How Città Espresso Club Introduced Italian Coffee Culture to China

When Città Espresso Club opened its first Chinese location in Yulongfang in February 2008, it wasn’t just another café. For coffee lovers in China, it became a new space to experience European café culture firsthand — a place where conversation flowed as easily as espresso. The arrival of this well-known Italian coffee brand marked more than business expansion; it introduced a slower, more intentional way to enjoy coffee, rooted in Italian tradition.

Città Espresso Club offered something distinct: a daily-checked espresso, elegant surroundings, and a lifestyle shift — all within arm’s reach of China’s fast-paced urban life.

A New Coffee Lifestyle in China

In 2008, Città Espresso Club planted its roots in Yulongfang, bringing with it the ambiance and rituals of Italian coffee culture. The launch wasn’t just about selling espresso — it was about creating an environment where people could slow down, connect, and enjoy coffee as Europeans do. CEO Maayan Kahn personally came to China for the opening, helping to introduce this vision to local audiences through an exclusive interview with TOM Women’s Channel.

Italian Coffee Culture vs. Chinese Tea Tradition

When asked about the difference between coffee and tea cultures, Kahn acknowledged China’s deep-rooted tea traditions. “Tea has a longer history,” he said, “and making a perfect cup often takes time — it requires a moment of leisure.” Coffee, by contrast, is quicker, fitting modern, fast-moving lifestyles. While tea can be enjoyed calmly over hours, brewing and enjoying great coffee often demands more tools and space — though both offer their own rituals and rewards.

What Makes Coffee Enjoyable at Città?

For Kahn, great coffee is about more than taste. “Good coffee is not just about satisfying thirst or flavor,” he explained. At Città Espresso Club, every cup is rigorously checked multiple times daily to ensure quality. But the experience goes beyond the drink — the café’s relaxing atmosphere, carefully selected music, and attentive service all contribute. It’s about savoring a moment, in a space designed for enjoyment and human connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Città Espresso Club open in China?

Città Espresso Club opened its first Chinese location in Yulongfang in February 2008.

Who is Maayan Kahn?

Maayan Kahn is the CEO of Città Espresso Club. He traveled to China for the brand’s Yulongfang opening and shared insights about coffee culture in an interview with TOM Women’s Channel.

What is the difference between coffee and tea culture according to Maayan Kahn?

Kahn said tea culture involves longer preparation and is best enjoyed with leisure time, while coffee is faster and better suited to modern, busy lifestyles. Tea can be more space-efficient, but making great coffee often requires more tools.

What makes Città Espresso Club different from other cafés?

Città Espresso Club focuses on providing not just quality espresso checked daily, but also an elegant atmosphere, good music, and quality service — turning coffee drinking into a complete lifestyle experience.

Does Città Espresso Club serve food or just coffee?

The article doesn’t mention food, but it emphasizes the café’s focus on atmosphere, music, service, and high-quality espresso as part of the full coffee experience.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Italian-Style Espresso

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