Editor's note: Shanghai's vibrant nightlife revolves around Julu, Fumin, and Changle roads. These trendy areas offer coffee and brunch by day and diverse nightlife after dark. Despite their proximity, each street boasts a unique nocturnal ambiance. The following is Changle Road.

Formerly a humble street, Changle Road is currently known as a bar street, having risen to fame in recent years. It is said to symbolize Shanghai's dynamic nightlife scene and serves as a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and lively experience in the city.

This evolving street offers a diverse mix of bars where patrons enjoy drinks on the sidewalk, embodying a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere.

 

624Changle

624Changle, once known as Yingzi Liquor Store, has transformed into a vibrant bar on Changle Road, attracting a diverse crowd of patrons seeking a unique drinking experience.

This establishment offers over 1,000 varieties of beverages, catering to all preferences and budgets, from affordable beers to high-end whiskeys.

Initially frequented by elderly residents, 624Changle gained popularity among the younger generation, particularly skateboarders, tattoo artists, and artisans.

The store's walls are adorned with Polaroid photos, each holding an individual memory captured within its frame.

As word spread about this hidden gem, driven by a mix of affordable prices and a burgeoning cultural scene, 624Changle began to draw in a wider audience, becoming a sought-after destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Today, the establishment stands as a bustling icon on Changle Road, a testament to the fusion of tradition and modernity in Shanghai's dynamic nightlife.

Open: Monday to Sunday 2 pm-1 am

Address: No 624 Changle Road

 

Lemon Twist

Lemon Twist, a recent addition to the vibrant scene on Changle Road, stands out as a novel bar experience with its focus on tap cocktails.

Despite offering a concise selection of approximately 10 drinks, all priced under 40 yuan ($5.53), patrons can relish the swift service, ensuring minimal wait times even during bustling periods.

Open: Monday to Thursday, Sunday 3:30 pm-12 am; Friday, Saturday 3 pm-1 am

Address: No 688 Changle Road

 

Jolly Bar

Nestled among the array of affordable bars on Changle Road, Jolly Bar exudes an air of sophistication and boasts a cozy ambiance with limited bar seating.

Jolly Bar is renowned for its meticulous cocktail crafting process and emphasis on flavor profiles, promising a refined drinking experience. However, be prepared for a leisurely dining experience, as freshly prepared food may entail a longer wait, especially on busy weekend nights.

Their acclaimed concoctions like the hawthorn whiskey sour, watermelon specials, and green grape bubbles are top recommendations.

Open: Monday to Sunday 4 pm-12 am

Address: No 646 Changle Road

 

drinKuaidi

drinKuaidi, formerly known for its online takeout services, has ventured into the realm of brick-and-mortar establishments with a quaint offline bar on Changle Road.

Beyond cocktails, the bar offers an assortment of wines and craft beers, each priced between 30-60 yuan per glass.

Despite its modest size, the venue efficiently accommodates numerous patrons, including a loyal clientele who have established a rapport with the bartenders. This patronage speaks volumes about the establishment's reputation and the sense of community it fosters.

Open: Monday to Sunday 11 am-2 am

Address: No 802 Changle Road

 

Tonic-Bar

Tonic-Bar, a standout in the realm of online cocktail deliveries, has expanded its reach from the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai to cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou in Guangdong province, and Beijing, bringing its unique offerings to Changle Road.

Specializing in innovative cocktail creations, Tonic-Bar excels in delivering exceptional value with each concoction, a fact underscored by its popular takeaway cup options.

Embracing a path of artisanal microbrews, the bar tends to feature beverages with lower alcohol content, catering to patrons who prefer milder libations.

Open: Monday to Sunday 3 pm-12 am

Address: No 618 Changle Road

 

Hurstville Bottle Shop

Hurstville Bottle Shop, a well-reputed red bar, is a hidden gem on Changle Road.

The owner curates the selection with expertise, introducing new offerings weekly, and stocking niche beverages at reasonable prices.

If street-side revelry isn't your scene, this establishment may just become your cherished sanctuary for relaxed and enjoyable gatherings.

Open: Monday to Thursday, Sunday 6 pm-11:30 pm; Friday, Saturday 6 pm-2 am

Address: No 658 Changle Road

 

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

Photos by Xianji, Sanjin, Yuan