With its classic 1950s diner decor, English-speaking staff, and a menu of tasty goodies, Cafes Richard makes for a pleasant and surprising visit and is the perfect place to go with family and friends if and when you’re in the Hegezhuang area.
While families and staff of area schools such as Harrow Beijing, Western Academy of Beijing, the French School of Beijing, and Montessori School of Beijing are already familiar with this area, others come to see nearby attractions such as the Scitech Outlet Mall, the Red Brick Museum, and the sprawling, brand new Heilixidi Park. For residents and visitors alike, Cafes Richard is worth a pit stop.
Though the waitstaff isn’t dressed to meet the 50s theme, they greet you as you walk in and make you feel at home. Some staff speaks English and those that don’t quickly whip out their phones and go straight to their translation app. Our party of visitors was sharing laughs with them within a couple of minutes of arrival, their carefree attitude and kind personalities reflected the cafe’s romanticized 50s design.
From the checkered floors to the high-top tables and bar, Cafes Richard invokes a classic vibe. To further set the tone, they play the classics like John Lennon’s rendition of ‘Stand By Me’ and ‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’ by Olivia Newton-John.
The menus are in Chinese and English, making ordering a breeze. Since the cafe has only been open a few months and has yet to develop a lot of foot traffic, they have yet to work out some of the kinks. For instance, some of their desserts seemed like they may have been sitting in the pastry case a little too long. Nonetheless, they were still very tasty.
The made-to-order items were excellent. We ordered a hot Latte, an Iced Americano, and a Smoked Chicken Panini. The latte was a standard take on this coffee classic but with lovely latte art. If you like strong coffee, the Americano hits the spot. The Smoked Chicken Panini was where their chef’s talents shined, with an assortment of vegetables both inside the sandwich and on the side as a salad with to-die-for dressing — an eloquently simple yet delicious sandwich. Our bill for the three items came to RMB 134.
Cafes Richard’s second floor offers nice views and also barista training, where you can learn how to make latte art and how to froth milk, fulfilling your dream as the ultimate coffee hipster.
Find it:
Cafes Richard 瑞查德咖啡何里店
284 Cuigezhuangxiang, Hegezhuangcun, Chaoyang District
Images: Sarah B
