BE+ Design Hub Shanghai (Building A: 2F; Coffee Shop 1F, outside access or via 2F store only).
When I initial saw the sign on the map of Paradise walk I was intrigued by the idea of a Design hub, so I started looking for it. On the first floor I could not find access to it and so was about to give up, however noticed another sign indicating it was on the second floor, so I took a look upstairs. Soon I found it!
Inside there were a variety of designs of various products, nothing which overly exciting, however some interesting felt furniture and a nice coffee table. The space is comfortable to walk around in, being spacious and not overly cluttered. I found a gallery in the back which had some paintings hung around the wall, while the centre of the room was vacant. Upon exiting the gallery, I headed to the stairs – to go the Café.
Going downstairs I found a large space which had tastefully comfortable seating arrangements, I look at the menu, which was still a bit expensive at 38rmb for a latte – however I thought I would give it a try. The man taking my order made a gesture as if he could not hear me, however after several attempts I realized he was deaf and mute. I wrote down my order but realized I made a mistake and changed my order. I took a seat on the nice couch and waited for my order to be prepared. I noticed the milk being used was not familiar to me. The presentation was nice, the latte (which turned out to be a mocha) was served in a latte cup and had a nice design on it. The flat white, was served in a short coffee cup and saucer. Both drinks were a bit cool, despite being hot drinks and the mocha was too sweet to be considered a good mocha. The flat white had a different taste, but it was smooth and not acidic. I also order a matcha croissant, which was suprisingly good. It had a hint of matcha flavour, but the right consistency for a proper croissant – bravo. The price of the baked goods here is decent as well.
As I relaxed with content in the environment, I felt pity that the sun was setting and I had to depart and face the heat of the outdoors once again.
In later discussion with the staff, it was indicated that there was only a single water filter, which is not impressive, and the milk is a known and unresolved issue. I also got a number of mosquito bites. If they corrected these minor problems, I could see myself returning to obtain more coffee and delicious baked good items.
