Slightly pricey (there’s a pesky 15 % service charge) but this shouldn’t detract from the enjoyable café experience that’s to be had in the Village Café. A big, airy space with eclectic contemporary Chinese art works dotted around the place, the feeling you get is that you’re no longer in seedy Sanlitun bar st but have been transported to your favourite café in [insert favourite world city]. And this is no mean feat in Beijing where many cafes try but don’t quite succeed. It is accomplished not only with the décor but the good, strong coffee, excellent service (especially if you have young children with you), FT newspapers and a varied, interesting menu (with a children’s menu which you can even order from if you’re just in the mood for a small portion of the adult menu…). Finally, a café as it should be.