Ranked No 1 on the World's 50 Best Bars 2025 list, Bar Leone opened its first Shanghai location on Nov 9 at No 527 Middle Fuxing Road.

The two-story venue brings its Cocktail Popolari philosophy — cocktails for the people — to the city, blending Italian hospitality with classic and modern flair.

The first floor, Bar di Passo, which means "the bar for passersby", channels a lively Italian sports bar. Inspired by Milan's legendary Camparino bar, the birthplace of Italy's aperitivo culture, it invites guests to stop by for a quick drink and a friendly chat before continuing on their way.

Walls lined with photos of 1980s and 1990s sports icons, vintage movie posters, and nostalgic memorabilia add to the laid-back, retro energy.

At the center of the first floor sits The Spritz Bar, serving refreshing, seasonal spritzes on tap. Highlights include the Spumoni, made with Earl Grey tea, Campari, and grapefruit — bright, aromatic, and easy to enjoy. The menu also features Bar Leone's signature vermouth blends with guava foam, as well as classic Italian snacks that celebrate the aperitivo tradition of pre-dinner drinks and light bites. For now, only the first floor is open. The bar does not take reservations, and queues are likely during busy hours.

The second floor, opening later, reflects the more refined style of Bar Leone Hong Kong. Here, the focus shifts to spirit-forward cocktails and the Vecchi & Rari series, including limited-edition creations infused with Yunnan black truffle.

To complement the drinks, the food menu continues the brand's joyful Italian spirit. Alongside favorites from the Hong Kong flagship, the Shanghai bar offers exclusive dishes and desserts such as Negroni tiramisu, smoked olives, and Italian focaccia. Early visitors have already praised the bar's snacks as "surprisingly delicious".

If you go

Address: No 527 Middle Fuxing Road, Huangpu district

Business hours: Daily from 6 pm to 1 am

Source: Official WeChat account of Huangpu district at "shhuangpu"