NOLA
Add: A-11 Xiushui Street South / 建国门外秀水南街11号
Tel: 8563 6215
Hours: [Mon-Fri] 8am-11pm [Sat-Sun] 10am-11pm
Website: nolacafe.com.cn
Price: [drinks] 20~40 RMB [desserts] 30~40 RMB
Visited: Nov 2011
This New Orleans-style cafe has received some very negative reviews online, but I was more than happy with its laid-back ambience and ultra comfortable couches during the few hours I lingered there. I can’t tell you much about the food (New Orleans classics like gumbo z’herbes, po’ boys and beignets) since we only had coffee and desserts (decent and decent), but the lush second floor patio is quite an attraction in itself, especially to those who are undeterred by the chilly Beijing air.
We settled down on the 2nd floor and ordered ourselves some coffee and a S’mores Chocolate Cake (33 RMB). Chocolate cake, graham cracker, toasted marshmallow, and a scoop of pistachio ice-cream – happily consumed.
We also tried the bread pudding (40 RMB) which is not on the regular menu but is available upon request. Not especially memorable.
More so than the coffee and desserts, I loved the shabby but ultra comfortable couches, sun spilling in from huge window panes, and greens dotting here and there…A very pleasant space, perfect for lazy afternoons with a good book in hand.
