It's time to take advantage of this excellent weather and grasp every opportunity to be outside.
There's nothing better than socializing on terraces and rooftops during this brief window of glorious temperatures after winter and before the plum rains kick in.
Here's a list of our top picks for Shanghai's best al fresco dining spots, because food and drink tastes even better in the open air.
Abbey Road
Image courtesy of Abbey Road
A casual local and old time classic boozer in Xuhui, the Abbey Road terrace also plays host to live music and live sport on the big screen. A place to while away the hours with well-priced drinks and descent pub grub.
Open Mon-Fri, 11am-late; Sat & Sun,10am-Late.
See a listing for Abbey Road
Beast of the East Social House
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
Beast of the East Social House by True Legend (Pistolera, Big Bamboo) re-opened (for the second time) last month on the ever-popular Fumin Lu and Changle Lu corner.
The terrace is a bit smaller than neighboring Funkadeli and Cantina Agave, but it still gets just as much sunshine.
Take advantage of Beast of the East's daily happy hour deal, and get 35% off selected drinks everyday from 3-7pm.
Open Sun-Thu, 11am-2am; Fri-Sat, 11am-3am.
See a listing for Beast of the East Social House.
Big Bamboo
Image courtesy of Big Bamboo
Drawing big crowds for major events like the World Cup and Super Bowl, both locations of this popular sports bar have ample patio seating, where you can enjoy happy hour specials and classics from the expanded food menu.
Head indoors to catch the big game on the flat screen televisions or play a round of pool. Both branches also have outdoor play areas to keep the little ones busy.
Hongfeng Lu: Open daily, 4pm-2am.
Hongmei Lu: Open Sun-Thu,10am-1am; Fri-Sat, 10am-2am.
See listings for Big Bamboo.
el Bodegon (Panyu Lu)
Image courtesy of el Bodegon
When we get a craving for punchy Peruvian flavors and affordable Argentinean grass-fed steaks, we hightail it to el Bodegon.
In summer months, we suggest their Panyu Lu location for the killer terrace where you can enjoy a free drink in the open air with each steak purchased every Sunday to Thursday.
Happy hour runs every Monday to Friday from 5-7pm and Saturday-Sunday from noon-4pm, with RMB35-48 on selected beers and cocktails.
Open Mon-Fri, 5-10.30pm; Sat-Sun 12-10.30pm.
See a listing for el Bodegon (Panyu Lu).
Boiling Crab
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
The Boiling Crab is an American chain restaurant focusing on fresh seafood boils. It's a place to grab a cold one with friends, while munching on some of the best fish and chips in Shanghai al fresco on the terrace.
It’s also a late night eats spot, that just so happens to have fresh seafood in legitimately finger-lickin’ good sauces, and a casual date lunch or dinner spot, when you’re not embarrassed to get your hands dirty – real dirty – in the tastiest of ways.
Open daily, 12pm-2am.
See a listing for Boiling Crab.
Botanical Basket
Image via Dianping
This gin-focused shotgun bar really takes off as the weather warms; the space fits roughly 20 people inside, but doubles in size with the added outdoor area.
Given the small space, it only takes a handful of people to make the bar feel lively and crowded, only enhanced by the staffs’ energy that matches the music beats.
The location is prime, and as the temperature continues to rise and the bay windows are opened, you’ll find us popping in for a cheeky afternoon libation or a post-dinner cocktail.
Open Sun-Thu, 11.30am-2am; Fri-Sat, 1pm-4am.
See a listing for Botanical Basket.
Bread Etc.
Image courtesy of Bread Etc.
French bakery Bread Etc. opens the terrace at their Nanjing Xi Lu location every day at 4pm. The central location makes it a convenient stop for after work snacks and simple cocktails.
Think sandwiches and toasts paired with white sangria, Aperol spritz or prosecco. They occasionally throw parties or book the space yourself and throw your own.
Open daily, 4-9pm.
See a listing for Bread Etc.
The Bull & Claw
Image courtesy of The Bull & Claw
The garden at The Bull & Claw has been transformed into a hidden tropical garden oasis with twinkling string lights hung throughout, and has always been wonderful for weekend brunches and evening surf and turf and SoCal dinners. The ideal boho chic atmosphere for lounging, day or night.
Open daily, 11am-Late.
See a listing for The Bull & Claw.
