Shanghai, known for its vibrant nightlife and endless array of bars, is a city where the party never stops. With over 2000 bars to choose from, only the most exceptional ones can capture the hearts of the city's trendsetters and party enthusiasts. Here are 23 new and must-visit bars that are making waves in Shanghai's nightlife scene in 2024.

 

1. La Fin 2.0

La Fin 2.0 debuted at the end of March, and has kept its promises of keeping its French roots all the while creating an exciting new party space.

Sporting a new look that pays homage to the space bar in "Cowboy Bebop", the bar is expected to continue providing a more exciting and comfortable entertainment experience for Shanghai's night owls.

Address: 6F, INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

2. COA Shanghai

After three consecutive years as one of Asia's top 50 bars, the Hong Kong-based COA opened its first Shanghai branch in 2022, quickly becoming a hot spot on Jiaozhou Road. Recently, COA Shanghai announced its relocation to Middle Fuxing Road.

Specializing in tequila, the bar offers over 200 types of tequila and popular Mexican-inspired snacks. The new location is rumored to feature four floors, each with its own bar counter!

New Address: Lane 580, Middle Fuxing Road

 

3. Speak Low

Known for sparking the Speakeasy bar trend in Shanghai, Speak Low, Shingo Gokan's masterpiece, has consistently ranked among Asia's top 50 bars. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the bar is undergoing renovations to introduce surprises and a brand-new bar space for patrons.

Address: No 579 Middle Fuxing Road

 

4. Playground

Playground, a renowned underground nightclub specializing in techno and house music, is a favorite among Shanghai's high-energy partygoers. The club, managed by Mansun Lui and music director Mickey Zhang, is set to reopen in INS after a recent upgrade.

Address: B1, INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

5. Sober Company

Formerly ranked fifth in Asia's Top 50 Bars in 2021, Sober Company made a triumphant return to INS Land last autumn. The new 400-square-meter space is divided into two levels, featuring four distinct areas that offer a diverse and harmonious Japanese cocktail experience. From the tea-inspired Sober Kissa to the open-style sushi hand rolls at Sober Izakaya, there's something for everyone at this Japanese-inspired gem.

Address: INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

6. KEV (Bund18)

Located on the rooftop terrace of the century-old historical building Bund 18, KEV boasts a sprawling 565 square meters of panoramic terrace that offers breathtaking views of the Bund and the Lujiazui skyline. The futuristic aesthetic of KEV's interior invites guests to capture magazine-worthy moments while enjoying a wide selection of cognacs, whiskies, champagnes, and visually stunning cocktails.

Address: 7F, No 18 East Zhongshan Road Number One

 

7. Tearoom by EHB

Nestled on Dongping Road, Tearoom by EHB is the bar counterpart to Norway's Michelin-starred Maaemo's first overseas venture. This bar, housed in a villa, transitions from an afternoon tea spot to a chic bar at night. With a modern design infused with Oriental charm, it offers 11 creative cocktails inspired by tea flavors, promising a refreshing, sweet, or intense drinking experience.

Address: No 11 Dongping Road

 

8. Scilla's Lounge

Hidden on Panyu Road, Scilla is a Mediterranean love letter from renowned chef Stefano Bacchell. This three-story garden villa, with its fresh Mediterranean-style menu, quickly became a popular reservation-only restaurant. While the restaurant may be hard to get into, the lounge area on the ground floor welcomes walk-ins. Featuring cocktails named after cities, Scilla's bar menu takes you on a journey through Athens, Saint-Florent, Valencia, and beyond, all without having to leave Shanghai.

Address: No 504 Panyu Road

 

9. Pony Up

If you're a seasoned bar-goer in Shanghai, you might have heard of the newly popular Pony Up on Jinxian Road. Pony Up quickly gained attention for its retro-themed and light-hearted entertainment space, and its classic cocktail offerings have innovative twists that are tantalizing to the tongue.

Address: No 230 Jinxian Road

 

10. Si He

Si He is a Chinese-style gastropub that originated from Beijing. Its interior features traditional Chinese elements that blend well with its modern design. This venue not only serves Chinese-flavored cocktails, but also offers a diverse dinner menu inspired by culinary traditions from all corners of China.

Address: 4F, No 17 North Xiangyang Road

 

11. ToT

ToT is a new bar opened by Joseph Guo, the mastermind behind the popular "Lemon Twist" bar known for its signature 9.9 yuan cocktail. ToT distinguishes itself by focusing on a refined cocktail experience akin to fine dining, featuring upscale food pairings like oysters and king crab tartare. The cocktail menu at ToT showcases classic twists infused with seasonal ingredients, promising a dynamic and evolving selection that caters to connoisseurs who are seeking a premium drinking experience.

