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Coffee in Shanghai Volume II has take a dramatic change from its previous version.
While the previous version was image rich, this version is not.
This is designed to be more universally accessible and useable.
If you like our content and would like to see it expand, please consider becoming a Patron.
You can become a patron of this book and/or for the development of future titles.
Or Send us an email for other ways to help us.Thank you to the following who have helped Develop this Book:
Coffee in Shanghai Volume II expands on the 309 paged, first Volume which was released in 2016.
While the book is expansive on many different topics, the focus is on coffee vendors in Shanghai.
None of this content is paid for by vendors. The reviews are real and based on real experiences.
It is important to note that vendors open and close often for a wide variety of reasons.
However in the end, as a customer, you want a quality product at a decent price.
For many years, finding Coffee in Shanghai was difficult. Finding quality coffee, was even more difficult. Slowly coffee shops opened up, however they typically targeted clientele with more international experiences, as they were fairly expensive and their interior was stylish and relaxed.
I recall back in the early 2000s, when a famous seattle brand was making ways into Shanghai and the local population was becoming more flush with disposable income, an incident on the metro: A man purchased a branded coffee for the girl. The girl was excited and admired the cup, she than opened it and took her first taste. From excitement to disgust, she promptly pushed the cup back to the man, who also got to experience the weird brew. Through the rest of their ride, he nursed it, unable to throw it out, after spending so much on it.
By 2015, Coffee was being consumed by more people. International branded shops, which were once for international clientele was experiencing a flood of middle class children and those attempting to be trendy.
In 2016, Coffee gained general mass popularity and so in chinese tradition, the market became saturated with coffee shops. Seeing two or three coffee shops side by side, is not that uncommon.
In 2018, the Yunnan beans made a push into the markets and so thousands of vendors opened with Yunnan beans as their only source of product. Often the vendors had little to no experience with coffee outside of the Yunnan product. By mid-2018, the oversaturation of the market resulted in closures of many vendors and attempts at product diversification. New batches of shops opened with a range of price points, but going down to the 15-20 rmb/cup was not unheard of. I even found a 10rmb espresso on the south bund at Manner. New batches of trained baristas resulted in new shops as well and this forms a nice network of baristas in the city. Baristas often provided recommendations of their classmates for their shops to try or perhaps their skills to admire.
In early 2019, a new push for artistic coffee shops pushed ahead. Shops which serve as galleries as well as coffee shops are poping up - however this is an old scheme which tends to get little traction.
"If an espresso in Shanghai costs more than 40 rmb, than the vendor doesn't know anything about espresso." - Mary Jane
Black containers (also known as Residual waste, Dry trash) for Used Coffee Cups
Version 3:
- Brown containers (also known as Household food waste, wet trash, fermentable waste): kitchen waste (including leftover food, unused Traditional medicine preparations, perishable food), egg shells, flowers, small bones.
- Black containers (also known as Residual waste, Dry trash): tissues, diapers, plasters [ie. band-aids], Cigarettes butts, plastic bags, hair, earth, large bones, oyster shells, used coffee cups.
- Blue container (also known as Recyclable waste): clean paper, plastic, glass, textiles (ie. clothing, plush toys), metal (ie. electrical wire, knives).
- Red container (also known as Hazardous waste): batteries, past date medicine, mercury based thermometers, fluorescent lamps, hair dyes
- Toilet: Animal (pets and people) fecal matter.
Version 2: Rubbish classification:
- Recyclable waste (ie. paper, plastic, glass, textiles [ie. clothing, plush toys], electrical wire, knives, concrete blocks).
- Hazardous waste (batteries, past date medicine, mercury based thermometers, fluorescent lamps, hair dyes)
- Wet waste (ie. kitchen waste [including leftover food, unused Traditional medicine preparations], egg shells, flowers).
Note: These items should be fermentable.
- Dry Waste/Residual waste (ie. diapers, plasters [ie. band-aids], Cigarettes butts, plastic bags, hair, earth).
Verion 1: Rubbish classification:
- Yellow: Glass and glass-made items
- Blue: recyclable waste (ie. paper and plastic)
- Orange: Harmful waste (ie. batteries, past date medicine)
- Green: Other waste (ie. kitchen waste, diapers).
Notes:
- Rules currently only in Mandarin
- Rules displayed on shanghaifabu (Information office of the Shanghai municipal government)'s weChat account
- Fines have already been implemented. Individuals: 200rmb.
- Guidelines established by Shanghai Greenery and Public Sanitation Bureau
Each district has their own version:
ie. Songjiang District Greenery and Public Sanitation Bureau
http://english.songjiang.gov.cn/government/organization/
- Commerical Disposable Items will not be provided for unless asked. This will include hotels, restaurants, food delivery, etc.
One hotel asked for a name and signature in order to obtain a spoon to eat their famous desserts, which ironically was packaged in a disposable plastic container which I did not have to sign for.
It is uncommon finding a
coffee roaster and even less common finding a coffee roaster which knows how
to roast coffee. As one coffee roaster complained to me, ‘Starbucks ruined
Coffee in Shanghai’ – citing that because people’s first experience with coffee
was a dark roasted, bitter coffee, the market expects terrible coffee to be
served to them. This has some merit, as most early (pre-2016) coffee shops
served ‘Korean Roast’, which is well charred coffee beans. Not all coffee shops
understand coffee enough to get a roaster, and just buy bagged coffee and some
even buy old bagged coffee.
The vendors which go directly to
a roaster, tend to pick the best one they can, however they are at the mercy of
the roaster for quality. So if the central roaster is producing quality roast
one week and terrible roasts the next week, the dependant vendors quality will
also vary.
Some vendors have their own
roasting machines, however there is typically two uses for them, either for
decoration or large batch roasting for week upon weeks of usage. If large batch
roasting wasn’t bad enough, the method of storage in non-airtight plastic bins
is also a shame. For all roasters found, I requested and encouraged individual
roasting, however they tend to be unaware that it is even possible, despite
understanding the sample spoon of their drum roasters.
In terms of actual beans, there is a disconnect between what vendors claim versus what they actually carry. While it is fashionable to claim only Arabica seeds, the actual importation of seeds from outside China makes it difficult to guarantee this. Prior to 2015, about 100,000 tons of Vietnamese coffee (primarly robusta) was imported to China, which acounted for 50% of all coffee in China (99% of this was going to Instant Coffee production). In 2015, with efforts to push for more China-grown coffee, this figure has decreased to about 35,000 tons, as Yunnan province has about 130,000 hectares of crop and produces 85% of China-grown Coffee (note: Nestlé co-op farms produce about a fifth of output and pay at peak 26 rmb/kg [5cad/kg]; primarly Arabica seeds). By 2016, the total market volume of Instant Coffee, decreased to about 98%, meaning the market was utilizing about 2% of all Coffee as a fresh product. Of this 2%, Vietnam is still a major importer, followed by Indonesia and Malaysia. Seeds from Brazil and re-packaged (non-coffee growing regions) such as Italy and the USA is only a very small percentage of the market.
Often baristas or
vendors are unaware that different kinds of seeds exists, aside from the
different types of Arabica and so may either purchase seeds with little
knowledge of their origin or purchase seeds with little care to their orgins.
Vendors may purchase seeds which are actually stale, simply to get a ‘better
deal’. Authorities have little knowledge of Coffee and so currently have no
ability to enforce food safety rules on vendors. In addition, general ignorance
by consumers, make it even less likely a consumer would even know that there
was an issue or that they were not getting what they were paying for. One
pop-up vendor was offering single origin seeds at 100 rmb (19.23 cad) per cup,
however had little knowledge about the differences between the various regions
they were advertising to carry. Out of all the vendors I spoke with, only one
claimed to work with Robusta seeds (suprising, as most didn’t know anything
about Robusta seeds), but they indicated that they only used them for training
purposes and did not have them in their shop.
For water quality, this is an
invisible issue for most vendors and only at higher end places do they have any
consideration for water treatment. How treated the water is, greatly varies.
There is no shop which uses bottled spring water, however I did find one which
used an extensive system to try to ensure quality water is being used.
If you are going to use milk
with your beverage, you also need to be concerned for the quality of the milk.
In Shanghai, this is pretty difficult as the vast majority of milk is Ultra High
Temperature (UHT) milk, watered down or just a beverage (and not specifically a
dairy product). Some vendors will use ‘foreign’ UHT milk, some will use ‘fresh’
milk (fresh, but able to be stored for 20+ days?), and by the off chance you
will find an actual fresh milk product being used (only found one vendor in
shanghai with actual real fresh
milk).
For the master of the bean, the
Barista – the skills really vary across the city. You can find Baristas which
know as much about coffee as any uninitiated person and you can find ones which
have broad knowledge. For the most part, most focus on creating art on lattes,
rather than pouring an expertly brewed concoction. Occassionaly you will meet
an inspiring Barista, who speaks highly of their idols in other shops or their
desire to learn and become an expert in their field – these ones will tend to
be able to, or at least try, to make the coffee as you desire it to be.
During the course of researching
and writing another book – ‘A
Comprehensive Review of Coffee’, I have gained much knowledge and perhaps am
too picky when it comes to my coffee. In my early years, I was not too picky
about my cup of coffee. However now I have a whole range of considerations,
such as the type of seed, the quality of the seed, the roast, the water
quality, the brew process, the cups which it is served in and the total
processing time. This is called 5th
wave coffee. Shanghai is barely getting to 3rd wave (with most of
the market still consuming instant coffee and only a minor volume exploring
fresh seeds), however in time the market will become sophisticated enough to be
at this level.
Wave |
Details |
1 |
Dosed Stimulant |
2 |
Origin of the Seed, Quality of Product (Instant Coffee) |
3 |
Origin of the seed, roasting and brewing process |
4 |
Origin of the seed, roasting and brewing process, Quality of Product |
5 |
Type of Seed, Origin of the seed, roasting process, water quality,
brewing process, caffeine content, the method of serving and total processing
time (harvest to cup), Excellence in Product. |
It is very hard to give a top ten.
Every day in Shanghai, coffee vendors change their staff, their product, even close or rebrand themselves.
What was good yesterday, doesn't mean it will be good today.
With this said, here are the vendors which the Author is more likely to return to.
2019
Leina Coffee
(West side of city; just off Wuzhong Road; Puxi)
Cafe du Village
(North/West side of Minhang, past Hongqiao Central Business District; Puxi)
2018
Note: There are other vendors which are good enough to be listed, but are too far from the beaten track to recommend to others, especially those unfamiliar with the city. For example,
Mixed bag. Sometimes great. Sometimes not. If in location, may try again (possibly best choice in area):
Starbuck Roasters or Lark?
Go to Lark. Their roaster is self-taught and has a passion for the arts. The Yunnan beans are the same as Starbucks.
Plus Lark is closer to the bund, on Nanjing Road East, in a historical building which was newly re-opened and is currently re-developing southern side of the site.
Instead of focusing on an espresso and foam, I opted to look at lattes and cappuccinos.
I also didn't focus so much on if the vendor roasts their own, but on the overall quality of the products.
I also looked at the best value for the product(s) offered and the ambience (ie. Is it good enough to take others to).
Background information on the company is sometimes included, which can help give insight to the quality of the product.
While I tend to skip over vendors who only offer machined coffee (ie. Fully automated, semi-automated), sometimes I try because I would like to drink a coffee that day.
Information:
Additional Information:
Key:
I was looking for this roaster for a couple years and finally found it in the back of a non-descript low storey office building, just off a side street in the west side of the city. There is no signage at the front of the building nor the building registry, just a small sign near the entrance which is also slightly obscured. Looking through the glass doors, doesn't aid you, as the main space of the school/roastery/shop is deeper inside and on the right side.
I explained I was looking for robusta beans and as if out of providence, the proprietor said that a batch was just freshly roasted this morning and offered me to try. I asked for some foam milk on the side, which they prepared as well.
The robusta was a light roast, not bitter, acidic or sour. It was very strong in caffeine.
The foam was well done and the microbubbles were dense enough to support a couple spoonfuls of the espresso. Blended it was smooth and delicious.
Out of curosity, the name came up, Leina, which sounds like Reina, which means Queen. Now, this young lady is the Queen of Coffee in Shanghai. While she has previously operated several shops, she now focuses on teaching and consulting.
Her apprentice, Davy, who decided to obtain the robusta and roasting for this fateful day, engaged in a stimulating conversation about the effects of water quality (ph, mineral content, etc). and bean type and quality on the overall product. Afterwards he went back to assist a co-worker with the process of disassembling an espresso machine to descale the individual parts.
It is wonderful to engage with true artists of the craft. If this couldn't get better, the cost of my freshly roasted, single orgin robusta with foam on the side was only 15 rmb. While not the lowest price in Shanghai, it was far superior to even the most expensive cups in the city.
Summary
Great Prices
Customized roasting available (types and times vary), ie. freshly roasted robusta.
Espresso Machine
Decent Latte quality milk; Five water filters
Knowledable and friendly baristas.
Con: No food safety license. As technically they are a school and not a coffee shop.
Second Attempt:
Student making coffee. She was a bit nervous, but the quality of the bean resulted in an excellent brew.
Just need to be careful on how many shots of espresso as she almost served four shots to me.
Multiple Attempts:
This has become my go to place for a good brew in Shanghai this year.
Staff: Queen, Princess (Number one siphon coffee in Korea, two years; Number two in the world, Japan), Messenger (Expert Roaster and Espresso Barista)
Previously located by IAPM mall, it was closed and boarded up. Eventually cemented over.
Found it now on Yangping Road.
Larger space, easy to understand menu.
Ordered Mandellin Indonesia, Espresso + Milk (Cappuccino) for 22 rmb; regular size: 2 shots (Large is 3 shots).
It was dark roast, a bit acidic, but not bitter or sour. The Barista is well skilled in foam production and included a nice latte art 'heart'.
While the take out cup lid looked cool, it was slightly melting to the heat of the coffee, so I removed that to enjoy the brew.
Additional branding as the 'So Ro' on the cup and on the inside of the shop.
Food Items available, so tried a:
Scone (6 rmb), Blueberry Muffin and Chocolate Muffin (8 rmb each).
The scone was dry, the blue muffin was cake and the chocolate muffin was bland.
Other desserts didn't look desirable.
Second Attempt:
Barista remembered my order. Nice.
Nice conversation with the owner.
Ordered Tiramisu for 18 rmb and a almond muffin. Both were nice.
Will be back.
Lygon street
Espresso coffee
(Also known as Lygon coffee; Lygon Street Cafe; Black'Smith)
Ground Floor, CHJ Global Innovation Hub, Shanghai Business Park (1036 Tianlin Lu; Caohejing Hi-Tech Park)
22 latte
30 Affogato
Decent portions
Sour, but not long lasting
Not bitter, not Acidic
Low caffeine content
Has wifi, decent space, modern office building.
Roasted weekly. But couldn't nail down the source.
CanTresor Pretzels
~341 Tianshan Road (corner of Weining Road), just south of Paris Baguette, slighty behind outside escalators at Bingo (Bingu) Leisure and Cultural square.
Offers drip in Bunn Machine or Brewster Ice Brew
Los Beans (Bagged; 95 rmb for Champs-Elysees; Mexican Farmers pretending a Canadian product)
Brewed Coffee: 16 rmb
Maple Cold Brew Iced Coffee: 19 rmb
Business Package: 29 rmb Pretzel and Coffee
Didn't try the Coffee, but did try a couple Pretzles which were tasty.
Gurantee on Website (didn't see in shop): 'We guarantee you’ll love your pretzel, or we’ll replace it with one that you do.'
This shop heavily promotes its Canadian roots. There is one shop in Canada, serveral in China.
It is clean and the staff are attentive to being keeping clean and preparing food in a safe manner.
Federal Company: 10938513
Incorporation date is August 9, 2018.
Principal address: Suite 590 - 999 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K5.
Directors:
Jeffery Shing 7517 Kilrea Place, Burnaby BC V5A 4T5
Shijie Kao #118 - 5788 Birney Avenue, Vancouver BC V6S 0A2
Vacounver Location
Shanghai Location:
CanTresor (Shanghai) Catering Management Co., Ltd.
Vai - Milano - Gelato & Cioccolato
Gelato for 29 rmb
Affogato for 28 rmb (1 espresso and a scoop of Gelato)
The Espresso was dark and bitter, but not acidic or sour. The gelato helped, but couldn't solve the problem.
One staff member paid attention to ensure their sick co-worker didn't partake in food preparation for my order. It was appreciated.
Located on the Foreign Street in Hongqiao.
There are other locations around the city.
While this is a bar, they do offer: Rise & Shine - Coffee Red Ale
6.5% ABV (Alcohol by volume) 20 IBU (International bitterness units)
It has a taste of coffee.
I heard that Lark's downtown location was closed in early 2019. Found Lark Coffee Binjiang Branch; Gate 4 along the waterfront.
After spending considerable time nailing down the location, it appears that Lark is closed up shop in Shanghai. The Binjiang Branch is now called
Picardie Cafe and it also appears to be closed.
