Qingpu coffee diary: Where to enjoy your first cup of the year

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Discover four distinctive cafes across Qingpu district, where every cup offers not only comfort but also a moment of joy to begin the new year.

01 Yuan Dang Cafe

📍 Where: 1F, Yuandang Bay Tourist Service Center, No 351 Jinshang Highway

☕ Recommended: Coconut latte, jasmine milk tea, vanilla hot chocolate

Set along the eco-friendly greenway of Yuandang Lake, Yuan Dang Cafe sits beside a 23-kilometer lakeside scenic path.

The pavilion-style cafe overlooks the water and blends traditional architectural elements such as red pillars, dark tiles, and lush greenery. Step inside and you'll be greeted by playful cartoon murals and pink floral arrangements, just like entering a hidden fairytale town.

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​The coffee shop is nestled within a tourist service center by the picturesque Yuandang Lake. [Photo/Qingpu district administration of culture and tourism]

The menu offers everything from classic Americanos and smooth lattes to refreshing milk teas, tangy lemon teas, and rich hot chocolate. Whether you're a coffee lover or a tea enthusiast, there's something for everyone. Pair your drink with sandwiches or crispy snacks for a satisfying treat.

The cafe also serves as a convenient rest stop along the Yuandang cycling route. Visitors can rent bicycles, park them securely, and refill their water bottles, making it an ideal stop to pause, recharge, and continue the journey.

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​A cozy corner bookshelf filled with carefully selected reads awaits inside the cafe. Grab a coffee, pick a book, and let time slow down naturally. [Photo/Qingpu district administration of culture and tourism]

 

02 O_S Cafe

📍 Where: Block D, Lidoway commercial complex, Alley 1309, Xiewei Road

☕ Recommended: Breve latte, pour-over coffee, dirty Eisbock coffee

Walking into O_S Cafe feels like stepping into a French countryside manor. Lush greenery fills the space, blending seamlessly with warm wood tones to create a soothing, inviting atmosphere. Outside, the patio is wrapped with floral scents, as a gentle breeze carries the aroma of coffee mixed with fresh greenery, instantly easing away the stresses of the day.

Using freshly roasted beans, the cafe ensures every cup carries its own unique fragrance and warmth.

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​The barista at the shop creates intricate latte art. [Photo/Qingpu district administration of culture and tourism]

A small fishpond inside the cafe adds to the tranquil atmosphere. Sip your coffee by the water, and feed the fish for a moment of calm. Pets are welcome here as well.

Next door, a children's playground allows parents to enjoy their coffee while letting the children run free, perfect for a relaxed family outing.

 

03 Neighborhood Coffee & Dessert Bar

📍 Where: No 23 Alley 1688, East Gongyuan Road

☕ Recommended: Toffee Scotch latte, Americano, croissant

Neighborhood Coffee is a hidden gem focused on pure coffee with a naturally relaxed vibe. The shop offers several coffee profiles, from light to dark roast: light roasts carry bright citrus and floral notes with a clean, vibrant acidity, while dark roasts deliver rich caramel and dark chocolate flavors with a deep, lingering sweetness.

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​The shop offers a variety of pastries paired with their signature coffee. [Photo/Qingpu district administration of culture and tourism]

Coffee is essential, but the daily baked pastries are equally irresistible. Bite into a freshly baked French croissant, crisp and flaky on the outside with soft, airy layers within, delivering a satisfying crunch with every mouthful. The mille-feuille pairs delicate layers of flaky pastry with smooth cream, while seasonal specials keep the menu fresh and inviting with each visit.

Sit by the window, bask in the sunlight, enjoy a crisp pastry with a sip of aromatic coffee, and savor a peaceful moment away from the city bustle.

 

04 Yes Coffee

📍 Where: Xihong farmers market, Liuxia Group 11, Fangxia village

☕ Recommended: Rice milk lattes, French caramel pastry

Hidden in the Liuxia forest area of Zhaoxiang town is a weekend retreat: the Xihong farmers market. Surrounded by trees and fresh air, it's a favorite spot for locals to cycle, hike, or camp.

The market's main building spans nearly 300 square meters, with a lotus leaf-inspired roof that blends seamlessly into the forest.

While exploring, don't miss Yes Coffee in Zone C. Two signature rice milk lattes are must-tries. The classic version blends smooth coffee with a subtle, creamy rice aroma, rich but not heavy. The rice-scented latte made with locally sourced Qingpu rice offers a delightful contrast, with bold coffee notes giving way to a gently sweet, grain-inspired aftertaste. Each sip is a true taste of Qingpu.

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​Milk latte and Americano at the shop. [Photo/Qingpu district administration of culture and tourism]

 

Sources: WeChat account of Qingpu district administration of culture and tourism at "qptour", Qingpu Xiayang subdistrict office