Looking for the latest nightlife spots in Shanghai? From dimly-lit speakeasies to places loud and rowdy, we’ve listed three unique and cosy cocktail bars for an unforgettable night out:
Botanical Basket
This charming morning-to-late roadside cocktail bar in the super-hip Wuding Road strip is the perfect pre- or post-dinner pit stop. As the name suggests, botanicals and house-made infusions, especially vodkas and gins, are the order of the day. With mostly outdoor seating, the place is best for balmy nights, though a handful of seats are covered, should the weather turn.
1101 Wuding Lu, near Yanping Lu, Jing’an District, Shanghai
Keep It Quiet
Step back in time to the golden days of Shanghai circa 1920-1930 at this chillaxed lounge in the former British Consulate villa. Expect good old-fashioned heavy-pour drinks and cocktails, with locals and expats settling into shabby-chic art deco chairs. Landscaped gardens and ancient trees add to the throwback atmos.
200 Yongfu Lu, near Hunan Lu, Xuhui District, Shanghai
Root Down
Dynamic duo Gary Wang (aka DJ VNutz from former The Shelter and The Grumpy Pig fame) and head barman Masato “Martsu” Hika spearhead the scene at this cosy, real deal vinyl bar. Think low lighting, walls lined with vintage vinyl records, jumbo speakers and a turntable salvaged from Shanghai junk vendors. Add to that hand-crafted cocktails, Shanghai street-style snacks or coffee if you must, and you’re set for a cosy afternoon or evening.
145 Nanchang Lu, Ruijin Er Lu, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Words by: Sara Naumann
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