Ever wonder why Duobao Road is becoming a haven for coffee lovers? Compared to Yongqing Fang, Duobao Road is low-profile. It is seldom noticed. This makes it ideal for relaxing with friends over coffee.
We are here on Duobao Road. It is located in Xiguan. Xiguan is the core area of Liwan District. You can still feel traces of prosperity here. Look at the window decorations on the traditional Cantonese buildings. These are the Bamboo Tube Houses. Notice the flagstone alleys. And of course the cafes along the road.
At the intersection of Duobao Road and Baoyuan Road, there is an abandoned Xiguan house. Its doors are closed. No one seems to have lived there for some time. The imposing facade suggests a well-off merchant lived there many years ago.
Not far from that Xiguan house, you will find Yau Lik Trading Co. This coffee shop resembles an old trading house. It feels like a trading house from the Republic of China period. You usually only see those in movies. It has been transported to this current time and space.
As you enter, you will be attracted to the variety of vintage ornaments. The owner amassed this private collection over the years. Photos of old streets decorate the walls. The owner took these during regular street excursions. Vinyl music plays. It gives you a keen sense of the shop’s charm.
Bric-a-brac of the most interesting types is on display. Customers relax with good conversation and wonderful beverages. Conversational vibes flow. So do the hot and delicious drinks.
The shop is decorated with unique features. Its coffee specials simply add to the decor.
Coffee made with Honduran sherry is common. But Yau Lik’s signature special Lolita is quite different. The fragrance features a vanilla scent. It is mixed with the smell of fermented wine. The sherry flavour highlights a hint of subtle sweetness. Cream on the top is the masterful finishing touch. Remember to drink this coffee before it loses its fizz.
You can order an indulgent cup of coffee. Sit in a smooth leather chair. Shake your cup like a businessman from the old times. Or you can step outside. Lean on a bar made of wood planks. Chat with your new friends.
SSAW is tucked away on Duobao Road. It is like a private study. Despite the hustle and bustle, SSAW maintains its peace. A lot of people have coffee as they work and read. Comfortable seats, an open space, and the natural white noise of coffee machines are here. SSAW Cafe has become a private study for many residents.
SSAW stands for spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The menu of house specials and cakes is regularly updated. They use seasonal ingredients. The four seasons of Guangzhou are captured at SSAW.
Indulge in a glass of Verbena by the Apricot Grove. It has a fruity aroma. This limited-edition drink isn’t always available.
The verbena sprinkled on top is a delicate spice. It has refreshing lemon notes. From the first sip, you will feel the aroma of early spring. This comes from the combination of verbena and Earl Grey tea. Suddenly, wonderful fruit flavours dance on your tongue.
Wait a moment. A nutty chocolate flavour enters. The artful layer of cream on top is decadent but not too sweet. Its fresh and creamy taste is addictive.
Having coffee on Duobao Road is casual. Coffee is more like a daily drink here. Stroll to a familiar coffee shop in your slippers. Spend the afternoon having coffee. You might finish your order with the words “as usual”. But you are also willing to try new flavours recommended by a knowledgeable barista.
Come and enjoy the fun while spring is still here on Duobao Road.