Espresso Hot: 18 rmb; Ice: 18 rmb; Latte: 18 rmb; Ice: 18 rmb; Cappuccino: 18 rmb; Ice: 18 rmb - infact, all drinks here are 18 rmb - hot or cold.
Ordered a Peach, Matcha Milkshake: 18 rmb
They engaged in a multi-step proceess, which included actual ice cream. However various creams and sugar syrups and 'fruit pieces' were added.
Provided a 20 rmb note, for the 18 rmb, but they couldn't make 2 rmb in change. They didn't accept other forms of payment, outside of digital and so offered it without a fee. It wasn't very good and took a long walk and a desiration for fluids to make it palatable.
MingS is a large roasting company in Shanghai. One of the first in the city.
Found they had a cafe and training school on CaoBao Lu, so headed that way.
However, while the sign is still there, it does not appear to be operational.
Read online of a location out in Songjiang, so will try to get to that location.
Second Attempt
Second attempt was better. The Cafe and Training school is just a training school. For bean sales, have to head to the 3rd floor. There, they were initially not welcoming, but soon they welcomed me in and provided information on their products. Sampled a couple of their espressos beans and their milk.
a.Grand Espresso blend (40% robusta blend) by itself it is a strong, but not bitter or acidic, slightly sour. This was not improved by a different grind. With milk, it was not as good as b. Highly caffeinated though.
b. Intenso 21 (20% robusta blend) by itself it is bold in flavour, but not bitter, but slightly acidic, and sour. Mixed with milk, it was much better. Still a bold flavor, but the acidicity and sourness was blended away. Medium Caffeine content.
(note: They do not record/check for caffeine content).
While they normally sell online, they do sell in store for about 90 rmb/1 kg.
They indicated they do not have a Songjiang location, so that is probably just a reseller using their logos.
Little M Coffee
(possibly also known as Rotimum)
Their sign for a Gold Durian Bun caught my eye. However they were sold out, so I opted for the Icecream Coffee Bun for 15rmb. Also ordered the Coconut Milk Tea: 18 rmb.
The Coffee Bun was ok, but the ice cream and foam syrup was not .
The Coconut was light, the tea tasted like syrup and it included tapioca pearls.
Another mistake in order today (see Midland).
4-325 Taixing Road, Just off Beijing west road, Jing'an
While they have their own branding, they were unable to provide details on where their beans are from.
20 rmb for Latte
22 rmb for Hot Milk
32 rmb for Affogatto
Italian meaning, From the Heart.
Came for the Gelato, noticed they also offer Affogatto.
2 Gelato flavours: 35 rmb
Cold Brew/Espresso Affogatto + 1 flavor for 48 rmb
Butterfly Pea and Dark Chocolate (has Nibs). Quality is good, not high in sugar. Provided more of the cheaper flavouring options, in this case the Dark chocolate.
Other flavours:
Musang King Durian
Persimmon
Blackcurrent grapefruit
Salted Caramel
Strawberry milk
Sicilian Pistacchio
Mascarpone Figs
Avocado Coconut
Lychee Rose
Pineapple Szechuan Pepper
Cheesecake
Mint Stracciatella
Black Sesame
Vanilla
Yogurt
While the Gelato was good, the cold brew coffee doesn't sound too great. The Espresso machine is a home push button unit.
2nd location: No.170-3 Jiashan Road (嘉善路170号-3)
Affogato
Two Flavours of Gelator + Cafe (Capsule Coffee) for 35 rmb.
I opted for Hazelnut and Violet (likely lavender) for the two flavours.
The coffee is dark, bitter, sour and slightly acidic. Good thing there is ice cream to balance it. The Violet did the trick.
The location is small, but the staff are friendly.
I tried the second location, Coffee Gelato - has a nice taste. Will try it again.
On the corner of Yongjia Road and Jiashan Road, inside Just Fresh store.
Two for One Offer.
Bagged Coffee: Ming's Classic Inheritance since 2003, Mings No. 3 Coffee
(Decent brand, early supplier of Coffee in China)
Cappuccino and Latte for 23 rmb (2 for 1 offer).
Pricing is confusing.
Small 23, large 25rmb. Difference. Cup size. Both have a single shot.
Double Espresso: 16 rmb.
There is no knowledge of what a shot was, because they let the machine pour in two double shots - 4 shots in each cup. wow. Good thing, i didn't order a double. The best part was that there was actually little caffeine in the coffee, so that also helped.
Also got three mini croissants for 12 rmb. They had a sweet sugar glaze, which made them unique.
Mama's Kitchen is located in Just Fresh, a new concept grocery/foreign discount store. The prices are pretty good, with a mix foreign goods (like Russian chocolate bars) and baking items. Mama's Kitchen offers baked goods and coffee in a small space. There is no Mama though, just something the investors thought sounded trendy.
A coffee shop and bakery. Walked through - Espresso 20 rmb Latte 28 rmb, Cappuccino 30 rmb.
Heard about this brand from a local bakery 'Our Bakery'. So thought I would go to the source. Found it at K11, B2 in the hallway going to the foodcourt.
Good Affogato - turns out it wasn't so good. Not good ice cream and not even coffee, despite the suggestion that it was.
The staff members indicated that the espresso was brewed in their espresso machine, however they were not able to provide details of the beans.
Anfu road just off Wulumuqi Middle Road
FeiDan has been rebranded as Alimentari (Italian for Food) and has its own ' Coffee Lab' - Caffee Tubino.
Horrible spot lighting on the menu, makes it hard to read the meu.
Latte: 30 rmb
Hidden on the side, behind a small table - was the red face of the food safety sign.
Coffee Shop with 'Designer' home interior items.
Lured me in with Unique Affogatos - such as rice wine gelato or oolong tea gelato and espresso plus the two for one offer (48rmb).
Prepared to order, but the offer not available.
Do you have espresso? Yes. Do you have gelato? Yes. What's the problem? No cups. Can you put in paper cup? Yes. So they made the ordered. They delivered one espresso and in a seperate dish the gelato, exactly as the picture indicated. Strange.
Espresso. Not great. Sour and bitter - but not acidic. The Gelato, not very flavourful. Later found out it was from Pantry's Best - a low quality bakery, who spun off a brand of ice cream know as PieHouse.
Espresso from Moon (off anfu lu)
Parcafe, located in many Family Marts.
This year, beans from the Republic of Guatemala (Spanish, República de Guatemala). Flavour is decent and they are working hard on flavor combinations.
August: Ireland Latte: Espresso (hot or cold) with Jameson Whiskey shots (technically 2-3 pumps). Two for one, 16 rmb (2.97cdn/2.23usd).
Anfu Road
IG is looking dated, however they changed their bean supplier again. This year not overly acidic, bitter or sour. So big improvements. However Low caffeine levels.
The wifi didn't work. The furniture is looking dated.
The new dessert, tiramisu is frozen and when thawed out has limit flavours.
Good Photography magazines though - so if you are into that, its still a nice place to relax with some nice music and good reads.
620 Bao Le Road, Minhang district.
1 block from Fashion Park Mall (which is south of the American School) and north of Forest Manor (which is west of the British School).
Once owned by a person from Taiwan province who used to roast beans, has since been sold to a local woman and they purchase packaged coffee.
Ordered Cappiccino (34rmb), recieved latte. Nice latte art though.
Is a bit bitter, but when blended with the milk, produced a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Barista Sam is knowlegable and we had a conversation about how the local earth changes the flavours of the beans. While limited to exposure to anything other than Arabica, he is friendly and outgoing. Also interested in selling membership cards to those who reside nearby.
Head up to the Queen's Lane (4th floor) and right to the left of the escalators is this coffee shop.
From the outset it looks like your standard shop. Standard decorations with outragerous prices (38 rmb for latte). I was not impressed.
After experiencing the SkyPark and Space Cat - a trip worth it, it it self. I went downstairs and took another look, with more thirsty eyes.
As I came close, I was greeted by Mr. Chen, my barrista from Danity Cup, who drew me in.
After testing his ethopian cold brew, he brewed up a fine cup for me.
To show off his Artistic skills, he brewed up an equally fine brew for my friend, who has different taste than I do, using the same beans, just changing the grind and tempering.
After awhile, he showed off his bullet roaster. Cool.
Benefits:
- 6 water filters
- Mr. Chen: Excellent Artist
634/ On Air (634 Huaihui Lu)
Also Cafe OnAir
Location hidden behind building off huihui lu, part of fence for former office of sen yet sun.
Barista is knowledgable, heard of Wondermilk while serving in Beijing.
Sour, but not acidic or bitter.
low-to-medium caffiene
Single orgin Ethopian.
Ordered Cappiccino (38rmb), recieved latte
Over-extracted, with grinds.
Dirty dishes piled up.
Water damage in roof
Chairs provide an artistic look, do nothing for comfort of patrons
102 Lixi Road
Ground floor, same building as Interior designers owners. 2nd location in Shanghai.
This quiet shop is a newer building (compared to surrounding buildings) and down a quiet lane.
While I didn't stop for a coffee here, Lixi road is worth it to take a look down.
30-1 Sinan Road (Just off Huaihui Lu and Sinan road)
This location is not apparent. I was on the opposite side of the street by M & C Pet, looking for it and totally missed it.
This location has a kitchen and serves food.
627 Huaihai Road
Came for the Austrian Cafe event. Opted against their automatic coffee and tried a croissant, which was decent for 12 rmb.
The cafe is downstairs, but the resturant upstairs has better seating.
Bardot
B1, Aegean Place
Nice Interior Design. The interior design style is well seen in Shanghai for both its cafe and its lounge, however it is still looks clean. The lounge seating has chesterfield (patchwork leather sofa) styles.
The interior design is well branded from the tables to the planters to the cashier and espresso making stations.
The take away cup is also branded with red lips and a silver diamond which glitters in light.
I opted for the Affagato, seeing this was a speciality ice cream shop - however they didn't have any ice cream. Ok. So went for the Cappacino. Sadly, the order of the cappacino resulted in an latte, with at least decent art. The bean was bagged dark roast, sour and acidic and stored in the grinder.
Bardot China is the reincarnaton of Bardot (California), a brand which failed due to high prices for a well packaged inferior product.
Designer: Landor
Award: Bronze Design Lion at 2012 Cannes Lions
Advanced Ice Cream Technologies Corp. dba (doing business as) Bador filled for Bankruptcy at the
California Southern Bankruptcy Court (3:13-bk-11024) on Nov 12, 2013.
In Shanghai, Xavier Briseno has teamed up with the korean team of Zoo Cafe.
Roof Top, Aegean Place
This aptly named Cafe is located on the rooftop of Aegean Place. It has various rows of plants growing nearby, from corn to flowers. It is on the opposite side of the Pony Club, which is a horse riding training school.
The structure is not very large, but it is made with glass. I didn't go inside, however they do appear to have an espresso machine and tables for patrons and animals to rest upon. From a brief view outside puppies, kittens, rabbits and even some rats could be seen on the inside. If you are intrested in coffee and drinking with such creatures, this may be the place for you.
Ordered cappuccino, got a decent Latte.
Dark roast, but relatively smooth.
Had to request for AC.
Interior is well worn and not clean.
New Staff
Cappiccino (22rmb)
cleaner than last year.
Slightly sour, but not acidic or bitter.
medium-to-high caffiene
2nd Attempt
Acidic
3rd Attempt
Nice flavourful brew. Slight chocolate flavour, slight acidic effect (not in taste).
Low foam production.
Barista Tracy Yang is friendly.
4th Attempt
Slightly bitter and acidic.
Seems it is hits and misses this year. During August there was idea that it was closing, do to the closure of Takashimaya - however as Takashimaya was able to secure its lease, Danity Cup remained opened, but now with new bar stools.
Hits and misses this year. Not sure if they use Lavazza beans any more.
Queen was closed and so opted to try More Than, first time regretted that. Luke warm coffee, despite the repeated requests and confirmations of hot coffee. Sad.
Despite the poor service and luke-warm coffee, the taste was alright. Probably not Lavazza though.
West Bund Bistro 2555
Ordered cappuccino, got a Latte.
Dark roast, Acidic, but not bitter. Slightly sour.
Diluting with a cup of water helps, adding family mart ice cream improves slightly.
Nice take outcup, which is cork lined and comes with a sleeve with their branding.
Sam's Club, Pudong location
Afternoon Tea Set
1 Cake and Latte for 26rmb
Dark roast with slight bitterness, but not sour or acidic.
Push button operation.
While wagas previously didn't fair well, they are celebrating their own roastery with 15rmb cappacinos and lattes.
Their roast is dark, slightly sour and acidic. However when drunk with milk, its not too terrible. Plus at 15 rmb, its more palatable.
Also their Hongqiao Central Business District location offers 50% off croissants and chocoalate crossiants in the evening.
They offer a zucchini pistachio cake which has no zucchini, only carrots with a sprinkly of pistachio , but its at least a decent carrot cake. 28 rmb
Offers Turkish coffee, however didn't try.
Had a meal:
Turkish bread (12rmb; comes with wasabi, yogurt sauce): sauce ok, bread dry.
Beef-lamb donair (~48rmb): great seasoning.
Baklava (26rmb): not too sweet, layers, lots of nuts. Great.
Two blend with what they say is medium-roast.
Overly acidic, however not sour or bitter.
Cappacino: 26rmb takeout (6 rmb savings for takeout).
Local milk product, not refrigerated.
Nursed this terrible coffee until I found some ice cream to add to it.
White castle was offering new soft serve: 12 rmb + 50% off second
Sadly, it was low quality, small size, cone too sweet - however was 'fresh' as package was just opened.
In comparison, Bon Matin has hand made waffle cones which are not as sweet, better quality ice cream at a larger size (2-3 times larger) for 9 rmb.
On a side note, White castle now serves coffee.
Terrible Ice cream and Terrible coffee blended together made them with consumable.
1 Henan Middle Road (across from Westin Hotel)
Happy face, decent interior design.
Baked goods apparently from Pudong factory.
Indicated they roasted themselves a blend.
Highly acidic, but not bitter or sour. Highly caffinated.
Cappuccino 29 rmb (1 rmb cheaper than the Latte).
Barista forgot to give change and than it got worse from there. Tiny foam cup.
The worst of all, is that they recylce milk - meaning after they steam milk, they pour left overs in a jug next to their machine (without refrigeration) and reuse it for the next customer. How terrible for me. Fear of food posioning me prevented from enjoying this coffee.
This is a small shop which connects to a bar, which is its main focus.
A tiny espresso machine with beans from MQ Coffee.
Apparently, Mr. Wu has broken up with his partner and has his own shop.
1st floor, Fuxing Plaza and 66 Wulumuqi Middle Road
From
Onirii. Been waiting for them to open since they told me two years ago
about their plans to branch off to another location.
Jinxian Road (Across the street from 105 Cafe; 209 Jinxian Road)
Found Onirii again. On the expensive side and the Baristas didn't seem too knowledgable. Perhaps when Mr. Wu is available will take a look again.
Two options. Dark roast or sour (which they note as fruity).
Honest barrista indicates that product designed for local market and obtained from 3rd party.
Prices are decent but quanity is small and cups look flimsy.
Not particularly clean.
Opted to not to try.
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Also known as VSmooth Coffee
Chinese/Vietnamese Coffee Shop
Started in Hangzhou. Man from Anhui, Woman from Vietnam whos family owns a coffee plantation. Met in Taiwan province.
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Columbia Circle, Building 8, 1262 Yan'an Xi Lu (Panyu Road)
Old blackbird changed their location.
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Yuyuan Lu
Shenzhen coffee shop (established in October 2018) which also sells clothing and home furnishings.
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382 Shaanxi Nan Lu
Chinese run 'Swedish' Cafe
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Also known as Jascaffe Trading Company/Coffee House
Jiuting, Songjiang
Registered capital is Euro. Co-venture with Swiss Coffee machine supplier.
Here are some shops spotted, but haven't checked yet.
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Not open, just a sign in front of a stall.
Tiny shop, formely a Manner coffee shop.
Recommends to drink alcohol after 6pm. However was closed.
Big Bagel (bagel & coffee)
Small shop.
Set the new paragraph text here.
Small shop.
Name could be something else, perhaps a letter fell off?
