Capital Caff: How Good is the Luckin x Yeshu Coconut Milk Latte?

Don't talk to me until I've read Capital Caff: Your guide to the latest in coffee happenings around Beijing.

We live in a world where creative collaboration and the flooding of limited-edition collections is nothing new. However, this time, Yeshu, another well-known Chinese brand that lied about their product being able to make women's breasts grow fuller, and Luckin, who once lied about their finances, decided to partner up, leading to quite a stir on the Chinese internet.

Yeshu announced the partnership with Luckin on Apr 11, which marks their first collaboration with any brand in 34 years. It seems to have been a good move, as the co-branded product, the Yeyun Latte, sold over 660,000 cups on the first day.

Seeing as how the latte became such an instant hit, especially considering coconut milk lattes (and even Americanos with coocnut water) aren't particularly new, I was curious to find out what makes it such a catch. So, I headed out for Luckin's Dongdaqiao Branch to order one for myself.

My first thoughts? I was very impressed with the classic Yeshu package design, which draws inspiration from the company's classic coconut milk cans. The simple white logos against a plain black background have almost become a symbol for this timeless brand.

For those of you who are not familiar with Yeshu, it is an age-old classic that's like a Chinese equivalent of Yoohoo Chocolate Milk. Seeing the familiar design revoked some of my fondest memories of my childhood when I would always treat myself to a bottle of Yeshu after a traditional family dinner.

How about the taste? Well, the milk part of this drink is really smooth. Making a creamier latte isn't anything new these days, with multiple variants like cream cheese and more placed atop Americanos and lattes, but the coconut flavor here stands out.

One sip and the sweet, almost nutty flavor of coconut dominates the taste buds and palate. And, upon confirming with employees at this Luckin branch, it is indeed Yeshu milk used in the final product.

 What can I say? If you are a heavy coffee addict plus an avid coconut milk fan, there is certainly nothing greater than this cup of killer combination!

Read: Capital Caff: SKP Valentino Café Pop-up Is All Glam And Forgettable Coffee 

Images: Irene Li, Dianping