Bun Cha Cha Grill
Image via Dianping
After taking over the old aCote Micro Brewery space in the back section of Yongping Lane last year, Bun Cha Cha Grill added a handful of tables inlaid with BBQs for self-grilling, along with an open bar and nearly double the seating outside, ideal for warmer days.
With everything from Vietnamese coffee to Vietnamese beer to southeast Asian-inspire highballs – plus oh-so-many Vietnamese snacks – there's no reason not to spend hours whiling away in the sun here.
Open daily 11am-10pm.
See a listing for Bun Cha Cha Grill.
Cachet
Image courtesy of The Langham Shanghai
At level one of The Langham Shanghai in Xintiandi is Cachet, where you may enjoy the warmth of the summer while watching the world go by.
An ice cold glass of Brander Urstoff German beer with any of their savory choices a great way to spend a summer day.
Open daily, 11am-midnight.
See a listing for Cachet.
Café Gray Deluxe
Image via Dianping
Café Gray Deluxe, housed in the Middle House hotel, is a restaurant and lounge bar with several outdoor areas, including a spacious terrace that overlooks Nanjing Xi Lu.
The best part is 50% off bottles of champagne from 5-8pm. Who doesn't love popping bottles of champers on a hip terrace?
Open daily, 6.30am-12.30am.
See a listing for Café Gray Deluxe.
Calix
Image by Betty Richardson/That's
Calix is a contemporary Western restaurant and bar in Xintiandi, serving burgers, steak, salads, seafood and diner-inspired fare, alongside a cocktail menu and wine list.
The expansive outdoor patio makes for a particularly nice vista in warmer weather, while inside plays host to live music in the evenings.
Open daily, 11am-1.30am.
See a listing for Calix.
Calypso
Image courtesy of Jing An Shangri-La
The Calypso Terrace Lounge was made for al fresco dining. The modern, two-storey structure retracts its tall glass in the warmer months, and the manicured greenery gives out a fresh vibe in the heart of the city.
It’s a Mediterranean fare here; authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, Italian burrata and house-made pastas that can be paired with wine, 24 of which are open for tasting.
Open daily 11.30am-10pm.
See a listing for Calypso.
The Cannery
Image via @miasun/Instagram
Oozing a casual vibe and boasting an enviable garden-view, if you’re looking for great food and amazing cocktails with the option to sit outside, this is your place. Plus they have blankets if you want to relax on the lawn.
Did we mention it's dog-friendly?
Open Mon-Wed, 5-11pm; Thu-Fri, 5pm-1am; Sat, 11am-1am, Sun, 11am-11pm.
See a listing for The Cannery.
Cantina Agave
Image via @teresa_loves_food/Instagram
Casual Mexican eatery, Cantina Agave arguably put that Fumin Lu-Donghu Lu corner on the map when it comes to boozy outdoor drinks on their sunny streetside terrace.
Indulge in Tex-Mex favorites, which are good value and designed for sharing and pairing with margarita pitchers and Mexican beer.
Open daily, 11am-midnight.
See a listing for Cantina Agave.
The Captain
Image courtesy of The Captain
For years we flocked to the bar at Captain's hostel for cheap AF drinks with a killer Bund view, but this hip loungey iteration made its way into our hearts a couple of years back.
Expect craft cocktails and tasty eats to go with the breathtaking city scene.
Open Mon-Fri, 5pm-1am; Sat-Sun, 11.30am-1am.
See a listing for The Captain.
The Cathay Room
Image courtesy of the Fairmont Peace Hotel
The Cathay Room terrace of the Fairmont Peace Hotel is nothing short of luxurious, with its own private butler and sommelier. All that, and a stunning view of the Bund to boot.
Their indulgent brunch is a great way to experience this stunning location. Meals there are prepared with the very best seasonal produce, freshest seafood and treats such as foie gras, charcuterie and cheese.
Open daily, 2-5pm, 6-9.30pm.
See a listing for The Cathay Room.
Cellar to Table
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
Cellar to Table popped on the scene as yet another French wine bar in the heritage villa on Donghu Lu that used to house elEFANTE.
While Cellar to Table’s main dining area is smaller than neighboring Blaz and Hundo, it does have a larger outdoor patio space, ideal for summer, and donning a heated dome for dining alfresco without the chill in the cooler months.
Open daily 6pm-1am.
See a listing for Cellar to Table.
CHAR
Image courtesy of CHAR
Located inside Hotel Indigo, this beautiful steakhouse serves up lots of haute meat and a lovely view.