Fox (note: No name, just a logo) Zhedie Coffee |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
Ferry Space, Below Nanpu Bridge 18 Lujiabang Road and Waima Road. |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Beans stored in grinder - No noticeable air conditioning |
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Semi Automatic Espresso Machine |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Bunny Drops |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
Binjiang Da Dao (Elevated Coal Corridor at Laobaidu Riverside Greenland) |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Beans stored in grinder - Very tight space, with no air conditioning, very hot. - Not very clean - Board menu hard to read due to small interior design - Poor layout to get to ordering station and menu (Note: I was the only customer inside at the time) |
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Semi Automatic Espresso Machine |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Real Coffee |
Reviewed: October 2nd, 2018 |
Binjiang Da Dao |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Decent coffee. Only slightly sour, but not acidic. Actually contained caffeine. - Able to pick type of roast. - Blending done in-house (note: roasted by third party in Qingpu). - Beans refrigerated (some beans stored in grinder) - Ground at the time of order - Milk of decent quality - Brand design is nice and interior design is decent as well. Cons: - Despite being a light roast, it was dry and well roasted. - Location: Remote location in Pudong, off the main pathway in office building - Staff: Limited effort in coffee production, seemed only interested in food sales during weekdays to staffers in office building. Failed to make latte foam as requested. |
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Note: Menu only available in Mandarin. |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Blatage |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
4594 Binjiang Da Dao |
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Cons: - Dark Roast - Not very clean - Beans stored in grinder - No noticeable air conditioning |
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- Espresso machine |
Ride |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
Binjiang Da Dao |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Large interior space (Compared to Bunny Drops next door) Cons: - Beans stored in grinder |
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Price: 35 rmb |
Collection |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
588 Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Bund Finance Center |
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Manner |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
588 Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Basement Two, Bund Finance Center |
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Pros: - Actual espresso machine - Basic Espresso Shot for 10rmb (great price for location) Cons: - Confusing price structure (Staff unable to provide details on it) - Located in B2 food court. |
Mercedes me Shanghai |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
588 Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Unit N103, Bund Finance Center |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Actual espresso machine Cons: - Beans stored in grinder - Dishonesty with brewing location of craft beer – indicated two types brewed in UK and USA on menu, but upon further details admitted location from Hubei and only the types of beer were originally from those regions, not the actual brewing. |
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Price: 35 rmb |
Note: - Price decent for ground level location (35 rmb), however one is better off to head down to B2 to Manner coffee and get an espresso shot for 10rmb or a latte for 15-20 rmb. |
Seesaw |
Walk by: October 19th, 2018 |
IAMP Mall, 999 Huaihai Lu |
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Cons: - Milk container on counter - No staff available (despite being open) |
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Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
Seesaw at Bund Finance Center |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
588 Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Bund Finance Center |
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Actual espresso machine |
The Isles |
Reviewed: September 30th, 2018 |
Cons: - Nespresso Commercial Machine - Forgot my drink orders and forgot half my food menu item orders Note: Restaurant had 3 tables filled during time of order and only one by the time the fish and chips arrived. |
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This place has gone way down hill since they first opened. |
Café at Shanghai Arts and Craft Museum |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
79 Fenyang Road, Xuhui |
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Need to pay 8rmb to enter café as it is a part of the Arts and Craft Museum. The museum is a good place to find traditonal arts or if you are looking to buy them. Not sure about the café though, it was closed when I went to see it. |
Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
480 Jianguo West Road |
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Located by the west gate of the Capella Hotel, is this bakery. Beans stored in grinder. On the plus side, they have an actual espresso machine (be it a compact one). |
1267 Kaffee |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
In a residence flat, part of the Capella Residences, is 1267 Kaffee. Its simple look is marred by its poor layout. No details about their coffee. The photo reveals the poor lighting and air conditioning. |
Roastery |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
Boarded up with a promise of re-opening. Sad. |
Baker One |
Walk-by: October 2nd, 2018 |
A shell of its former glory. Now working AnimateCafe (Animecafe would have been a better name), which doesn’t serve coffee, just sugary drinks and snacks with Anime themes. Baker One does serve coffee and bakery items, but with a cheap run down look. |
Danity Cup |
Reviewed October 3rd, 2018 |
Takashimaya, Gubei |
Type: Latte Type 1 (light roast) |
Pros: - Actual espresso machine and skilled Barrista - Barrista friendly and remembered previous order from months ago - Beans blended and roasted by company (but in suzhou location) - Decent caffiene content - Price: 22 rmb Cons: - Sanitary practices not as good as in the past (milk left out, machines need cleaning) - Latte Type 1 was a bit sour than previously remembered |
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Price: 22 rmb |
Danity Cup |
Reviewed: October 21st, 2018 |
Basement, Takashimaya Gubei |
Type: Latte (Blend 1) |
Pros: - Price - Decent quality product (still in top Coffee vendors in Shanghai) Cons: - Slightly sour with a slight after-taste. However not bitter or acidic. (note: different blend than last September [at that time didn’t have bagged coffee]) - Milk brand changed - Coffee grounds included in the espresso shots. - Latte Art wasn’t great. - Take away cup didn’t have their standard label sticker |
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- Mr. Lee remember my order, however his assistant, also Mr. Lee, didn’t finish it off well. - Their factory moved and now they have bagged coffee. |
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https://weidian.com/?userid=820187560 |
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Price: 22 rmb |
Reviewed on October 28th: - Original Mr. Lee - Latte art was decent - The shot was bitter and slightly acidic. - Not very clean work station or espresso machine |
2019: Apparently Mr. Lee has been replaced with a young Barista.
3 Wise Monkeys |
Walk-by: October 5th, 2018 |
Fake happy face (food health notification) is bad start for a coffee shop. |
Lady M |
Walk-by: October 5th, 2018 |
Cons: - Fake Lines. People waiting in line, get to the front of the line, scan something, don’t get anything and go back to the back of the line to wait some more. - Prices |
Picnic |
Walk-by: October 5th, 2018 |
Cons: - Prices (more expensive than french bakery across street) |
City Shop at ASM Mall (CaoBao Lu) |
Walk-by: October 5th, 2018 |
Cons: - Beans stored in grinder - Beans looked old and dry |
Hogan Bakery by Parkson |
Walk-by: October 5th, 2018 Reviewd: October 7th, 2018 |
Ground Floor, Novel Centre (Xingeng Road and TianYaoQiao Road), Xujiahui |
Latte |
Cons: - Sour (only a slight after-taste, not acidic) - Did not ask if take-away or stay (despite seating available; however seating area is very dirty) - Lid on cup did not match cup (overfilled cup, so gave me a lid to self-administer) Pros: |
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- Semi-Automatic Coffee Machine - Semi-trained Barrista (self-taught) |
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Price: Latte 25 rmb |
Bon Matin |
Walk by: October 5th, 2018 |
Ground Floor, Novel Centre (Xingeng Road and TianYaoQiao Road), Xujiahui |
Ice Cream + Latte (Affogato) |
Pros: - Nice Staff - Hokkaido (Ezo) Ice cream Cons: - Coffee Sour and Bitter - UHT Milk (at least a decent brand) |
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Note: Uses Semi-Automated Espresso Machine |
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Price: Latte 24 rmb + Ice cream 12 rmb |
Smiley Peet |
Walk by: October 5th, 2018 |
Basement, Orient Shopping Mall (HongQiao Road and Caoxi North Road), Xujiahui |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Nice Latte Art - Decent foam production - Decent Taste - Wet naps provided and they are of good quality. Cons: - Staff didn’t want to accept OK card for payment, but later accepted it. (LeMe location) |
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- Washrooms upstairs in mall |
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Price: 26 rmb |
Luckin Coffee (also known as 瑞幸咖啡 [Ruixing Coffee])
Full Automatic Coffee Machines
Despite the claim of being like Starbucks, it is not.
Locations are usually in wierd locations, likely due to low rent in the location.
Payment is via digital payments. Cash is not accepted.
Luckin Coffee ASM Mall (CaoBao Lu) |
Walk by: October 4th, 2018 |
Located on west side of ASM on ground floor, not easily visible. |
Luckin Coffee Inc. (incorporated in Cayman Islands; June 2017; 20% owned by Forever Growth Enterprise Ltd. [Roasters])
Filled on 2019-04-22 to Securities Exchange Commission to be listed on the Nasdaq.
SEC Accession No. 0001047469-19-002450
Class A ordinary shares, par value US$0.000002 per share.
Net Loss (December 31, 2018): 475,375,000
Operating Loss (December 31, 2018): 138.4%
Black Rock obtained 173,182 Series B-1 convertible redeemable preferred shares for 150 million.
Louis Dreyfus Company Asia Pte. Ltd joint venture roasting.
China Office
17F Block A, Tefang Portman Tower
No. 81 Zhanhong Road
Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian
People’s Republic of China, 361008
It appears that each Ole (grocery store) has a cafe in 2018. The one at Mixc is no exception.
When it opened they had an italian guy preparing the espressos.
Later a part-time barrista, who did it for run after work.
Than a part-time barrista, who also worked in the canteen and aided the girl in the flower market.
Latte: 25rmb. Can pay with an OK card.
Z-Real&M |
Walk by: October 5th, 2018 |
Co-share by Ole at Gateway Plaza 66 |
Type: Latte |
- Local Brand - Friendly Staff - Decent brew - Decent foam |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Walk-by. Looked more like a tea shop. Located inside the Hongqiao Flower Market.
Spilt Milk |
Walk by: October 6th, 2018 |
North-West end of Unnamed Road, Changning Qu (Former Rubber Factory) |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Get to choose different types of milk - Mid-size and mini espresso machine Cons: - Unaware of the orgin of their beans |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Luneurs |
Reviewed: October 6th, 2018 |
Central area of Unnamed Road, Changning Qu (Former Rubber Factory) |
Type: Affogato |
Pro: - Price for Affogato same as a latte (which could be seen as as a Con) - Nice Interior design apperance Cons: - Super Sour (but with minimal after-taste and not acidic) - Interior design is not suitable for customers (mini tables on a hard single bench seat) |
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Price: 35 rmb |
Coffee School (no specific name recalled) |
Walk by: October 6th, 2018 |
North-East end of Unnamed Road, Changning Qu (Former Rubber Factory) |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Interior Design is decent, Art deco drawings are the highlight Cons: - Most Beans are dark and dry |
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- Teach Deaf people to become Barristas, though they seemed unaware of any charity aspect of this and perhaps just see it as a method of raising funds from government agencies. |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Coffii & Joy |
Walk by: October 7th, 2018 |
Metro Plaza, Xujiahui |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Smaller sized cups in order to provide less product. |
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Price: 25 rmb (medium), 30 rmb (large) |
Art Culture & Creativity |
Walk by: October 7th, 2018 |
Shanghai Library, Metro Line 10 |
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Cons: - No staff |
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Located in the Metro Station |
Venue is closed.
Valanza coffee |
Walk by: October 7th, 2018 |
2281 Yishan Rd |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Foam Production is high - Only Slightly sour; Not acidic and has no after-taste. Cons: - Presentation isn’t great |
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Price: 28 rmb |
Ca sent bon Café (It smells good Café) |
Reviewed October 7th, 2018 |
1702 Huaihui Zhong Road |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Good foam production - Nice Presentation - Gives options for other milk-like products at reasonable prices - Prices are decent - Friendly staff (Lily) - Clean (note: windows are open, and it is street level on Huaihui road) - Has Air conditioning and Wifi - Despite size, has a washroom - Own blending and roasting (roasted between Longbai XinCun - Ziteng Road, metro line 10) - Decent quality take-away cup Cons: - Slighty sour with slight aftertaste - Stored in Grinder (however staff indicated that is daily use of non-speciality blend, which they go through 2 ½ bags daily; Speciality coffee is refrigerated). - No happy face (food safety) |
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- High Caffine levels (be careful; they calculate a double shot as 1 shot) - 2 to 3 stage water filter - Taiwanese owner |
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Price: 26 rmb |
Ca Sent Bon Café (parent shop/roastery) |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
286 Ziteng Road |
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This was once the location of the parent shop for Ca Sent Bon Café, however they kept the upstairs for roasting and rented out the downstairs to another coffee shop called Meet Coffee. However this coffee shop doesn’t exist anymore. The location is on bit of a bar street and has the smell of urine. |
T12: Coffee Lab Premium coffee house |
Walk by: October 8th, 2018 |
5 Wuxing Lu |
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Cons: - Unfriendly entrance |
Tie Coffee |
Walk by: October 7th, 2018 |
Lin 323-1 Tianyaoqiao Rd |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Closed (Pros: Engaged in repairs of their sink) |
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"Taiwan Speciality Coffee Brewed on a LaMarzocco" |
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Price: 22 rmb |
Qingpu Hershey’s Coffee Shop |
Walk by: October 6th, 2018 |
Xijing Street, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town |
Reviewed: October 13th, 2018 |
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Type: Latte |
Pro: - Slightly sour, slight aftertaste, not acidic or bitter. - Owner is friendly and proud of business (meaning willing to provide details to product; such as UHT milk, water filter, coffee bean) |
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- Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Madeleine |
Walk by: October 16th, 2018 |
199 Hengshan Lu (need to enter the compound, its on the ground floor, about the centre). |
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Pros: - Female staff member provided detailed cleaning work Cons: - Milk stored on counter |
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- Sesame Palets has good flavour - Croissants are triangle shaped and odd flavoured |
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- Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine - Didn’t order coffee, but ordered baked goods |
Forty Two Coffee Brewers |
Walk by: October 16th, 2018 |
Gopher Centre 757 Mengzi Road, Huangpu |
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Cons: - Closed (Pro: Staff indicated he just finished cleaning the machine) |
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- Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine - Name looks like 24, but is actually 42. - Is a chain across Shanghai |
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Second Location: Basement of Building 7, Caohejing Hi-Tech Park, 1528 Gumei Road, Xuhui. |
Tretar (Third cup of coffee; Swedish) |
Walk by: October 16th, 2018 |
Zhizaoju road (1 block north of Gospher centre) |
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Cons: - Closed |
Isle Coffee |
Reviewed: September 20th, 2018 |
6th Floor, West Gate Mall, West Nanjing Road. |
Type: Latte |
Located on 6th foor of West Gate (Nanjing Road) Shopping complex. Mr. Chen, taiwanese barrista can brew up an excellent drink. |
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Pros: - Excellent coffee, not bitter, sour or burnt flavours. - Nice presentation (despite the takeout cup). - Hard working barrista. He’s quiet but does a great job. Cons: - Location isn’t the best (6th floor of department store). |
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Note: - Dainty Cup on 5th floor doesn’t exist anymore. - Second Attempt went perfectly well. |
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Price: 24rmb |
Isle Coffee |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
6th Floor, West Gate Mall, West Nanjing Road. |
Type: Latte |
Noon Order. Pros: - Bean quality was good (slightly sour, not acidic or bitter, no after-taste). - Fresh Milk Cons: - Payment was through bill which was submitted via Department store, which was slow. If in a rush, this would be annoying. - Product was made during payment, which made process quicker, but espresso was flat by the time I came back and the coffee was only lukewarm. - Staff indicated she had little experience with making coffee (found out later, she is more suited for tea making). |
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Past 5pm; Mr. Chen on Duty Pros: - Bean quality was good (slightly sour, not acidic or bitter, no after-taste). - Fresh Milk Cons: - Served in paper cup, despite staying in the coffee bar – however this is likely due to often taking to go. |
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Americano Special: 16 rmb |
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Café du Lu |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
2nd Floor (E2-05), East Block, Jing’an Kerry Centre, 1515 West (Xi) Nanjing Road |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Price |
|
- Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 48 rmb |
Fisheye |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
3rd Floor (NK3-01), North Block, Jing’an Kerry Centre, 1515 West (Xi) Nanjing Road |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Beans stored in grinder |
|
- Espresso Machine - Kiosk in shopping mall |
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Limited in terms of offerings, not in regards to anything special. |
|
|
Price: 32 rmb |
Waggas Limited |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
1st Floor, North Block, Jing’an Kerry Centre, 1515 West (Xi) Nanjing Road |
|
Cons: - Beans stored in grinder |
|
Espresso Machine |
|
Limited in terms of offerings, not in regards to anything special. |
Lokal |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
202 Wukang Rd |
|
Cons: - Closed |
|
Semi AutomaticEspresso Machine |
|
According to Staff, Lokal is like Baker & Spice for Office Workers who want more space and a patio setting. |
% (also called % Arabica) |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
112 Ferguson Lane, 374 Wukang Road (in the back, near the washrooms) |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Nice Interior Design Cons: - Dark Roast only available - Closed |
|
- Espresso Machine - On-site roaster (not sure if functional) |
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https://arabica.coffee/en/location/arabica-shanghai-wukang-lu/ |
|
|
Price: 35-45 rmb |
Peets |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
1st floor, 378 Wukang Road |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder |
|
Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 34 |
The Cottage Cafe |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
1836 Middle Huaihai Road |
Type: Latte |
Once a hair salon, this is now Cottage Café. Located on the ground floor of the Wukang Mansion. |
|
|
Price: 38 |
Pan Coffee |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
Nanchang Road |
|
Pros: - Appeared to have water filter and beans not stored in grinder Cons: - Closed |
Zhedie cafe |
Walk by: October 19th, 2018 |
Nanchang Road |
|
Pros: - Doorway entrance is nice with large espresso machine as a base for an original-looking italian espresso machine. Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder |
|
Machine they actually use is a Small espresso machine |
Metal Hands, Beijing |
Walk by: October 19th, 2018 |
Nanchang Road |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Claims a Light Roast Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder - Closed - Disinterested Staff |
|
|
Price: 35 rmb |
Original Coffee & Bakery |
Walk by: October 19th, 2018 |
Near Nanchang Road |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - 4 stage water filter - Beans not stored in Grinder Cons: - Espresso Machine broken |
|
Staff explained 7 blended beans, but when it came to order they indicated machine was broken and offered fruit tea instead. |
|
|
Price: ~28 rmb |
Keep Powered by Manner |
Walk by: October 19th, 2018 |
Nanchang Road |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Nice overhead rail doors on side door Cons: - Tiny space - Closed |
|
|
Price: 25 rmb |
Miss Sixty Café |
Walk by: October 19th, 2018 |
IAMP Mall, 999 Huaihai Lu |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Illy Vacuum Sealed Canisters as interior design - Beans stored in grinder |
|
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 28 rmb |
Tous le Jours (Everyday) |
Reviewed: October 19th, 2018 |
Greenland Being Funny (phase 3) |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Slightly sour, not bitter or acidic. No after-taste. Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder - UHT milk (note: bag put over it and put in refrigerator) - No attempt at latte art (unless it is avant guard) |
|
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
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Grain de Café Roasters from Tous les Jours. Franchise owned by CJ Foodville a division of 씨제이㈜ /CJ Corporation. |
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Price: 23 rmb |
Second Location: Jingting Tiandi Mall, 1078 Hongquan road, Minhang. Ordered Black Rose Cream Coffee for 26 rmb. Initially described as a latte with cream on top. However in fact is a an americano with a shot of Black rose flavoring, topped with a thick layer of unappealing ‘cream’ product. Initially nice but difficult to finish it. Cream is too think, sweet and unappealing that it had to be scooped off and removed to get to the coffee, which was not very good either. Lesson learned. |
Woof Woof |
Walk by: October 19th, 2018 |
3399 Park, Near West Bund (Xuhui Bund) |
Type: Ice Cream Espresso (Affogato) |
Pros: - Merry Go Round in front of building - More spacious Interior decor Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder - Higher price than their other location - Staff seem unfamiliar with the brand |
|
Espresso Machine |
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This is a branch of Jardin de Secret (the Secret Garden), called Woof Woof. It used to be near wukang lu, but moved to 3399 park near west bund. Its bigger and more spacious and has an old merry go round outside. Prices seemed slightly higher though. |
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|
Price: 48 rmb |
Part of the chain of Antique Shop themed Cafés. However this one closed shortly after I went there and moved its antiques to ‘La Jardin Secret’. Decent Coffee.
