Looking for the best coffee shops in Guangzhou? Guangzhou was the final stop on our 14-day China itinerary in early 2025 during our second trip around the world. After exploring vibrant cities like Chengdu and Chongqing, we ended the journey at a slower pace, savoring the small details that make a city special. For us, that includes discovering amazing coffee spots.
We’re not just coffee lovers—we adore the full experience. The space, the design, the ambiance, and, of course, the desserts. In Guangzhou, we found coffee shops with unique concepts, from sleek specialty cafés to tiny coffee windows. Each had something special. If you’re like us and enjoy exploring cities through their coffee culture, this guide is for you.
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Kafelaku – An Icon in Shamian Island
Kafelaku is one of the standout coffee shops in Guangzhou, nestled in the city’s most picturesque area—Shamian Island, renowned for its European charm and tranquil streets. This café blends sophistication with an elegantly designed space, inviting visitors to step in and linger.
The coffee is exceptional, featuring carefully selected beans with a smooth flavor—perfect for those who appreciate quality. What makes Kafelaku special is its blend of ambiance and taste, offering an ideal escape from the city’s hustle.
1200 Bookshop – Coffee and Books in One Place
1200 Bookshop isn’t just a bookstore—it’s a concept. Open 24/7, this Guangzhou-based chain of book cafés invites visitors to sit back and enjoy a unique atmosphere.
We visited two branches: Tiyu East Road and Beijing Lu. Both offer a cozy space filled with books and a café serving high-quality drinks. Whether you’re working, studying, or just unwinding with a cappuccino, this is the spot.
Spring Hill Coffee – Bean Selection and Coworking Vibes
Spring Hill Coffee is for true coffee lovers. Here, you can choose your bean type for a personalized experience. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee fills the space, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Beyond great coffee, this is one of Guangzhou’s top spots for remote work or study. With a pleasant terrace and comfortable indoor seating, freelancers and students often flock here.
Cafe Floweryards – A Dessert Paradise
If you love coffee but can’t resist dessert, Cafe Floweryards in Yongqingfang—a historic cultural district—is a must-visit among Guangzhou’s best coffee shops. Its charm and heavenly sweets make it a standout café in the city.
The tiramisu and waffles are divine, perfectly paired with a well-crafted cappuccino. Its modern yet cozy design makes it a delicious urban retreat.
Manner Coffee – Quality Coffee in a Compact Window
A well-known Chinese chain, Manner Coffee’s Longkou West branch follows its signature minimalist concept: a quick-service coffee window where you order and go.
The coffee quality is impressive for such a tiny space—ideal for those on the go who want premium coffee without the wait.
Jingshan Coffee – Green, Peaceful, and Inspiring
A true urban oasis, Jingshan Coffee’s lush greenery and serene vibe offer respite from Guangzhou’s fast pace.
The coffee is flavorful and well-crafted, and the space is so inviting you’ll want to linger for hours. One of the best coffee shops in Guangzhou.
Liudeng KEEP THE Light Bookstore – A Café Among Books
One of Guangzhou’s most unique cafés, this hidden gem near Beijing Lu blends coffee and literature into a perfect reading nook.
Cozy and curated with a thoughtful book selection, it’s a hidden treasure worth discovering in many coffee shops in Guangzhou.
Exploring coffee shops is how we experience a city, and Guangzhou surprised us with its diversity and quality. From sleek spaces to innovative concepts, each café offered something unique.
If you visit Guangzhou and love coffee as much as we do, don’t miss these spots. Each has a special vibe and serves top-notch coffee—proof that this city is full of incredible corners for coffee enthusiasts.
