Arts Coffee Haven is situated on the corner of a hutong, just next to the Confucian Temple on Imperial College Street. The creation of owner/artist Wang Hai Yan, the coffee bar has been providing something a little out of the ordinary for over 12 years now.

Succeeding where others try too hard and fail, Arts Coffee Haven's eclectic, yet tasteful interior has had over a decade to evolve as opposed to being thrown together in a day with a trip to Panjiayuan and a coffee machine.

"As an artist, I wanted something that represented culture, after all, I like coffee, I like art, so this place brought the two together," explained Wang.

No two seating areas are the same as they go up in levels of comfort from the makeshift window seats to the armchairs at the rear. A selection of international objet d'art is held together by a Qing theme that runs from the floor to the ceiling.
The menu too is varied but not overfull, which is always a good sign. Mini Calzone (pizzas) provide a perfect accompaniment to a beverage or two, and are excellent value at 15 yuan a throw. Sandwiches are three layered and are made with good quality wholemeal bread and stacks of salad, again affordable for all at 25-35 yuan.

However, it is a shame to see food served on paper plates when so much effort has been made elsewhere here. Coffee comes in the usual varieties, made with either Illy or Fair Trade, the latter refreshingly 5 yuan cheaper per cup than its Italian counterpart (15-35 yuan). Other liquids on offer include a wide range of lassi and milkshakes that are all made with fresh ingredients, plus of course Beers, wines and spirits.


Location: 25 Imperial College Street, Dongcheng District
Opening time: Daily, 10am till closing
Tel: 010-64052047