NextCafe in Guangzhou: Hidden Gem for Handmade Cakes & Coffee

Looking for a reason to visit a small coffee shop in Guangzhou’s Liuyun neighborhood? It’s not just the location or the vibe—it’s the cakes. Specifically, the reason so many people keep returning to NextCafe isn’t the coffee (though that’s solid), it’s the $7 add-on that gets you a full-sized, house-made dessert with any drink. That’s the hook. And it works.

NextCafe, tucked into a quiet corner of Liuyun Er Jie in Tianhe District, has kept its doors open for over a year while other shops around it have come and gone. With a steady stream of locals—office workers, trend-seekers, and even aspiring entrepreneurs—it’s become a reliable spot for affordable indulgence. The secret? Great cakes, a laid-back atmosphere, and a $7 afternoon tea deal that’s hard to beat.

Why People Keep Coming Back: The $7 Cake Combo

NextCafe’s most popular draw is its afternoon tea set: choose any drink and add just ¥7 to get a full-size, homemade cake that normally sells for ¥28. That’s a serious value. The options rotate but consistently include rich flavors like Tiramisu, tangy Mango, creamy Strawberry, pungent Durian, and classic Tiramisu. For less than the price of a fancy coffee in most Guangzhou cafes, you get a drink and a proper dessert.

The Cakes: No Additives, Just Flavor

The young owner used to be a nine-to-fiver with a side hobby in baking. Turns out, he had a knack for it. His cakes aren’t flashy or overly decorated, but they’re made without additives, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Think of them as the “no-makeup” version of desserts—simple, flavorful, and satisfying. The Berry Yogurt , for example, layers fresh seasonal fruit with thick yogurt mousse. In summer, expect mango and pitaya: the pitaya sinks into the soft white mousse, creating a cool, refreshing bite that feels like dessert air conditioning.

Dessert Highlights: From Tiramisu to Durian

NextCafe’s Tiramisu is often compared to five-star hotel quality. Made with imported mascarpone, French buttercream, Marsala wine, and cocoa powder, each element stands out while blending seamlessly. Former Four Seasons staff have even given it a nod. The Durian Mousse uses imported Golden Pillow durian from Vietnam—a pricey ingredient the owner carefully sources despite market fluctuations. The result is a smooth, rich mousse with an intense, authentic durian aroma. And then there’s the 9-inch Durian Pizza : 150g of mozzarella and nearly 200g of fresh Golden Pillow durian on top of a crispy base. It’s a must-try for durian and cheese lovers alike.

The Vibe: Quirky, Young, and Unfiltered

The cafe’s atmosphere is casual and a little offbeat. The owner has the stereotypical look of a tech nerd, while the male staff—often young—surprisingly chat knowledgeably about finance and sometimes even take business pitches. The female servers, reportedly unpaid, show up daily carrying luxury bags like Prada. The crowd is equally varied: beautiful women, ambitious men bringing junior colleagues for “talks,” and everyone in between—all united by a shared love of cake.

Location & Contact

NextCafe is located at Tianhe District, Tianhe Nan Yi Lu, Liuyun Er Jie 9101, near Teemall Plaza. It’s easily accessible via APM Tianhe Nan Station Exit A or bus routes stopping at Tianhecheng Station. The phone number is 020-38936160. With an average spend of around ¥55, it’s a solid mid-range option for anyone in the area looking for a solid coffee and cake combo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NextCafe in Guangzhou known for?

NextCafe is best known for its afternoon tea combo: any drink plus ¥7 for a full-size, homemade cake (usually ¥28). It’s also recognized for its durian desserts, Tiramisu, and a quirky, young, and eclectic crowd.

How much is the cake combo at NextCafe?

The cake combo costs ¥7 extra with any drink, and includes a full-size homemade cake that normally sells for ¥28. Flavors include Tiramisu, Strawberry, Mango, Durian, and more.

What are the most popular cakes at NextCafe?

The most popular cakes include the Tiramisu, Durian Mousse, Berry Yogurt, Mango, and the 9-inch Durian Pizza. The Tiramisu is often compared to five-star hotel quality.

Where is NextCafe located in Guangzhou?

NextCafe is located at Liuyun Er Jie 9101, Tianhe Nan Yi Lu, Tianhe District, near Teemall Plaza. It’s close to APM Tianhe Nan Station Exit A and served by buses stopping at Tianhecheng Station.

What is the average price for a meal or drink at NextCafe?

The average spend at NextCafe is around ¥55. This typically includes a drink and a cake with the ¥7 combo, or other menu items like the 9-inch Durian Pizza for ¥78.

Does NextCafe offer coffee, or just cakes?

Yes, NextCafe serves coffee as well as a variety of teas and other drinks. The popular ¥7 cake combo can be paired with any drink on the menu.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Cake Pairings

Pair your NextCafe cake with a cup of FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for bright citrus and floral notes, or their Brazil Queen Manor for a nutty, chocolatey balance that complements both fruit and cheesecake flavors. For durian desserts, try the FrontStreet PWN Golden Mandheling—its earthy, spicy profile contrasts intriguingly with the fruit’s intensity. All beans are freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.