Being a bit further south, it takes in both Lujiazui and the majesty of the Bund. The terrace is off the upstair bar, and always good times.
Open daily, 5.30-10pm.
See a listing for CHAR.
Charbon Rooftop
Image courtesy of Charbon
Taking over the THE CUT Rooftop, Charbon is Shanghai’s “made-to-share” experience perched on the 7th floor of IAPM mall, offering up afternoon tea and late-night dinner servings of the same menu downstairs.
Fancy crushing some 1am flame-licked skewers after finishing a movie in the IAPM theater or drinking at any of the bars nearby? This is your sweet spot.
The restaurant lounge experience is complemented by the living room style interior design. Dance the night away with one of the many weekend DJs and chill out on the outdoor terrace that comes with sweeping views of downtown Shanghai.
Open daily 11am-9pm.
See a listing for Charbon.
Chez Jojo
Image courtesy of Chez Jojo
Chez Jojo draws inspiration from rural drinking establishments called guinguette. These lively spots are known as great places to enjoy an unpretentious meal with plenty of affordable wine. If that wasn't enough, they have a pleasant upstairs terrace to boot.
Fumin Lu: Open daily 11am-11.30pm
Yongjia Lu: Open Mon-Fri, 4-11.30pm; Sat-Sun 11.30am-11.30pm
See listings for Chez Jojo.
Chili's
Image via Dianping
Set on the Pudong bank of the river looking back over the Bund, Chili's American Restaurant and Bar is a US institution, famed for their sizzling fajita plates, lip-smackingly good sticky ribs, heaping bacon burgers, hot wings lathered in Buffalo sauce, tasty, tasty margaritas and much, much more.
Open Mon-Thu 11am-11pm; Fri 11am-midnight; Sat 10am-midnight; Sun 10am-11pm.
See a listings for Chili's.
Colca
Image courtesy of Colca
Located in Yong Ping Li, a lane off Hengshan Lu, the OG Colca location has al fresco seating for warmer climates and an intimate mood atmosphere suited to both dates and larger groups of diners. Come for brunch and stay through happy hour into the evening.
Open daily 11am-3.30pm, 5pm-12am.
See a listing for Colca.
Commune Reserve
Image courtesy of Commune Reserve
Shanghai craft beer lovers can rejoice, as the spacious venue that was Stone Brewing Tap Room reopened its doors on Yuyuan Lu under new ownership and the new name of Commune Reserve.
The shared front lawn with Cannery is ideal for outdoor sipping, but the back patio is where it's at. Away from the road, the area is secluded and private, with twinkling tea lights decorating the space in the evenings.
Open daily, Mon-Fri 11.30am-12am.
See a listing for Commune Reserve.
The Commune Social
Image courtesy of Commune Social
Consistency is our favorite word when it comes to restaurants, and this casual Jing’an restaurant delivers every time with contemporary, delicious food that won’t destroy your budget.
Open for drinks, lunch, dinner and brunch.
Open Tue-Sun, 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm
See a listing for Commune Social.
Cotton's
Image courtesy of Cotton's
Cotton Ding has a knack for creating lovely chilled-out spaces in old Shanghai villas, and her eponymous bar has been favored by al fresco loving tipplers for over a decade.
Cotton's has plenty of outdoor patio seating ideal for post-work happy hours or casual brunching.
Open daily, 11am-midnight.
See a listing for Cotton's.
Crave
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
Crave's space is airy and inviting. Mirrored walls reflect the blooming plane trees outside, creating the feeling of being inside of a living terrarium. Plus, the sun-bathed patio makes for an ideal people watching perch, with a never-ending flow of coffee into wine to fuel your wandering mind (and roving eyes).
We see this place remaining a trendy spot, from daytime and into the night, with an exclusive, chic yet understated vibe. Expect a lot of selfies and aspiring Dianping KOLs.
Open daily 9am-12am.
See a listing for Crave Café & Wine Bar.
D.O.C. Gastronomia Italiana
Image courtesy of D.O.C. Gastronomia Italiana
Aperitivo and al fresco go together like peanut butter and jelly, or should we say Aperol and arancini?
Lucky for us D.O.C. not only has a sweet open-air space, but also ridiculous drink deals. Schedule a 'meeting' and hit up D.O.C. for RMB25 Aperol spritz from 4-5pm after which they increase in price by RMB5 each hour until 8pm.
The deal also includes Campari (if you like your spritz with a bite), Peroni bottles or house wine plus arancini balls. Oh, and they have delicious pizza on two-for-one all Sunday.
Open daily, 11am-10.30pm.
See a listing for D.O.C. Gastronomia Italiana.
Eli Falafel
Image courtesy of Eli Falafel
Eli Falafel's third (and largest) outpost comes with a sprawling terrace, one that gets excellent sunshine all day long.
And, opening this year, the fourth location (in The Shanghai Centre) boasts an equally sun-filled back patio.
This casual Lebanese-owned restaurant serves up well-executed Middle Eastern food, so you can enjoy anything from a falafel salad to a heaping shawarma plate to pair with your glass of wine, Lebanese coffee or cocktail.
Open daily 11am-11pm.
See a listing for Eli Falafel Pudong.
See a listing for Eli Falafel Shanghai Centre.
The Fellas Terrace
Image courtesy of The Fellas Terrace
This Bund-side rooftop terrace is tied with Goodfellas, a popular Italian restaurant on the ground floor. As such, The Fellas promises the same chilled out vibe, stellar views of the Huangpu River, wine and cocktails.
You can enjoy the spectacular view of the Huangpu skyline with pizzas, beer, cocktails and wine. Can't be mad at that!
Open daily 5.30pm-midnight.
See a listing for The Fellas Terrace.
Flair
Image courtesy of Flair
After undergoing a massive overhaul, Shanghai's highest terrace is open for business, with sprawling views of Shanghai's colorful skyline.
Enjoy Southeast Asian eats and casual sippers with a gorgeous backdrop, all while indulging in the luxury that is the Ritz-Carlton Pudong.
Visit the "Roof of Shanghai," a place to toast with the gods!
Open daily 5.30pm-12am.
See a listing for Flair.
Found 158
Image courtesy of The Camel Group
This subterranean lifestyle hub is home to a varied array of restaurants, bars and performance spaces, and retains its quaint open air charm and quirky positioning in the heart of a local park.
Enjoy the afternoon and evenings in restaurants including El Santo, Cyclo, Homeslice, Zapfler and more.
See a listing for Found 158.
Frasca
Image courtesy of Frasca
Frasca, a modern casual Italian eatery at the Middle House, boasts a beatiful, partially shaded terrace on which to enjoy lip-smackingly good authentic Italian fare.
An oasis of calm just a stone's throw from bustling Nanjing Xi Lu.
Open Mon-Fri, 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10pm; Sat & Sun, 11.30am-3pm, 6-10pm.
See a listing for Frasca.
Funkadeli
Image courtesy of Funkadeli
Funkadeli has come far from its early days as a delicatessen with a knack for making spritz a full on food and beverage destination resembles a smart European bistro with long bar stacked to the rafters with Campari and Aperol.
The real fun happens when the weather gets pleasant and you can sit outside with the other Donghu Lu party animals.
Open daily, 11am-1am.
See a listing for Funkadeli.
Ginger by the Park
Image courtesy of Ginger by the Park
A favorite of weekend brunch seekers, Ginger by the Park has a beautifully serene terrace overlooking a quaint park. An eclectic menu of Southeast Asian dishes and Western brunch classics awaits.
Open daily, 11am-10pm
See a listing for Ginger by the Park.
Hacker-Pschorr Wirtshaus Shanghai
Image courtesy of Hacker-Pschorr Wirtshaus Shanghai
One of Shanghai’s most expansive Bund view terraces, Hacker-Pschorr Wirtshaus Shanghai takes visitors on a culinary journey by giving them a chance to savor authentic German delicacies while simultaneously enjoying German craft beer on tap.
Open daily, 11.30am-11pm.
See a listing for Hacker-Pschorr Wirtshaus Shanghai.
Highline
Image courtesy of Highline
This restaurant and lounge bar within the Ascott Hotel has a spacious patio overlooking the Xintiandi neighborhood, and sexy interiors that lend themselves to nights out and formal occasions alike.
Highline serves a menu of contemporary Western food designed to be shared, alongside a craft cocktail program.
Open Mon-Fri, 2.30pm-12am, Sat-Sun, 11am-12am
See a listing for Highline.
