Cafe Hopping BJ: Beiluo Bread Bar

Dimly lit and effortlessly cool, Beiluo Bread Bar is confident and knows it doesn’t need to impress. The laptop crowd was in full force the day I went, making it a casual work environment suited to those who hate suits and the associated office culture.

The vibe was a mix of classy and laidback, and while the two adjectives seem contradictory, it works. There’s a cool sound in the bar with lots of natural movement and talking. Music in different languages played in the background, giving me the best of both worlds: music with lyrics without the distraction of comprehension.

However, in terms of mobile office facilities, it really depends on where you sit and how long your charger cable extends. I came when most seats were taken and had to settle for a circular table in a corner, which was shaky but totally bearable. I have my eye on one of the tall, long tables for my next visit so I can let my pile of belongings multiply and slowly take over or so I can share the space with a friend.

Beiluo Bread Bar serves as a good escape from the Beijing heat and the crowds that swarm the Gulou area. My iced Americano (RMB 18) was perfect for a hot day and I didn't feel at all pressured to leave after I was done. If I had snagged something near an outlet, I’m sure I would have stayed until closing.

Vibe and design (how cool you’ll look working): 3/5

• Laidback and understated but unpretentious

Productivity (how much you’ll get done): 4/5

• Music was at a comfortable volume and the space allows for movement with minimal distractions

Beiluo Bread Bar
70A Beiluogu Xiang, Dongcheng District

This piece is part of the quest to find and evaluate cafes as mobile offices throughout Beijing, read the previous posts here. Follow my caffeine addiction on Instagram @xheatherrrr, or join me by tagging your pictures with #cafehoppingbj.

Photo: Heather Budimulia