Shanghai's 15 Popular Bistros You Can't Miss

There are over 1,000 bistros in Shanghai. Chefs, food quality, environment, and service all play a role in who stays on top. The ones that stand out are worth every visit.

10 Popular Bistros in Shanghai

We've compiled a list of popular bistros in Shanghai, showcasing a diverse range of dining experiences. From French classics to Chinese flavors, from affordable options to Michelin-backed restaurants, there's a bistro here to suit every palate.

Hailing from Paris, bistro represents affordable and casual dining. However, Shanghai's take on the bistro has evolved. These bistros are now the perfect middle ground between fine dining and casual eating.

Bistros offer a high standard for the dining environment, food, and drinks, providing great value for money and creating a sense of ritual and emotional value that has garnered the admiration of countless diners.

Countless new and unique bistros have popped up in Shanghai. Scroll down to explore Shanghai's vibrant bistro scene of 2024.

When it comes to the most difficult restaurant to get an appointment in Shanghai currently, NABI springs to mind. This year, its Korean chef Tom Ryu opened a family-style Korean restaurant called WULI downstairs.

The decor combines traditional Korean elements with contemporary design, creating a relaxing and cozy atmosphere.

WULI specializes in traditional Korean street food like spicy pork belly, spicy beef soup, pork bone soup, and spicy rice cakes with chicken. However, Chef Tom brings his own twist, adding a layer of refinement to each dish.

The tuna gimbap, packed with tuna and wasabi, is a flavor bomb. The squid ramen with clams is bursting with freshness.

Other highlights include abalone porridge, Jeju mackerel stone pot rice, seafood scallion pancakes, and rice cake ice cream, all highly recommended.

To import rare Korean beverages, Chef Tom starts his own liquor import company, which is why the drink list features a diverse selection of sake, soju, and makgeolli.

The bar, which also operates during the day, serves a variety of classic cocktails alongside six signature drinks with Korean liquors.

WULI

Address: Room 101, Building 1, WYSH, No. 168 Wuyi Road

Tel: 18621692095

Opening Hours:

Tuesday-Thursday: 17:30-24:00

Friday: 17:30-01:00

Saturday: 11:30-15:30, 17:30-01:00

Sunday: 11:30-15:30, 17:30-00:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 250+

sage gastro is one of the rising stars in the bistro scene. The secret behind sage gastro's growing popularity lies in its Singaporean chef, Jun Nishiyama. 

Having honed his skills at the 3-star Michelin restaurant Ultraviolet, Chef Jun brings years of fine dining experience to every dish he creates.

Sage is a more upscale gastro than a bistro, offering high-end cuisine with great value for money. Dining here feels like being a guest in Chef Jun's home, enjoying his innovative cuisine.

The menu features fewer than 20 dishes, divided into appetizers, mains, desserts, and chef's recommendations.

The signature dish is the crispy fried chicken leg with tamarind sauce and pickles. With its crisp exterior and juicy interior, it's a dish that delivers satisfaction.

sage gastro

Address: No. 1407 Nansuzhou Road

Tel: 18917043962

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 18:00-24:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 400+

From Shenzhen to Shanghai, Xiang Jiao has quickly attracted long lines since its opening at Hong Shou Fang.

The bistro spans two floors with large glass windows that create an open and bright dining space. Seating options include two-person and four-person tables, long tables and three private rooms, catering to various dining needs.

The blackboard on the first floor lists the daily wine specials and chef's recommendations.

The menu boasts nearly 60 dishes and 6 categories.

Signature Hunan flavors like stir-fried white chili peppers and sour radish are crowd favorites.

The must-try dishes include spicy fish roe pot, stir-fried beef, and more. Each dish bursts with bold flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Xiang Jiao

Address: 1-2F, No. 1117 Xikang Road

Tel: 19102192137

Opening Hours:

Monday-Friday: 11:30-14:00, 17:30-23:00

Saturday-Sunday: 11:30-14:30, 17:30-23:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 150+

DIAN FU brings together the rich culinary traditions and ingredients from Yunnan's 16 regions.

The space features an industrial style highlighted by metal elements. Photos from Yunnan and Qinghai on the walls create a warm ambiance that resonates with local culture.

The bistro offers over 70 wines. The selection includes rare and limited-edition wines from renowned regions, with a particular focus on Burgundy.

