International students enjoy meals offered at the Xiaoheshan community canteen. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

A small community canteen in Hangzhou's Xiaoheshan area has become a surprise hit among international students, offering affordable meals – eight dishes for just a few dozen yuan – and a vibrant space for late-night barbecue and cross-cultural exchange.

Located in the heart of Xiaoheshan community, one of Zhejiang's most international university clusters, the newly opened canteen serves as an unofficial second cafeteria for students from nearby institutions like Zhejiang University of Technology and Zhejiang Sci-Tech University. It has quickly gained popularity not just for its diverse cuisine – including fruit-meat skewers and rotating dishes from eight major Chinese cuisines – but also for its welcoming atmosphere and late-night hours, which extend until midnight.

An international student takes photos of her meal. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

In addition to food, Xiaoheshan is cultivating a thriving international youth talent community. With fully equipped apartments for around 1,000 yuan ($136.7) per room, and common spaces designed for co-living and co-creation, the area is home to over 300 foreign students – three times the number just a year ago. Initiatives like international youth talent apartments and 24-hour service platforms are enhancing student life, offering housing, legal aid, and community activities such as baking and cocktail classes.

The neighborhood's inclusive approach also includes cultural exchange programs and social events that foster deeper integration. From African drum nights to multilingual discussion corners, Xiaoheshan is redefining community living through diversity, affordability, and warmth.

As one Moroccan student put it: "Living here is so comfortable – I hope to stay after graduation."

Some fruit-meat skewers offered at the canteen. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]