From detailed, eye-catching exhibits to innovative designs and products, IKEA is today a top choice for Beijingers when it comes to, not just furniture, but all kinds of useful daily tools as well. Visiting IKEA has become something more than practical; taking the escalator to the top floor, making your way slowly down the levels—it’s a relaxing and ritualistic process.
With this said, Although we know of IKEA as an interior design savior, it’s now much more than that. Here are two underrated parts of IKEA that take it to the next level, making it an ideal place for families to spend quality time in.
The Cafeteria
The IKEA cafeteria is located so that it is available to you before you start your journey browsing through furniture, and after you do, when you are probably fatigued and desperate for a snack.
This cafeteria is very specific that its food leans toward a Swedish style, which is uncommon and unique in Beijing. On top of that, the dishes are surprisingly more delicious than you would expect from one of the biggest furniture retailers in the city. Though, similar to fast food restaurants, retrieving and paying for the food is a stream-lined and highly efficient process here, all of the meals prove to have authentic tastes and characteristics. Unlike the regular half-frozen sausages and sticky macaroni prevalent amongst other restaurants, the options here feel homemade and original.
Additionally, the food is very affordable, and won’t feel like a burden after you’ve just purchased a new sofa or desk. From the RMB 60 sausage dish enough for one entire meal, to the surprisingly satisfying slices of salmon costing RMB 20, all of the options ensure that you could enjoy a fulfilling meal at a price well under RMB 100.
Despite the desirable choices for your actual meal, other things are worth noting. The cheesecakes, for example, are comparable—or even superior—in quality and taste to Starbucks’ pastries; the “Drink Island” that provides unlimited beverages; the freshly-baked bread as appetizers. In this cafeteria, you could have anything from a quick and easy lunch to a complete, fully-equipped dinner. IKEA is also mindful of the details. On top of the menu, you’ll see a “Kid’s Meal” option. There is a section of seats in the cafeteria specifically provided for families—especially families with little kids.
Overall, this is simply a great place to rest and dine for anyone visiting IKEA.
The Playground
Although this room is one of the first things you’ll see when you walk into IKEA, its existence and significance are not known to everyone.
For free, families going to IKEA can let their kids have fun in this playground-esqe area of the mall, where they’ll be in the constant custody of workers and surrounded by other children as well. Visible to people on the outside but also looked over by employees. this room provides a safe environment and lifts heavy weights off of parents’ shoulders. Clearly, IKEA is aware that many of its customers are entire families, especially those with parents who needed to bring their child along, but now have to put energy into caring for the child. This area of custody is then perfect for a lot of visitors.
The next time you go to IKEA, you could drop your child off in the playground, and after you make your way back to the first floor, it would be easy to find your child again and go together for lunch in the cafeteria!
Images: Hanna W
