Probably first Tibetan cafe and shop in the city, we sheltered here from extremely dry and hot weather the other day. The curated interior collection is charming. The design carries inherent colors and patterns from Tibet with a modern twist. We enjoyed the special blend from their signature menu and a lovely conversation with Tibetan barista. Welcome to Shanghai! 

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. 

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. 

Surrounded by historic architectures and cultural institutes, it is a new retail concept aimed to be creative community hub for shopping and events. Personally, not a fan of the select shop but the coffee shop and the outdoor setting is a nice place to hang in the quieter end of the hood. 

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.