Il Teatro
Image via Dianping
Il Teatro is a modern Italian restaurant in the heart of Xintiandi by CVL Restaurant Group. With a casual yet classy vibe, it offers guests a sunny, pet-friendly outdoor terrace; bright and comfortable first floor plus café; private event space on the second floor – host to many a wine dinner for 30-40 guests; and a fine-dining atmosphere upstairs with seating for 100 people.
Sip a glass of wine or a cocktail in the sun, while enoying some Xintiandi people watching.
Open daily, 11am-2am
See a listing for Il Teatro.
Kathleen's Waitan
Image via Dianping
This rooftop restaurant by F&B stalwart Kathleen Lau opened in 2012, offering amazing views at the bend of the Huangpu River, plus craft cocktails and international cuisine.
Open daily, 11am-12.30am
See a listing for Kathleen's Waitan.
The Kitchen Table
Image courtesy of The Kitchen Table
The Kitchen Table at W Shanghai, The Bund feels like dining in a summer getaway town on the American coast, with abundant greenery and opulent sunshine streaming through floor to ceiling windows.
And, as those sunny days become more abundant, move your way outside to the extensive patio, with loads of outdoor seating available from morning until night.
Open daily 6.30am-10.30pm.
See a listing for The Kitchen Table
Lago by Julian Serrano
Image via Dianping
This flagship restaurant at the Bellagio by MGM Shanghai boasts creative Italian cuisine in a lounge space with a terrace overlooking Suzhou Creek. Enjoy anything from brunch to post-dinner libations with a stellar view of The Pearl Tower and The Shanghai Tower.
Open Mon-Thu, 5.30-10.30pm; Fri 2.30-12am; Sat-Sun, 11.30am-12am.
See a listing for Lago by Julian Serrano.
La Maison
Image via Dianping
La Maison is in a three-story house that features a dining area, bar and vast courtyard, ideal for summer lounging.
Grab a matcha beverage at La Matcha in the front during the day, transition to Prosecco by late afternoon and graduate into their extensive whiskey selection by evening, all best enjoyed outdoors.
Open Mon-Fri, 2pm-12am; Sat-Sun, 11am-12am
See a listing for La Maison.
Mad Dragon
Image courtesy of Mad Dragon
Mad Dragon has kept the city suitably inebriated on Donghu Lu for several years now. Their terrace is consistently full of beer aficionados on sunny days and warm nights.
This is a great after-work or pre-gaming spot before you mosey around town.
Open Sun-Thu, 11am-12am; Fri-Sat 11am-2am.
See a listing for Mad Dragon.
Morton's Steakhouse (IFC branch)
Image courtesy of Morton's Steakhouse
For a prime location that screams ‘I heart Shanghai,’ our compass points to Morton's Steakhouse at the IFC Mall for sheer al fresco panache.
Its fourth-floor patio opens up to a majestic sight of Lujiazui. Really, you can’t ask for a better backdrop to go with an uptown steak lunch.
Open daily, 11.30am-1.30pm, 4pm-8pm.
See a listing for Morton's Steakhouse (IFC branch).
Mayita
Image courtesy of Mayita
Mayita’s sunny terrace is made for enjoying a refreshing margarita against a sweeping view of the city we call home.
With free flow drink packages and all day brunch options, it's hard to come up with a reason not to spend every day here.
Open Mon-Fri, 11am-3pm, 5-10.30pm; Sat-Sun, 11am-4pm, 5-10.30pm.
See a listing for Mayita.
Mercado 505
Image via Dianping
Mercado 505 is a market and restaurant that focuses on high-end jamon, full blood M7 Chilean Wagyu, Iberico pork and fresh seafood.
Its biggest draw is the terrace – always full of people consuming copious amounts of sangria and wine at all hours of the day throughout the warm months.
Open Mon 11.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-9pm; Tue-Sun 11.30am-3pm, 5.30-10.30pm.
See a listing for Mercado505.
Mikkeller Tasting Room
Image via mikkellershanghai/Instagram
The Danish brewery and taproom Mikkeller sports over 20 taps, a beyond extensive bottle list and every weekend events and pop-ups appealing to any interest imaginable.
With a tucked away, exclusive feeling, and large outdoor seating area full of picnic benches, it's no surprise that this beer outpost has garnered quite the following.
Open Mon-Wed 2pm-12am; Thu-Fri, 2pm-2am; Sat 12pm-2am; Sun 12pm-12am.
See a listing for Mikkeller Tasting Room.
