5 Coolest Cafés in Shanghai You Need to Check Out

Shanghai isn’t just a food paradise—it’s also a café lover’s dream. From minimalist coffee bars tucked in alleyways to pastel-toned cafés straight out of a Pinterest board, this city has it all. One of the most charming stops? A cozy café with a Chinese traditional vibe, nestled on a street rich with Shanghai’s old-world charm—where history and modern coffee culture meet beautifully. During my time here, I explored some of the coolest and cutest cafés perfect for a caffeine fix, a cozy catch-up, or that perfect Instagram shot. Whether you’re into bold brews, creative lattes, or dreamy interiors, these 5 cafés are worth adding to your must-visit list.

🔗 Click hyperlinked location that takes you to baidu map. You can't use google map in China without vpn, instead use Apple map or Baidu map to navigate your way.

Top1. Metal hands (铁手咖啡)

📍Location: 南昌路234号（淮海中路地铁站1号口步行300米）

💲Price：¥43

⭐ Recommendations: Dirty pistachio latte, Cinnamon fried egg latte, Vienna latte

Recently, Shanghai has seen a surge of new coffee shops popping up, and one that’s been making waves is Metal Hands Coffee Brewers. In fact, it’s gained such a reputation that it’s been named one of the “Top 50 Coffee Shops in the World”! The name might not jump out at you, but the interior is a different story. The clever use of mirrors on the walls creates an illusion of space, giving the place a chic and stylish vibe. I personally loved the vibe, I visited two times during my trip.

Two most famous coffee menu is Caramel Cinnamon “Fried Egg” Latte and a Hand-Dripped Colombian Coffee. If you are matcha lover, go for matcha.

Top2. looknowpark

📍Location: 上海市徐汇区湖南路街道淮海中路1008号1~3层

💲Price：¥48

⭐ Recommendations: Jellycat coffee

Are you obsessed with Jellycat plushies? Then Looknowpark is your happy place. This three-story wonderland is part giant Jellycat toy shop, part café—and yes, they serve Jellycat-themed lattes that are as adorable as they sound. While the coffee itself might not blow you away, the cuteness and cozy vibes totally make up for it. It’s more about the experience than the espresso, and honestly, it’s hard not to smile with a jellycat latte in hand.

Top3. Gregorious SHADE

📍Location: 安福路53号

💲Price：¥48

⭐ Recommendations: Dirty latte, Basque cheese cake

One thing I noticed during my time in China? Locals love their “dirty” lattes—rich espresso poured over cold milk, sometimes with toppings or mix-ins that leave a bit of a delicious mess. Gregorious SHADE nails that trend with bold, creative coffee and a playful presentation. If you're into coffee with a twist, this is a must-visit. Bonus: their mini cakes are the perfect match—small, sweet, and ideal for a quick indulgence with your brew.

Top4. sof garden

📍Location: 巨鹿路853号

💲Price：¥149

⭐ Recommendations: Brunch set

SOF Garden feels like a little European escape tucked in the heart of Shanghai. With its elegant courtyard and a fountain that gives serious Rome-in-the-springtime vibes, it’s the perfect spot for a slow brunch. Their dishes are beautifully plated and full of flavor, but the real standout? The cold brew coffee—smooth, rich, and surprisingly refreshing. Ideal for a relaxed weekend morning with good food and even better ambiance.

Top5. A Garden at Guangfulin(一尺花园广富林)

📍Location: 广富林路3088弄3号集贤坊01-03栋（朱雀门进入地下车库）

💲Price：¥94

⭐ Recommendations: cafe latte， classic pizza

While there are several branches of A Garden, the Guangfulin location stands out with its traditional Chinese architecture, complete with warm wooden structures and peaceful surroundings. It feels like stepping into a cozy teahouse from the past—but with excellent coffee and modern comfort. The Asian-inspired vibe is calming and inviting, making it a beautiful break from the city’s fast pace. A perfect spot to slow down, sip, and soak in the atmosphere.