Top 10 Best Coffee Shops in Shanghai: A Local's Guide

Introduction:

Shanghai, known for its vibrant culture and fast-paced lifestyle, also boasts an impressive coffee scene. From traditional kopi-tiam to modern artisan coffee shops, the city offers a plethora of options for coffee enthusiasts. This article will guide you through the top ten coffee shops in Shanghai, providing insights into their unique offerings, ambiance, and why they are local favorites.

Historical Insights:

Coffee culture in Shanghai has grown exponentially over the past few decades. While tea was historically the beverage of choice, the late 20th century saw a shift towards coffee, influenced by western culture and globalization. The first wave of coffee culture was marked by the introduction of instant coffee and large coffee chains like Starbucks. The second wave brought the appreciation of specialty coffee and the art of brewing. Recently, Shanghai has entered the third wave of coffee culture, where coffee is seen as an artisanal foodstuff, like wine, rather than a commodity. This wave is characterized by an emphasis on bean origin, brewing methods, and a move towards independent, locally-owned coffee shops.

TOP 5 Local Businesses: :

1. Café del Volcán
Type: Coffee shop
Address: 80 Yong Kang Lu
Hours: Closed ⋅ Opens 8 AM Thu

2. Starbucks Coffee
Type: Coffee shop
Address: 189 Nanjing Rd (W)
Hours: Closes soon ⋅ 10:30 PM

3. Starbucks Shanghai Book City store
Type: Coffee shop
Address: 福州路465号
Hours: Closes soon ⋅ 10 PM

4. Seesaw Coffee
Type: Cafe
Address: 433 Yuyuan Rd
Hours: Closes soon ⋅ 10 PM

5. Cafe Dan
Type: Coffee shop
Address:
Hours: Closes soon ⋅ 10 PM

FAQ:

1. What are some of the best local coffee shops in Shanghai?
Some of the best local coffee shops in Shanghai include Seesaw Coffee, S.Engine Coffee, and Manner Coffee, known for their quality brews and unique atmospheres.

2. Where can I find the best specialty coffee in Shanghai?
For the best specialty coffee, head to shops like UNDEF/NE, where they source their beans from sustainable farms and roast them in-house.

3. Is there a coffee shop in Shanghai that offers traditional Chinese elements?
Yes, there are several coffee shops that blend Chinese tradition with modern coffee culture. One such place is the Song Fang Maison de Thé, which serves coffee in a traditional Shanghai-style house.

4. Are there any coffee shops in Shanghai with unique themes?
Yes, Shanghai is home to several themed coffee shops. For instance, the Cat’s Eye, a cat-themed café, and The Press, a café set in a former newspaper factory.

5. What is the average price for a cup of coffee in Shanghai?
The price can vary depending on the shop and type of coffee, but generally, you can expect to pay between 25-40 RMB for a cup of coffee.

Conclusion:

Shanghai’s coffee scene is diverse, vibrant, and constantly evolving. With an increasing number of local coffee shops emphasizing quality and sustainability, Shanghai is fast becoming a hotspot for coffee lovers worldwide. The future of Shanghai’s coffee scene looks promising, with more local roasters, specialty coffee shops, and innovative brewing methods on the horizon. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy place to sip your morning brew, Shanghai’s coffee scene has something for everyone.