My little Tokyo in Shanghai which is my go-to for cool vinyl DJ events. Designed and operated by UDS, a leading design firm from Japan, the cafe has very community-friendly space for all range of customers, a seasonal menu (Japanese family style curry rice and fried chicken are highly recommended!! ) and curated merchants and events. 

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. 

First retail outlet of a bakery brand who has already been enjoying long time support from their community through bakery workshops and online delivery. Other then the premium ingredients and creative flavor making, the shop itself is quite neat in terms of the location down the historic alley and beautiful interior. Staffs are humble too. 

Really good bookstore selling rare zines by artists around the world. There's also a riso press in the same location printing some of the products. 

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.