China is known for its experimental food culture, but its latest creation has surprised even adventurous eaters. A museum café in Beijing is serving a unique beverage called “Crawly-Crawly Coffee,” made with cockroach powder sprinkled on top. Despite its shocking ingredients, visitors are enjoying it with great enthusiasm, making it a viral trend on social media.
The coffee, priced at 45 yuan (around ₹500), also includes dried yellow mealworms, giving it a roasted and slightly sour flavour, according to those who have tasted it. While many people hesitate even hearing the word “cockroach,” others in China—where scorpion, snake, and lizard dishes are common—are more willing to experiment.
The unusual coffee was introduced at the insect museum café in late June, but it recently gained viral attention after social media posts highlighted its bizarre composition. According to the café, all ingredients are sourced from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) suppliers and are considered safe for consumption. TCM practitioners believe cockroach powder improves blood circulation, while protein-rich mealworms help boost immunity.
Public reactions are mixed. Some young visitors enjoy trying the odd drink for fun, while others refuse outright. Yet the café manages to sell more than 10 cups daily, proving curiosity often wins.
