Laidback Living: Helen’s Cafe Opens at Wudaokou

Beijing is an unconventional backpacker destination. There’s no beach. (If you’re thinking “But what about Tuanjiehu Park?” … take a long, hard look at yourself.)

There’s hardly any sun. And don’t even talk about monks. But Beijing has her backpackers – in many guises – relaxing in the face of every hassle the capital can throw up.

Helen’s Cafe makes laidback living easier – not to mention cheaper. A 3-liter tube of Yanjing costs RMB 45, bottles start from RMB 10 and cocktails from RMB 15.

The menu’s American diner fare is similarly economical. They’ve got the requisite red, gold and green color scheme and we-don’t-give-a-shit graffiti. Jack Johnson no doubt pops up on the soundtrack. There are people studying, which is a bit weird. I guess the backpackers will just have to get used to not being in Bangkok anymore.

Helen’s Cafe
Daily 11am-late. 200m south of Wudaokou subway station intersection, Chengfu Lu, Haidian District (8286 7558)
海淀区成府路五道口城铁站路口往南走200米

Search for more Beijing bars by name and neighborhood or share your opinions with the rest of Beijing by adding a user review of any of the bars in our online directory of venues.