Guangzhou - Cafes
Given that Guangzhou historically was at the centre of the East to West tea trade, herbal tea drinking cafes are de rigeur in Guangzhou and fill up long before lunchtime. As an escape from Guangzhou’s summer heat, they are a perfect retreat as well as a fascinating place to watch the degree of reverence applied to the tea-making process. Coffee freaks need not worry – Guangzhou has a plethora of coffee shops, the vast majority of which offer free wifi.
Wong Chun Loong Herbal Tea Café
A herbal tea café chain that will take the uninitiated through the elaborate procedure of tea preparation, serving and naturally of course drinking.
Crystal Tea House
Relatively inexpensive tea house that will take you through the tea ceremony for less than RMB100 (for four).
Tian Chang Di Jiu
Another popular tea venue offering all the accessories.
Starbucks
More than 25 locations are dotted around the city in the more prominent parts of town. Simply keep an eye out for the ubiquitous sign.
The Chinese like it for the better range of food on offer as well as its far more extensive selections of tea. Numerous locations around the city made visible by the brown coffee cup logo.
People’s Cakes & Coffee
Korean–run western style coffee shop with extensive selection of cakes.
York Kii Men Dao
Chic, unusual coffee bar frequented by those in the know perhaps, or maybe in spite, of its strong fish theme. You’ll find them not only swimming in the tables which double as tanks but also in the ceiling. Serves a wide variety of coffee and has a simple menu. Herbal drinks and tea available too.
