Last month, I received an invitation to attend the China Arab Expo in Yinchuan, a city roughly two hours’ flight west of Beijing. While I didn’t come across any coffee shops there, I was able to make use of my aeropress to satisfy my coffee cravings, and I was aware that Beijing would present more options. Prior to my journey, I used Google to search for the best specialty coffee spots in Beijing, and to my delight, Voyage Coffee was among the top results.
Thus, on my second day in Beijing, I ensured that my very first destination for exploring the city, or rather for finding quality coffee, was the art district, 798 751 Park, where Voyage Coffee was situated. Initially, I felt a bit uneasy as I had completely misjudged the size of this establishment and, lacking WIFI, I felt a twinge of anxiety. However, after entering through the main entrance, located in a pedestrian area, I noticed a sign that directed me towards Voyage Coffee on my right… and there it was!
I discovered that the main entrance was positioned in a sort of cul-de-sac, leading to a mini adventure.
Upon stepping inside, I was welcomed with a cheerful Nihao (hello in Chinese) and found a Scandinavian-style interior, featuring light brown wood and concrete – I would describe it as urban Nordic chic.
Equipped with a La Marzocco Strada and Mazzer grinders, the menu had Chinese on one side and English on the other. The café bustled with both locals and expats, some busy working on laptops while enjoying their drinks.
I noticed their Probat 12kg coffee roaster encased in glass for all to see. A barista informed me they roast every Tuesday. I ordered a flat white with their Black Forest blend, even though it was late afternoon and I hadn’t had espresso-based coffee for days, accompanied by a NY-style cheesecake.
Delicious. Flavors of chocolate and dried fruit danced on my palate, and the cheesecake was one my wife would have certainly loved.
Before I finished my coffee, Cody, the lead barista, approached to offer me a Kenyan cold brew coffee.
I think she realized I was a bit more inquisitive than the other customers regarding the coffee, plus she spoke the clearest English, as the others appeared a bit perplexed when I began inquiring about flavor profiles.
I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to purchase a bag of beans, and Cody was thrilled, rushing to the back to retrieve one for me, BUT unfortunately, they had run out. I decided to go with her second suggestion, an Ethiopian Mansa, as it was a naturally processed coffee.
I took some videos for my Instagram reels before departing.
Highly recommended when visiting Beijing.
I strolled around the art district as someone suggested checking out another coffee shop, which I couldn’t locate. However, I tried Manner coffee, which was satisfactory, and I spotted %arabica, which had an appealing décor, but I found their beans to be too darkly roasted for my taste, so I passed.
You can find them at China, Beijing, Chaoyang, 酒仙桥路4号北京798艺术区内 邮政编码: 100102
Voyage Coffee: A Hidden Gem in Beijing, China
Situated in the lively cityscape of Beijing, Voyage Coffee provides a tranquil retreat for coffee lovers and casual visitors alike. Positioned in the city’s core, this delightful café has gained popularity among both locals and travelers in search of a distinctive coffee experience.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
Voyage Coffee features a modern yet cozy environment, with minimalist decor that fosters an inviting atmosphere. The café is decorated with wooden furniture, vibrant greenery, and expansive windows that let natural light pour in. The relaxing background music and the scent of freshly brewed coffee create an ideal setting to unwind or hold casual meetings.
Coffee Selection
Voyage Coffee is proud of its extensive range of premium coffee. The café sources its beans from esteemed coffee-growing regions globally, guaranteeing a rich and diverse flavor spectrum. Regardless of whether you favor a classic espresso, a smooth latte, or a carefully crafted pour-over, Voyage Coffee has something to please every taste. The baristas are proficient and passionate, always eager to suggest a brew that matches your preference.
Specialty Drinks and Menu
Beyond traditional coffee choices, Voyage Coffee presents a variety of specialty beverages that exhibit the inventiveness of its baristas. Must-try signature drinks include the “Voyage Latte,” infused with notes of vanilla and caramel, and the “Beijing Cold Brew,” a refreshing mix ideal for warm summer days. The café also offers a range of teas, fresh juices, and delectable pastries and sandwiches, making it an excellent spot for a light breakfast or afternoon treat.
Community and Events
Voyage Coffee is more than a café; it serves as a community hub. This establishment frequently organizes events such as coffee workshops, art showcases, and live music performances, nurturing a sense of community among its patrons. These occasions create opportunities for visitors to engage with local culture and connect with like-minded individuals.
Location and Accessibility
Conveniently situated near popular tourist sites and public transportation, Voyage Coffee is easily reachable for anyone exploring Beijing. Whether you’re taking a break from sightseeing or seeking a quiet workspace, the café’s central locale makes it an ideal stop.
Conclusion
Visiting Voyage Coffee in Beijing is more than a routine coffee run; it’s an immersive experience that blends outstanding beverages, a friendly atmosphere, and a sense of community. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or simply in search of a cozy place to relax, Voyage Coffee guarantees a memorable experience in the vibrant city of Beijing.
