Chapter 5

2 am to 4 am

Deep Night

At 2 am, Shanghai slips into its quietest hours. While much of the city slows down, late-night restaurants, bars, and music venues remain open for those who wish to stay out a little longer. Whether enjoying a warm bowl of soup after dancing, savoring a final drink, or listening to one last song, these moments keep the city awake through the night.

Dining

Sai Kee Kong Kau

Address: 3F-3M, No 9 Donghu Road, Xuhui district

Opening hours: 9 am to 3 am

Sai Kee Kong Kau, a beloved late-night spot in Shanghai, embodies the genuine flavors and lively ambiance of Hong Kong's street-food scene. Its renowned beef-brisket pot is a must-try, featuring tender beef and sweet radish simmered in a flavorful broth. Additional favorites are crispy chicken garnished with aromatic garlic crumbs and claypot rice loaded with cured meats.

Shen Geng Zai

Address: 1F, No 618 Hankou Road, Huangpu district

Opening hours: 11 am to 2 pm, 5 pm to 4 am

Shen Geng Zai brings the flavors and ambiance of Chaoshan-style late-night dining to the heart of Shanghai. The restaurant blends contemporary Chinese design with the casual atmosphere of a traditional dai pai dong, creating a relaxed setting for gatherings and late-night meals. The raw, marinated seafood selection, including crab and shrimp, is especially popular for its fresh, delicate flavors. Other favorites include Chaoshan-style drunken chicken pot and stir-fried beef with ginger and scallions.

Fei Zai Wen

Address: 2F, No 77 Nanhui Road, Jing'an district

Opening hours: 11 am to 4:30 am

Fei Zai Wen, a late-night favorite in Shanghai for more than a decade, is known for its Macao-style dai pai dong atmosphere. Its signature pork bone soup is a must-try. The soup is slowly simmered to create a rich, flavorful broth, with corn and carrots adding natural sweetness and a refreshing balance. After a long night out, a steaming bowl of pork bone soup offers a comforting way to wind down.

Roam

Address: No 909 Middle Yan'an Road, Jing'an district

Opening hours: 6 pm to 4 am

Roam is a space where the night can naturally unfold, with each floor offering a unique experience. The first floor is for dining; the second offers a selection of drinks, and the third becomes a lively dance floor. This setup allows guests to drop by for a meal, stay for a drink, and continue the night with music, enjoying the evening at their own pace. Javis, the owner of Roam, also operates Tang at No 141 Tai'an Road, where guests can even enjoy drinks while reclining.

Yingyang

Address: No 125 Nanchang Road, Huangpu district

Opening hours: 6:30 pm to 3 am

Founded in 1996, Yingyang has been a steadfast presence in Shanghai's nightlife for nearly three decades. Over the years, it has attracted musicians, artists, and guests from around the world. Today, the bar continues its journey on Nanchang Road, with a renewed focus on conversation, good food, and carefully crafted drinks. The menu features comforting Chinese home-style dishes, natural wines, and gin-based cocktails.

J.Boroski

Address: Fumin Road, Xuhui district

Opening hours: 7 pm to 3 am

Hidden behind a black door on Fumin Road, J.Boroski is one of Shanghai's most enigmatic cocktail bars. The entrance is deliberately discreet, with no visible sign outside, and it invites only those in the know to step inside.

Inside, guests are greeted by a dark-toned space that resembles a private collection room, featuring a display of more than 1,300 insect specimens. The unusual design reflects founder Joseph Boroski's personal interest in insects and has become the bar's signature feature. The bar has also served as a filming location for Sons of the Neon Night.

There is no traditional cocktail menu. Instead, bartenders create drinks based on each guest's preferences.

Livehouse

RADI

Address: 3F, No 109 Yandang Road, Huangpu district

Opening hours: 10 pm to 6 am

At 2 am, RADI remains lively. Since reopening in April after a major renovation, the venue has consistently drawn late-night electronic music enthusiasts. Its updated design merges architectural features with state-of-the-art audiovisual tech, producing an immersive environment where sound, lighting, and visuals align to craft a captivating experience. The venue emphasizes house, EDM, and pop music, providing a space for dancing all night.

Dirty House

Address: 4F, No 109 Yandang Road, Huangpu district

Opening hours: 10 pm to 5 am

Dirty House is a late-night electronic music venue known for its dark atmosphere and powerful sound system. It offers a dedicated space for DJs and electronic music fans, with techno and house music at its core. Guests can enjoy the rhythm, move freely, and feel the energy of the dance floor in a dark yet welcoming setting.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce