it courses with subtlety and mystery. A favorite for those who don’t want frostbite from drinking a frappe is the caramel macchiato, a sweet, soft, and silky treat.

It’s clear that in Beijing, there is a cup for every personality.

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Kafelaku in Sanlitun SOHO

Trade secrets from a former coffee apprentice

When you frequent cafes you learn to be trilingual: in English, Mandarin, and Coffeespeak.

When going to a cafe for the first time you might find yourself intimidated by all the options. Hearing stories online about embarrassing moments while ordering probably doesn’t help. But the truth is that the baristas you’re ordering from probably enjoy it when you bring out your unique order. Cafes are a safe space to experiment with different flavors and combinations and to find the signature cup of your dreams. Having interned at a cafe for three years, I always found it refreshing when a new face surprised me with something even I hadn’t thought of. So be you. Go wild.

Where to get coffee in Beijing

Aside from the ever-popular Starbucks and renowned Luckin Coffee, Kafelaku in Sanlitun SOHO and Ace Cafe London just across the street behind Taikooli Sanlitun are two of my favorite places to go to.

Ace Cafe London

For those who just want to read in peace, Page One is a cafe slash book shop where you can enjoy a warm drink accompanied only by the sound of turning pages.

These are just my personal favorites, however, a small triangle of the much larger map of Beijing. The best cafes, like open secrets, can only be found through exploration. So get out there and find your perfect cup.

This article is part of beijingkids’ Teen Correspondents program. If you or a teen you know want to write for us, email Deputy Editor [e-mail].

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Photos: Paul Vargas 

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