Newly opened on 17th March, the Carino Caffe is part of a Korean chain of coffee shops. It is conveniently located opposite Xikai Church and next to Starbucks. I thought this may be an obstacle to attracting customers but the staff are optimistic.

They offer refreshments that the other coffee shops do not, such as sweet potato latte. As a westerner, this may not be your cup of tea, pardon the pun, but rest assured they offer a large variety of normal coffees and teas. There is a good selection of frappes and smoothies, including kiwi, blueberry and strawberry. My favourite was the strange but delicious Grapefruit Ade.

Waffles are their speciality and come smothered with a huge amount of cream, prices are from 21 yuan. The banana waffle is particularly delicious. Prices for coffee are a standard 28 yuan for cappuccinos and lattes. Frappes and

Smoothies are from 31 yuan. Garlic bread is 30 yuan but is huge and there is also a spicy chilli bread.

There are plenty of tables outside and the inside is decorated in warm and soothing coffee colours. The best thing about this place is the projector screen. I think it will attract many customers as

there are plans to show films. I was fascinated and couldn't keep my eyes of the music show that was on. This is something that no other coffee shop offers and I expect Carino will be really popular once it becomes established.

Caramel Banana Waffle

There is a good selection of frappes and smoothies, including kiwi, blueberry and strawberry.

Add: 1F International Department Store, 211 Nanjing Lu, Heping District （near Xikai Church）

地址：和平区南京路211号国际商场A座1楼（近西开教堂）

Tel: 27837731

Price: 30RMB