Smallville, a most personable cafe, invokes the name of that hallowed Midwestern town where Superman himself was raised on wholesome food and traditional family values-both of which are in evidence here.

When combined with the restaurant's adjoining library, the BookMark, the jumbo-sized comic book posters and the boardgame nook create a warm atmosphere for anyone craving traditional North American comfort food. We started with the Avenger: scrambled eggs, three fluffy milk pancakes, golden hash browns, toast, and sausage (RMB 46) accompanied by a creamy Oreo milkshake (RMB 24). Other signature dishes include the Sizzlin¡¯ Steak Sandwich (RMB 28), with decent quality beef, mozzarella, saut¨¦ed onions, tomatoes, and ample amounts of BBQ sauce.

If you're inclined to feel guilty after eating such rich food, you'll be pleased to know Smallville also has a philanthropic arrangement with the Wisdom Springs training center for underprivileged youngsters. So eat that creamy carrot cake (RMB 18)... for the children!

Smallville
Open time: Tue-Sun 8am-8pm.
Location: 3 Kaifa Jie, Baixin Zhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District
Tel: 010-80465448