Address: No 678 North Shaanxi Road

 

12. Author's Room by Naive

For a literary and cocktail fusion experience, look no further than Author's Room by Naive. This unique space offers a curated selection of 12 creative cocktails inspired by books from around the world. Each cocktail tells a story, inviting guests to savor both the flavors in their glass and the narratives behind the names.

Address: 2F Rockbund, No 78 Huqiu Road

 

13. Le Salon Chloé

Nestled in the prestigious Kimpton Hotel, the bar exudes modern luxury with its elegant indoor setting and serene outdoor garden lounge. This bar presents a sophisticated selection of champagne, rose wines, and whiskies, complemented by a refined cocktail menu featuring concoctions like "Phantom of the Opera" and "Legend of the Blue Sea", promising a delightful sensory experience for patrons.

Address: 8F, No 9 Lane 199 Qiantan Avenue

 

14. Atelier NO 3

A renowned hotspot in the city, this bar offers a fusion of charcoal-grilled cuisine and an impressive array of signature and classic cocktails. From barrel-aged alcohol to expertly crafted drinks, Atelier NO 3 promises to satisfy even the most discerning cocktail aficionados with its innovative offerings.

Address: Room A109, No 291 Fumin Road

 

15. RADi

Positioned as a pure dance club, RADi pulsates with House, EDM, and pop music, attracting ravers, night owls, music lovers, and people who are looking to let loose. It's a space where diverse energies collide without limits.

Address: 3F, INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

16. Hush

Hush by PH, the first branch of Beijing's popular hip-hop hotspot PH in Shanghai, is a haven for soulful individuals and rap enthusiasts. The club's design features metal vents, weathered concrete walls, and lighting reminiscent of an urban underground tunnel. Its mesmerizing surroundings make it seem as if patrons are dancing in the city's sewers till dawn, evoking a sense of secrecy and excitement.

Address: 2F, INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

17. Culture Club

Culture Club, a space embracing diverse party cultures, is a hub for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Despite its modest dance floor, the club's lively atmosphere and inclusive vibe make it a popular destination in Shanghai. Patrons come here to unwind, dance freely, and enjoy a peaceful and exhilarating experience.

Address: 4F, INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

18. Kezee

Kezee, a hotspot for Shanghai's elite nightlife connoisseurs, quickly rose to fame after its grand opening. Trendsetters are eager to experience its expansive venue and stellar lineup of performers. With a stage resembling a cinema screen, awe-inspiring visuals, and a curated playlist blending Chinese classics, Western hits, and niche tracks, Kezee promises a concert-like experience every night.

Address: 3F, INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

19. BU Castle

BU Castle, a medieval castle-inspired restaurant, transforms into BU Castle Live after 9:30 PM, immersing guests in a world of jazz and romance. On weekends, the venue hosts the "Castle Cabaret Show" in collaboration with The Pearl Theatre, offering a captivating journey into a fantasy realm.

Address: Room L501B-1, 5F, Yifeng Waitan Garden, No 77 East Beijing Road

 

20. Candor

Nestled within the famous Lyceum Theatre, CANDOR, a sanctuary for those in pursuit of extraordinary entertainment, boasts captivating cabaret performances that transport guests to a realm of mystery and fantasy. With cocktails flowing and dinner served, CANDOR beckons you to escape reality and awaken a different version of yourself with its enchanting live performances.

Address: 2-3F, No 57 South Maoming Road

 

21. BU Green Room

Drawing inspiration from the concept of actors' and artists' lounges, this verdant oasis exudes a chic and modern ambiance with a touch of vintage nostalgia. Each private room is uniquely designed, offering a haven for people to unwind and recharge. After recent upgrades, BU Green Room promises a sophisticated and elegant sensory feast.

Address: 5F, INS Land, No 109 Yandang Road

 

22. Mining Whisky Club

Drawing inspiration from the world of whisky, the club's design seamlessly merges black oak barrels and elements of antique bronze, creating a fashionable and multi-dimensional tasting space. Adorned with a collection of over 100 distinct whiskies, the club caters to Shanghai's elite whisky connoisseurs.

Address: No 83 Fumin Road

 

23. Laizhou Bar

As an eco-conscious and trendy space nestled under the umbrella of the Laizhou Distillery, the Laizhou Bar offers a plethora of whiskies, cocktails, and small bites to tantalize your taste buds. With single casks of aged spirits available, Laizhou Bar is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Address: Room A108, 1F, No 291 Fumin Road

 

Source: Official WeChat account of ShanghaiWOW! via "shanghaiwow520"

Photos by Xianji, jumbo and z.Hao