Re-opened in 2018.
KFC |
Reviewed: October 20th, 2018 |
Carrefour Mall, Pujiang |
Type: Floating Ice Cream (Affogato) |
Cons: - Not coffee; watered down coffee flavored beverage - Small amount of soft serve ice cream |
|
- Other locations of KFC use at least real espresso shots. |
|
|
Price: 13.50 |
Uconcept Gallery |
Walk-by: October 20th, 2018 |
Pop Art, Century Link Mall |
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Saw the ad, but couldn’t find it. Probably not open yet. |
Spacelab |
Walked by: October 20th, 2018 |
3rd Floor, Phase II, Century Link Mall 1192 Century Ave |
Type: Blackhorse Blue Coffee |
Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder - Order pad is slow and sometimes not responsive. |
|
Espresso Machine |
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Based on the rollercoaster restaurant from Germany. http://www.rollercoasterrestaurant.com/en/ |
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|
Price: 38 rmb |
Texas Roadhouse |
Walk by: October 20th, 2018 |
L5-010/Roof (near patio), Phase II, Century Link Mall, 1192 Century Avenue |
Type: Latte |
Steakhouse with a Bubba gump-esk feeling to it. |
|
https://www.texasroadhouse.com/restaurant-locations/shanghai-century-link-mall |
|
|
Price: 39 rmb |
Baker & Spice |
Reviewed: October 15th, 2018 |
LCMall, Pudong Location |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Decent bakery items - Interior design - Latte Art is nice - Decent foam production Cons: - Despite having a lighter roast available, staff unwilling to use in a latte - Sour, Bitter (not acidic), slight after-taste - Wifi requires phone number - Milk on counter (but staff indicated this was just for a few moments as they just finished making a drink) |
|
- Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 28 rmb (Classic Size) |
Baker & Spice |
Reviewed: October 20th, 2018 |
Basement, Phase I, Century Link Mall |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Milk was not UHT and was refrigerated - Nice Latte Art Cons: - Wagga Bagged Coffee (slightly sour, not bitter or acidic, slight after-taste; however very low caffeine). - Staff unfriendly and a bit rude - Latte not supplied with a spoon; found a soup spoon. - Advertised Wifi doesn’t actual exist (login page, password, sms password, than local host error) - Hygiene is questionable |
|
- Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine - Against my better judgement, I opted for a shortbread cookie. A rare find in a shanghai bakery. It was more like an oily sugar cookie than a shortbread cookie. The Almond croissant is decent for a dessert croissant. - Better off heading to the LCMall Baker & Spice for a better experience. |
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Price: Classic |
Coffee Time |
Reviewed: October 18th, 2018 |
Qingshan Road (near BaiZhang Road) |
Type: Latte |
Despite the name, this isn’t really a coffee shop, rather is a small local restaurant. They were a bit surprised with questions about the beans, citing no one had asked the question before. |
|
Cons: - Lavaza bagged coffee and no-brand beans - Stored on shelf near entrance |
|
- Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine Note: Ironically the machine takes up a 2/3rds of the width of the restaurant |
|
|
Price: 28 rmb |
Symbol Coffee |
Reviewed: October 18th, 2018 |
Aegean Place |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Nice Interior design Cons: - Slightly bitter, slightly Acidic, slight aftertaste (signature blend no. 1) - low quality milk - Pricing: Yunnan considered as Single Orgin Coffee and costs 3rmb more than signature blend no. 1 which contains 4-5 different beans. Pricing only informed after order. - Pack pressure low - Measure on scale - Staff only make as per recipes, any variations require contacting business owners - such as the variation of foam content or type. - Staff indicated they were not taught how to make foam and became increasingly inpatient and even rude. |
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Semi-Automated Espresso Machine |
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|
Price: 35 rmb |
Bardot lounge |
Reviewed: October 23rd, 2018 |
Aegean Place |
|
Sign for this café has been around for awhile, no progress so far. |
Caffaina Coffee Gallery |
Walk-by |
2 Hongjing Lu, Lane 120; Street Facing, Ground Floor at Aegean Place (Hongjing Road and Wuzhong Road) |
|
http://www.caffaina.com/ |
M Coffee |
Reviewed: October 26th, 2018 |
Pujiang |
Type: Espresso |
Pros: - Unstairs has nice interior decoration and a clean washroom Cons: - Sour, Bitter, Acidic with strong after-taste |
|
Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 20 rmb |
Green Passionate |
Reviewed: October 25th, 2018 |
5th floor, Plaza 66 Grand Gateway, Xujiahui |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - good foam production Cons: - slight sour, not acidic or bitter, no after-taste - luke-warm |
|
Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 32 rmb |
Oz Cafe |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
230 Ruiping Road Poly Sunny Walk Plaza |
Type: Affogato |
Pros: - Australian theme - Australian milk Cons: - Unknown ice cream source - ‘M’ Branding is not real, as company is called Oz cafe |
|
- Organic Blend contains ‘Pea’ Seeds |
MQ Coffee (Ming Qian; the daughters name) |
Walk-by: October 25th, 2018 |
230 Ruiping Road Poly Sunny Walk Plaza |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Nice interior design - Friendly staff who are honest of their product - Offer coffee training and on-site bakery Cons: - Bagged coffee - Stored in Grinder - Training material near espresso machine |
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Small batch roaster: Indicated that they did not have the licenese to make food products, so roasting is only for teaching/students. Roast arabica beans. Reuse milk for teaching steaming, left on counter next to expresso machine. |
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Espresso Machine |
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http://mqcoffee.cn/ |
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Price: 32 rmb |
U Concept |
Walk by: October 18th, 2018 |
230 Ruiping Road Poly Sunny Walk Plaza |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Closed as Barrista has part-time job - Beans stored in grinder |
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Basically an art school for children who can also design labels for ‘limited’ edition perfume. May match with a coffee blend. |
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Interior Design: http://www.lukstudiodesign.com/portfolio/the-folded-arcade/ Built by: Shanghai Savor Construction &Decoration Co. Ltd. |
DayDrink |
Walk-by: October 28th, 2018 |
500 Loushanguan Road, Changing (Across street from Arch Walk Mall) |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Confusing prices and price structure (different menus and prices) |
|
|
Price: 30 rmb With own cup: 22 rmb |
Huana Hotel |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
1733 Lianhua Road, Minhang |
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Actually came for the baked goods. Good quality and good prices. A latte costs 42 rmb here. |
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http://www.warner-inn.com/ Note: Warner Inn is for hotel across street, but shows pictures of this hotel on its website. http://www.huanahotels.com/ is blank (Page Not Found!). |
Coffee Box |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
Left side of southwest entrance to Xinye Park, 1658 6C Gumei Road, Xuhui |
|
Need to Pass by ‘More than Coffee’ to find the take out window. Automatic Espresso Machine. No staff inside. New chain in Shanghai. |
More than Coffee |
Reviewed: October 29th, 2018 |
Left side of southwest entrance to Xinye Park, 1658 6C Gumei Road, Xuhui |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Excellent Foam Production (even with UHT milk) - Slight bitter taste, not acidic, not bitter, no after-taste - Staff is focused on making a good brew - Price: 15 rmb Cons: - UHT Milk (pro: Nestle full cream) - No Latte Art |
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Price: 15 rmb (menu notes 18 rmb) |
Walk-by: October 30th, 2018 Location Two: Closed Location Three: Open? Staff at counter were not responsive despite four staff members and no other customers. So had to go find somewhere else – See Alpha Coffee below. |
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Review: October 31st, 2018 Location Two: Uses semi-automatic espresso machine. Cost is 18 rmb for latte. Slightly sour and slightly acidic, with after-taste. Not bitter. |
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2nd attempt at Location Three (November 18th, 2018; ~11am): service was decent. A darker lavazza roast. Looks like they are preparing a new chain ‘More than Pizza”. |
Café BLD |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel 1st floor (east side; two right turns from main
entrance), 397 Tianlin Road, Caohejing Hi-Tech Park |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - UHT Milk - Unfriendly Staff |
|
One espresso machine One Fully Automatic Espresso Machine |
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https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/shaca-renaissance-shanghai-caohejing-hotel/ |
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Note: Hotel does not offer take out croissants or baked
items. If you are need of such items, you can walk two blocks north to Huana Hotel and obtain good
quality baked items there. The lobby lounge appeared to have an espresso
machine, with beans stored in grinder. |
|
|
Price: 42 (plus 15% service fee) |
Easy Carrefour |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
West side of Building 7, Caohejing Hi-Tech Park, 1528 Gumei Road, Xuhui. |
Type: Latte |
|
Price: 24 rmb |
7-11 |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
Inner Court, main floor of Building 7, Caohejing Hi-Tech Park, 1528 Gumei Road, Xuhui. |
Type: Latte |
Fully Automatic Coffee Machine. Fun Cup designs and decent price. |
|
|
Price: 12 rmb |
La Temp/Elite Coffee |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
Southside, main floor of Building 7, Caohejing Hi-Tech Park, 1528 Gumei Road, Xuhui. |
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No staff, no air conditioning (hot inside). Has espresso machine. |
Burger King Cafe |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
East of Building 7 (across road), Caohejing Hi-Tech Park, 1528 Gumei Road, Xuhui. |
|
First time to see a ‘Burger King Café’. It is essentially a burger king, but with the til advertising coffee on its menus and the pickup window has advertising food items. I opted to try a chocolate ice cream cone, 10 rmb, which was decent in quality and flavour. Latte costs 25 rmb. |
Venue is closed.
Ricci Creative Eats |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
101-F (1st Floor), Building 7, Caohejing Hi-Tech Park, 1528 Gumei Road, Xuhui |
|
Cons: - Closed |
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Despite the Ricci sign above, there was Waga stickers on the windows and doors. However this appeared to be closed as well. It was dark as well. |
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https://www.sinotaste.com/hospitality/ https://threaddesign.com.cn/projects/ricci/ |
Atapas |
Walk-by: October 29th, 2018 |
2nd Floor, Building 7, Caohejing Hi-Tech Park |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Aggressively rude staff - Beans stored in Grinder |
|
Backstory: After finding Ricci not open, searched for another restaurant to try. Asked this restaurant about what kind of food they serve and they questioned my motives. Typically restaurants offer to introduce their brand and their menu to a potential client. One staff member forceable removed menu from hands, however another was kind enough to offer it back. Despite the Spanish sounding name, it offered some Japanese, Thai items as well as standard pizza and pasta items. Some menu options did look interesting and I was considering ordering, however there was a weird vibe, so I opted to go look for another restaurant. In hind-sight, as the restaurant was empty, outside of myself, perhaps this wasn’t really a restaurant. |
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Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 26 rmb |
Alpha Coffee |
Reviewed: October 30th, 2018 |
South-West corner of Huangquan Road and Hongxin Road. |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Nice interior design, even though just a take-away - Staff is friendly - Price: 15 rmb - Cup size is good - Local roaster (friend of Alpha Coffee; Korean roaster found previous year) Cons: - Slightly sour, slightly acidic with an after-taste (not bitter though) - Several unidentified solid bits within latte (required care to drink) - UHT Milk (Alpha brand) - Milk on counter (however staff was willing to open new container which was refrigerated and took note to put other container back in the fridge). - Take out lid cheap plastic |
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Semi Automatic Espresso Machine |
|
|
Price: 15 rmb |
Indian Curry Hut |
Reviewed: October 30th, 2018 |
Jingting Tiandi Mall 15B, 1st floor, 1078 Hongquan Road, Minhang. |
Type: Masala tea |
Offers Indian Coffee (20 rmb) Tried their Pakora, Mint Nan and Masala tea (20 rmb for a pot). They provded a sample chicken curry. The pakora wasn’t in balls, but was very tasty. The nan was a bit chewy for my taste, but the curry was nice. The Masala tea was not sweetened which provided an authentic flavour. Will return again to try other items. |
|
|
Price: 20 rmb |
Zhongxing Pullman (Shanghai South) |
Reviewed: November 3rd, 2018 |
1 Pubei Road, Xuhui |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Large lounge sofas and coffee tables (new ones are held in suspended reserve and old ones are open for use). - Latte Message Printer Cons: - Staff lack customer service |
|
Backstory: Came here to get a latte, however before ordering I requested a cup of hot water. They told me there was a fee to the hot water, but would not tell me the fee (note: There is no menu items for hot water. Nor is there a cup or Minimum order fee). The front desk manager in the end offered a cup of water, without a fee, but by that time I was not in the mood to drink a latte, let alone any water. Despite being a Pullman hotel, don’t expect any service here. On a side note, this was only a day before the opening of CIIE. |
|
https://www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-7564-pullman-shanghai-south/index.shtml |
Vinyl Lounge |
reviewed: November 3rd, 2018 |
Ala Town |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Staff are friendly (Play 'Guess the Drink with the manager for opportunity for free drinks) - Soft Open: 50% off menu prices (regular: 32 rmb for latte) Cons: - Lavzza Dark Roast Beans (bagged) - UHT milk |
Caffè Pascucci (Pascucci
Coffee) |
Reviewed: November 5th,
2018 |
L1 (1st floor;
ground floor) 11-15, 688 Shen Long Road, Hongqiao Hub |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Taste (not bitter,
acidic, sour; no after-taste; ‘Smooth as Silk’ as owner says). - Nice Latte Art - Decent interior design - Cup volume is large - Medium to High Caffeine
level Cons: - Low foam production - Bagged Coffee (2 year
shelf-life; not vacuum sealed) - UHT milk (note: Senscious Brand from Delion Food
[Shenzhen] OEM from China Huishan Dairy Holdings Company limited; huishandairy.com;
Northern Jiangsu Province; ~10 rmb/box; 6% fat content) - Coffee Grounds left in
cup |
|
- Semi Automatic Espresso
Machine - Arabica-Robusta (15%)
Blend - Branded Sugar and Napkins
(napkins of so-so quality) |
|
The location is a bit
hidden. It is on the same road as BE+ design, but back from the street next
to the entrance to Airport shuttle. If I didn’t see the sign in the basement tunnel,
I unlikely would have known about this place or even searched for it. They
indicated they were in the location for a year, which means I missed them on
several hunts for good coffee shops in the area. The coffee quality is better
than the Indigo Hotel, as is the presentation. Side note: You need to get
to Hongqiao hub via the Hongqiao transportation hub. You can take line 2 or
10, but if you try to arrive via bus you need to enter the hub at the airport
terminal as the train station requires your ID. |
|
- Coffee franchise chain: a. Difu Holdings (Beijing)
Co., Ltd. (owner of the famous brand Dairy Fairy; other brands, such as DD
Bear Desert; Joint venture with) which owns Pascucci (Beijing) Coffee
Catering Management Co., Ltd. (http://pascucci.91canyin.com) which has a 100
year exclusive mainland brand lease (started in 2015). They allow Franchises with
a 10.3 million rmb investment. In terms of the Shanghai
franchises (locations: Pudong, Hongqiao Hub) and a future location in
northern Hongqiao Central Business District (just north of the highway), the
company isn’t listed under the Pascucci
brand. As of September 26th, the Hongqiao Hub mall condo unit
(200.32sqm) propety owner is looking to sell it for 8.42 million rmb with
possible rent value of 600,000 rmb rent/year.
