The 10 Best Cafés and Coffeehouses in Shanghai
Discover ten of Shanghai's most innovative and beloved cafés, blending cosmopolitan style with local flavor.
Shanghai’s coffee culture has evolved at astonishing speed, quickly outpacing older tea traditions and establishing the city as a modern Asian capital for creative cafés and coffeehouses. With over 8,000 cafés and new hotspots opening almost daily, Shanghai now boasts a diverse coffee scene that rivals any in the world. From chic hideaways in the leafy French Concession to minimalist havens tucked among bustling commercial districts, these ten exceptional cafés reflect the city’s cosmopolitan spirit, innovative taste, and enduring hospitality.
Contents
- Shanghai’s Coffee Culture: A Modern Transformation
- Seesaw Coffee
- Sumerian Coffee
- % Arabica
- Voyage Coffee
- Café del Volcán
- Egg Café
- Manner Coffee
- Farine Bakery & Café
- Rumors Coffee Roaster
- Coffee Tree
- Frequently Asked Questions
Shanghai’s Coffee Culture: A Modern Transformation
Once renowned for its rich tea traditions, Shanghai has rapidly emerged as China’s unofficial coffee capital. The city’s historic French Concession was among the first districts to adopt café culture, thanks to European influences and elegant Art Deco architecture. Today, Shanghai is home to over 8,000 cafés, ranging from boutique roasters to global coffee chains, and the aroma of freshly brewed beans greets locals from dawn until dusk.
The modern Shanghai café scene is characterized by:
- Global influences from Italian espresso to Sydney-style flat whites.
- Artisanal approaches with single-origin beans and techniques like pour-over, siphon, and cold brew.
- Innovative interior design, often blending minimalism with retro or industrial touches.
- Spaces for work and play, fostering open laptop culture, creative communities, and a relaxed social scene.
- Integration with Shanghai’s lifestyle: It’s common to see boutique bakeries, art galleries, or even luxury car showrooms hosting coffee bars.
Below, we explore ten of the most acclaimed cafés and coffeehouses in Shanghai, each representing unique flavors, aesthetics, and experiences that define the city’s contemporary café culture.
1. Seesaw Coffee
Seesaw Coffee is a pioneering force in Shanghai’s specialty coffee movement. Founded by a group of passionate coffee aficionados, Seesaw takes pride in sourcing beans from China’s hidden coffee-growing provinces, as well as international farms.
- Atmosphere: Bright, modern interiors with Scandinavian touches and plenty of natural light. Communal tables and a relaxed, unhurried vibe make it an ideal spot for both group conversations and solo study sessions.
- Signature Offerings: Creative pour-overs, expertly brewed Aeropress, single-origin espressos, seasonal filter coffee flights.
- Location Highlight: The flagship in Jing’an Kerry Centre is set in a natural-wood, plant-filled space, while satellite branches in Xuhui and other areas offer equally stylish environments.
- Extras: Seesaw frequently hosts coffee workshops and barista training sessions, fostering community engagement and education.
2. Sumerian Coffee
Sumerian Coffee brings a New York-inspired energy to Shanghai’s vibrant café landscape. Thanks to its commitment to freshly roasted beans and rich, robust brews, Sumerian has developed a loyal following among the city’s expatriates and coffee purists.
- Atmosphere: Industrial-chic décor with exposed brick walls, chalkboard menus, and a bustling, downtown feel.
- Signature Offerings: Strong espresso drinks, excellent hand-drip coffee, decadent bagels, and house-made pastries.
- Community Engagement: The café is often filled with remote workers and language learners, benefiting from fast WiFi and a social, inclusive spirit.
3. % Arabica
% Arabica is a globally recognized coffee brand from Kyoto, Japan, which has made a dramatic impact on Shanghai’s café scene. Renowned for minimalist aesthetics and meticulously crafted espresso, % Arabica has become a must-visit for style-conscious locals and visitors alike.
- Atmosphere: Minimalist, white-on-white design with Japanese precision, custom coffee equipment, and tranquil surroundings. The Lujiazui flagship boasts views of the city skyline.
- Signature Offerings: Classic espresso beverages, perfect flat whites, freshly roasted beans to-go.
- Unique Features: Transparent bar layout invites guests to observe the skilled baristas at work.
4. Voyage Coffee
Voyage Coffee is known for its dedication to direct sourcing and its adventurous approach to brewing. The shop’s understated aesthetic and attention to detail have garnered attention from coffee enthusiasts across Shanghai.
- Atmosphere: Sleek, contemporary interiors with subtle nautical themes reflecting the voyage motif.
- Signature Offerings: Selection of seasonal single-origin beans, filter coffee, and inventive flavor pairings.
- Customer Experience: Staff are knowledgeable, offering suggestions for new brews and encouraging guests to sample beans before purchase.
5. Café del Volcán
Café del Volcán was founded by Mexican expatriates intent on bringing authentic Latin American coffee culture to Shanghai. Sourcing beans directly from small-scale farms in Mexico, Ethiopia, and Colombia, the café emphasizes transparency and fair trade.
- Atmosphere: Tiny, welcoming space in the heart of the French Concession, with rustic décor and a neighborhood feel.
- Signature Offerings: Pour-over specialties, cold brew, and rotating single-origin beans, all roasted on-site.
- Notable Traits: Personalized service—the baristas take time to explain the story behind each coffee variety.
