In honour of Mother’s Day, I’m here to reveal some of my mother’s favourite places in Nanjing. After living here for 5 years and having thoroughly explored this city, these are the spots that have stood the test of time. Places both old and new, from where to find an excellent cup of coffee to the best traditional massage in town. All of these recommendations (tried and tested by my lovely mother) are ideal for a perfect Mother’s Day or just a rejuvenating day out around Baijiahu in Jiangning District.
Start the day with a bit of pampering at Dido Nail Salon on Shuanglong Avenue tucked in the back of Kingmo. Located on the 1st floor, they provide a mani-pedi with a smile. While they might not understand everything if you don’t speak Chinese, they are always willing to try, even if that includes whipping out a translator. They offer a range of colours, brands and other services, such as eyelash extensions, at quite reasonable prices from ¥98-250, depending on what one wants to get done. And mothers want a lot done.
To brunch or to lunch; that is the question. No Worries, the Australian-inspired restaurant/cafe has recently set up in Baijiahu’s 1912 (building 10), having previously been spotted near Xinjiekou. Praised for their beverages and homely feel, they even have their very own culinary library.
A No Worries All Day Brunch consists of a decent range of salads, snacks and pastas, along with their notable selection of desserts, e.g. their upgraded rice pudding or lamington. This is complemented by their atmospheric Australia-themed decor, with a strong focus on key landmarks.
The coffee and tea selection is excellent, as is that for some unique juice-based beverages, such the ABC which is a blend of apple, beetroot and carrot that is both good for your palate and gut health. Then there is the watermelon strawberry cake which, don’t be fooled, is in fact not a cake, but a smoothie! It stands out as one of their best sellers. On the first floor is also sold a number of Australian imports, ranging from Vegemite, fresh produce, stuffed toys, teas and of course, Tim Tams.
We choose to end the day with a massage at O.D. Wellness, located 15 minutes away from Kingmo, at 59-3 Shengtai Xi Lu (accessible via Shengtai Xi Lu Station on Metro Line 3). Equipped with an array of services, varying from foot massages to cupping, their rooms hold up to five people in total; friend number six will just have to wait. You are given a selection of snacks to get you started, while you can even connect your phone to the TV and watch Netflix! A relaxing end to a perfect day.
At the less-commercial end of things, and as a flower lover, my mother enjoys a day trip to the quaint village by the name of Suncun, a little less than an hour from Jiangning. Popular for their multi acreage of bright yellow canola and sunflowers, punctuated by the varied pink hues of Zinnia, you’re also able to flower frolic in many other fields. In this dog-friendly village, you’ll also encounter a few stray, yet cared-for, tame dogs wandering around the place.
Make the most of the summer sun, grab a blanket and lounge under the willows or gaze at the seasonal blooms; a perfect place for the whole family, including pets. Not just this Mother’s Day, but any day.
