Shanghai takes its bars seriously. The city has produced some of Asia’s most creative cocktail programs and the nightlife calendar is genuinely international. You will find Shanghainese baristas who trained in Tokyo, bartenders who could work anywhere in the world, and an audience that expects quality. This is not the story in most Chinese cities. For the Shanghai overview: Shanghai Travel Guide.
Where to Go
Rooftop bars (for the view)
Flair at the Ritz-Carlton Pudong (8 Century Avenue, 58th floor): west-facing view over the river to The Bund. Best at sunset when the colonial buildings turn gold. Minimum spend ¥200 per person. Reserve in advance for weekend evenings. The Ritz-Carlton Pudong manages this space with full service. Alternative: Vue Bar at the Hyatt on the Bund (same view from the other direction, slightly more casual atmosphere).
French Concession bars (for quality)
The Senator Saloon (Senator, 756 Julu Road): outstanding American whiskey selection, serious bartenders. The Nest (near South Shanxi Road metro): intimate, craft cocktail focused, crowded on weekends but consistently well-reviewed. Yongkang Road: a whole street of small bars with outdoor seating. No reservations, show up and find a stool. Packed from 9pm on any day of the week.
Found 158 (for social)
158 Julu Road, basement level. A corridor of approximately 20 bars in a single underground space. Happy hour (buy one get one or half-price) runs until 9pm at most bars. After 10pm it becomes an event. Good for solo travelers who want to meet people. Loud. Not for a quiet drink.
Live music
JZ Club (46 West Fuxing Road): Shanghai’s premier jazz club. Live jazz every night from 9pm. The house band is genuinely good. No cover charge most nights. Minimum drink spend. Yuyintang (851 Kaixuan Road): the main venue for indie, rock, and alternative acts. Check Smart Shanghai (smartshanghai.com) for listings.
When to Go
Thursday to Saturday are the main nights. Sunday is quiet but the better cocktail bars are open. Most Shanghai bars are at their best between 10pm and 1am. The French Concession starts filling up from 8pm. Found 158 and Sanlitun-style places get going after 10pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
For Shanghai overview: Shanghai Travel Guide. For the Bund (rooftop bars look back at it): Bund Guide. For the 3-day itinerary: 3-Day Shanghai Itinerary.