What: A NYC-style loft lounge with outdoor terrace.

Why: Because you want to enjoy the summer weather above one of the city's nicest streets and revel in the zeitgeist of Yongfu Lu's gentrification.

How much: Cocktails RMB 50-65. Drink pitchers RMB 180-200.

Where: 3F, 47 Yongfu Lu, near Fuxing Xi Lu. Tel: 6437 9478.

The recent explosion of bar openings in Yongfu Lu's old vegetable market warehouse, including El Coctel, Shiva Lounge, Rhumerie Bounty, Tam O'Shanter, and now The Apartment, is overwhelming proof that this shady, picturesque street has become the city's latest nightlife focal point. The Apartment is the brainchild of ex-Sasha's manager Robb Pollard, who has led a small exodus of management staff from the former venue to this new lounge. Stylised on a New York City loft, the space offers both a smart, comfortable downstairs with cosy seating and a well-appointed rooftop terrace.

With a baby grand piano occupying the place of honour near the front door, The Apartment plans on implementing a live music schedule, on the jazz tip, upwards of five nights a week; on the weekends it's complemented with a DJ playing commercial house. Drinks are competently mixed and standard prices – house pours start at RMB 50 rising to RMB 65 for martinis and other girlie drinks. Uniquely, the lounge encourages playing nice with others – shared drink pitchers that quench three people's thirst are available for RMB 180 to 200 – as nothing symbolises friendship like sharing an icy jug of Sex on the Beach.

A small dining room is also attached to the lower level and a full lunch and dinner menu should be unveiled by the time you read this. However, far and away The Apartment's nicest feature is the upstairs terrace, with seating for approximately 75 patrons. Surrounded by fauna and quaint architecture, it's a fantastic place to watch the sun set over the western end of the former French Concession. With the addition of a small rooftop bar and tiny pizza kitchen, all of life's necessities are blissfully covered.