Guiyang | “Qu Cha Shan” — start serving latte?
If you grew up in Guiyang, there’s one name you probably can’t avoid: QuChaShan. Back in the day, it was actually the same brand as Createa, before they eventually went their separate ways.
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☕️ Latte: since when did they start doing coffee? 🌟🌟🌟🌟
What surprised me most is that they now serve latte.
There was definitely no coffee here when I was younger—I don’t even know when they started offering it.
According to the menu, the beans come from Ethiopia or Brazil.
I originally thought it would just be a simple takeaway coffee.
But when I casually opened the lid to take a photo—
there it was: latte art.
Even more surprising, it actually tasted really good.
Honestly, it’s on par with many dedicated coffee shops.
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🍹 Cili (Roxburgh Rose) Fruit Drinks: try before you order! 🌟🌟
They now offer several drinks made with Cili (Roxburgh Rose) Fruit.
My tip: don’t rush to order.
You can ask for a small sample at the counter first.
The flavor is quite unique—tangy and slightly astringent.
I was even wondering: what would it taste like mixed with an Americano?
But I’ll save that “mystery box” experiment for next time.
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🍋 Friend’s pick: Hand-crushed Lemon & Guava Jasmine Tea 🌟🌟🌟
Overall, the tea flavor isn’t too strong.
The dominant note is the citrusy freshness of lemon,
with a layered taste of sweet, sour, and a hint of bitterness.
By default, it only comes in 70% or 100% sugar,
so we asked at the counter to adjust it to 30% sugar.
And it turned out perfect—
just enough to balance the lemon’s sharpness without feeling too heavy.
The first sip actually felt like mint—cool and refreshing.
But then I realized that “coolness” was actually from the guava aroma.
The jasmine tea sits quietly in the background,
adding a light floral note.
Super refreshing—perfect for summer.
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☕️ Another latte worth trying: “ Kaleidoscope Latte” (Mini) 🌟🌟🌟
We also tried their “Kaleidoscope Latte”, in a mini size.
And yes… it’s really mini.
The first sip hits you with a strong coffee bitterness and bold flavor—almost a bit intense.
But as you keep drinking,
the milkiness gradually comes through.
Compared to a regular latte:
• the coffee notes are more pronounced (slightly more bitter and acidic)
• the milk is richer
Toward the end, the milk softens everything,
making the overall taste smoother and more balanced.
Very similar in quality to the latte I had last time—
reliable, rich, and enjoyable.
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📌 Final thoughts
• Jasmine teas: refreshing, perfect for summer
• Lattes: rich, layered, and surprisingly solid
Some places exist not just for what they serve,
but for the sense of ritual they carry.
After years away from home,
coming back to Guizhou and meeting old friends,
we still find ourselves choosing this place.
Maybe “ritual” is simply this—
being with the same people,
in the same place,
doing the same things.
And perhaps,
that’s how we choose to remember our youth.
Stepping into Qu Cha Shan in Guiyang always feels like a trip down memory lane for me. Growing up here, this spot was practically an institution. It’s more than just a place to grab a drink; it's interwoven with so many local memories. I remember when it was closely associated with Createa, and seeing how it has evolved over the years, especially now with their surprising dive into coffee, has been fascinating. The vibe at Qu Cha Shan is uniquely Guiyang. It's a comfortable, bustling place where you'll see everyone from students catching up to families enjoying an afternoon. I particularly love how they've managed to keep that nostalgic charm while also embracing new trends. There's usually a lively hum of conversation, and finding a cozy corner to people-watch with a drink is one of my favorite simple pleasures. The interior, as you might see in photos, often blends modern touches with a sense of local tradition, making it a welcoming space for anyone. Beyond the specific drinks I tried, if you're new to Qu Cha Shan, I'd suggest paying attention to their seasonal specials. They often incorporate local Guiyang flavors that you won't find anywhere else. While their new lattes are a definite highlight – honestly, who knew they could pull off such good latte art and rich coffee? – don't overlook their traditional tea offerings. Many locals still swear by their classic fruit teas, which are wonderfully refreshing, especially during Guiyang's warmer months. And yes, for the adventurous, trying a sample of the Cili (Roxburgh Rose) Fruit Drinks before committing is a wise move, as its unique tangy profile isn't for everyone, but it’s definitely a local experience! What truly makes Qu Cha Shan a local gem is that sense of continuity and comfort it provides. It's the kind of place where you instinctively know you'll meet familiar faces or simply feel at home. For me, it embodies a ritual – catching up with old friends, sharing stories, and just basking in the familiarity of a place that has been a constant through different phases of life. It’s not just about the specific drink in your hand, be it a creamy Kaleidoscope Latte or a zesty Hand-crushed Lemon & Guava Jasmine Tea, but the entire experience of being there, surrounded by the echoes of shared history. If you're ever in Guiyang and want a genuine taste of local culture and delicious beverages, make sure Qu Cha Shan is on your list. It’s a place that continues to surprise and delight, proving that even beloved old establishments can learn new tricks.