6. Egg Café
Egg Café has gained fame as a brunch icon, seamlessly combining healthy dishes, bold brunch platters, and outstanding coffee. Its fresh, playful style and food-focused approach draw young urbanites and visitors seeking healthy, Instagram-worthy fare.
- Atmosphere: Cheerful, sunlit interiors with quirky wall art, vibrant colors, and an energetic buzz. Outdoor seating is available, perfect for people-watching.
- Signature Offerings: Australian-style flat whites, avocado toast, homemade granola, shakshuka, and house-baked goods.
- Extra Touch: Eggs are sourced locally, and the menu regularly features inventive specials.
7. Manner Coffee
Manner Coffee is an ambitious Shanghai chain that has built its reputation through speed, affordability, and uncompromising quality. Popular among commuters and nearby office workers, Manner now boasts numerous locations across the city.
- Atmosphere: Compact, efficiently designed spaces with a clean, modern look.
- Signature Offerings: Espresso-based classics, affordable lattes, and a range of freshly ground beans to purchase for home brewing.
- Unique Appeal: Some shops offer standing counters or grab-and-go options to cater to Shanghai’s fast-paced lifestyle.
8. Farine Bakery & Café
Farine Bakery & Café fuses European baking heritage with a Shanghai twist. Known for their legendary croissants and sourdough breads, Farine is an essential brunch and coffee stop in the French Concession, occupying a handsome space inside an old flour mill.
- Atmosphere: Rustic-chic décor, exposed beams, and muraled walls evoke the warmth of an artisan Parisian bakery.
- Signature Offerings: Freshly baked pastries, rich espressos, gourmet sandwiches, and organic juices.
- Bread Program: Farine’s bakers rise before dawn for daily bread preparation, ensuring the freshest flavors.
9. Rumors Coffee Roaster
Rumors Coffee Roaster, a Japanese-style micro-roaster, is cherished for its meticulous approach to bean selection and roasting. Tucked into a homely lane, this spot appeals to aficionados eager to explore new flavors in a calm, understated setting.
- Atmosphere: Cozy and minimalist, with traditional Japanese accents and a tranquil mood.
- Signature Offerings: Precision pour-over, siphon coffee, and limited-edition single estate beans roasted in-house.
- Lovely Detail: The shop sells small batches of cups and Japanese ceramics alongside their signature beans.
10. Coffee Tree
Coffee Tree is a longtime favorite for those in search of a relaxing, European-inspired escape in the city center. Known for its lush garden terrace, Coffee Tree is ideal for lazy afternoons, casual meetings, and light bites.
- Atmosphere: Spacious, sun-drenched interiors open onto a landscaped patio with mature trees and comfortable seating.
- Signature Offerings: Italian-style coffees, fresh fruit smoothies, continental breakfasts, and all-day brunch plates.
- Clientele: Attracts a cosmopolitan crowd, from families to entrepreneurs.
Shanghai Café Comparison Table
| Café | Atmosphere | Specialty | Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seesaw Coffee | Bright, Scandinavian-style | Single-origin, pour-overs | Jing’an, Xuhui |
| Sumerian Coffee | Industrial, urban | Bagels, espresso, hand-drip | Jing’an |
| % Arabica | Minimalist, Japanese | Espresso classics | Lujiazui, various |
| Voyage Coffee | Contemporary, nautical | Filter coffee, single-origin | Xuhui |
| Café del Volcán | Rustic, intimate | Pour-over, cold brew | French Concession |
| Egg Café | Quirky, lively | Brunch, flat whites | Jing’an |
| Manner Coffee | Compact, modern | Affordable espresso | Citywide |
| Farine Bakery & Café | Rustic, artisan bakery | Pastries, espresso | French Concession |
| Rumors Coffee Roaster | Japanese, tranquil | Siphon, pour-over | Xuhui |
| Coffee Tree | Garden terrace, European | All-day brunch, smoothies | Xintiandi |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is unique about Shanghai’s café scene compared to other cities?
A: Shanghai’s café culture blends East and West, combining global coffee techniques with local design and a creative, fast-evolving hospitality industry. Many cafés source Chinese-grown beans and experiment with international brewing styles, making each spot distinctive.
Q: Are these cafés suitable for remote working or study?
A: Most of the featured cafés have comfortable seating, free WiFi, and a relaxed atmosphere, making them suitable for remote work, meetings, or study sessions. Certain spots, like Seesaw and Sumerian, are particularly popular with freelancers and students.
Q: Do any of these cafés offer vegetarian or gluten-free menu options?
A: Egg Café and Farine stand out for their vegetarian-friendly dishes and health-conscious menu items. Many city cafés now accommodate dietary preferences by featuring plant-based milk, vegan snacks, and gluten-free baked goods.
Q: What should first-time visitors try at these cafés?
A: Recommended must-try items include Seesaw’s single-origin pour-overs, Sumerian’s bagels, % Arabica’s signature flat white, Café del Volcán’s hand-brewed filter coffee, and Farine’s legendary croissants.
Q: Can visitors purchase coffee beans for home brewing at these cafés?
A: Absolutely. Almost all the listed cafés offer retail bags of freshly roasted beans, and many will grind beans to order. Seesaw, Manner, and Rumors Coffee Roaster, in particular, have a wide selection of single-origin coffee and specialty blends.
