曼咖啡 MAAN Coffee

MAAN is a cafe chain that doesn't aim to bring a piece of European culture to China, but instead puts a slight European spin on a very Chinese establishment. Smoking is not only allowed, but encouraged with ash trays on every table, though there is also a non-smoking area. There are private booths for groups of people, and they even have a couple of Karaoke rooms with the standard fruit and beer accompaniments. It still serves the purpose of a cafe that most people are looking for: a comfortable space with chairs and tables that allow them to either spend time with companions or to get some work done. But it feels distinctly different in that it doesn't feel cozy or creative. It feels very much like a corporate exercise in delivering on market research.

They've managed to hit all the points that technically make a great cafe with fresh plants decorating the interior, a reading corner piled with books, warm lighting, industrial design, clever coffee creations, and yet... it just lacks heart. Not to mention it's on the pricier side, coming in at around 40元 for a drink.

Despite all that, it serves its purpose very well and offers a little something for everyone so it's still going to be a top choice if you're near to any of their branches in Kunming, especially if you want to set up camp with a laptop.