Last month, I received an invitation to the China Arab Expo in Yinchuan, which is approximately a two-hour flight west of Beijing. Although I couldn’t locate a coffee shop there and had to rely on my aeropress for my caffeine craving, I was aware that Beijing would surely have more options. Prior to my trip, I searched on Google for the finest specialty coffee in Beijing, and to my delight, Voyage Coffee was highlighted.
On my second day in Beijing, I made it a priority to start my city exploration, or rather my hunt for quality coffee, at the art district, 798 751 Park, where Voyage Coffee is situated. Initially, I felt a touch of uncertainty as I had seriously misjudged the venue’s size, and my lack of WIFI caused a bit of a panic. However, as I entered through the main entrance in this pedestrian area, I spotted a sign directing me to Voyage Coffee on my right… success!
I discovered that the main entrance was somewhat of a cul-de-sac, leading to a little adventure.
Upon entering, I was welcomed with a friendly Nihao (hello in Chinese) and greeted by a Scandinavian-inspired interior featuring light brown wood and concrete – I would describe it as urban Nordic chic.
They are equipped with a La Marzocco Strada and Mazzer grinders, and the menu displays Chinese on one side and English on the other. The café buzzed with activity from both locals and expats, many engrossed in work on their laptops while savoring their drinks.
I noted their Probat 12kg coffee roaster encapsulated in glass for all to admire. A barista informed me that they roast every Tuesday. I chose a flat white featuring their Black Forest blend, despite it being late afternoon, after not indulging in espresso-based coffee for several days, along with a NY style cheesecake.
Delicious. There were hints of chocolate and dried fruit dancing on my palate, and the cheesecake was one my wife would surely have loved.
Before I could finish my coffee, Cody, the lead barista, approached me with an offer for a Kenyan cold brew coffee.
I think she realized I was asking more in-depth questions about the coffee than the other patrons, plus she had the best command of English, while others seemed a bit confused by my inquiries about flavor profiles.
I was so impressed that I decided to purchase a bag of beans, and Cody was thrilled to rush to the back to fetch one for me, but unfortunately, they were out of stock. I ended up selecting her second suggestion, an Ethiopian Mansa, due to its natural processing.
I recorded some videos for my Instagram reels and made my exit.
Highly recommended if you find yourself in Beijing.
I explored the art district further as someone suggested checking out another coffee shop, which I didn’t find, but I did stop by Manner coffee, which was decent, and I noticed %arabica, which had a stylish décor, but I found their beans overly roasted for my taste, so I passed on that.
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
Title: A Visit to Voyage Coffee in Beijing, China: A Journey Through Flavor and Culture
Situated in the vibrant city of Beijing, China, Voyage Coffee provides a unique haven for coffee lovers and cultural enthusiasts. This delightful café, celebrated for its artisanal brews and welcoming ambiance, seamlessly combines modern coffee culture with traditional Chinese aesthetics.
**Location and Ambiance**
Voyage Coffee enjoys a prime location in the heart of Beijing, making it easily reachable for locals and tourists alike. The café features a design that harmoniously integrates contemporary minimalism with traditional Chinese elements. Wooden accents, soft illumination, and cozy seating create a warm and inviting space, perfect for relaxation or socializing.
**Coffee Selection**
Voyage Coffee takes pride in its varied assortment of high-quality coffee. The café procures beans from prestigious coffee-growing regions worldwide, ensuring a rich and diverse flavor profile. Whether you enjoy a classic espresso, a smooth latte, or a meticulously prepared pour-over, the talented baristas at Voyage Coffee are committed to providing an outstanding coffee experience.
**Signature Brews**
One of the highlights of visiting Voyage Coffee is the chance to sample their signature drinks. The café offers unique concoctions that blend traditional Chinese ingredients with classic coffee flavors. An absolute must-try is their “Jasmine Latte,” which fuses the subtle aroma of jasmine tea with the bold richness of espresso, resulting in a delightful blend of Eastern and Western flavors.
**Culinary Delights**
In addition to its stellar coffee offerings, Voyage Coffee also features a variety of delicious pastries and light snacks. The café’s culinary selections are thoughtfully curated to complement their coffee, including options ranging from freshly baked croissants to traditional Chinese treats. Each item is crafted with meticulous attention to quality, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience.
**Cultural Experience**
Voyage Coffee transcends being just a café; it offers a cultural journey. The café frequently hosts events and workshops that highlight both coffee culture and Chinese traditions. Patrons can engage in coffee tasting events, learn about brewing techniques, or enjoy live performances from local artists. These activities foster a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of coffee in China and promote cultural exchange.
**Sustainability and Community**
Voyage Coffee is dedicated to sustainability and community involvement. The café actively supports local farmers while promoting environmentally friendly practices. By sourcing beans directly from ethical producers and utilizing eco-friendly materials, Voyage Coffee aims to reduce its environmental footprint. Furthermore, the café collaborates with local artists and businesses, cultivating a sense of community and bolstering the local economy.
**Conclusion**
A trip to Voyage Coffee in Beijing represents more than merely a coffee break; it’s an exploration of flavors, culture, and community. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or an inquisitive traveler, Voyage Coffee provides an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of Beijing’s dynamic coffee culture. With its exceptional brews, welcoming ambiance, and commitment to sustainability, Voyage Coffee stands out as a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a taste of Beijing’s distinctive coffee scene.
