Lhasa's coffee scene thrives with Tibetan flair

In recent years, the coffee market in Lhasa, the capital of the Xizang autonomous region, has encountered new opportunities thanks to a series of measures aimed at promoting high-quality economic development implemented by the regional government.

Benefiting from the overall robust economic momentum, coffee chain brands such as Luckin Coffee and Pacific Coffee have emerged on the city streets.

In addition to their familiar products and services, these chain brands have expanded the local coffee consumption market through extensive marketing promotions.

According to a report by China News Service, information from the market supervision and administration bureau of Lhasa indicates that by August last year, the city had 128 coffee shop operators, up from just 56 in 2023.

In addition to regular coffee shops, coffee bars with unique Tibetan characteristics have become new consumer hotspots.

Located near Barkor Street in downtown Lhasa, Xidu Coffee integrates coffee with Tibetan-style customs, creating an authentic Tibetan ambiance that has become popular with tourists.

Lobsang Tashi, a barista at the coffee shop, said their innovative Yak Butter Latte combines highland yak butter, unique to the plateau, with coffee. It has become a favorite among tourists.

The shop usually enjoys good business, and during the recently concluded May Day holiday, foot traffic doubled.

"Many visitors come here not just for the coffee, but also to enjoy the Tibetan-style environment and the special latte art featuring the Chinese character for 'Zang' (Xizang) in the foam," said Tashi.