Urban Family

9 of the Best New Shanghai Bars of 2016

By That's Shanghai, 2016-06-12 04:50:00

There are always places to go in Shanghai, especially of the drinking variety. But where are the best places to go? Here is a round up of some of our favorites, and there's something for everyone. Whether you are a whisky lover, cocktail fanatic, beer enthusiast or all three...

Le Refuge

A nice escape from the hustle and bustle to grab a few quiet, casual drinks. We first reviewed this bar during the winter, and will be hurrying back now that the weather has warmed up to sunbathe (drink in hand) on their stunning rooftop balcony.

Price: RMB50-120 per person (Happy Hour from 6-8pm for beer and wine only)
Who's going: expats, Europeans
Good for: casual drinks, dates, rooftop bars, casual French food, mulled wine

Read a full review here. See a listing for Le Refuge

The Parrot

Pre-gaming: the concept where you drink before you drink. The newest spot we've found for this brilliant venture would have to be The Parrot, which serves strong drinks and hosts live DJ sets from around 10pm, readying patrons for their inevitable transfer to Le Baron over the road.

Price: Draft beer from RMB35, cocktails RMB55-65
Who’s going: the Euro party gang
Good for: pre-drinks, cocktails, DJ sets, groups

Read a full review here. See a listing for The Parrot

Elevator

Named after the building’s notoriously tiny elevator (room for three, maybe), Elevator has garnered notoriety for its club vibes. During the week, however, it is quite the opposite. It offers a pleasant relaxing experience with easy drinks, and game offerings along the likes of Jenga, Uno and our personal favorite - ping pong.

Price: drinks from RMB30-70
Who’s going: underground club goers, people who work at underground clubs
Good for: music, dancing, groups

Read a full review here. See a listing for Elevator

Revive Bar

Boasting one of the largest whisky and shochu collections we’ve seen recently, what Revive lacks in a physical cocktail menu they make up for by creating a cocktail just how you want it. We've got a soft spot in our heart for these intimate types of bar experiences.

Price: Whisky from RMB54
Who’s going: whisky loving locals and expats
Good for: dates, small groups, cocktails

Read a full review here. See a listing for Revive Bar

Genesis

While lots of the newish bars in Shanghai focus on a more roisterous, party-friendly vibe, that's not the case at Genesis. Whisky drinkers are well catered for with an extensive Scotch-centric selection, ranging from RMB70 for standard bottles. For serious drinkers, a few rare finds are available though sadly not by the glass.

Price: cocktails from RMB78
Who's going: a loyal following of young locals and Asian exats
Good for: small-medium groups, cocktails, whisky, dates

Read a full review here. See a listing for Genesis

Hu Bar and Lounge

The latest high quality addition to Shanghai’s hotel bars. It offers a nice selection of drinks and pretty spectacular views of the city (you are on the 65th floor of Le Royal Meridien Hotel, after all), but sit near the jazz band set up if you want to appreciate the live performances that kick off from Wednesday to Sunday from 9.30pm-12.30am.

Price: drinks from RMB100 (plus 15 percent service charge)
Who’s going: hotel guests, moneyed expats and locals
Good for: cocktails, views, live jazz, business and formal occasions

Read a full review here. See a listing for Hu Bar and Lounge.

Botanist

Part mad scientist laboratory, chic bar and green house, Botanist's drinks are served in ways you could never even dream of. It won’t be for you if you like a classic bar atmosphere or cheaper drinks, but we found it to be a serious bar and a trendy choice for drinks with friends this summer.

Price: RMB200-300 per person
Who’s going: young local hipsters, Taiwanese expats
Good for: cocktails, non-smoking, al fresco drinking, small groups

Read a full review here. See a listing for Botanist.

The Hop Project

New craft brewery The Hop Project's taps are currently stocked to the brim with brews hailing from Beijing’s renowned Jing-A Brewery (京A). All that, and the infamous pickle shot. Be sure to grab a grilled cheese so you aren't too hungover the next day.

Price: drinks from RMB25.
Who's going: local beer nerds, Yongkang Lu patrons
Good for: craft beer, casual drinking, lunch, quick eats, snacks

Read a full review here. See a listing for The Hop Project.

Barber Shop

Barber Shop A new speakeasy in the former French Concession, serving a range of classic cocktails, signature drinks and whisky. The drink menu is simple and classic, which must be a big part of the draw because this place gets pretty packed on the weekends. Make sure you reserve a table in advance!