/ Reviews / Cafe
Bite-and-Browse
by Tom Lee
on Friday, January 21, 2011 12:00 AM
One of Europe's largest stores for consumer electronics, Media Markt made its first break into China just last November, opening up along the buzzing shopping outlets of HuaiHai Road with its flagship store in Shanghai. Within the space of one year, this chain has set itself the target of opening up another nine locations within the city, contributing to a goal of 100 branches around the country in the near future.
One of its original initiatives is to launch a series of cafés within its larger operations. The premise is simple: customers who need a meal break from their spending spree can grab a reasonably priced bite, before continuing where they left off, fingering the iPads and trying out the 3D televisions.
Considering that their first foray in Shanghai is a whopping 12,000 square meters in prime territory, it's no surprise the management have decided to premier the café idea on HuaiHai Road. It's been allotted a small, though admittedly well-designed, space; a testament to the German stereotype of ruthless efficiency, which turns what could easily have been a horribly claustrophobic, impersonal experience into a cozy spot away from the mania of other shoppers. Concealed behind a canteen-style counter, the café is wonderfully bright, with a wall of windows running the length of the venue and a serene view overlooking the surrounding environment.
Food is generally what one would expect: an affordable, simple affair involving typical snacks. Soups (RMB15), salads (RMB22-25) and sandwiches (RMB18-22) - including the cheese-stuffed Tuna Melt Panini and a peppery Cajun Chicken Wrap - are all represented, as are pasta dishes (RMB28-32) like the creamy, healthy-sized portion of Penne with Bacon & Mushroom Cream Sauce.
Until the end of February, Media Markt Café is offering an RMB15 lunch set, where you can taste some of the items on offer. The special changes every week and includes free-flow soft drinks. Even without this deal, and bearing in mind the prices and the convenience, there really is little to complain about at this helpful addition to the avid shopaholic's life.
The Bottom Line: With what may be the best deal in the area for lunch, Media Markt Café gives gadget lovers the perfect excuse to pop in for a quick bite-and-browse.
