A perfect blend of Aussie cafe style and Shanghai neighborhood culture: great coffee, good crowd and plenty of sunshine if you're lucky:-) The caffeinated vibe there has the speciality ingredients that I missed about independent coffee shops in town. Ben, the owner curate pop-up gallery program in-store where I also had a chance to exhibit my latest personal paintings earlier this year. 

The street view from the outdoor seat plus the fresh bakery make it a perfect spot for breakfasters to chill. I still recall the glorious sunshine last time there with my friend...such a good time!

New Chinese bistro inspired by cyber punk and re-imagined by a young pair of modern food culture enthusiasts at downtown, Shanghai. Great for casual dinner and natural wines with folks

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. 

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.