Top things to do

Tiánzǐfáng and Xīntiāndì are based on a similar idea – an entertainment complex housed within a warren of traditional lòngtáng (弄堂; alleyways) – but when it comes to genuine charm and vibrancy, Tiánzǐfáng is the one…

With its own namesake metro station, Xīntiāndì has been a Shànghǎi icon for a decade or more. An upscale entertainment and shopping complex modelled on traditional alleyway (lòngtáng) homes, this was the first devel…

Until the chilled lagers arrive, the faint breeze from the spreading of the blue-and-white tablecloth by your waiter may be the last cooling sensation at Dī Shuǐ Dòng, a rustic upstairs shrine to the volcanic cuisin…

The subdued evening lighting and welcoming service concocts a warm and homely atmosphere at this popular outpost of Sìchuān cuisine in Shànghǎi. The extensive photo menu is foreigner friendly and includes a sizeable…

Speak Low is a standout in a city overrun with speakeasy-style bars. Once you find your way in through Ocho bar equipment shop, start with a drink on the 2nd floor; cocktails run ¥75 to ¥85. Then head upstairs (hint…

Located on a quiet street in Shànghǎi’s most desirable neighbourhood, Lost Heaven is stylish and atmospheric with subdued red lighting and a giant Buddha dominating the main dining area. The Yúnnán food is delicatel…

The very definition of a hole-in-the-wall, Ā Dà Cóngyóubǐng is a takeaway spot with a long queue of hungry locals (a one-hour wait is not unheard of), serving the tastiest of that crispy Shànghǎi snacking stalwart: …

T8 aims to seduce, which it does exceptionally well. Catalan chef Jordi Servalls Bonilla is at the helm, bringing a preference for molecular cuisine with dishes such as tataki of sesame-crusted tuna and foie gras mi…

From the team behind Sìchuān Citizen and Citizen Café comes this classy 1920s Prohibition Era–style cocktail bar in a quiet spot on Wuyuan Rd. Slink into a dark-wood booth under pressed metal ceilings and dim art de…

If you only go to one Sìchuān joint in town, make it this one, where the blistering heat is matched only by its scorching popularity. Dishes are inexpensive by the city’s standards; favourites include massive bowls …