- Franchiser: Caffe
Pascucci Roasting (Torrefazione) S.p.A. (16/A, Via Circonvallazione, 61010
Monte Cerignone). Franchise Investment: 150,000 EUR (~1,178,456.97 rmb), Franchise Fee: 15,000 EUR
(~117,828.14 rmb) and 7% Monthly Royalty. - Domain registered in
2014-04-29 by SiteGround (siteground.com ; Marian Marinov; Racho
Petkov Kazandjiata 8, Floor 3; a Bulgaria company) |
|
Bagged Coffee: Golden Sack: 29.15 EUR (229.611 rmb) for 1kg https://www.pascuccistore.com/caffe-golden-sack-1000g.html |
|
Despite the ‘long history’
touted by the company, it was actually established in 2000 by Alberto
Pascucci. The parent company Cialdino was established in 1998. In terms of
history, the Pascucci family was in the textile industry. They may have been
involved in trade which induced British Empire (chiefly, Indian) coffee
seeds. In 1935, Mario and Domenica Pascucci moved from Port of Durrës,
Albania to Monte Cerignone. At some period afterwards, Mario’s brother Dino,
established a coffee shop in Monte Cerignone. A relative (and likely father
of Alberto), Antonio Pascucci, took an interest in coffee in 1983. |
|
|
Price: 34 rmb |
Second Visit (November 8th,
2018): Quality down. Coffee acidic, slightly bitter, slight after-taste. Milk
tasted as if was powdered. Service was lower, asked for take-away and got a
large cup. Requested table service, which was acknowledged, but never
arrived. Had to go and get them to put it in the take-away cup, which itself
was a ‘big production’ due to the fact that lid does not properly fit cup and
tape is applied over drinking hole. Lid is of poor quality. |
24 Fresh |
Walk-by: November 3rd, 2018 |
Chain (various locations) Automatic Coffee Machine |
Type: Latte |
Baja |
Walk-by: November 3rd, 2018 |
Hongqiao Central Business District Baja1000 themed restaurant/cafe |
Type: Latte (30/36rmb) |
Khan Cafe |
Reviewed on November 21st, 2018 |
West of Khubilai Khan Mutton in Hot Pot on Qingshan Road (463 Jinhui Road, 28 Jinshi Square) |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Different beans/machines depending on drink order - Take away lid was unique (Con: Papercup felt weak and risky, but did survive) - Water filtration (3 stage) Cons: - Slightly bitter with slight aftertaste. (Pro: Not sour or acidic) - Single shot is actually about 4 shots due to measuring issue (pro: low caffiene strength) - Beans Stored in Grinder - Milk left on counter (However was willing to get milk from fridge for order) - Staff unable to make latte art (according to staff member) - Milk curdled in latte (or milk is too old) |
|
Semi-Automatic espresso machine |
|
Appears to be owned by Khan restaurant next door. |
|
|
Price: 18 rmb |
Shanghai Wonderland Hotel (Also known as Shimao Quarry Hotel, Shanghai SheShanShi Maozhouji Hotel) |
Reviewed on November 21st, 2018 |
58888 Chenhua Road |
|
A. No actual espresso machines in hotel, only automatic machines. - Lobby lounge does not serve coffee - Bar lounge does not serve coffee - Executive lounge serves coffee (automatic machine) - Hotel restaurant serves coffee (automatic machine) - Chinese restaurant does not serve coffee - Mr. Fisher is not open B. Only beans found, Milan Gold Decaffinated Colombia Beans. |
|
Automatic espresso machine |
|
Pros: - Light show (lasers and drones; Con: way too much noise, causes pain in cranium; Bass hides a second music track titled ‘Origin Unknown’ by ‘Tribes Of Neurot’ from the Album ‘Static Migration’, Song number: 05, more info: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Static_Migration) Cons: - Location isn’t good (1.5 hrs by metro and bus; only private taxis available otherwise 2.5 hour walk from hotel to metro as public bus service stops after 6pm, which with some bad luck missed the last train so had an 80 rmb taxi atop of all that); Staff are bused in, living in the local ‘university town’ (except those with a car or bike share). - Bar lounge food is of low quality (instant mashed potatoes, hard bread on sandwhich) and so the food prices are ‘out of whack’ at 309 rmb for these two items. - Customer Service is still learning customer service (water refills require requests, order requests forgotten, dirty plates left on table; poor food roll out timing – ie. over an hour to make a sandwhich which is provided for just before the start of the light show, the only entertainment on site; note: for the vast majority of time, was only customer). - Took about 4 people, 30 mins to process the credit card payment - No lobby bakery or souvenir store. - On-going construction - Parts of hotel aren’t open (ie. swimming pool, gym, many rooms, Mr. Fisher restaurant) - Technical problems with hotel, especially in the lower floors still exist (ie. not enough air and pressure problems in lower basement floors, drainage pipes not as effective, lounge is cold during the night, vibration of lobby windows caused by speakers during light show), Elevators have issues with signal lighting and cars feel ‘loose’. - Target market: Chinese families, so don’t expect a five star international hotel (one staff member told me this was a seven star hotel). |
Also known just as Ruby. Sino-British Ruby Foods Co. Ltd. (since 1986).
Famous Shanghai brand. Known for their whipped cream. While it may not be real, it is probably higher quality than most vendors.
Red Ruby |
Reviewed on November 24th, 2018 |
Chuansha Road, Pudong |
Type: Affogato |
Pros: - Ice cream is house brand (18rmb per scoop) Cons: - Sour (Pro: low after-taste, not bitter or acidic, possibly due to ice cream) |
|
Semi-Automatic espresso machine |
Cheesecake Factory |
Walk-by November 24th, 2018 |
DisneyTown |
|
Had a meal, already had daily coffee. |
|
Automatic espresso machine |
Lu Cafe |
Reviewed: November 25th, 2018 |
|
|
Pros: - Two types of beans to choose from (medium roast or dark roast) - Medium to High Caffeine levels - Wifi is functional and easy to setup (use pin, ask for pin from staff) - Nice relaxing environment (Con: needs a good cleaning) Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder - Medium Roast: Sour, Acidic, not bitter; tongue is coated leaving after-taste |
Village 127 |
Walk-by November 11th, 2018 |
L105B, 688 Naning west road, Hengji 688 Square |
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Pros: - Charity Shop Cons: - Prices - Bagged - UHT milk |
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Back story: A number of years ago I found this place and wasn’t impressed. A contact suggested it again by name, and only upon searching for it this year, did I remember it. It seemed to have improved in physical appearance (based on memory), but the prices are considerably higher than they should be. Granted there is a charity aspect, however it not enough to pay a premium for an inferior product. There is a benefit to the area though, as ‘The One’ by Kempinski’s lounge called ‘I Eins Bistro & Lounge’ which once offered high quality Austrian bakery products now recommends ‘the bakery across the street’. To put things in perspective, a single crossiant is 18rmb at Village 127 and when the lounge offered offered Austrian bread, I could get a loaf of quality rye bread for about 22 rmb. A crossiant at a famous french bakery on the bund is only 14 rmb. |
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https://www.kempinski.com/en/shanghai/the-one-executive-suites/dining/lobby-lounge/ |
Elephant Dung Coffee "elephant dung coffee 1982" |
Walk-by November 18th, 2018 |
Hongqiao World Cente |
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Pros: - Passion for product Cons: - Only one offering for Elephant Dung Coffee - No certificate of authenticity, just indication that they are the only shop in China and its purchased direct from thailand (note: 299 rmb [~43 usd] considerably cheaper than Thailand’s Black Ivory Coffee at 85 usd [~590 rmb] for 35grams; also sample beans are green and loose with no specifications on roasting). - Milk left on counter (not sure if empty or not) - Non-elephant beans stored in grinder - Elephant beans stored somewhere else. |
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The staff (a boy and a girl) seemed ‘shell shocked’ from the questions of their coffee. The girl indicated that Chinese customers mostly laugh and/or compain about Civet (cat; Kopi luwak) coffee, while foreign customers are a bit more open. When explaining the story of their product the girl’s passion for it came out. Unfortunately they only have one coffee offering for actual Elephant Dung Coffee, the rest is un-descript ‘arabic’ coffee, possibly from yunnan. The shop also sells cigarettes, lottery tickets and ice cream treats. |
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Mr. Zhang (Also known as Chris Leeson; Suzhou-shanghai; Proud Kids Online English Education Inc. [with Proud Bai: online marketing; 50 rmb/class {6,000 for class package} Registered in Beijng]; Elephant Dung Coffee has two related investors: Mr and Mrs. Zhang [Trading company; Holdings: 7.6 million sales, 1.5 million in assets, 686 thousand in debts; Spouse: Mr. Ma established a business consulting with Mr. Zhang in September 2018]; Elephant Dung Coffee Company registered in Dec, 2017 in Shanghai; total: ~1 million [or 10% of]; 0 capital investment). Note: Unable to find any imports from Thailand. |
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Roasters: Located in Huaqiao (metro station on Line 11; Guangming Road/Yanhu Avenue in Huaqiao, Kunshan, Jiangsu); site by Mrs. Zhang (an office building). |
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Latte Coffee: 30 rmb ‘Like a Piece of Crap’: 299 |
Goose Island Brewpub |
Reviewed: September 20th, 2018 |
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Type: Latte |
Pros: - Nespresso Commercial Capsule Machine (vs home based system) Cons: - Nespresso Commercial Capsule Machine (vs espresso machine) - No flavour; low caffine. - Luke-warm - Served in glass cup with no presentation. - Manager (who left since) was eager for business but service typically is low. |
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Price: 38 rmb. |
V-Coffee |
Reviewed: September 23rd, 2018 |
Mobile Unit |
Type: Americano |
Pros: Cons: - Bitter, Sour |
Pizza Ma |
Reviewed: September 24th, 2018 |
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Type: Affogato |
Cons: - Bitter, Sour, Dark Roast Coffee - Ice Cream: Sweet, single scoop. |
Simpl |
Reviewed: September 28th, 2018 |
Located at Greenland Being Funny |
Type: Affogato |
Cons: - Bitter, Sour, mostly undrinkable Espresso - Gelato is of poor quality - Bad Coffee and Bad Gelato results in Bad Affogato |
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Notes: - Not overly caffinated; however not sure if caffinated at all - Served with Espresso poured on. |
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Price: 32 rmb |
The Point |
Reviewed: September 29th, 2018 |
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Qingpu |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - In house blending and roasting - Excellent flavour Cons: - UHT milk - 30 rmb takeout, 38 rmb to stay (or pay for view pricing) |
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Notes: - They use an Oscar home appliance for the espresso brewing and an automatic coffee machine for the steam production for the milk - The view is decent, but the seating is old. The house it is situated in, is also. It is upto 3 stories, but progressively steeper stairs pose a risk to those who have mobility issues. - Uses Bottled Water |
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Price: 30 rmb (take-out) |
Tequila Loca |
Reviewed: September 29th, 2018 |
Shared Kitchen with Bourbon Smokehouse (Ala Town) |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Actual Espresso Machine, compared to Hongqiao Xintinzi location - Prices 50% off promotion - Decent foam production - Nice Latte Cup Cons: - UHT milk - Starbucks beans (dark roast, sour aftertaste, slight acidic taste) |
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Price: 35 original |
Bourbon Restaurant Basement of Hongqiao Xintinzi |
Reviewed: September 11th, 2018 |
Uses a consumer model of what looked like a nespresso machine. |
B+ coffee Paradise Walk Hongqiao |
Reviewed: September 11th, 2018 |
A shell of its former glory. no desserts, high prices, no service - waited for 15-20mins but didn't see any barristas nor did anyone attempt to approach me. Had to give up and look for somewhere else to have a coffee. |
Indigo Craft Cafe |
Reviewed: September 11th, 2018 |
No.43, lane 188 Yonghong Road, Minhang District https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/gb/en/shanghai/shahs/hoteldetail |
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Pros: - Lightly acidic, not sour. - Staff tried hard to make - Price in location (has no service fee). Cons: Low foam, no art, luke-warm, double walled glass cup, 10-15mins to make order despite being only person there, 20-30mins to get receipt despite being only person there, table out of balance. water provided only 20mins after done coffee and asked for receipt. |
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Reviewed: September 13th, 2018 |
Pros: Used a latte cup, attempt to make art, decent foam. Cons: Changed beans since last visit (2 days), now using chinese seeds which are bitter and acidic (later identified as coffee used for Banquets) . Chinese milk. No machine specific water filtration. Working space for baristas is limited due to placement of equipment for draft beer. |
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Welcome Restaurant Basement of Qibao Powerstation of Art |
Reviewed: September 12th, 2018 |
Pros: - Lightly acidic, not sour. - Price (28rmb) - Nice foam and art. - Cup design is nice too. Cons: - Til was not ready for providing change, 100 rmb resulted in all their paper bills, mostly in 5 rmb denominations which on inspection resulted in some fake money. Opted to pay in loose change and take back the 100 rmb note. |
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Price: 28 rmb |
Baskin Robins B1 at Vanke Centre (Qibao) |
Reviewed: September 12th, 2018 |
Despite having an espresso machine, they sell only bottled coffee. |
MK Wine |
Reviewed: September 14th, 2018 |
Aegan Mall |
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Pros: - Is spacious and interior design is decent. - Private room has access to Aegan Outdoor screen which often has soccer/football matches on. The board room also has access, but not as easy to view as Private room. Price for Private room is 50 rmb/per person of purchased product. - Decent bottled beer selection stored in a cooler - Wine selections from Australia, France, etc. - Nice layout for bar and beer taps on back wall (crafty feel) - All you can drink draft beer for 88 rmb. Draft beer has five selections and is brewed in Hongzhou (at Taste brewery). - Staff is friendly Cons: - The coffee machine is low-end automatic. - Price for bottled beer is ~40 rmb (more expensive than Penta Beer) - Food selection is limited and fries were out of stock on a Friday night, despite the place being empty. - Draft beer was not fresh (over a month since production) – at least the sample tried. |
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Penta Beer (Aegan Mall) |
Walk-by: September 14th, 2018 |
Pros: - Beer mugs are stored in a cooler - Some bottled beers are stored in a cooler (others are not). - Prices for bottled beers is decent (~28 rmb for products matched at MK) - Espresso machine is decent quality - Two Beer Taps on portable cart Cons: - Is tightly packed with poor layout - Coffee beans are stored in grinder and look dry |
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Stone Brewery |
Reviewed: September 16th, 2018 |
1107 Yuyuan Lu |
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Pros: - Espresso machine is decent quality - Bean is only lightly sour and not acidic, foam was good as well. - Free side salad for having to wait so long for burger, which is decent, as I didn’t make a fuss or request any compensation. Cons: - Staff lacked knowledge about items on their menu or general knowledge of company - Staff were inflexible with the schedule of what menu was served – ie. unable to show Diner menu 15 mins before the menu change; forcefully removing the lunch menu from being reviewed, 10mins after the menu change. - Staff were slow to provide service, waited 20mins to order despite only about 1/5th occupancy. - Staff suggested that drinks like wine and coffee were not recommended nor was the food menu, this is a brewery and it is best to only come for the beer. - No snack/bar foods offered, only a full menu. - One plate offered french fries, but due to some convuluted reason the shanghainese chef is only able to serve it with that specific food package. - Burger was served with raw meat despite being ordered well done. Second attempt was well burnt. Mostly an uneventful with the tampura jalapeno poppers the highlight. - Fish taco came with six cubes of fish of unknown orgins (despite claiming to be halibit), it mostly consisted of cabbage stuffed in ‘store bought’ tortia shells. - Sides were nothing worth mentioning. - Beer ordered lacked a head, seemed to be below the estimated alcohol range and had a general ‘old’ beer lackluster. - Washrooms were poorly designed and resulted in a feeling of being less clean after using them. I recommended to my guests to find a local fastfood restaurant for a cleaner experience. One of the three bi-gender was not operational. The toilet and the urninal are very close together. The floor was wet in random places with toilet paper in a random arrangement on the floor. A tiny sink was provided, with a misplaced soap container. A hand dryer was placed in a relatively high position. The door is the biggest problem, despite being a mis-sized door, it was heavy and had one metal deadbolt to lock it. Without tissue paper to protect freshly washed hands there is no abilty to open the lock without touching the lock – which means you have to trust that others actually washed their hands before you and that the lock was clean. - Lighting is generally poor which makes it hard to read the menu. The waitress used a pen with blue ink, which made it hard to see writing on the receipt. |
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Cannery |
Walk-by: September 16th, 2018 |
1107 Yuyuan Road |
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Bar/Restaurant |
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Wusong Road (north of Suzhou creek, behind Broadway Mansions).
