Last month, I received an invitation to participate in a China Arab Expo in Yinchuan, situated about a two-hour flight west of Beijing. Although I couldn’t locate any coffee shops there and had to rely on my aeropress for my caffeine fix, I was confident that Beijing would present more options. Therefore, prior to my journey, I turned to Google to seek out the best specialty coffee in Beijing, and lo and behold, Voyage Coffee appeared on my radar.
Thus, on my second day in Beijing, I prioritized my first stop for exploring the city— or should I say, hunting for quality coffee— at the artistic hub, 798 751 Park, where Voyage Coffee is situated. Initially, I felt a bit uneasy as I completely misjudged the venue’s dimensions, and without Wi-Fi, I found myself in a bit of a panic. However, as I entered through the main entrance in this pedestrian area, I noticed a sign directing me to Voyage Coffee on my right… and there it was!
I realized that the main entrance was situated in a sort of cul-de-sac, turning my arrival into a mini adventure.
Upon entering, I was welcomed with a cheerful Nihao (hello in Chinese) and encountered a Scandinavian-inspired interior characterized by light brown wood and concrete – I’d call this urban Nordic chic.
The café boasts a La Marzocco Strada accompanied by Mazzer grinders, and the menu features Chinese on one side with English on the other. The establishment was lively, filled with both locals and expats working on laptops while enjoying their coffee.
I noticed their Probat 12kg coffee roaster situated in a glass enclosure, allowing everyone to see it in action. A barista informed me that they roast every Tuesday. Despite it being late afternoon and having gone days without espresso, I indulged in a flat white using their Black Forest blend and paired it with a NY-style cheesecake.
Delicious. I indulged in hints of chocolate and dried fruit dancing on my tongue’s edge, and the cheesecake was of a caliber that my wife would have certainly approved.
Before I finished my coffee, Cody, the leading barista, approached me with a suggestion for a Kenyan cold brew.
I believe she noticed my serious engagement compared to other customers when I had been inquiring about the coffee earlier, plus she had the best command of English while the others seemed a bit confused by my questions regarding flavor profiles.
I enjoyed it so much that I expressed interest in purchasing a bag of beans, and Cody was so thrilled that she dashed to the back to fetch me one, BUT sadly they were out of stock. I opted for her second recommendation, an Ethiopian Mansa, as it was naturally processed.
I captured some videos for my Instagram reels and then departed.
Definitely recommended when visiting Beijing.
I strolled through the art district as someone suggested I explore another coffee shop, which I couldn’t find, but I did try Manner coffee, which was decent, and I spotted %arabica, which had an appealing décor, though I found their beans to be overly dark for my taste, so I passed.
Locate 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 Journey to Voyage Coffee: Discovering Beijing’s Hidden Gem
Situated in the vibrant heart of Beijing, Voyage Coffee provides a tranquil respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. This delightful café has swiftly become a beloved spot for both locals and tourists, thanks to its distinctive mix of a cozy atmosphere, outstanding coffee, and cultural charm.
The Atmosphere
Voyage Coffee is nestled in a charming hutong, a historic alley that offers a glimpse into Beijing’s deep cultural heritage. The café’s façade may seem modest, but stepping inside unveils a welcoming and warm environment. The interior features a balanced mix of contemporary style and traditional Chinese elements, with wooden furniture, soft lighting, and elegant decor that promote a soothing ambiance.
The Coffee Experience
Voyage Coffee prides itself on its carefully crafted beverages. The café sources premium beans from across the globe, ensuring an eclectic and flavorful menu. Whether you are fond of classic espresso or are adventurous with specialty drinks, there is something for everyone. The baristas are skilled craftspeople, enthusiastic about their work and keen to share their insights with customers.
One of the highlight offerings is the signature Voyage Latte, a rich concoction infused with delicate notes of local spices. For those desiring something different, the café also features a range of traditional Chinese teas, providing a lovely contrast to its coffee-focused menu.
Culinary Delights
In addition to its remarkable beverage selection, Voyage Coffee presents an assortment of delectable pastries and light bites. The menu includes both Western and Chinese-inspired treats, from flaky croissants to savory dumplings. Each item is made fresh, perfectly complementing your drink selection.
Cultural Connection
More than just a café, Voyage Coffee serves as a cultural hub. The establishment regularly hosts events and workshops, spanning from coffee brewing classes to art exhibitions. These experiences allow visitors to engage with the dynamic creative community of Beijing and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s cultural fabric.
Conclusion
A visit to Voyage Coffee is essential for anyone journeying through Beijing. Whether you are a coffee enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this café offers a memorable experience. With its remarkable drinks, delightful food, and cultural events, Voyage Coffee reflects Beijing’s vibrant blend of tradition and modernity.
