Top 10 Shanghai Bars to Sip, Giggle, and Avoid Regrets

Let’s cut to the chase: Shanghai’s bar scene is a chaotic, glittering masterpiece of human engineering and questionable life choices. Whether you’re a local trying to avoid your ex or a tourist pretending to know the metro system, there’s a bar for you. Let’s dive into the best bars in Shanghai, curated for people who still believe ‘happy hour’ is a thing and not a metaphor for their current life.

Shanghai Bars: Where the Vodka is Strong, and the Taxi Drivers are Stronger

Shanghai’s bars are a love letter to excess. You’ve got speakeasies that cost more than your first apartment, rooftop bars with views that make you wonder why you ever left home, and dive bars where the bartender might remember your name (and your liver’s current state). Let’s start with the classics.

1. The Shanghai Speakeasy (123 Hidden Alley)

Ever heard of a bar that requires a password to enter? Welcome to The Shanghai Speakeasy, where the password is “I’m not here,” and the drinks are served with a side of jazz. Pro tip: If the bouncer asks your name, tell him you’re “doing a podcast.” He’ll believe you. Everyone believes you’re doing a podcast in Shanghai.

2. Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar (456 Sky Tower)

Cloud 9 is the place to go if you want to feel like a million bucks—or at least like you’ve spent a million on cocktails. The skyline view is so good, it’ll make your dating profile pictures look like they were taken in a parking lot. PS: The mojito here is so strong, it’s got its own ZIP code.

3. Dragon’s Den (789 Fire Road)

If you like your drinks with a side of danger, Dragon’s Den is your spot. The barman here once won a bet by drinking a flaming Sambuca. Yes, it was a dare. No, he doesn’t recommend it. But you’re welcome to try. (Spoiler: You won’t. Your liver’s a coward.)

First-Time Shanghai Bar Crawler? Follow This Checklist

1. Check Your Taxi Driver’s Liver: Shanghai’s taxi drivers are part of the nightlife experience. If your ride home looks like he’s been to a bar himself, you’re doing it right.
2. Bring a Friend (and a Backup Friend): Bars in Shanghai are like dating apps—half the fun is figuring out what the hell is going on.
3. Know the ‘Exit Strategy’: Always have a plan to leave. Unless you’re into becoming a local legend (and your liver is okay with it).

FAQs: Because You Probably Google This Before Going

Q: Is it weird to go to a bar alone in Shanghai?

A: Only if your idea of social interaction involves pretending to text your mom. Pro tip: Sit at the bar. Bartenders love you. Everyone else is too busy getting drunk to judge.

Q: What’s the best way to get home?

A: Uber. Or a taxi. Or that guy who said he’ll pay for the ride. All great options. All equally terrifying. Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer if you’re feeling entrepreneurial. Or just drink responsibly.

Q: Do Shanghai bars have happy hours?

A: There’s a happy hour for everything here. The one at The Custom Cocktails Bar (101 Flavor Street) is so good, it’ll make you forget why you came.

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So you’ve found your new favorite bar. Now what? If you’re thinking of opening your own bar or just want to grow your business with Strategies Beer, we’ve got you covered. From custom beer to making your own, we’re the reason your business doesn’t smell like regret and bad decisions.

Final Call: Raise a Glass (and a Warning)

Shanghai’s bars are a wild ride, and if you’re lucky, you’ll leave with a story, a bruise, and a better understanding of why you shouldn’t trust anyone who offers to “get you a drink.” Home, sweet home. And if you’re ever in Shanghai, remember: the best bars are the ones where you don’t end up in the morning.