Mozzarella e Vino
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
Having just opened in mid-December in the new Henghsan 8 lifestyle development, Mozzarella e Vino is a neighborhood European bistro focused on – as the name suggests – all things cheese and wine.
The restaurant comfortably fits 45 diners inside, plus another 40 outside, with floor-to-ceiling windows that can open once the weather warms, connecting the two spaces and making the entire place feel like a breezy patio.
Open from brunch until the evening, this is a place to get your sip, snack and smile on.
Daily 10am-11pm.
See a listing for Mozzarella e Vino.
OMBRA
Image via Dianping
OMBRA is located in Jiashan Market, spreading across two levels and boasting a bright terrace full of greenery and plant life.
This Western restaurant offers nibbles to mains, plus weekday happy hour from 2-6.30pm with drinks as low as RMB38 a pop, plus snacks are 20% off.
Open Sun-Wed 11am-9.30pm; Thu-Sat 11am-11pm.
See a listing for OMBRA.
O'Mills Bakery & Bistro
Image via Dianping
A staple in the brunch scene, O'Mills on Yongjia Lu is all about soaking up that sun, coffee in hand. The O'Mills at JAKC is slightly different, in that it turns into a family vibe bistro after 6pm with healthy tapas provided, pairing with organic/fermented wine selected from worldwide.
Sip on a mid-day kombucha on their handmade furniture outside or transition to a cocktail with ferry lights hanging outside in the evening.
Yongjia Lu: Open daily 8.30am-8pm.
JAKC: Open daily, 8.30am-11pm.
Yanping Lu: Open daily, 8am-10pm
See listings for O'Mills Bakery & Bistro.
Oxalis
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
Jonas Noël, the chef at Oxalis when it was located in the Waterhouse, has carried over his recipe for success to its new location in a sunny space in the mall next to the Natural History Museum in Jing’an.
The expansive terrace has an excellent view towards the Bund, and gets plenty of sunshine at all hours of the day.
Open Tue-Sun, 11.30am-5pm, 6pm-10pm.
See a listing for Oxalis.
Pistolera Mexican Cantina
Image courtesy of Pistolera
Sip margaritas and savor authentic Mexican cuisine outdoors at any one of Pistolera's locations across town.
Whether you're looking for a quiet meal complete with tacos, enchiladas and fajitas, or are down to grab some Coronas with friends, each branch is equipped with a nice terrace that is sure to serve as a great backdrop no matter what the occasion.
Nanjing Xi Lu: Open Sun-Thu, 11am-1am; Sat-Sun 11am-2am.
Pudong: Sun-Thu, 11am-11pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-12am
See listings for Pistolera Mexican Cantina.
Polux
Image coutesy of Polux
Paul Pairet's answer to a casual French café comes in the form of Polux, the lower-priced, more approachable, everyday version of Mr & Mrs Bund.
Take in the sunny Xintiandi views while sipping on midday bubbles and partaking in budget-friendly French fare.
For those particular days when the sun blazes too harshly, Polux covers the patio in umbrellas for those needing the fresh air without the sunburn.
Open Daily, 11am-10pm.
See a listing for Polux.
POP
Image courtesy of POP Rooftop Brasserie & Bar
This ‘American brasserie’ on the top floor of heritage Three on the Bund building serves contemporary dishes alongside a spectacular Lujiazui skyline.
Open Daily, 11am-2pm, 5-10pm.
See a listing for POP.
The Refinery
Image by Alastair Reid Schanche/That's
Slap bang in the middle of Xintiandi, this bustling restaurant of over 250 seats has a menu that would take a lifetime to eat through; they churn out fare from a wide range of cuisines, both Western and Asian.
Enjoy said fare in their year-round patio, one outfitted with dozens of tables, befitting any time of day or night.
Open Daily, 11am-2am.
See a listing for The Refinery.
ROOF The Shanghai EDITION
Image courtesy fo The Shanghai EDITION
An oh so trendy open-air lounge offering guests a comfortable and intimate setting for casual drinks with a spectacular view, the EDITION keep it classy.
Not for plebs!
Open daily, 2.30pm-4.30pm, 5pm-12am.
See a listing for ROOF The Shanghai EDITION.
Roof325 Restaurant & Bar
Image courtesy of Roof325 Restaurant and Bar
Located at the top of the Shanghai History Museum, Roof325 allows guests to experience the ambiance of its location while sampling fresh international flavors.
Enjoy brunches or interactive tableside dinner service while taking in the gorgeous People's Square view from the terrace.
