Best Scenic Coffee Shops in Guangzhou for Afternoon Tea

If you’ve ever wanted to while away an afternoon in a beautifully designed space—sipping coffee, reading a book, and soaking in sunlight through the window—Guangzhou has several hidden gems that offer just that. These cafés aren’t just places to drink coffee; they’re curated experiences, each with its own personality, décor, and charm.

From a fairytale-like vintage store to a Japanese-inspired café filled with childhood memories, here are five of the most photogenic and atmospheric coffee shops in Guangzhou where you can enjoy a perfect afternoon.

Secret Travel Vintage: A Whimsical Café Like No Other

Nestled on Tiyu Xi Heng Street in Tianhe District, Secret Travel Vintage looks like a European estate from the outside, with playful colours and lush greenery. Step inside, and you’re transported to a storybook village. The centrepiece—an antique wooden carousel—sets the tone for the entire space. This spot blends café, gift shop, and wonderland. While not a traditional coffeehouse, it serves affordable afternoon tea sets that let you linger for hours. The décor includes handpicked knick-knacks, rainbow-hued lighting, and cosy nooks for reading or people-watching.

Recommended treats: Napoleon Ferris Wheel, Dreamy Cotton Candy Milk Tea, Tuna Potato Head, Secret Fragrant Milk Tea.

Address: Shop 104, No. 144, Tiyu Xi Heng Street, Tianhe District, Guangzhou.

The Owl’s House: A Cozy European-Style Hideaway

Located on Yan Dun Road in Yuexiu District, The Owl’s House is a sunlit treasure trove of vintage finds. The shop exudes old-world European charm, with owl-themed decor hidden throughout—figurines, vases, and teacups that the owner, Yube, collected during her travels. Each piece comes with its own story. The warm lighting and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to while away the afternoon. Though more of a lifestyle boutique than a coffee shop, it offers classic drinks like rose lattes and decadent desserts.

Recommended items: Rose Latte, Caramel Pudding, Cranberry Cookies.

Address: No. 15, Yan Dun Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou (near Peizheng Middle School).

Na Xiao Miao Coffee: Nostalgia in Every Corner

Tucked away on Tongqing Road in Haizhu District, Na Xiao Miao Coffee is instantly recognisable by its vintage black-and-white TV. The Japanese-inspired interior is filled with old-world charm: faded sheet music, vintage instruments, rusted trunks, and even a red scarf hanging in the display case. Every item tells a story, making it feel like stepping into someone’s cherished memory. It’s a great spot for a quiet moment with a cup of vanilla mocha or a plant-shaped milk tea.

Recommended drinks: Vanilla Mocha, Potted Plant Milk Tea.

Address: No. 9, Siqing Street, Tongqing Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou.

Qing Yuan: Fashion Meets Baked Goods in a Century-Old Home

Housed in an over 80-year-old building in Dongshan, Qing Yuan feels more like a private boutique than a café. The space showcases carefully selected vintage clothing, including pieces in shabby chic and Chanel-style cuts. The food is equally thoughtfully prepared: all cookies and cupcakes are handmade. It’s a great place to enjoy a coffee alongside a freshly baked treat in a historic setting.

Recommended items: Handmade Cookies, Coffee.

Address: No. 3, Yan Dun Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou.

Mu Nan Coffee Shop: A Nomadic Café with Ever-Evolving Charm

On Dongqing Street in Xiaozhou Village, Mu Nan Coffee Shop is run by the free-spirited Susu and Xiaofei. Formerly known as “House Coffee,” it was renamed after their travels through Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, and Xishuangbanna. The café is tucked inside a semi-abandoned building they renovated using reclaimed wood and vintage furnishings. The owners keep irregular hours, often disappearing on spontaneous trips. The space doubles as a community hub where strangers become friends. It’s ideal for those who appreciate slow, intentional living and freshly brewed hand coffee.

Recommended drink: Hand-brewed Coffee.

Address: No. 7, Dongqing Street, Xiaozhou Village, Haizhu District, Guangzhou. Note: Hours vary depending on the owners’ mood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these cafés in Guangzhou worth visiting?

These cafés stand out for their unique décor, themed atmospheres, and immersive experiences. Each offers more than just coffee—it provides a visual and emotional escape, whether through vintage collections, nostalgic interiors, or handmade goods. They’re ideal for relaxing afternoons and Instagram-worthy moments.

Do any of these cafés serve specialty coffee?

Most focus on casual drinks like milk tea, lattes, and hand-brewed coffee rather than strict specialty brews. Mu Nan Coffee Shop is the closest, offering freshly brewed hand coffee. For premium single-origin beans, you can visit FrontStreet Coffee’s Guangzhou retail shop.

Are these cafés suitable for taking photos?

Yes, all five locations are highly photogenic, with carefully curated visuals—from fairy-tale carousels and vintage toys to century-old architecture and boutique displays. They’re popular among visitors looking for aesthetic backdrops.

Is there a café with food options besides drinks?

Yes, Secret Travel Vintage and Qing Yuan both serve light food and baked goods. Secret Travel offers affordable afternoon tea sets, while Qing Yuan is known for its handmade cookies and cakes made on-site.

Can I find specialty coffee beans in Guangzhou?

Yes, FrontStreet Coffee’s physical store at 315 Donghua East Road in Yuexiu District sells a variety of freshly roasted single-origin beans. Their online shop also offers beans with detailed flavour profiles and roast dates.

What should I know about visiting these cafés?

Some, like Mu Nan, have irregular hours, so it’s best to check ahead. Most are small and popular with locals, so visiting during off-peak times ensures a quieter experience. All welcome visitors looking to relax and enjoy a unique atmosphere.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Afternoon Cafés

For your afternoon coffee in these Guangzhou cafés, try FrontStreet Coffee’s single-origin offerings. The FrontStreet 2013 Yunnan beans are a smooth, approachable choice with notes of caramel and nuts, ideal for a relaxed cup. For brighter profiles, their Ethiopia Yirgacheffe highlights floral and citrus tones, perfect with light desserts. Both beans are roasted fresh and available at their Guangzhou shop or online. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.