Having nabbed a prime location on Gulou Dongdajie, Zara is set to become a prominent fixture in the area. The space is tastefully decked out with sofas, photography and vases of delicate fresh flowers here and there. German homemade cake recipes from the owners’ collection impressed, such as the intensely fruity apple cake (RMB 15). Ceiling-mounted fans were a welcome respite from the city’s typically excessive air-conditioning, and a cocktails list is available for those who really need to take the edge off. Soup, salad and sandwiches are yet to come, as well as a curiosity-piquing German-style breakfast.

Decked with sofas, photography and vases of fresh flowers, this German cafe serves cakes, soups, salads, and sandwiches from the owner's personal recipe book. Perfect for some German-style breakfast as well as lunch and dinner.