MAAN COFFEE Brand History and Menu Overview

If you’ve ever walked into a spacious, tree-lined café with oversized chairs, oversized windows, and an atmosphere that feels more like a European lounge than a typical coffee chain, you might have been in a MAAN COFFEE. But how did this distinctive Korean coffeehouse brand begin—and what exactly sets it apart in the crowded world of specialty coffee shops?

Founded in 2010 and officially launching in January 2011 with its first location in Beijing’s Lido area, MAAN COFFEE was created to be a modern urban retreat. The name comes from the Chinese character ""—meaning "romantic" or "unrestrained"—with the goal of offering city dwellers a comfortable space to enjoy a moment of leisure.

What Is MAAN COFFEE and Who Founded It?

MAAN COFFEE is a Korean-style coffee shop brand founded by Chairman Xin , who envisioned it as “a comfortable resting space in a modern city.” The brand blends a cozy, almost nostalgic interior design with high-quality coffee and food. The aim? To give customers a serene environment to enjoy a "romantic moment" during their day.

How Did MAAN COFFEE Expand Across China?

From its launch in January 2011, MAAN COFFEE grew rapidly across major Chinese cities. Its first branch opened in Beijing’s Lido district on January 5, 2011. Over the next two years, it expanded steadily:

• 2011: Beijing locations including Renmin University (February), Tsinghua Tongfang (September), Baiziwan (November), Wangjing (December), and Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (December).
• 2012: Continued nationwide rollout with openings in Shanghai (March), Dalian (May), Century Golden Resources Mall and Jing Grain Building in Beijing (May), Jiande Gate and Joy City in Beijing (June–July), Guangqumen and Dalian No. 2 store (August), Gongti in Beijing (August), Taiyuan in Shanxi (September), Xiamen and Fuzhou (October), Zhengzhou in Henan, Nanjing in Jiangsu, and Harbin in Heilongjiang (all December).

By the end of 2012, MAAN COFFEE had established a strong presence in first- and second-tier Chinese cities, with a mix of flagship and trial locations.

What Coffee and Food Does MAAN COFFEE Serve?

MAAN COFFEE emphasizes quality in both beverages and food. The coffee is made from imported beans, roasted and prepared under the supervision of professional Korean roasters. The brand highlights freshness and technical precision in every cup.

The food menu features signature items:

• Waffles: Made fresh on-site by Korean patissiers. The golden-brown waffles are served with fresh fruit, ice cream, and whipped cream for a light yet satisfying dessert.
• Toast: Baked under strict time and temperature controls to achieve a golden crust. Topped with cinnamon and caramel for a sweet, crisp treat.

These items reflect the brand’s commitment to a premium, comfort-focused cafe experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did MAAN COFFEE first open?

MAAN COFFEE launched in January 2011 with its first store in Beijing’s Lido district on January 5. Preparations began in 2010.

Who founded MAAN COFFEE?

The brand was founded by Chairman Xin , who aimed to create a modern urban space for relaxation and romantic moments.

What makes MAAN COFFEE different from other coffee chains?

MAAN COFFEE combines spacious, rustic interiors with high-quality coffee roasted by Korean professionals, along with freshly made waffles and toast. Its ambiance is designed for comfort and leisure rather than fast service.

Where did MAAN COFFEE first expand after Beijing?

After its Beijing launch, MAAN COFFEE expanded to other Chinese cities in 2011–2012 including Shanghai, Dalian, Nanjing, Harbin, Taiyuan, Xiamen, and Fuzhou, among others.

What food items is MAAN COFFEE known for?

MAAN COFFEE is well known for its freshly baked waffles topped with fruit and ice cream, and its golden toast sprinkled with cinnamon and caramel.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Café-Style Drinks

For a café experience inspired by MAAN COFFEE, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for bright floral and citrus notes, or their Guatemala Antigua for a balanced profile with chocolate and spice. Both work beautifully in pour-over or milk drinks, complementing the relaxed, European-style ambience MAAN COFFEE is known for. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.