The menu features nearly 50 Yunnan specialties prepared by using Yunnan cooking techniques such as leaf-wrapped cooking, oil infusion, charcoal grilling, cold tossing, and marinating.

The recent addition of seasonal mushroom dishes has been a hit. You can enjoy a variety of mushrooms for an average price of just RMB 200.

DIAN FU

Address: Room 101, Building 19, No. 1262 West Yan'an Road

Tel: 17353463443

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11:30-14:00, 14:30-16:30, 17:00-22:00, 22:30-00:30

Average Bill per Person: RMB 200+

NU XIANG MU DOU was founded in 1900. Recently, it opened a new location in Xintiandi and has collaborated with BALENCIAGA.

The exterior features a charming garden of plane trees. The interior creates a stylish and modern atmosphere with its artistic mirrored walls, xiao long bao-shaped chandeliers, and vibrant lighting.

The master team, led by You Yumin, the sixth-generation inheritor of Nanxiang xiao long's intangible cultural heritage, collaborates with Chef Cai, who previously worked at the renowned Chinese restaurant in Shanghai.

In addition to the signature Nanxiang xiao long bao, the menu showcases a fusion of classic Shanghai cuisine and innovative dishes. 

Complementing this culinary experience, NU XIANG MU DOU has invited one of Asia's 50 Best Bars to create its drink list, featuring a selection of unique Chinese-style cocktails.

NU XIANG MU DOU

Address: No. 338 Zizhong Road

Tel: 18018677551

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11:00-14:00, 17:00-22:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 180+

Located at No. 20 Donghu Road, Cellar To Table has been listed in the 2024 Shanghai Michelin Guide as a recommended restaurant.

This year, the restaurant welcomed Italian head chef Francesco Bonvini, who brings experience from several Michelin-starred restaurants.

As the name suggests, wine is a highlight here, with a cellar boasting over 400 selections.

On the menu, the chef's special milk bread and handmade pasta are must-tries. The pasta options change seasonally, offering new flavors throughout the year.

It is relaxing to enjoy drinks and meals with friends in the cozy garden.

Cellar To Table

Address: Room 1A, 1F, No. 20 Donghu Road

Tel: 021-64166676

Opening Hours:

Monday-Friday: 18:00-01:00

Saturday-Sunday: 12:00-01:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 500+

Located on the second floor of Three on the Bund, TALK & TASTE is a Fujian seafood bistro.

The restaurant specializes in fresh Fujian seafood, served as refined bar bites.

The space includes a casual dining area, bar seating, and 14 private rooms. One of the standout features is the private window-side room with a small terrace, offering stunning views of the bund and Lujiazui skyline.

Chef Lin, a Fujian native with over 20 years of experience, is a true master of Fujian cuisine. He presents authentic regional dishes that highlight the rich flavors of his home province.

In addition, TALK & TASTE surprises with nearly 20 types of skewers, including pork belly and eel rolls, chicken thighs, wings, lamb skewers, beef short ribs, and more.

TALK & TASTE

Address: 2F, No. 3 East Zhongshan No. 1 Road, Huangpu District

Tel: 19921177878

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11:00-14:00, 17:00-24:00

Located in Now Space Phase II, BASTARD offers innovative flavors from different regions of China.

The chef Michael Janzewski is a famous chef from Poland. He previously worked at Michelin-starred restaurant Belon in Hong Kong and served as head chef at Canton Disco, a Cantonese restaurant at The Shanghai Edition.

The space seats fewer than 30 guests, and is decked out with bold colors, Miao embroidered cushions, and a mix of musical styles. Expect jazz over lunch and groove and funky tunes by dinner.

The menu frequently changes, but crowd favorites include grilled maitake, Chengdu prawn wonton, and Sham Shui Po style stir-fried wagyu M7 picanha.

For the drink list, BASTARD specializes in natural wines and highballs. It boasts over 100 kinds of natural wines from regions like Burgundy, Alsace, Sicily, Georgia, and China's Ningxia.

BASTARD

Address: No. 102, No. 30, Lane 319 Jiaozhou Road

Tel: 13162076826

Opening Hours:

Monday-Thursday: 12:00-14:30, 18:00-24:00

Saturday: 18:00-00:30

Sunday: 18:00-24:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 300+

Naif Coffee · Bistro is located on the second floor above the pool of Columbia Circle.

Naif, derived from the French word meaning "naive", embodies a laid-back and carefree lifestyle. It combines café, bakery, French restaurant, and bar in one place.

