Shanghai’s Elixir Escapades: A Local’s Guide to the City’s Best Cocktail Bars
Shanghai. The name itself evokes a sense of dazzling modernity, a bustling metropolis where East meets West in a symphony of neon lights and ancient traditions. But beyond the iconic Bund and the dizzying heights of Lujiazui, lies a vibrant, sophisticated, and often hidden world of cocktail culture. As a long-time resident and someone who truly appreciates a well-crafted drink, I’m thrilled to guide you through the crème de la crème of Shanghai’s cocktail scene. Forget the tourist traps; we’re diving deep into the speakeasies, the chic lounges, and the innovative establishments that make sipping a cocktail in this city an unforgettable experience.
The Art of the Pour: What Makes Shanghai’s Cocktail Scene Special
Shanghai’s cocktail bars are more than just places to grab a drink; they are destinations. They reflect the city’s dynamic spirit – innovative, ambitious, and with a keen eye for detail. You’ll find everything from meticulously recreated classic cocktails to boundary-pushing concoctions that use local ingredients and avant-garde techniques. The bar tenders here are true artists, often with international training, bringing global trends to our doorstep while infusing them with a distinctly Shanghai flair. The atmosphere ranges from intimate and dimly lit speakeasies to buzzing rooftop bars with breathtaking views. It’s a city that takes its nightlife seriously, and that’s especially true when it comes to its drinks.
Speakeasy Secrets and Hidden Gems
Shanghai is a city that loves its secrets, and its best cocktail bars often require a little effort to find. This adds to the allure, creating an exclusive feel for those in the know. These are the places where the cocktails are as complex as the entrance instructions, and the ambiance transports you to another era.
Speak Low (and its other locations)
Let’s start with a legend. Speak Low, founded by the celebrated mixologist Shingo Gokan, is arguably the bar that put Shanghai on the global cocktail map. It’s famous for its tiered concept: the first floor is a more casual bar, the second floor is where the serious cocktail craft happens, and the third floor is an even more exclusive, reservation-only experience. The entrance on the second floor is famously hidden behind a “bar supplies store,” adding to the speakeasy mystique. Their cocktails are innovative, technically brilliant, and beautifully presented. Don’t miss their signature creations – they are always a surprise. Speak Low is a must-visit for any serious cocktail enthusiast and a testament to the artistry that can be found in Shanghai. Their commitment to quality and creativity is a benchmark for the entire industry. You can find more insights into the craft of bartending and the scene, perhaps even from those who inspired places like this, on platforms like dropt.beer insights.
Flask Rooftop Bar
Tucked away in the bustling heart of Jing’an, Flask Rooftop Bar offers a more relaxed, yet equally sophisticated, speakeasy experience. The entrance is famously concealed behind a vending machine in a small alleyway. Once inside, you’re greeted with a warm, intimate atmosphere and a menu of expertly crafted cocktails. Their focus is on quality ingredients and precise execution. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a quiet catch-up with friends, where the conversation flows as smoothly as the drinks.
LaLa Saloon
Located in the trendy Xintiandi area, LaLa Saloon is another gem that embodies the speakeasy spirit. The entrance is discreet, often requiring a knowing nod or a password. Inside, you’ll find a dimly lit, intimate space with plush seating and a jazz soundtrack. Their cocktail list is a curated selection of classics and modern twists, with an emphasis on premium spirits and creative garnishes. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and savor the moment.
Rooftop Revelry with a View
When the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle, there’s no better place to be than a rooftop bar. Shanghai boasts some of the most spectacular skyline views in the world, and these bars offer the perfect vantage point to enjoy them, cocktail in hand.
Flair Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
Perched atop the Ritz-Carlton Shanghai Pudong, Flair is one of Asia’s highest outdoor bars. The views of the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline are simply unparalleled. While it can be a bit more of a scene and on the pricier side, the experience of sipping a cocktail (their ‘Flair Signature’ is a good choice) while gazing at the glittering cityscape is truly worth it. It’s a fantastic spot for celebrating a special occasion or impressing visitors with Shanghai’s grandeur.
E.P.I.C. (Every Possible Invitation to Celebrate)
Located in the sophisticated Bund Finance Center, E.P.I.C. offers a chic and contemporary setting with stunning views of the Bund. This bar is known for its creative cocktails, often incorporating Asian-inspired ingredients. The ambiance is lively yet refined, making it a popular spot for both locals and expatriates. Their outdoor terrace provides an unforgettable backdrop for enjoying their expertly mixed drinks.
Lost Heaven Bar (Bund location)
While Lost Heaven is renowned for its Yunnanese cuisine, its Bund location also boasts a fantastic bar with breathtaking views. The ambiance is a unique blend of old-world charm and modern elegance. They offer a well-curated list of cocktails, including some inspired by their culinary offerings. It’s a great place to enjoy a sophisticated drink with a side of iconic Shanghai scenery.
