As the sun sets over Shanghai, the city transforms into a dazzling playground of lights and shadows. For those seeking a unique night out, Huangpu's best bars offer an enticing blend of mystery and charm. Tucked away in historic buildings and atop scenic rooftops, these bars promise a unique blend of flavors and experiences. Here's your guide to some of the district's best-kept secrets:

 

1. INS

🍷 Location: No 109 Yandang Road

💡 Insider tip: Spanning seven floors, this trendy hotspot features themed bars and immersive performances. You can also explore global cuisines and e-sports halls.

⏰ Hours: 3 pm – 6 am (Note that individual bars within the complex may have varying operating hours)

👍 Must-try: Popular bars include KEZEE and Oasis

 

2. Speak Low

🍷 Location: No 579 Middle Fuxing Road

💡 Insider tip: Arrive at 6 pm to avoid the queues. The dimly lit atmosphere is perfect for flash photography, and bartenders can craft personalized drinks to suit your taste.

⏰ Hours: 6 pm – 1:30 am (Sunday to Thursday), 6 pm – 2:30 am (Friday and Saturday)

👍 Must-try: Signature Speak Low matcha rum; Sexy Colada smoky whiskey

 

3. MOSSO LiveHouse

🍷 Location: L152, No 848 South Huangpi Road

💡 Insider tip: Enjoy live performances starting at 8 pm, offering a golden audiovisual experience. You can check the evening's lineup and pre-book seats online.

⏰ Hours: 5 pm – 2:30 am

👍 Must-try: Lychee cocktails, flaming pork knuckle, sausage platter, and meat sauce pasta

 

4. Roosevelt Sky Bar

🍷 Location: 9th Floor, No 27 East Zhongshan Road Number One

💡 Insider tip: Choose between outdoor seating and a glass house, with views of Yangpu Bridge to the east and the Oriental Pearl to the west. The city lights make for stunning photos.

⏰ Hours: 2 pm – 2 am

👍 Must-try: 57 drinks and exquisite snacks available

 

5. OPUS Lounge

🍷 Location: 6th Floor, No 90 Middle Xizang Road

💡 Insider tip: Renowned for its terrace city views and hookah experience, this pet-friendly venue is ideal for small parties or a night out with your furry friends.

⏰ Hours: 6 pm – 2 am

👍 Must-try: Signature cocktail: The Last to Hold You; couples set (two cocktails with two snacks)

 

6. Pony Up

🍷 Location: No 230 Jinxian Road

💡 Insider tip: The back bar features 12 unique cocktails, such as the Far East Sangria with curry leaf aroma or the lavender-scented Bougie 75 with pear brandy, each offering a delightful surprise.

⏰ Hours: 1 pm – 9 pm (front bar), 6 pm – 2 am (back bar)

👍 Must-try: Fritzy Fizz with vodka and salted plum; Ruby Sour with smoky whiskey and pink guava

 

7. The Jazz Bar

🍷 Location: 1st Floor, No 20 East Nanjing Road

💡 Insider tip: Every night from 7:30 pm to 11 pm, an elderly jazz band with an average age of 70+ performs in tailcoats, playing classic songs with saxophones and pianos.

⏰ Hours: 6 pm to midnight

👍 Must-try: Old Shanghai Style cocktail; Jazz Night cocktail

 

8. Roof

🍷 Location: 29th Floor, No 199 East Nanjing Road

💡 Insider tip: A high-altitude bar on the 29th floor with a 270-degree panoramic terrace; weekend terrace seats should be booked at least three days in advance! Last-minute arrivals may face a wait of over an hour.

⏰ Hours: 2:30 pm – 5 pm (afternoon tea), 5:30 pm to midnight (evening)

👍 Must-try: Edition Punch; Berry Fizz

 

Whether you're a local or a visitor, these bars offer a glimpse into Shanghai's vibrant nightlife. Explore, savor, and enjoy the magic of the city's after-dark adventures!

 

Sources: WeChat account of the publicity department of the CPC Huangpu district committee at "shhuangpu", bars mentioned above