Shanghai’s First MINI-Themed Coffee Restaurant Opens

If you’ve ever walked past a café and thought, ‘There’s got to be more than just coffee in here,’ Shanghai’s first ever single-brand MINI-themed coffee and restaurant might be the answer. Opened to celebrate eight years of Blue Car, this café doesn’t just serve drinks—it wraps you in a world of British motoring flair with coffee, food, and plenty of car culture.

The world’s first coffee and restaurant dedicated entirely to the MINI brand opened in Shanghai on August 3, 2015. Backed by investor Cai Zhongwei, the venue blends vintage British car style with premium coffee, creative Western food, freshly baked bread, and desserts—all under one roof.

What Is the Blue Car·MINI Themed Café?

The Blue Car·MINI coffee and restaurant is China’s first single-brand auto-themed café, focusing entirely on the iconic MINI. Rather than just another coffee shop, it’s a full-sensory experience: you can sit inside, touch classic MINI models, and chat with fellow car enthusiasts. The space is designed to reflect British motoring heritage while delivering quality coffee and food in a playful, energetic environment.

Why Combine Cars and Coffee?

Founder Cai Zhongwei envisioned a space where automobile passion meets culinary comfort. MINI, known for its compact design and bold personality, contrasts with the often sterile feel of modern cafés. Here, the car isn’t just decoration—it’s part of the conversation. The café aims to break the monotony with a vibe that’s lively, creative, and unapologetically fun.

What to Expect Inside

Step into the café and you’re greeted by an interior inspired by British car culture. Classic MINI vehicles are on display—you can even open the doors and touch the steering wheels. The seating includes custom MINI-inspired large sofas. The menu spans carefully brewed coffee, Western-style creative dishes, freshly baked bread, and a variety of desserts. The space supports both casual meetups and deep conversations about cars, design, and everything in between.

Hours, Location & Contact

The café is open daily from 10:00 to 22:00. You’ll find it at 1 Middle Huaihai Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai—close to Liulin Road intersection. For inquiries, call 021-63301266.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the first MINI-themed café in the world?

Yes, the Blue Car·MINI coffee and restaurant is confirmed as the world’s first single-brand MINI-themed café, opening in Shanghai on August 3, 2015. It exclusively focuses on the MINI brand, combining automotive culture with café dining.

What can I do at the Blue Car·MINI café besides drinking coffee?

Beyond enjoying coffee, you can explore classic MINI vehicles on display, sit in MINI-inspired custom seating, and interact with other car and design enthusiasts. The space encourages conversation around automotive culture, creativity, and food.

Where is the Blue Car·MINI café located in Shanghai?

The café is located at 1 Middle Huaihai Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, near the intersection with Liulin Road. It’s centrally situated for easy access within the city.

What are the opening hours of the Blue Car·MINI café?

The café is open every day from 10:00 in the morning until 22:00 at night, offering daytime, afternoon, and evening dining and coffee options.

Can I contact the café for reservations or inquiries?

Yes, you can call the café directly at 021-63301266 for inquiries, reservations, or any questions about the café’s offerings or events.

Does the café serve food as well as coffee?

Yes, the menu includes not just coffee but also creative Western dishes, freshly baked bread, and a selection of desserts, making it a full dining experience alongside the automotive theme.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Car-Themed Cafés

For a café like Blue Car·MINI, FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera offers bright citrus and floral notes ideal for pairing with creative dishes. The Brazil Queen Manor brings smooth chocolate and nuttiness, perfect for espresso drinks alongside breakfast pastries. Finally, Yirgacheffe delivers juicy berries and acidity, matching well with light meals and keeping the energy lively—just like the MINI spirit. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.