Neighborhood Nuggets: Exploring Local Favorites
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Shanghai’s neighborhoods are dotted with fantastic bars that cater to diverse tastes and offer a more intimate, local feel. Exploring these areas can lead to some of your most memorable drinking experiences.
Bar Constanza (Found 158)
Found 158, a basement complex in the Former French Concession, is a hub for bars and restaurants, and Bar Constanza stands out as a reliable choice for excellent cocktails. It’s a place that strikes a balance between a relaxed vibe and a serious dedication to the craft of mixology. The bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly, and the menu features a good mix of classics and inventive drinks. It’s a great spot to experience the more casual, yet still high-quality, side of Shanghai’s bar scene.
The Flapper (Former French Concession)
Nestled in the charming lanes of the Former French Concession, The Flapper is a cozy and stylish bar that transports you back to the Prohibition era. With its vintage decor, live jazz music on select nights, and a menu of expertly crafted classic cocktails, it’s the perfect place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The intimate setting makes it ideal for conversation and enjoying the music. Their Old Fashioneds and Manhattans are particularly well-executed.
Union Trading Company (Former French Concession)
This is another gem in the Former French Concession, known for its no-nonsense approach to cocktails. Union Trading Company offers a superb selection of classic cocktails made with precision and high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet approachable, making it a favorite among locals. It’s the kind of place where the focus is purely on the drink and the company, without any unnecessary frills.
Innovative Mixology and Unique Flavors
Shanghai’s bartenders are not afraid to experiment, drawing inspiration from local ingredients, traditional Chinese flavors, and cutting-edge techniques. These bars push the boundaries of what a cocktail can be.
Sober Company
From the same team behind Speak Low, Sober Company offers a different, yet equally impressive, experience. It’s divided into three concepts: a coffee shop by day, a cocktail bar, and a more intimate, reservation-only “Secret Bar” upstairs. The cocktail menu is inventive, often featuring unique infusions and presentations. It’s a testament to their continued commitment to pushing the envelope of mixology. The attention to detail in both the drinks and the ambiance is remarkable.
Talent (Former French Concession)
Talent is a bar that lives up to its name. It’s a sophisticated establishment in the Former French Concession that prides itself on its expertly crafted cocktails. The bartenders here are true artisans, capable of creating both timeless classics and imaginative new concoctions. The ambiance is chic and intimate, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate the finer points of mixology. Their use of premium spirits and fresh ingredients is evident in every sip.
The Nest (Bund area)
While The Nest is often celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and DJ sets, it also boasts a formidable cocktail program. Their focus on quality spirits and creative flavor combinations ensures that even during a lively evening, you can enjoy a well-made drink. It’s a place where the energy is high, but the cocktails don’t take a backseat. Their signature cocktails are often a good starting point.
Insider Tips for Your Shanghai Cocktail Journey
To make the most of your cocktail adventures in Shanghai, here are a few insider tips:
- Dress Code: While Shanghai is generally quite fashion-forward, most cocktail bars are smart casual. Some of the more upscale rooftop bars or exclusive speakeasies might lean towards dressier attire, especially on weekends. When in doubt, err on the side of stylish.
- Reservations: For popular speakeasies like Speak Low’s top floor or smaller, more intimate bars, making a reservation is highly recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Timing: Many of the truly speakeasy-style bars don’t get going until later in the evening, often after 9 PM. Rooftop bars can be great for sunset drinks.
- Explore the Former French Concession (FFC): This historic and charming neighborhood is a treasure trove of hidden bars. Wander through its leafy lanes and keep an eye out for discreet entrances.
- Ask Your Bartender: Shanghai’s bartenders are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations based on your preferences. They can often guide you to a drink you’ll love.
- Embrace the Local: While many bars offer international standards, some might incorporate local ingredients or spirits. Be adventurous and try something new! You might discover a flavor you never expected.
- Stay Connected: For the latest openings and trends, keep an eye on local lifestyle blogs and social media. Platforms like dropt.beer insights often feature news and reviews that can help you discover new spots.
- Transportation: Shanghai has an excellent and affordable subway system. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available. Be mindful of closing times if you plan on drinking late.
The Perfect Pour, Shanghai Style
Shanghai’s cocktail scene is a testament to the city’s vibrant energy and its embrace of global trends while holding onto its unique identity. Whether you’re seeking a hidden speakeasy that whispers tales of the past, a rooftop bar that dazzles with modern splendor, or a neighborhood joint that feels like a local secret, this city has a glass waiting for you. So, step out, explore, and let the skilled hands of Shanghai’s mixologists craft you an unforgettable experience. Cheers to discovery, and to the perfect sip!
For those interested in the wider world of craft beverages and industry insights, exploring resources like dropt.beer can offer a broader perspective on trends and innovations that often influence local bar scenes. You can also find a curated selection of beverages and barware on dropt.beer shop, which might inspire your next home cocktail creation.