During the day, it offers a brunch menu centered around soufflés. At night, it transforms into a cozy French bistro serving Mediterranean dishes and wine.

From starters to mains, Naif brings the flavors of southern France to Shanghai.

Naif Coffee · Bistro

Address: Room 201, 203, Columbia Circle, No. 1262 West Yan'an Road

Tel: 021-52585220

Opening Hours: Munday-Sunday, 10:00-01:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 150+

INS Paradise is the most popular nightlife landmark in Shanghai this year. In addition to clubs, there is also delicious food. SONG SONG Wine Bar on the first floor is a bistro serving Shanghai cuisine.

In addition, the bistro offers creative cocktails, natural wines, and a lively atmosphere with music and retro design.

SONG SONG Wine Bar's layout is well-designed, including bar, wine cellar, private rooms, and a DJ booth. 

On the menu, you'll find classic Shanghai flavors and various finger food.

For main dishes, sweet and sour pork, Huaiyang-style braised eel, and braised pork belly are all must-try.

SONG SONG Wine Bar

Address: F124, INS Paradise, No. 109 Yandang Road  

Tel: 13601827521  

Opening Hours:  

Friday & Saturday: 18:00-02:00  

Monday-Thursday, Sunday: 18:00-01:00  

Average Bill per Person: RMB 200+

hanok, a new bistro on South Maoming Road, blends the traditional wooden beams of Korean hanok houses with an ocean theme.

Designed by Korean-American designer Joon, the interior features a fusion of tradition and modernity. Seating is available at the bar, tables, and cozy booths. 

On the menu, you'll find small bites like small octopus muchim with plum sauce and melon prosciutto, alongside dishes like the famous Iberico pork soup, braised wagyu short ribs, k-chicken pancake, honey chicken, FAFU pork kimchi egg roll, and spicy noodle soup. 

As for drinks, hanok offers five flavors of Korean-style seltzers, and a selection of five cocktails inspired by traditional Korean culinary culture.

hanok

Address: 3F, No. 46 South Maoming Road, Huangpu District

Tel: 18016260120

Opening Hours:

Friday & Saturday: 19:00-03:00

Monday-Thursday, Sunday: 19:00-02:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 300+

niao pu combines traditional yakitori with Sichuan flavors, blending Japanese grilling with Chinese BBQ.

Located in Hong Shou Fang, niao pu boasts a modern, bar-like atmosphere, setting it apart from yakitori restaurants.

The menu features a creative mix of yakitori infused with Sichuan flavors, alongside a selection of special Sichuan dishes.

Designed by Shanghai's famous bar Speak Low, the drink list showcases a vibrant selection centered around fresh fruits. Guests can enjoy ten unique cocktails, all available in non-alcoholic versions. Additionally, niao pu offers a range of shochu, whisky highballs, draft beers, craft beers, and a selection of sake and wine.

niao pu

Address: No. 196 Xinhui Road

Tel: 18501753713

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11:30-14:30, 17:00-02:00

Average Bill per Person: RMB 110+

Located on North Xiangyang Road, Sihe is a Chinese-style bistro from Beijing. Here, you can find many traditional Chinese details, such as ink wash painting, bamboo, mortise and tenon structures, Dongyang woodcarving, and metallic decorations.

Sihe not only offers cocktails with Chinese flavors but also serves dinner that draws inspiration from culinary delights across China.

The drink list is inspired by signature elements from Guangxi, such as Desheng's sake, passion fruit, and perilla. There is also a hidden bar within the bistro, frequently hosting guest bar teams for a unique experience.

Sihe

Address: 4F, No. 17 North Xiangyang Road, Jing'an District  

Tel: 18916583529  

Opening Hours:

Friday-Saturday: 18:00-01:30

Monday-Thursday, Sunday: 18:00-01:00  

Average Bill per Person: RMB 200+

Juke, also led by Polish chef Michael Janzewski, is one of Shanghai's popular bistros. 

It boasts just 8 tables and fewer than 20 seats. The interior features mirror designs that enhance the sense of space and give it a modern feel.

Juke recently launched a new menu and hosted a pop-up event with the renowned chef Jeremy, delivering a delightful surprise for diners.

Juke

Address: No. 11-102 Dongping Road  

Tel: 17621817871  

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 17:30-23:00  

Average Bill per Person: RMB 450+

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