Accidentally walking into this coffee shop the other day as the space making looks quite interesting from across the street. The line-up of the magazines caught my eye instantly - UNION, they are the first coffee shop I spotted in town who carries this independent fashion x photography magazine, one of my favorite publications. That triggered my interest to try their coffee - apparently, we love cafes where we meet like-minded people to share a taste not only about coffee:-) The minimal and thoughtful interior design makes it a very cozy place to chill with good coffee and good reads. 

First flagship store by Short Sentence, a Shanghai-based contemporary fashion and lifestyle brand homed in an eclectic architecture redesigned on an old building along the most crowded shopping street downtown. Coming back for shopping always feels like a vacation: the seasonal landscape from the garden, the white space interior design, the friendly staffs and the cozy styles with design details, the happy energy around the colors...it has become my most visited fashion shop this two years, for style update, for community events curated by me:-) and for chilling with girlfriends, good vibes only:-) 

Since I found my preferable toast, Over. has quickly become my favorite artisanal bakery shop in the hood. All natural yeast-based breads freshly baked everyday, this is the first baker's place in town where I keep returning for the authentic and seasonal flavors, bread talks with friends and the occasional art and craft exhibitions curated by the owner. 

I connected with Sarah, one the two co-founders behind AENTOS at her pop-up dinner. I was under the assumption that it is another independent wellness brand focusing on beauty and fragrance products when I paid my first visit to their shop. And I instantly fell for the artistic vibes. The shop is located at a very Shanghainese alley, pretty close to one of the creative campus and retail complex that I frequent. From natural essence-based scented oils, candles to grass/wood aroma, they have a thoughtful range of original products alongside their selection by other designers/artist friends. The shop is so well curated in line with their statement: a lifestyle brand that believes in the power of slowing down and self-care. It is a little hidden gem for those who look for a gentle pause to browse or eclectic wellness gift for their loved ones in downtown area. 

Quietly located in the residential area, a walk to Avec Toi - a French bakery in the hood and Text & Image has been my favorite morning walk course. The bookstore features a tasteful selection of publications in literature, design, photography art and more. Both the size of the space and the collection is less overwhelming. Good enough to encounter an inspiration or new addition to my shelf.