First Glance: Vaidurya Café

With a white bike and a mannequin displayed in the window, Vaidurya could be easily misinterpreted as a shop rather than a café slash photography studio. The courtyard space, filled with natural light from the glass ceiling, is pleasing to the eye, although the silence and the empty tables seem somewhat eerie (I was the only customer).

The chocolate and caramel mousse from the French Embassy (RMB 18) seemed even smaller than the menu suggested, though the filling tasted surprisingly rich and genuine; adequately sweet, but not cloying. The citrus fruit tea (RMB 58), brimming with whole chunks of grapefruit, orange, and other fruits rich in Vitamin C, arrived in a hefty serving, with the fresh, natural taste of a warm detox drink.  However, we couldn't help but feel the price was a little hefty. The prices of other drinks, including the standard americano (RMB 45), latte (RMB 48), and even warm milk (RMB 40), also seemed high.

Don’t leave without getting your photograph taken in Vaidurya's photography studio! A typical Polaroid shot (not the ones your friends grab at parties) costs RMB 100, while a professional shot that shows every single wrinkle, hair, and lighting angle is priced at RMB 6000.

If you’re the adventurous type who takes pleasure in exploring new venues, or if you just like sitting by yourself while listening to birds chirp, then Vaidurya could very well be the courtyard for you.

Vaidurya
Mon-Fri 1pm-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm. 8 Jiaodaokou Beiertiao, Dongcheng District (6406 9929)
对照记东城区交道口北二条8号

Read more about the next big restaurants and cafes in the Beijinger's First Glance column here.

Photos: Cherry Chen