Livin' In The Chonx

Shi Ba Ti Lao Cha Guan 十八梯老茶馆
• Free Admission (but they naturally prefer you to stay and have some tea); Open Late

This is the perfect place to escape from the heat of the afternoon and the commotion of the big city. Located close to the Mosque, and built upon the side of a cliff with only the uppermost floor visible from the street, try not to be thrown off by the humble exterior of this teahouse. There are collections of antiques, old photos, and tapestries tastefully displayed throughout the place. Climb down a narrow staircase to the next floor where a stream runs through the middle of the room, settle into one of the secluded cubby holes next to the windows, or go out to the plant covered balcony overlooking ancient rooftops. There is still another level below this one, where people can play Mahjong while sipping tea.

• Tea can be purchased by cup or pot, additional hot water added free of charge so one cup can last for quite some time. 25-60 RMB/cup; 50-100+ RMB/pot (certain kinds of tea—like some varieties of Oolong—are prepared in a very intricate way which your server will demonstrate for you if you order a pot)
• Menu is available in Chinese & English

Bus Tip: 较场口

Light Rail Tip: 较场口 (Jiaochangkou) Exit A (Towards Shi Ba Ti Road). Less than a 5 minute walk from here. Look for the Shi Ba Ti Road sign and cross the street until you are on the far sidewalk of that street (Shi Ba Ti turns into Zhong Xing). Take a right (you may be able to see the Mosque ahead of you). The teahouse has a small inconspicuous entrance on the left.