Vine Coffeehouse & English Corner (Deman Kafeiwu)
A West Indian cafe is not something you expect to find in downtown Urumqi, but this oasis in a sea of blandness is a delight. The halal menu was established by the head chef of the Plaza Hotel, Curacao. Try his signature dish, the Jacques Steak, pan-fried with green peppers, tomatoes, and onions, and served with sides of potatoes, coleslaw, and (in a concession to local tastes) rice. Other hits are the soup de jour, chicken a la king, and the cookies under the front counter. "English Corner" is currently held on Thursday and Sunday nights; it's a nice way to meet locals, and possibly find a guide who isn't out to bilk you. The restaurant is down a small alley off Minzhu Lu.
| Cuisine | Western | ||
| Hours | Tues-Sat 1:30-11:30pm | ||
| Address | Minzhu Lu 65 | ||
| Location | Around Town | ||
| Phone | 0991/230-4831 | ||
| Prices | Main courses ¥20-¥35 ($2.50-$4.40) | ||
| Credit Cards | Not accepted | ||