Open Daily, 11.30am-10pm.
See a listing for Roof325 Restaurant & Bar.
The Rooster 2.0
Image via perchshanghai/Instagram
Previously known as Perch, the beloved sports bar Rooster moved into it's sister restaurant's spot on Wuding Lu.
A small-sized bar with a humongous wraparound terrace (seriously, follow it around the building, you will be surprised by how much room there is), has events every weekend, providing an even bigger draw for this popular industry hangout.
On our first ever visit way back when, we sunk into the cushioned al fresco seats and thought to ourselves, “Here’s the bar we’ve looking for all summer.”
Open Tue-Sun, 11am-Midnight.
See a listing for The Rooster 2.0.
Shankang Li
Image via Dianping
As the expat epicenter continues its move northwards to Jing’an, Shankang Li has become the IT place to be; with expansive terraces that soak in sun at all hours of the day, there is always a party spilling from one restaurant to the next.
With big names like Azul, Alimentari Grill, Homeslice, Bubba's, Gin & Juice, So Mezze and Pudao Wines, there's no reason to not spend every waking sunny hour here, beverage of choice in hand.
Open Daily, 11am-late.
See a listing for Shankang Li.
Senso
Image via Dianping
As winter brightens into spring, cozy, home-style Italian bistro Senso, with its sunny veranda, becomes the place to be, from lunch to happy hour to dinner and into the digestivo-filled evening.
Open daily 11.30am-11.30pm.
See a listing for Senso.
Sir Elly's
Image courtesy of The Peninsula Shanghai
Shanghai’s resident ‘one percenter’ restaurant has a magnificent terrace with unparalleled views of the Bund and Pudong.
Impress hot dates, out of town guests and clients with the fabulously old school cocktails at this rooftop hot spot.
Open Daily, 5pm-12am.
See a listing for Sir Elly's.
Stiller
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
The everyday dining option from the team behind Stefan Stiller's Tai'an Table, Stiller has opened just in time for spring.
Located in Xintiandi, across from Shake Shack and The Refinery, and serving up modern takes on classic German-leaning dishes, Stiller also boasts an expansive (also German-leaning) wine list, at superbly affordable prices considering location and restaurant hype.
The outdoor patio nearly doubles the venue's space, with seating for 50 to enjoy the ambiant sunshine beneath bright orange branded umbrellas.
Soak up the sun while seeing and being seen at one of Shanghai's hottest new openings.
Open Tue-Sun 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm.
See a listing for Stiller.
Tacolicious
Image via tacolicious.sh/Instagram
Tacolicious on Yuyuan Lu is a haven of modern Mexican-American fusion. Take your double-decker tacos to the outdoor back patio or enjoy any of the wild weekend BBQ events they have going on their more often than not, coupled with your choice of a margarita or paloma.
Open daily, 11am-11.30pm.
See a listing for Tacolicious.
La Terrazza at Bulgari Hotel Shanghai
Image courtesy of La Terrazza at Bulgari Hotel Shanghai
The rooftop bar of the Bulgari Hotel Shanghai swaggers 48 floors above the city, treating guests to a dazzling panorama of the Shanghai skyline.
Inspired by the resorts of the Riviera, it is an urban oasis featuring teak decking, ivory-cushioned armchairs and curtained cabanas for a discreet escape.
Candle-lit lanterns and exotic flora add an enchanting ambience, giving guests the feeling of being on holiday as they behold the city from this elegant eyrie.
Open daily, 5pm-1am.
See a listing for La Terrazza at Bulgari Hotel Shanghai.
Tomatito
Image courtesy of Tomatito
Tomatito, under the el Willy group, dials the trite tapas menu back a bit, presenting tapas as they were originally meant: not edible flowers, but light-hearted, well-priced hearty snacks paired with copious amounts of alcohol.
Come summer or winter, Tomatito's expansive patio is the place to be, with regular events taking place almost every weekend.
Swing by to check out the sexy chef, the sexy menu, the sexy drinks and, of course, the sexy patio.
Open daily, 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm.
See a listing for Tomatito.
TOPS at Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund
Image courtesy of Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund
Located in the Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund, TOPS offers cocktails best enjoyed while overlooking a breath-taking panoramic view of the Bund and Pudong skyline.
Modern lights and cozy decorum provide an elegant touch to getting, well, drunk outdoors.
Open daily, 2.30pm-10pm.
