Gelato Pique Café, Beijing

Nestled in the heart of Beijing’s Sanlitun, Taikoo Li shopping district is a cute little Japanese café. So little that you most likely will walk past without even knowing it’s there. In fact, I spent almost a year in Beijing without even tasting those delectable French-style pancakes. Until one morning before work I randomly strolled past and saw what looked like a quaint little European style cottage. The white panes lining the windows created the sweetest look and were inviting as ever leading me to wander in and order a cappuccino.

Gelato Pique Café is a Japanese creperie that originated in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. The creperie is actually an extension of the major fashion brand Gelato Pique which specializes in charming breezy beach-like outfits. The café has a somewhat delightful Japanese take on the French-cottage look with light wooded surfaces, pastel-colored walls and an open kitchen that allows you to watch the chef making your pancakes right from your chair. It really does make you feel like you’re sitting in little European café. That of course, is topped with a touch of Japanese hospitality from the staff who are ever so attentive in ensuring that your water glasses are always fill and that your pancakes are served just as you wish.

The menu itself is filled with surprises of savory crêpes, sweet pancakes with real gelato and brunch if you’re hungry. Their secret crêpe recipe is said to use imported French flour, echile sugar and delicious butter. That could by why they taste so delicious!