Cartoon-themed cafes worth getting drawn into
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Cartoon creations like Hello Kitty and Snoopy boast legions of fans all over the world. Here in Shanghai, these beloved characters have inspired a string of cafes. Today, let’s explore three of the city’s colorful cartoon-themed establishments.
Chinchilla Cafe
Even if you’ve never seen the heart-warming animated film “My Neighbor Totoro” by director Hayao Miyazaki, you’re probably familiar with the titular character’s cuddly likeness. Those in Shanghai can experience the magic of this beloved Japanese classic at Chinchilla Cafe, a Totoro-themed cafe opened near Shanghai South Railway Station in 2014.
An entire wall of the cafe is decorated with scenes from the film, while adorable Totoro toys can be found scattered around the establishment.
The cafe also boasts a menu of creative drinks and desserts. The jasmine white tea latte is a hot milky drink based on traditional Chinese white tea, or baicha, with dried jasmine flowers floating on top.
Meanwhile, the Jinjunmei black tea latte is made with black tea originating from the Wuyi Mountain area of Fujian Province.
If you want something a little more unique, try the rose coffee or the salty-lemon coffee, both 38 yuan (US$6).
As for desserts, the cafe’s signature tiramisu cupcake features a delicate butter cream topping. There’s also the fruits forest waffles (48 yuan), which includes four buttery waffle cakes topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream and two scoops of mango ice cream.
Last but not least, there are the Totoro-shaped macaroons. Be warned though, these adorable sweets may be too sugary for some.
During weekdays, the cafe offers an afternoon tea deal for 98 yuan.
Chinchilla Café
Address: 581 Shilong Rd
Tel: 5196-6828
Opening hours: 9:30am-9:30pm
Charlie Brown Cafe
Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang have been entertaining fans around the world for over 60 years. For admirers of these beloved characters, the Charlie Brown Cafe is sure to delight.
The first thing visitors are likely to notice is the cafe’s attention to detail, with Peanuts-themed decor and artwork adorning each wall. Outside, visitors can also pose with giant statues of Snoopy and Charlie.
One favorite item on the cafe’s extensive menu is the mousse cake. This cake comes in four flavors, with each flavor shaped like a different Peanuts characters — these include Charlie (chocolate), Snoopy (light cheese), Lucy (strawberry) and Woodstock (mango). Each cake is priced at 29 yuan (US$4.5).
There is also an extensive selection of drinks. The classic Americano-style coffee comes recommended, as its mild bitterness pairs well with the sweet desserts.
For those who want to avoid caffeine, the refreshing iced lemon tea is a good alternative, especially in the summer.
Among the three establishments listed here, Charlie Brown Cafe also offers the best service, with its attentive wait staff always ready with a smile for customers.
Charlie Brown Café
Address: 6-101-1, Touch Mall, 699 Zhongshan Rd S2
Tel: 6013-0338
Opening hours: 8am-10pm (Monday-Friday), 9am-10pm (Saturday-Sunday)
Bonbons Hello Kitty Cafe
Few cartoon characters have as many devotees as Hello Kitty. Here in Shanghai, one of the best places to experience feline fandom is Bonbons Hello Kitty Cafe in Global Harbor.
This boutique cafe is wall-to-wall “Hello Kitty,” with everything from the dessert forks, serving trays and coffee mugs all bearing the image of the iconic character. Even the pink and brown seats feature Kitty’s signature hair bow.
A wide selection of Kitty-themed desserts and pastries are available. The green tea sponge cake with fresh strawberries is one of the most popular choices.
This tasty morsel features two slices of Kitty-shaped cake sandwiched between whipped cream, strawberries and soft red beans.
The cocoa mousse, with its well-balanced flavor, is another good choice. Topped with a piece of white chocolate, the dessert features a dark chocolate coating that melts in the mouth. Underneath is a smooth milk chocolate mousse with a sponge cake base.
The cafe also spoils its guests with a wide selection of beverages, from espresso-based drinks to fruit smoothies. The somewhat watery cappuccino is definitely much lighter than one is likely to find in coffee shops elsewhere. For some visitors, the latte may be a better option, if only for its cute Kitty foam art.
For those who want a souvenir to remember their visit, the café sells a variety of Hello Kitty merchandise and products. Free Hello Kitty balloons are also available for customers with small children.
If you plan to visit on a weekend, be warned: this place can be very noisy. For a quieter experience, a private room capable of holding eight people is available. There is also seating for groups of up to 10 in the main dining area.
Bonbons Hello Kitty Café
Address: L2121-L2122, Global Harbor, 3300 Zhongshan Rd N.
Tel: 6067-3239
Opening hours: 10am-10pm
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