See a listing for TOPS.
The Upper Room
Image courtesy of The Upper Room
Near the Bund, on the top floor of Shamei Mansion, The Upper Room – a two-for-one concept – kicked off this past year with drinks designed by Mark Lloyd (J. Boroski).
The majority of the space is outdoor, ideal for the warm months ahead, with comfy seating amongst modern architecture, ample greenery, and a sprawling view of Shanghai's famed skyline.
Open Mon, 6pm-12am; Sun, Tue-Thu, 1pm-12am; Fri-Sat, 1pm-2am.
See a listing for The Upper Room.
Villa Le Bec
Image courtesy of Villa Le Bec
This French restaurant offers a cozy and delicious dining experience. They have an extensive wine list, authentic French cuisine and a beautiful atmosphere to top it all off.
Be sure to request a table in the garden or the courtyard terrace when the weather is pleasant.
Open Tue-Thu, 6-10pm; Fri-Sun, 12-2pm, 6-10pm.
See a listing for Bistro 321 Villa Le Bec.
Viva! Portuguese Grills & Seafood
Image via Dianping
Viva's Wuding Lu location enjoys rosy afternoon sun all along the covered patio, with seating for nearly 20 people.
Enjoy your weekends full of protein specials, plus sangria and wine, while soaking up Shanghai's sunny rays, all in the name of Portugal.
Open Sun-Thu 11.30am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11.30am-11pm.
See a listing for Viva! Portuguese Grills & Seafood.
Vue Bar
Image courtesy of Hyatt on the Bund
Located on the top floor of Hyatt on the Bund, there cannot be a better vantage point to take in both the Bund and Lujiazui skylines than from Vue's open-air terrace.
Open Thu-Sat, 3-11pm.
See a listing for Vue Bar.
The Wet Bar, W Shanghai – The Bund
Image courtesy of The Wet Bar, W Shanghai – The Bund
This never-ending party of a venue offers up Latin tapas and cocktails coupled with a sprawling view over Pudong.
Weekends are always bumping with parties focusing on everything from music to culture to fashion to food & drink popups. Plus, there's a pool!
The Wet Bar is currently closed until warmer weather is here to stay (think full on summer), but if you're at W Shanghai – The Bund and craving those rays, pop over to the Kitchen Table in the meantime.
Opening hours TBA come warmer weather.
See a listing for The Wet Bar, W Shanghai – The Bund.
Xouk by Azul
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
Xouk by Azul boasts a branch in both Puxi and Pudong, offering family-friendly fare in a colorful, open-air space, with room for 80 people in the dining room, plus a spacious patio out front with seating for another 20.
With a drink menu just as expansive as their food menu, and special deals on bottles of wine, there's absolutely zero reason to not spend every leisure moment tanning on their patio, drink in hand.
Xouk 1000 Trees: Open Daily, 11am-3pm, 5pm-10pm.
Xouk Pudong: Open Mon-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11.30pm.
See listings for Xouk by Azul.
XTD elevated
Image courtesy of The Langham Xintiandi
For a delightful spread of delicacies spanning the globe to be enjoyed in the open air, look no further than XTD elevated terrace restaurant on level five of The Langham, Xintiandi.
Open Daily, 5pm-1am.
See a listing for XTD elevated.
Yak & Yeti
Image by Sophie Steiner/That's
Situated in half the old Smokehouse x Camel digs on Xiangyang Lu, Yak & Yeti is a Himalayan bar and restaurant offering food from Nepal, Tibet and Yunnan, with drinks to match.
Although small, their patio offers seating with a view of those perusing Xiangyang Lu, one that is best enjoyed with a Yeti Spritz in hand – the Himalayan answer to Italy's Aperol Spritz – while jamming out to live DJs on the weekend.
Open Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5pm-1am.
See a listing for Yak & Yeti.
The Zuk Bar
Image via Dianping
Enjoy the tranquillity of nature in the heart of the city at The ZUK Bar's garden terrace.
Filled with lush greenery, along with an expansive beverage menu and an appetising food selection, The ZUK Bar is a quintessential spot for innovative cocktails, drinks and light Mediterranean-style bites.
Opening from noon to midnight, Happy Hour runs daily from 4pm to 7pm with 50% off on selected beers, bottles of wine and classic cocktails.
Open daily 12pm-12am.
See a listing for The Zuk Bar.
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[Cover photo courtesy of TOPS at Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund]
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