Grub & Groove

What: A new local bar in Jiashan Loft

Why: You’re looking for a pint and a good time, not a production

How much: Draft beers from RMB 35; cocktails RMB 50; bar snacks from RMB 25

Where: Jiashan Loft, Building 2, 283 Jianguo Xi Lu, near Jiashan Lu. Tel: 186 0212 7141

In a nightlife scene full of new clubs trying to out-glitz their competitors by hanging the most amount of tat on the walls and high-end cocktail bars vying to provide the most rarified quaff of spirits, it’s nice to know that there are some new bars that want to be just that – a bar and nothing else. 

Walking into the Grub and Groove, you feel as if you’ve walked into the apartment of somebody on a sitcom – Friends, let’s say. This probably has something to do with place’s exposed brick and clear, inviting lighting. But it’s not just an apartment; it’s the apartment of someone who’s prepared for a big party. Let’s say Ross just got that new promotion. You’ve got six high bar table/stool combos, two areas with sofas and a bar on the side. Bright, contemporary music plays softly on the stereo. It’s so wholesome and unobtrusive that I, jaded nightlife reviewer, find myself unable to cope. Why is nobody telling me about the heirloom tequila behind the bar? Why can’t I find a ray of mood lighting anywhere? Where are the concepts? I need concepts! Then I think, “Relax, man. It’s Ross’s big day.”

Adding to the charm of the place, you’ll find a chalkboard with drink specials and seasonal offerings like mulled wine, all served by an experienced bartender who’s put in time at JZ Club. Plans to weave the bar into the local community are also well under way. Local bi-lingual stand-up comedy group Lauphilos plans to hold a regular night at the bar and some of Shanghai’s local musicians have already set their sights on playing and promoting the odd show on weekends. Plus, they’ve got a backyard patio where they hope to do barbecues in the summer. It’s nice to know that Shanghai has a new local.