I was not expecting to find a modern, Japanese style café in the less-known city of Huangshan where mountains, farmlands and old streets and restaurants were more prominent. Even the locals who were with me were surprised to find such a place.
The first floor of the cozy café was designed like a wooden hut, with just 2 small wooden tables that can fit 2 people on each. I was attracted to the rustic coffee and tea counter, with a display of vintage cups and saucers, reminiscent of an antique flea market. Beside them, I also took notice of the range of coffee beans, tea leaves and matcha powder available – it seemed like the owner was passionate in coffee and tea.
On the second floor, there was a long counter table by the window and another standalone table for dining. The rest of the space was adorned with items displayed on sale such as small pieces of jewelry and tea cloths. While the lighting on the first floor was warm and moody, the second floor was bright and inviting with strong sunlight cascading through the window.
The menu, written in cursive Chinese, was not the easiest to decipher. It took me a while to learn that there were several coffee, tea and soda options on the menu, together with a list of desserts.
To beat the early summer heat outside, I skipped my usual hot coffee order and we had the Iced Matcha Latte (CNY36, SGD6.4 +CNY5, SGD0.9 for vanilla ice cream) and the Plum Soda (CNY36) recommended by the owner. The soda was indeed refreshing, sweet and tartly flavoured from the plum syrup.
We also had a slice of Earl Grey Tea Honeydew Cream Cake (CNY36) to share – it was light and fluffy, though the earl grey flavour could be more pronounced.
Conveniently located just 5 minutes away by car from the popular Tunxi Old Street, I highly recommend the café as a pit stop for an afternoon tea or coffee after sightseeing.
Address: 安徽省-黄山市-屯溪区-戴震路2-70号
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