Contemporary with style, Cafe Europa shows why Europeans are so famous for their quality.

Simply decorated dark tables flank the signature full-glass panes of Jianwai SOHO. The minimal timber decor accents the space without unnecessary fanfare. Upstairs, curved timber moulds capture diners comfortably in their booths. The weight and fluid simplicity of the cutlery confirm the thought behind the owner's attention to detail.

Cappuccino is served in wide open ochre cups with matching saucers. The menu selection leaves lots of room for choice, with a wine selection to complement. Two pasta dishes are chosen, but I am already thinking of what I will order the next time I come. I would have to be extremely fastidious to be less than impressed with the meals. The sliced French bread is fresh, and the butter at the perfect temperature to spread. My spaghetti carbonara (RMB 60) is well balanced, and the seafood linguini (RMB 75) had no chance to live as a memory as the waiters cleared the dishes with minimal interruption. It is bliss to see such simple things done so well.

Perfect for: a meal prepared with love
Location: 1/F, 1113, Building 11, Jianwai SOHO
Tel: 010-58695663