Some research lead to this Japanese roaster. There is a roasting machine and lots of coffee beans, they even have drink menu, but with no price and communication proved difficult. Not the best of settings and no noticable food license certification.
HOW (Honey – Olive Oil – Wine) |
Walk-by: September 16th, 2018 |
Yuyuan Road |
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Soft Opening; No coffee served yet. |
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Walk-by
Uses Curtis Gold Cup Series Drip Coffee Machine and Curtis Gem3IF Intellifresh vessels (coffee server). Despite being newly opened, machine was dirty.
S. Engine and Kiri co-share. Nice interior design. Baristas seemed unfamiliar with the menu.
Espresso: 26 rmb
Latte/Cappuccino: 36 rmb
Walk-by.
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine.
Bouchare |
Walk-by: September 16th, 2018 |
Lobby Kerry Jing'an residences. Closed. Restaurant/Gin Bar |
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Latte/Cappucino: 38 rmb |
Venue is closed.
Lactis Gelato Italiano |
Reviewed: November 3rd, 2018 |
Main floor, Aegean Shopping Mall |
Type: Espresso |
Pros: - Nice Interior design - Provided Free hot water Cons: - Very sour (slightly bitter, not acidic, slight after-taste) - Beans stored in grinder - Grounds in bottom of cup - Staff a bit impatient, despite being the only customer |
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Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
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- Found two special offers: a. Buy a Macchiato milkshake for 28 rmb, get a free mango smoothie: The Macchiato was made with Macchiato Gelato and Suki UHT milk. For both drinks, the flavour was barely noticable. b. Two for one scoop of Gelato for 28 rmb: Mint was the best, strawberry was decent. Best of the samples provided. Only noticed premiums later, these are not viewable and stored in freezer. Size was decent for price. - After the poor quality of the Macciato and the decision of the staff to provide the stawberry gelato after the drink orders (the mint was provided before the drinks), I decided to obtain an espresso. However due to the sourness, I attempted to make an Affogato with the strawberry gelato, however it was not powerful enough to hide the terrible sourness of the espresso. |
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Price: 20 rmb |
Townsquare |
Reviewed: November 8th, 2018 |
Lobby, Artyzen Habitat Hongqiao, 3999-5 Hongxin Road,
Minhang District (behind MixC in parking lot) |
Type: Latte |
Pros: - Nice Interior design - Lobby interior is still quiet and clean (new open) - Patio space is available (not overlooks parking lot) - Interior Art is nice - Provided hot water (con: only 1/3rd cup) in
take-away cup - Price isn’t bad for a hotel lobby (plus there is no
service fee) Cons: - low caffeine - UHT milk (Pro: Nestle Full cream) - Limited ability in latte art - Staff didn’t understand foam production |
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- Automatic Espresso Machine - Despite having an ‘Italian Chef’, their baked goods
aren’t great. ‘Freshly’ baked chocolate cookies were at least three days old.
Nut cookies have decent flavour and have too much seeds (which isn’t too bad
for a nut cookie). Croissants use low quality butter (if not oil). However it
is worth noting that baked goods are sold at discount of 50% after 18:00. Note: Later met Italian chef who does create deserts, just none of the ones I selected my first time. He did make some recommendations which were a hit for those I gave them as gifts to. Also the croissants are frozen and made/heated by a local chef. - Despite the coffee, the space is nice for meetings. |
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https://www.artyzenhabitat.com/hongqiaoshanghai/hotel/ |
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Price: 30 rmb |
Lark I |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
Ground Floor, Meilun Mansion (The Centre), 139 Nanjing East Road |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Interior design is decent Cons: - Menu is not clear - Staff not attentive (essentially ignored me, until I left due to lack of service; note: staff at other venues in complex complained to me of lack of staff interactions) - Only dark roasts (terrible burnt bean smell in café; beans lack oil) - Bagged Coffee (despite coffee roaster of same brand in adjacent room) |
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Notes: - Roaster has own entrance near western entrance to mall - Roaster is for other shops and typically does not supply to the café next door - All roasts are dark roast, unless you order Single orgin, which is for drip only - All dark roasts are blended with 3-4 beans. However these can range from Yunnan beans, to Vietnamese Robusta, to Columbian and others. - Staff for roaster is friendly and has a passion for the art of roasting and blending |
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Price: 35 rmb |
Lark is a joint venture between the Yunnan Coffee Processing Plant and Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone Coffee Exchange.
Yunnan Coffee Bean Factory |
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Yunnan Nongken Coffee Co. Ltd. (Yunnan Coffee Processing Plant) |
http://yncoffee.cn/ |
A joint venture between the Yunnan State Farms Group Co.,Ltd. (www.ynyunken.com) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). |
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Shanghai pilot free trade zone coffee exchange |
http://ftcex.com/ |
Side Note:
- Starbucks AINI Coffee (Yunnan) Company Limited: Joint venture between Starbucks (supplies quality control and management systems) and Aini Corporation (supplies farm lands, ~120,000 hectares in Simao [known as Pu’er] region of Yunnan) with an output of ~130,000 tons. Typically, Coffea Arabica: Catimor (a cross between Caturra and Rust resitstant Timor).
Starbucks in China is a joint venture under the Starbucks AINI Coffee (Yunnan) Company Limited.
This means that all standard beans used at Starbucks are from Yunnan.
Regular Shop: Automatic Coffee machines
Reserved: Semi-Automatic Coffee machines
Roastery: An "experience" which has:
a. the theater of coffee roastery
Note: Advertise that they use Yunnan beans.
b. several mini-coffee shops (Regular Starbucks, Reserve Store, Reserve Bar) with various coffee drinks and other drinks (ie. beer)
c. a bakery
d. Upstairs has a tea shop/tea house
The setup is designed to appear all the same brand, however invidual vendors are 3rd party shops (ie. the bakery)
It is designed to extract money from people looking for the Starbucks experience.
Fogo |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
6th Floor, Meilun Mansion (The Centre) 139 Nanjing East Road |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Interior Design (three balconies along Nanjng road; limited views though) - Friendly Staff (both door staff and F&B Manager) Cons: - Nespresso-like capsule machine (‘focus on gin not coffee’) - Website on Facebook: www.facebook.com/fogoshanghai (which is not accessible) - Indicated 5/5 rating on trip advisor – this is based on 3 reviews: HenryL2519: 2 reviews; Christian (Canada): 42 reviews; Punchledalmatien (Shanghai): 1 review |
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Chinese restaurant which blends foods with spices found along the Spice route. |
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Price: 38 rmb |
Jazz at Lincoln Center Shanghai |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
4th Floor, Meilun Mansion (The Centre) 139 Nanjing East Road |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Jazz bar on Nanjing Road Cons: - Price for coffee is high - Coffee stored in blender (likely low turn over due to location and venue) |
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Co-owned by Shanghai Bund Investment (Group) Co Ltd. |
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Price:45 rmb |
NB Café (New Balance Café) |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
139 Nanjing East Road |
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Mini-Café in store. |
Bang by Willis |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
LAMall, Pudong |
Type: Latte |
Quick walkby. |
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Part of the John Fohlmann Christensen (80% share-holder) restaurant
empire. |
Muji-like Store |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
LAMall, Pudong |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Espresso Machine Cons: - Milk left on counters |
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Price: 25 rmb |
Lillian Bakery |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
LAMall, Pudong |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Two for one Special Offer - Decent Price - Decent Fresh Milk brand Cons: - Milk left on counters |
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Mini Espresso Machine |
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Price: 20 rmb |
Grey Box |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
LAMall, Pudong |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Milk left on counter - Price |
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Lu One Location - Has Ice Cream and Coffee, but unable to make an Affogato |
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Price: 38 rmb |
The World |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
Kerry Plaza |
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Only noticed it being a different shop after reviewing pictures, as it originally looked to be part of Up coffee, next door. |
Sisyphe Books & Coffee (Up Coffee) |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
Kerry Plaza |
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This is a small chain, which has been experienced before. |
Liberte pâtisseries |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
Kerry Plaza |
Type: Latte |
Cons: - Beans stored in Grinder - Only Dark roast available |
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Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
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Price: 32 rmb |
Pure Roast |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
Ole, Kerry Plaza |
Type: Latte |
Pro: - Staff friendly and honest about their products Cons: - Only dark roast available - Bagged Coffee |
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Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine |
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Price: 20 rmb |
The Brew |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
Kerry Plaza |
Type: Latte |
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Price: 38 rmb |
The Cook |
Walk by: October 15th, 2018 |
Kerry Plaza |
Type: Latte |
A quick walkby, noticed they have an a Roasting Machine and an Espresso Machine. |
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Price: 38 rmb |
This coffee shop is small but with a large espresso machine. I went here to just try them out, as they newly opened. They even had a violin performance. Ready to make a purchase, they kindly explained after some time that all the coffee was Civet coffee (Luwak Ferment Espresso Coffee by Magic Cat). There is no mention/indications on the menu or their signs about the civet coffee. I was directed to the empty bag on the counter to learn more. Fake civet coffee was not in the cards for me that night.
Note: Former Site of G Cafe (Coffee, Bear and Wine)
Venue closed.
Chois Coffee replaced Krispy Kreme at this location. However it didn't last long and soon this place closed too.
Saw the sign, looks like a bar.
Walk-by.
Captain Alice
Resturant, Bar and Cafe
Greenland YunYueFang
No. 126 and 131, Building 5, Lane 5600, Chuansha Road, Pudong
Located in Chuansha Road, Pudong.
This is a bakery with a coffee shop. The beans are supplied by the same supplier as the machine. The manager was very friendly and welcoming. The interior design was nice as well.
Coffee Latte: 25
Senscious Milk (local brand)
Offers a semi-automatic espresso machine (xujiahui)
This is a small chain which is hit and miss depending on location.
During their soft opening of their first location (changshu lu; years ago) I was not brave enough for a free burger from their owner. It was unique that they offered food items for dogs. At their Greenland Having Fun location, they have a long list of rules for dogs and the hygiene is less than stellar. At their newest location near Xujiahui, its clean but the avacado fries was pretty lacking.
Does Disaster have a name? It could be Rose Queen Coffee.
Walk-by.
This is the famed Alibaba Robot restaurant.
Coffee served from a vending machine.
Walk-by.
Located in the Hongqiao Central Business District, this is a small coffee shop with a big dog guarding its entrance.
Need a Coffee and a Tattoo? This may be the place for you.
Gubei; Walk-by
Once was a branded coffee shop, but now it is, is its own brand.
Co-shared space with Beer Plus in Gubei.
Latte:30-35 Rmb
Affogato: 45 rmb
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine (La Marzocco; appears to be a Linea Classic). Staff are friendly. Nice Foam production.
Roaster on site, but problems with venting prevent use.
X207/Hongxin Road (about three blocks south from Wuzhong Road)
Walk-by.
Its been open for several years. Dog theme Cafe.
Walk-by
Redoll Cats & Coffee
Like Cats? Want to see them while drinking Coffee? Welcome to Redoll.
Wifi. Coffee. Pet. Music. 10am-10pm.
Also known as Live Unfettered Coffee; Deer Cafe
Menggu Road (North of Qufu road metro station)
Latte:28 rmb
Decent latte with latte art. The decoration is nice and the wifi is functional. Nice place for a meeting.
Avoda.H Bread Lab
Hongquan Road (North side of street, about 1/2 block east of JinHui S Road), Minhang district
Korean family team. Wife wakes up early to make bread. Husband takes care of shop after work.
Cold Brew/Dutch Coffee for 18 rmb.
Came for the bread. It's decent, but expensive. Home made Jams taste good.
Walk-by
704 Niuzhuang Road (704 Jin Guangxi North Road)
Also known as Great China Theatre.
Historical Thearter built in 1930 and reopened.
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine.
Walk-by
Greenland Having Fun
Latte: 30 rmb
Affogato: 36 rmb
Located at the Power Station of Art/ Shanghai MOCA (200 Hua Yuan Gang Lu; along Xuhui Bund)
Decent café with nice patio and alright coffee.
Went for a coffee break at IGCafe on Anfu Road. They updated since I was last there, with a little store on the main floor. I went up to the second floor and got their special for 50 rmb, it included a slice of coffee cheesecake and a latte. After relaxing for a bit, I took a look around and found some historical prints of Che Guevara and Castro, as well as other artistic photos around. Soon it was time to leave and when the door opened up, I was hit with Shanghai’s heat and humidity, what a pity to leave IGcafe.
Japanese Brand. Bitter coffee.
Automated Coffee Machine. Bitter.
West Gate Mall
A dark roast, but only mildly bitter. Friendly staff.
Takyashima
Charity Based Coffee Shop (15% to Elder’s Charity). Decent Coffee. Friendly Volunteers/Staff.
Good brew. good caffiene levels. milk is chinese
brand.
e@z Coffee by Easy Carrefour
Automated Coffee Machine
Affogato: Coffee served over ice topped with
soft serve Ice cream.
Better to buy a latte and add half an ice cream cone to it.
Par Café by Family Mart
Automated Coffee Machine
Automated Coffee Machine. Light and Bitter.
Automated Coffee Machine. Rioba (house brand). Dark roast. Staff not flexible.
24 Coffee by Fresh 24
Automated Coffee Machine. Dark but not too bitter.
Barista Master 1.0 by Coffee Mall Automated Coffee Machine. 5 rmb introductory special for latte. Instant milk powder, Super Sweet, Terrible coffee.
Dark Roast, slightly Bitter.
Located near the International Cruise Terminal is the spacious Fortune Coffee. Geared as a place to meet and talk business ideas, this place is relaxing. Coffee varies in quality. Sadly, terrible customer service on last visit.
Off Dongdaming Road.
Nice venue, coffee quaity varies. Not good at foam.
Ronghua E Road (near Gubei Carrefour)
Dark roast, slightly bitter. Higher cost this year.
Chimney Café at Art Museum (上海油画雕塑院; Changning Qu, 金珠路111 号邮政编码).
This is a little gem for its nice relaxing environment. Coffee isn’t the best, but the look of it makes it a nice place to relax.
BE+ Design Hub Shanghai (Building A: 2F; Coffee Shop 1F, outside access or via 2F store only).
When I initial saw the sign on the map of Paradise walk I was intrigued by the idea of a Design hub, so I started looking for it. On the first floor I could not find access to it and so was about to give up, however noticed another sign indicating it was on the second floor, so I took a look upstairs. Soon I found it!
Inside there were a variety of designs of various products, nothing which overly exciting, however some interesting felt furniture and a nice coffee table. The space is comfortable to walk around in, being spacious and not overly cluttered. I found a gallery in the back which had some paintings hung around the wall, while the centre of the room was vacant. Upon exiting the gallery, I headed to the stairs – to go the Café.
Going downstairs I found a large space which had tastefully comfortable seating arrangements, I look at the menu, which was still a bit expensive at 38rmb for a latte – however I thought I would give it a try. The man taking my order made a gesture as if he could not hear me, however after several attempts I realized he was deaf and mute. I wrote down my order but realized I made a mistake and changed my order. I took a seat on the nice couch and waited for my order to be prepared. I noticed the milk being used was not familiar to me. The presentation was nice, the latte (which turned out to be a mocha) was served in a latte cup and had a nice design on it. The flat white, was served in a short coffee cup and saucer. Both drinks were a bit cool, despite being hot drinks and the mocha was too sweet to be considered a good mocha. The flat white had a different taste, but it was smooth and not acidic. I also order a matcha croissant, which was suprisingly good. It had a hint of matcha flavour, but the right consistency for a proper croissant – bravo. The price of the baked goods here is decent as well.
As I relaxed with content in the environment, I felt pity that the sun was setting and I had to depart and face the heat of the outdoors once again.
In later discussion with the staff, it was indicated that there was only a single water filter, which is not impressive, and the milk is a known and unresolved issue. I also got a number of mosquito bites. If they corrected these minor problems, I could see myself returning to obtain more coffee and delicious baked good items.
Found this place at the Bailian ShiJi Shopping Mall
and thought I would give it a try as the staff were upfront about their
products. For example, they offer on the menu a Coffee Float, turns out
to be an affogato, with three balls of ice cream, but they were out of
ice cream and they suggested anywhere else for coffee, since they only
have instant or powdered coffee. I opted for the 10 inch Avocado Veggie
Quesadillas (45 rmb; 8cad). They were kind enough to let me put some
Cholula Chipotle Hot sauce in a takeaway container in addition to my
order. My order came neatly packaged and stayed warm until I got it to
my next location – a coffee shop. The food was excellent, with decent
cheese and chucks of fresh avocados, peppers and mushrooms. The first
time I saw them just off Nanjing road west I thought they were too
dumpy, the online descriptions of an office share with a print shop does
them no favours. This location is great with clean, fresh food with
friendly and helpful staff.
