Sweestay Coffee is set in a converted farmhouse along Hemu Water Street in Qingpu district. The space preserves the rustic charm of a Jiangnan water town while incorporating clean, modern design elements.

Inside, the decor is simple and cozy. Comfortable seating and open areas make it easy to sit alone, chat with friends, or host small gatherings.

The cafe focuses on low-caffeine drinks and coffee made with ingredients from Shanxi province, such as sea buckthorn, sour apricot, and yellow millet. One popular choice is the Qin Latte, made with Qinzhou yellow millet. Another is a signature blend featuring sea buckthorn juice. Each drink offers a distinct taste of Shanxi's local flavors.

Pairing coffee with youdunzi, a deep-fried savory fritter, is also a local favorite. Served hot and crispy, the fritter goes surprisingly well with a cup of specialty coffee, creating an unexpected East-West combination that works remarkably well.

If you go: No 449 Hemu village, Zhaoxiang town, Qingpu district

Sources: Sweestay Coffee, Qingpu district government, Zhaoxiang town government