Top of the Tree: 96 Degrees Cafe

Cool, air-conditioned air and a somewhat eerie silence greet those who enter 96 Café on Dongsishitiao (just next door to the Liangdian Design Center). The cafe's currently still in its soft opening, which means they're only serving beverages – coffee, tea and a slowly expanding list of beer and wines after just getting their alcohol license. It's not very well-frequented yet, but open to anyone who wants to stop by. The space is bright and open with large sofas and coffee tables on the first floor and more of a work or study atmosphere (armchairs and tables with desk lamps) on the second.

The friendly staff speaks moderately good English and the menu is bilingual making for an expat-friendly spot. Once they're up and running, they plan to serve fairly standard cafe fare: sandwiches, hot dogs, salads and other snacks.

Sinking into a squashy armchair with a book and an iced coffee (RMB 42) in this quiet new space is not at all an unwelcome thought. The coffee is good and the whipped cream ranks top among what I’ve tasted in Beijing so far. Another added bonus is the free lemon water that gets refilled the minute you empty your glass.

Altogether, this is a wonderful spot for a quiet afternoon – especially on the second floor, where the windows open out to a deceptively green view. It’s hard to tell whether it'll turn into a busy favorite or remain a somewhat deserted, if pleasant, hide-away where anything is possible: a solid afternoon's work, getting lost in a book, a quiet chat with a friend or even a nap or two.

96 Cafe Daily 9.30am-11.30pm 96 Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District (6404 4485)
东城区东四十条96号

Photos: Julia Hartmann