Promises ‘just roasted coffee’ however this is not actually accurate. The earliest roasted coffee one may get, is about 8 hours, but only for drip coffee. Espresso is at least every 2 weeks and is blended. Beans are ‘rested’ between 6 months to 12 months before roasting. I purchased a latte (33rmb) and a cappuccino (33rmb) , which was served with UHT milk which tasted like it was off – shocking. Beware of the free roaming dog and dog toys.
Dark roast, slightly bitter.
With gelato to make an ‘affogato’, which reduces the bitterness.Dark roast, bitter. Low Weak Caffeine.
First Attempt
Located at 66 Lvshun Road, about a 10 min walk from the Bund along Huangpu Road is the W Hotel (You can also take Dongdaming Lu/ East Daming Road). It offers 339 rooms and 35 suites and is part of the Starwood brands chain (Category 5). It is the anchor for the Sinar Mas Plaza (Also called White Magnolia Plaza, Shanghai Harbour Passenger Terminal Main Tower, North Bund Tower, Sinar Mas New Bund) which has two towers: Sinar Mas Centre 1 (319.6 m/66 stories [Other proposed designs include 388m and 260m] which uses a entasis design feature) and 2 (172m/39 stories). A third tower was set to be 111m/24 stories, however it was cancelled (Also called White Magnolia Plaza 1, 2 and 3).
The shopping complex of Sinar Mas Plaza (by Sinar Mas Paper (China) Investment Co. Ltd via its subsidiary Shanghai Jingang North Bund Reality Co. Ltd.) is currently vacant and appears to be undergoing construction.
Upon arrival at the W hotel, I noticed the ramp style curb, which could be slightly easier to move luggage up to the main door. Sadly they placed a planter next to the door, which negates any benefit, as one would have to go upon the road, to get around the planter. This is a common theme for the property, good start, which is poorly executed. I was greeted by a young man asking what I needed, I indicated I was looking for the lobby, which he informed me that the W does not have a lobby, infact it only has a living room. The young door man than went back to his post, while another man came to my aid. I asked if they offer a café which serves coffee, this was also indicated to be negative. I looked at the restaurant selection, and through some detective work, did discover that the wet bar in fact offers coffee, however it was on the ‘W’ floor, which according to staff is actually the 4th floor, but called ‘W’ floor due to superstition. Inside the elevator shaft, they placed in neon-like tubes in a Hong Kong sign style, but with the names of Shanghai streets and slogans of love for Shanghai.
When the elevator doors opened upon the ‘W’ floor, the lobby was revealed. It has an Ovolo Hotel feel to it – young, cool and hip. A slight ramp with sofa-like seating lining it, is neat, and it flows nicely into the lobby lounge. I wandered without specific direction looking for the wetbar. Through a set of unmarked doors, next to the kitchen, with their overly friendly staff, I made my way upon the patio. The view of the skyline was very nice – the wetbar is open, without air conditioning or shielding from mosquitoes, but it does have nice views.
I requested their coffee selection, however was informed that they were unable to make coffee, despite it being on the menu, and only offered two non-alcoholic drinks. With a desire for liquids, I opted to try both, the Sing Sing (Lemon, Kaffir Lime Leaves, Ginger, Lavender, Sprite) and the Mr & Mrs Pink (Grapefruit, Lemon, Elderflower, Peppercorn, Himalayan Salt). I took a seat on some bar stools near the pool, to take in the skyline. After about 20mins, I asked for an update on the drinks, they were in preparation. They didn’t offer water, just required me to wait, so I waited. By the time the drinks did arrive, I was in need of them. Sadly the drinks were both unpalatable both visually and in taste, being served in plastic cups, the Mr & Mrs Pink was so bitter that it was similar to eating a raw lemon straight and the Sing Sing was essentially liquid sugar with unclean ginger slices added to it. No wait staff came to ensure I was satisfied and after several failed attempted requests to attract wait staff, with even them looking directly at me, but simply ignoring me, I went up to the counter.
A new bartender was there and I inquired about coffee, which they now informed me they offered. I explained that initially was not available and I would be keen if they would swap out my drinks for a cup of coffee – they were initially open to the idea, but another person insisted on remaking the drink. I should have been more forceful, as the next drink was essentially mint and water and was more terrible then the last one. I ended up, after about three hours, just requesting a glass of water, which they did provide. After spending 100 rmb on drinks, I was only able to enjoy a cup of water from the Wet Bar. The staff certainly need more training of what they offer and how it is prepared and delivered. I went for coffee and only got disappointment.
Afterwards, I headed to find the washrooms, which I found near the lobby. It reminded me of the washrooms of People 6, which is essentially just mirrors – I pity any drunk people that go into that room. The room was clean, but used an odd placement for soap dispensers and paper towels.
As I was preparing to head out, I decided to stop to take a look at the conference hall services which they offer. The rooms are decent and could work well for meetings. The washrooms are what you would expect in a decent hotel, well lit, well thought out and easy to use.
Metro line 12’s International Cruise Terminal (国际客运中心) has a stop here, but it is not open from the east side of the street. On the north side of the complex, there is an LED pathway, which is a nice and unexpected feature.
Second Attempt
Iced Latte.
Decent coffee.
Provided liquid sugar to sweeten.Lebanese coffee (with ibrik/cezve). Dark and
bitter, weak in terms of Caffeine strength.
They don't offer Affogato, but I made my own with their delicious ice cream. Suggested they offer it too.
357 West Jianguo Road
Dark roast, high acidity. Nice space. (Oddly conducive to sleep). 3 bean blend, 1 week roast, unknown source.
Dark roast, only slightly bitter. High Caffeine strength. Blended and roasted on site.
Dark and bitter. Claims to weekly roast, offsite. Ms. Xiang was friendly. Affogato (2 scroops of national branded ice cream) improved flavour.
A frozen coffee dessert. It has a rich coffee flavour. Walnut is famous too. Order left of elevator on main floor, delievered from restaurant. Open til 8pm.
Not bitter or acidic, but very sour. Latte and Mocha (28rmb/each). Bean from Carrefour: Kingdom - Rock Italian Coffee, Water (5 Filters).
Not bitter or acidic.
Affogato: bitter and acidic. Ice cream makes it slightly pallible. Peanut whip cream from milk shake, only improves it.
Mildly bitter, low caffeine rate. decent milk. Served in paper cup.
Mildly bitter.
2 water filters.
Decent milk (7rmb/cost).
4 blends for coffee,
which is 2-3 years old.
Served in paper cup.
Coffee - Classic Roast Latte and Machiato.
Dark
roast, only slight acidic.
3 bean blend.
Decent caffiene levels.
Decent milk. 7 stage water filter.
3 blend. Good brew, low acidic.
Decent caffiene
level .meiji milk. Kept refrigerated. 2 stacks of filters (unknown number per
stack).
Dedicated roaster and roasting machine.
Friendly, knowlegable staff.
Slightly bitter, acidic.
Meiji milk.
Obtained
bean from Lost Bakery (which is from mellower).
Nice space.
Terrible service (only person in space, waited over an hour for service).
Nice on surface, hollow, like their tables. 45 rmb for latte.
Slighly bitter, low acidity. 30 rmb for latte. Great foam. Some grind leftover.
Very sour coffee, with old flavour. Slightly
bitter.
Space is decent for location.
Wifi based on wechat access.
Baked items
are chinese styled.
11 shareholders make this a mess.
Dark roast. Not bitter or acidic. However low caffiene levels. Latter for 25 rmb.
Decent coffee. Not too bitter or Acidic, decent caffiene.
Try a lye croissant while you are at it.latte, 38 rmb; no noticable coffee (low caffeine, low flavour); milk and foam sandwiching coffee like colour.
Korean Coffee
roaster. Attempted to expand to Beijing, but failed; Partnership in Hongqiao
also failed; supply beans to other coffee shops. Nice venue.
Two bean blend, Slightly sour; on-site roasting, 3 times per week; Decent foam (Nestle UHT), 2 stacks of 5 water filters (10). Barristas are friendly, mostly korean, limited mandarin and english. Nice venue. Take away lid cheap plastic.
Costa Rica Beans, Friend custom roast, 2 stage penta-filters, wondermilk. 10 rmb take-away discount. 22rmb latte.
Vietnamese Coffee.
Dark roast (likely arabica beans), drip. Barely paltatable.Latte. Decent Brew. 35 rmb.
Note: Has 3D printed chairs inside.
Bitter and Sour with no aftertaste. Gold Espresso (50rmb). Vacuum packged espresso at least 6 months old.
Claims roast within 3 days. Sour with aftertaste. Low caffiene value. Contaminated with foreign body. Decent space.
Located in Global Harbour Mall.
Latte. Dark roast. Blended arabica (80%) and robusta (20%). Low caffiene value.
Very Bitter. Milk foam is decent.
Small coffee shop run by two friendly brothers.
Roasting twice per week - 4 bean mix, 3 base with 1 changed;
3 water filters;
Decent milk;
Latte: sour with aftertaste, slight milk skin.
Mocha: Hershy
Cocoa; Decent flavour.
High Caffeine levels (likely unhealthy levels).
Small Latte (19): Double Shot;
Large (23): Triple Shot;
Can make Quad Shot (2 double shots)
Layout is good: working roaster in front, milk in windowed fridge, water filters visible, signage is simple and easy to read.
Gave them a call to
confirm their hours. Arrived, the location was closed. Phoned them again,
informed that they moved to new location, a week earlier.
Later they moved for a short time just off Yishan road, but they didn't last too long there.
Need a triple shot?
This may be the place for you –sadly the couple in front of me in line took
over 10 mins to make a choice and I was in a bit of a rush, so had to skip this
venue.
Nice 'beach front' and interior design.
This clothing store has space upstairs, which at one point was their own coffee shop, but has since changed names a number of times until now it is currently a korean chicken restaurant.
Coffee & Business: Saw this near Holicu U at Yishan Lu. It was late at night and so only saw the sign.
Hongquan Road
Walnut and Coffee Cake and a coffee shop. Attempted to go several times, however staff are not attentive to customers, which is odd since it is a tiny take out shop.
Note: Former Site of K-Mart Cafe (K Cafe)
Hongquan Road
A take-away coffee shop which opened soon after Molang (about 3 shops down). 50% on the soft opening made it even more sweet. Not overly special, still worth it to walk the two blocks to More then Coffee, west on Hongquan road.
Located on the upper floor of Jingting Tiandi Mall (on Hongquan Road; same location as More than Coffee, Double V and Curry Hut), this place is pretty large with its own classroom in the back. It has a plaque for the Korea Coffee Association. It was closed the first time I saw it. The next time, it was open, but the smell of mildue did not keep me there for long.
A chain. This one was at MixC. Offered an Affogato. The espresso was only saved by the ice cream. ~40rmb.
Walk-by: 103 Jinhui lu near Wuzhong road.
With a 1950s gas station theme, which non of the staff understand. 1980s digital pinball games are available for a fee, but they can unlock it for a test.
Owned by a Taiwan brewing company (with other themed pubs in shanghai). Beer Station has ten taps on hand and the prices are decent for beer.
You can get a 330ml craft beer coupon if you talk with the bus boy/girl at the front entrance.
Americano: 25 rmb
Walk-by
Grand Gateway 66, Xujiahui
Semi-automatic coffee machine.
Walk by: 1 Lane 372, Xingguo Road, Xuhui District
It appeared to be closed as the awning sign was darkened.
Backstory: Found another Rumors in pudong which said they bought out this Rumors.
Previously went here, they offered to sell me an espresso without using an espresso machine (as they don't have one) by using drip coffee.
Just saw sign, didn't see the shop.
Bitter: Coffee and Cocktails
Just saw sign. It was closed at the time.
Drops Coffee Studio
368 Wu Kang Lu (Near Shanghai Library Metro Stop, Exit 3)
Just saw sign. It was closed at the time.
Here is a review of a range of vendors in Shanghai. There are many vendors in Shanghai, frankly more than what is practical to review, as they tend, like all food and beverage companies, to open and close frequently. In addition, I initially sought specific types of vendors – those with roasting capability, so didn’t pay attention to shops without them. As the process went forward, I opted to try some without roasters and on occasion to try different drinks.
My typical order is:
A single shot of espresso and
A cup of foam (steamed milk, ideally with all [dry] foam)
One of the better places in Shanghai for a coffee, what a surprise this place is. This was the Gigabyte showroom/coffee shop where they have an excellent barista who can make an excellent brew. Lots of room and friendly staff.
Illy packaged espresso, Ms. Liu expertly brewed espresso. A cup of water was also served.
Venue is closed.
300 Anfu Road
Nestled between a photo art gallery and a camera museum, is this camera themed café.
Friendly staff, willing to make sure customer is happy.
Dark, but not bitter. Uses real whipcream, in drinks which use it.
A good place to relax.
A primary roaster in Shanghai.
They are hit and miss when it comes to roasting and espresso brewing. The Baristas vary in terms of quality and knowledge.
The first espresso and foam production was great, but afterwards not so much.
They have embraced the idea of offering a wide variety of coffee related added value and value added product selections.
They have several locations in Shanghai. Typically large stores with plenty of seating and often with a classroom.
Looked very promising. A decent looking water filtration system. Interior design is nice and seating is spacious and comfortable. Barista friendly and willing to experiment. Onsite roasting machine. Sadly they roast in bulk and produce a brew which is highly acidic and bitter, a true ‘korean’ style. Coffee and Cola is interesting though their green tea is too sweet.
Venue is closed.
Found this place by random, after trying a roaster a couple blocks away. The staff here are friendly. They use Mellower as their roaster, so their quality will vary. The food is good here. I returned a number of times afterwards and even invited friends to join me.
Have their own roasters. Friendly staff that are willing to learn and experiement. However coffee is very dark roasted and acidic, even after a couple attempts.
A roaster in Shanghai, I was excited. Howevery they only do volume roasting. Despite the friendly manager, the brew was way too bitter and acidic, which was attributed to customers desires ( the market expects coffee to taste a certain way, due to early experiences) – but not this one. They understood foam production.
Weekly blended roasting stored in non-airtight containers, it did not take long to feel disappointment.
Yuyuan Garden
An ice cream shop with coffee, not terrible – in fact better than some. Uses illy coffee. Latte. Dark roast, not bitter.
Bitter, but not an acidic brew. Barista: ‘Starbucks destroys coffee beans’.
Barista didn’t understand steamed milk or foam production. Got frustrated by simple requests.
The internal design is nice, however the croissant and coffee was not. Bitter and acidic..
West of Jing'An Temple
Dark roast, but not bitter. Steamed milk was decent. Served with lemon water.
East of Nanjing West Road
Cappuccino. Dark roast, not bitter. Staff ordered and charged for largest size, despite ordering smallest size. In a rush, so couldn’t complain.
Dark roast, not acidic. Staff not overly friendly, failed to make as per order and space is tiny. Fun theme though.
Dark roast and acidic. Comes with a cookie. Once was a good café, but it is old and worn out.
K11 location.
Latte. Dark roast, a little bitter. Decent interior for lobby of office building.
Decent brew and they were able get the foam right. Friendly staff makes this an enjoyable café.
This is the newest project by ‘Lost Heaven’ which incorporates a couple of different restaurants, such as japanese, ‘asian’, italian, a butcher, bar food and a small ‘grocery’.There is a Lost Heaven restaurant on the second floor and ‘Lost Bakery’ on the western side of the building. The coffee at ‘More than Eat’ is decent, but dark roast, which was not bitter. Latte Art is nice touch too.
I found their Hongqiao location and read the claims of being a purveyor of Third Wave and introducing Forth wave coffee to Shanghai, I was intrigued. I meant to get myself back to their Hongqiao location, however a friend found their location just off Huaihai Road (Jiling West). It is clear that they can not live up to their own hype, as really second wave, instant coffee would be superior to their coffee. My friend got their 'best cocktail' which only had a high volume of whisky going for it. Note: Good value though, since they put like eight shots (44ml x8=352ml) of whiskey in a 400ml cup and charged 80 rmb. The apparently old cinnamon stick from their drink, could only improve my espresso. The staff and owner were not friendly and the furniture is cheap and not comfortable.
Dark roast and acidic. More interested in selling alcohol than creating a quality espresso.
Xujiahui Location
Dark roast, not too bitter. Added milk to espresso, took another attempt to make foam – however it didn’t have much foam.
Decent roast. Barista partially understood order (made double shot, rather than single shot), however foam was well done. 2nd attempt, barista didn’t understand steamed milk.
'Valrhona Mocha' was not good for coffee or chocolate and the 'Coffee Mocha Milky Slush’ was too terrible to give justice in a description.
Ice Cappuccino (Double espresso and hot milk, topped with foam) – horrendous, beans burnt to death.
Xuhui
This bakery offers coffee from a coffee machine, which I opted out of. Instead tried their milk and a crossiant, both were not good.
Decent patios, despite the bugs.
Dark roast, not bitter. Added foam to espresso, despite ordering in two separate cups. Not a big issue, as both the shot and foam were correct. Served cup of lime water.
