Mall 818

Nanjing Xi Lu isn’t short on shopping options, but hey, there’s nothing wrong with adding one more mall to the mix. Auspiciously located, and aptly named, Mall 818 sits on prime retail space across from Wujiang Lu and Marks & Spencer at 818 Nanjing Xi Lu.

Seven Days

Mall 818 features a number of clothing stores, but Seven Days deserves a special mention for its trendy apparel (for both genders) and cool décor. Clothes are displayed with a prominent sign introducing each designer, most of whom are from Asia. Prices aren’t cheap, but Seven Days’ hip items are definitely worth a look. At the very least, check out the store’s linen, space pod-like change rooms and let us know what they’re all about.

2F-208. Tel: 5228 9528

NAIGAI

Originally established in 1920 in Japan, the NAGAI socks brand has opened its China flagship store at Mall 818. The shop specialises in an assortment of men’s and women’s leg wear from Japan and Korea, with styles ranging from funky to functional. This isn’t the place where you’ll find a ‘three pairs-for-RMB 10’ deal, however. A pair of Japanese knee-highs goes for about RMB 600.

2F-212. Tel: 6217 6043

Dickies

Dickies is all about ‘American worker’ style, which apparently means hoodies, denim, down vests, a generous helping of plaid, and clothes you’ll never have to iron. While the store also sells women’s clothing, this is our Mall 818 pick for men. Jeans are reasonably priced (RMB 300 to 500), and its no-fuss clothes will win fellows over with their comfort and durability.

3F-308 Mall 818. Tel: 5228 5571

Muji

It’s a bit of a one-stop shop if clothes, coffee tables, couches, pots and pans, and office stationery are what you’re looking for. Yup, Muji seems to have it all. Using minimalist designs and neutral colours, the Japanese retail chain has a ‘no logo, no brand’ policy, spending little on advertising and marketing. Despite this, the retailer has been gaining ‘Mujirers’ by word-of-mouth and a reputation for quality lifestyle products.

2F-201. Tel: 6217 5487

Enjoy More Taste

There aren’t too many restaurants in Shanghai that specialise in Anhui cuisine, but Enjoy More Taste is now bringing the flavours of Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) to the city. Its dishes are made with natural ingredients and without too much salt, emphasising the food’s original flavours. Try the double-boiled chicken soup, dried tofu and wandou greens steamed with rice vermicelli.

5F-501. Tel: 6217 7793

Botanicus

Apple-blackberry, mango and white chocolate: They’re not ice cream flavours but rather types of soap sold at Botanicus. The store

sells 100 per cent organic handmade soap from Prague, with specialty treatment bars for revitalising skin, soothing tired feet, aromatherapy, and ones that specifically complement almost every complexion type. Soap is sold buy the gram, as well as in gift sets.

4F-416. Tel: 6267 9990

Yolo Dairy

Got ‘gurt? If sour milk is what you’re craving, check out Yolo Dairy, which specialises in yogurt snacks and drinks. Its low fat, additive-free yogurt is made in-house every day, and is perfect for those seeking healthy snack options. But if you don’t dig dairy, or anything too healthy, try the fresh chocolate waffle or chomp on a hot dog. Nothing on Yolo Dairy’s menu is over RMB 15.

B1F-109a. Tel: 6217 5792