Flying Tigers Cafe in Shangri-La County, Diqing

Flying Tigers Cafe is located at No. 91 Jīnlóng Street, Dúkēzōng Ancient Town, Shangri – La, Diqing (迪庆香格里拉独克宗古城金龙街 91 号). It has been operating in the ancient town for eight years and is a highly distinctive local restaurant. Founded by a Sino – French couple, though named after coffee, it is actually a high – quality French restaurant. The unique name “Flying Tigers” originates from the founders’ sentiment towards the “Flying Tigers” of World War II (officially known as the American Volunteer Group of the Chinese Air Force). The English name “Flying Tigers” echoes this historical connection and highlights an international style.

The restaurant is situated in a relatively secluded alley of the ancient town. It appears modest and quiet from the outside and can be easily overlooked if not paid attention to. However, once you step through the door, it feels like entering another world. It is considered the restaurant with the highest “foreign content” in Dúkēzōng. The interior decoration creates a warm and unique atmosphere, which contrasts sharply with the common Tibetan hot pot restaurants and folk song pubs in the ancient town. It is tranquil yet stylish, making it an excellent spot for dining in peace amidst the hustle and bustle.

The menu features common Western dishes such as burgers, pizzas, pastas, and salads. The preparation is meticulous. For example, the burger buns are soft and thick with a crispy outer layer, the pizza base is crisp and well – topped with abundant ingredients, the pasta has a chewy texture with rich – flavored sauce, and the salad ingredients are fresh and varied.

The restaurant incorporates Yunnan flavors into its dishes. The signature yak beef burger uses local Yunnan yak beef, which is firm and chewy, paired with unique sauces. The result is a juicy and multi – textured burger. The lasagna also features yak beef in its filling, which is substantial and authentic in taste.

The cappuccino has a caramel flavor, with a smooth and non – bitter taste. The apple pie is moderately sweet and rich without being cloying. The house – made cocktails are also distinctive. For instance, the cocktail based on Shangri – La gin (香格里拉金酒) has a rich aroma without a harsh alcohol smell. The “Shangri – La Passion” combines the sweet – sour flavor of passion fruit, making it refreshing and perfect for a light buzz. The “Flying Tigers Special” is based on plum wine, with a rich and refreshing taste. In addition, the restaurant offers a variety of high – quality cheeses and hams.

The restaurant’s prices are not explicitly mentioned. However, considering the quality of the dishes and its positioning, it falls into the mid – to – high – end range. The focus on high – quality ingredients and craftsmanship means that the pricing for both classic Western dishes and signature innovations should be comparable to that of other high – quality Western restaurants. The prices for drinks and desserts will also match their quality standards. For example, main dishes like burgers and pastas may range from 50 – 100 yuan, cocktails from 30 – 80 yuan, and desserts from 20 – 50 yuan. Prices may vary slightly due to fluctuations in ingredient costs and seasonal factors.

The restaurant is widely regarded as the most authentic Western restaurant in Dúkēzōng. It not only offers genuine Western flavors but also skillfully integrates local Yunnan ingredients. It has received recognition from both domestic and international customers, with many foreigners frequently dining here.

From ingredient selection to preparation, the restaurant’s dedication to the perfect taste of food is evident. For example, the meat patties in the burgers, the fries, the filling in the lasagna, and the French bread served with the creamed spinach soup are all of superior quality. Attention to detail is apparent in every dish.