Dark roast, slightly acidic. Steamed milk had only a small amount of foam. Staff have limited ability to go off menu.
Café americano (espresso and hot water), decent. Location is a hair salon, coffee is part of price.
Dark roast, but not bitter. Milk done properly. Caramelised biscuit on side with glass of water.
Nice view on Nanjing west road. Sadly, last day of operation – possibly its last customer.
This vendor has lots of things going for it, such as a knowledgable management, high end water system, high quality fresh milk (wondermilk) and their own roasting (but not on site, in Nanjing). Their top barista wasn’t there when I came and the on-duty barista had trouble with my order. However the latte he made was very good. The staff are friendly, and so is the management.
Second Attempt
Dark roast, but not overly bitter. Steamed milk included limited foam. On-menu latte was good and had an artistic leaf.
Venue is closed.
Thai milk tea (thai tea served with steamed milk and foam). Tasty, but a little sweet.
Grand Gateway 66, Xujiahui
Coffee Milkshake. All round was very good – the coffee had a nice taste and the milkshake did not have any ice in it.
Xuhui Outlet
Dark roast and highly acidic. Staff is friendly and willing to learn. Despite suggestions of fresh roasting, it is not done here.
Qibao Outlet
Bartista is eager to learn, however hampered by low quality product. Nice coffee related Internal decorations.
Like Oscar-Claude Monet and wish there was a café with such a theme? Look no further!
Designed as a bike repair shop, this is a unique themed café.
A Panda/Office themed café. Here you can look at panda icons while at the ‘office’ while enjoying a coffee, ‘wow’
Tailor and Café together. ‘Savile road with Coffee’.
Dark roast, very acidic. Didn’t understand foam and on second attempt, after they ‘understood’, brought me an empty cup.
Nice view of Jing’an temple, so come only for the view, not the coffee.
Dark roast, a bit bitter. Didn’t understand foam, but did provide a large amount of steamed milk.
This is supposed to be a Montreal Smoked Meat Diner. However they had to change to local tastes, so don't expect much.
If you are Canadian, don't bother with the poutine or the smoked meat.
Espresso was decent but unbalanced cost, with a single shot being almost the same price as a double shot.
1st location: 221 Henan Middle Rd, Huangpu Qu
2nd location: The Centre. This was a small 'take-out' style one. Didn't last long.
3rd location: In same building as Taco bell just off Nanjing West Road.
Background: Uncle in textiles. Nephew came to learn but eventually got into Food and Beverage industry.
Located in the far south bund, in an office lobby.
Latte:
Standard Cup: Double Shot: 28 rmb
Big Cup: Triple Shot: 30 rmb
Venue is closed.
Anfu road.
Walk-by.
Located in the ground floor of an old house, this had a stylish charm to it.
Hotel Lobby Bar. Nespresso and Espresso machine. Open bar for clients.
Venue is Closed.
Looks good on the surface, but coffee is roasted in Hong Kong and shipped to Shanghai. Hygiene is very questionable.
Saw a small sign on the street and tried to find ‘Cloudy Café’, however after going a couple sets of stairs with twists and turns in dim light, gave up on finding it in the clouds.
This is a ‘traditional’ bakery of Shanghai which also serves coffee.
If you need butterfly (Papillon) cookies, this is a good place to get them. The bigger ones tend to be less sweet than the smaller ones. Buy fresh.
Venue is closed.
Found this large coffee shop, sadly it was closed by the time I made my way to try it.
Located on the 3rd floor of a shop, which has clothing, gadgets and interior design products. The interior design was mildly interesting, however the coffee was not.
Antique shop and café. Makes an ok affogato.
415 Shaanxi North Rd
Small venue which offers Yunnan Beans. I opted to bypass this one just based off its appearance (typically due to concerns of water quality, etc.).
80 Yongkang Rd, Xuhui Qu (徐汇区永康路80号)
This is a tiny shop in an old residential area. I opted to bypass this one just based off its appearance (typically due to concerns of water quality, etc.).
However it should be noted that Cafe Del Volcan (Coffee of the Volcano) is widely advertised as a popular coffee vendor in Shanghai.
It is important to note that Nils Weisensee (Deutch) from the Chosen Exchange (a Singapore based company which teaches North Koreans western business practices. Ie. How to setup coffee shops) and Frontier Intelligence (which offers human intelligence/social engineering/active defense security and training with a focus on China and other regions in Asia) is the co-founder of Cafe de Volcan.
Venue is closed.
Walk-by.
Bakery is closed due to using expired food products.
Located on Huaihui lu.
Cafe/Bar/Restaurant. Its ok, but not worth a special trip for it.
Venue is closed.
Former Olympic Sports building off Nanjing road west (by the centre).
Walk-by.
A 'foreign' chain. Nothing special.
This is a korean franchise where the coffee is a loss leader for the interior design sales to franchises.
Walk-by.
Located in Hongqiao.
Note: Not the same as Second Cup.
Walk-by/Closed.
Located on Nanjing Road west at the Kohler offices.
This is a chain.
Sell sweet drinks. Be careful of being overcharged if you happen to purchase a drink.
This is a chain.
Sell sweet drinks.
Despite the Big claim of being the ‘Word’s Smallest Café’ they obviously did not review the cafes of Shanghai, some store fronts have a smaller footprint than wheelys.
Upstairs at Reel (near Jing'an temple)
They offer coffee from a commercial nespresso machine. Nice internal decorations and good location. Kitchen didn’t look too clean.
1st Floor, Tianle Plaza, 68 Yinting Road (銀亭路68號天樂廣場一樓), Minhang Qu
This is a large cafe and bakery. They have different blends which tend to be of decent quality.
265 Jinhui S Rd, Minhang Qu
Also known as 漫咖啡 (Man Kafei).
Coffee and Waffles. First location in Shanghai, offers waffles made with Great Value flour. Products are sweet. Large amount of space (two levels inside and a large patio) to relax in.
Often people inside when the restaurant is closed and the lights are off.
Xuhui, Second Floor.
The Ikea cafeteria offers free Coffee Monday-Friday for Family Card members.
When they first opened the coffee was of decent quality and came with a ceramic cup which you could fill at will.
Over time the cup changed to paper and got smaller, than quality went down and eventually they hired a person to monitor the coffee and drink usage.
Food theft is common and often done blatantly here.
In 2017, they opened a cafe which one can pay for an espresso and they offer ice cream and milkshakes. These are superior products to their free offerings.
Venue is closed.
Lavazza once had a flagship store in Shanghai on Nanjing west road, near the centre.
Metro Mall, Xujiahui
Walk-by. European-esk restaurant.
Located along the southern street of the Hengshan Picardie Hotel (534 Hengshan Rd, Xuhui)
Part of a hotel from 1934, the bakery keeps its famous recipe for Mont Blanc, a french chestnut dessert.
Receipe and price has changes slightly as the elder baker has retired, however you will not find the same flavours anywhere else in Shanghai.
They offer coffee on the menu, but it is really dependant to which staff is on duty if they are capable of making (or willing to make) it for you.
The hotel lobby bar also sells coffee. This is from a automatic machine and was 60 rmb for a latte, last time I checked.
20 Beisuzhou Rd (north side of suzhou creek)
Broadway Mansions is an iconic property in Shanghai. Used to have a large Bayer sign on it.
The lobby has an overpowering musky smell.
These are just ones I saw but didn't try (or didn't do a review on).
Also known as the Jingan World Coffee Festival.
The first one occured in September 8-9, 2016 and it was not well advertised, however it was a decent sized event downstairs at Kerry Centre.
There were various local vendors.
The one in 2018 was on the ground level. It was even less advertised and was smaller.
This is a large show which is designed for the Hospitality Industries. There is baking equipment, lots of alcoholic vendors, water and coffee companies.
Over the last couple years, the numbers of coffee related vendors and activities have grown.
The first one occured in 2017. Despite the decent advertising of this free event - after arriving found out about the hidden fees, so didn't bother to attend.
Due to the previous poor experience didn't bother with the 2018 version. However there seemed to be limited advertising for this one.
This was a big event for Vegetables from all over China. While I was not expecting Coffee, they had an assorted amount of franchise vendors. One vendor recommended coffee as a good way to loose weight, while I was viewing the Latte Art competition.
These are for shops outside of Shanghai which are worth giving a mention to.
Established in 2004 as Huaxia (Sanhe) Dairy Farm Company (Agricultural High-tech Park Zone, Sanhe, 065206; investors: Olympus Capital Holdings Asia, GRC SinoGreen Fund, Government of Singapore Investment Corporation) a subsiderary of China Genetics Holdings Ltd. It established the company WonderFood Company which operated the 'Wondermilk' brand.
Brought in their own cows and brought advance technology and animal husbandry practices resulting in a premium product. However sold 90% of milk production (~8000 head operation) to other larger companies. Its 10% output was used in the 'Wondermilk' products which were cold chained to select providers in Shanghai. It was not sold in any retail stores and only limited coffee shops offered this.
Coffee shops which offered this milk product were seen by the Author as being able to properly source for quality ingredients in China and so this was enough for the author to try their coffee shop. Sadly, as of September 2018 operations closed down for Huaxia (Sanhe) Dairy Farm Company.
Located in Wuxi, this little shop has its own roasting machine. While I was there, they were roasting and blending. It is a small space, but with extra seating in their loft, which was comfortable for a group of four. They provided good service and made excellent brews.
The Scientist, Wuxi
A new chain . Nice interior design. Menu varies by location.
Latte/Cappucino: 35 rmb
Affogato: 35 rmb (with Home made ice cream)
Obviously got the Affogato. Which was a good thing, as the espresso was bitter and acidic..
There is a wide varity of liquid coffee products from around the world.
There is a wide varity of powdered coffee products from around the world.
There is a wide varity of coffee seeds/beans from around the world.
From cookies to cakes, from drinks to ice cream. Lots of things can be flavoured with Coffee.
A business card (Also called name card) is a method to provide information to clients as a take away (to act as a memory aid), so that they can refer back to an individual or company’s Name, location, phone number, email address, website, etc. There is a wide range of business card types provided by vendors. Some even use tri-folds brochures as their business cards to provide even more information, such as all their locations in a region or their full menu options.
Signs help people know your brand exists. Make sure it is visible and easy to read. Being artistic is nice, but if it is unreadable, it is a waste.
From paper menus, to plastic coated, to chalk board, to electronic pads and electronic signs, there is a wide variety of methods to present product selection to potential clients. Not all menus are created equally. A menu which is not complicated, easy to read and understand, allows people to make an easy purchase. If too complicated or difficult to read, there is a chance people will leave or not be happy with the selection or choices. Often missed, lighting and font size are very important for readability. Using complicated or invented jargon does not make the experience any easier.
Added Value Products help increase the bottom line of a business, by offering additional products which generate additional income. Many vendors offer coffee as an Added Value product, like an after thought to their product line up. Some vendors offer other products which may or may not add value to their coffee line up, an example would be a coffee shop which also doubles as a pet shop – should food and pets co-exist? The smell was certainly terrible.
Value Added Products (Also called Value-Added Opportunities) help increasing the bottom line of a business, by offering ‘upgrades’ or additions to a product in order to boost profit from a product. For example, adding a shot of whiskey to the coffee.
There is a wide variety of vehicles used for coffee. Coffee delivery via bikes and scooters is common in Shanghai.
Typically glass air tight containers.
Typically ceramic cups.
Typically Paper cups.
Typically packets of sugar and/or creamer.
A wide variety of furniture exists.
From simple to artistic, a wide variety of light fixtures exist.
Typically POS machines and/or television screens.
A wide variety of facades exists.
A wide variety of design elements exists.
A wide variety of art exists.
From refrigerators to coolers. Usually used for deserts and snacks.
While water quality is usually a big concern for
tourists and residents alike in Shanghai, it is suprising how little
concern is made when consuming beverages with water in them, such as
coffee. Assuming that the coffee vendor has good quality water is a
haphazard approach, as many do not. If the property is very old and in
an older region of shanghai, it may be shocking to consider the
condition of the pipes. While the city has made great strides in
upgrading infrustructure, it really depends on where in the city, where
the best water quality will exist.
A venue
which has put in some effort for ensuring water quality is superior to
any that has not made any effort at all. Not every venue can afford
afford the water treatment system of Uni-Uni, which was really the best I
have seen in Shanghai. They spent 40k on their water treatment, sadly
their location and shareholders didn't allow for it to last long.
"For systems which utilize water, it is important to consider water treatment of that water for the long term health of the system.
Water Purification Systems
Typically there are three types of water systems: at the source (either at the source of entry to a residence, or at the source where the water is obtained [ie. a well], mid-stream, and at the terminal point (such as at the fauct).
Water Purification Filters
Type |
Medium |
Note |
Slow Sand Filter |
Sand |
|
Rapid Sand Filter |
Sand; Sand and anthracite coal; Sand, Anthracite coal and garnet. |
|
Reverse Sand Filter |
Sand |
|
Gravity Filter |
Typically Sand |
|
Pressure Filter |
Sand; Sand and anthracite coal; Sand, Anthracite coal and garnet. |
tightly packed sand and gravel. |
Vacuum Filter |
|
|
Activated Carbon Filter |
Activated Carbon |
Bromate (ozonation By-Product) |
Granular activated carbon |
Activated Carbon |
Trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) |
Diatomaceous earth filters |
Diatomaceous earth |
|
Backwash Filter |
Membrane filtration |
|
Ceramic Filter |
Ceramic |
|
Reverse Osmosis |
Membrane filtration |
~ 6 pH |
Mineral Filter |
Minerials |
|
Infra-Red Filter |
Electromagnetic energy |
|
Ultra Violet Filter |
Electromagnetic energy |
|
Ultra-violet irradiation |
Electromagnetic energy |
Bromate (ozonation By-Product) [High Dose] |
Biological filtration |
Biological based membrane filtration |
Bromate (ozonation By-Product) |
Biofilter |
Biological based membrane filtration |
Trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) |
BioFilm |
Biological based membrane filtration |
|
Bioreactor |
Biological Process based filtration |
|
Hydrophilic membrane filtration |
colloids, cotton, and cellulose |
Filter out bacteria, virii, proteins, particulates, drugs, and other contaminates. |
ion-exchange beds |
zeolites (separate molecules based on size and shape) |
|
Ferrous iron reduction |
Iron |
Bromate (ozonation By-Product) |
Reverse Osmosis Notes
Two main issues come up with using water from Reverse Osmosis sytems:
i) Tissue osmotic pressure increases when exposed to water treated by reverse osmosis, which can cause swelling and possibly even bursting of tissue or cells. Essentially the water is absorbed at such quantity that cell membranes rupture. The problem can resolved when small concentrations of inorganic salt is added to the treated water.
ii) Water may leech out minerials from tissue and bones."Most commonly used as a decoration in Shanghai. Sometimes actually work.
Grinders are usually large in size and are used by many vendors to also store beans.
Scales are used by some vendors to ensure a set amount of ground beans are placed within the portafilter.
For those vendors with semi-automatic espresso machines, they will often use a tamper, but it is mostly for show, as few actually apply pressure to tamp down.
Venues with real baristas and real espresso machines, tend to do this correctly.
Opened in 2018 as an extended showroom for the China International Import Expo (CIIE; Also known as Shanghai Canton Fair).
Vendors with Coffee and/or related products
Assorted
Obtaining eduation on coffeee is possible in Shanghai.
Some coffee vendors will offer classes on coffee. This can be simple general information classes, all the way to certifications.
Even local community centres offer general knowledge classes.
In 2017, the Gubei Civic Centre offered Latte Art Classes and information on Bean Selection, Cappuccino making, Frothing techniques.
Retail Prices for Milk
Fresh*
*Some products denote being fresh but have shelf-lives of 14-30 days.
Note: Care must be made when purchasing dairy products as some retails are not familiar with cold chaining products and unless they have the infrastructure and have staff trained for it, they may not be able to guarantee that the product was not left out to ambient temperatures. I saw one vendor who was selling yogurt outside in stacks in the blazing sun in the summer time.
UHT
Others
Note: There was a big push in 2018 for adding Oatley (liquid oats product) to coffee at a wide variety of vendors.
Soy Milk product.
Nut milk product.
Liquid aseptic oat milk product (ie. Oatly Brand)
Produced by:
a. Milled oats which are processed with enzymes.
b. Residues filtered out.
c. Blended with Canola Oil (rapeseed oil) and sodium chloride which form a liquid aseptic oat milk.
Bottled water varies in price, from as low as 1 rmb/bottle for local brands to upwards of 100rmb/bottle for foreign brands.
Coffee in Shanghai Volume II has take a dramatic change from its previous version.
While the previous version was image rich, this version is not.
This is designed to be more universally accessible and useable.
It also offers some future-proofing for changing standards.
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Title: Coffee in Shanghai Volume II Series: Arooka Knowledge Base ISBN-13: 978-1-988087-12-2 FWP-AKB-E-101 Author: Arooka http://www.arooka.com Publisher: Free World Press Ltd. Printed on 100% Digital Paper |