Danshui Lu

It doesn’t get more local than Danshui Lu. In the midst of enthusiastic fishmongers, construction workers, and while having hanging clothing attack us as we walked down the pedestrian footpath, we stumbled upon a cluster of shops and restaurants that took our fancy. Here is our rundown of this burgeoning street.

Darling Nail

Aptly named, this nail boutique really is darling, with cute, kitsch furniture and a pink and white colour scheme that will make you will feel like a little girl spoiled for choice with a vast array of nail colours. A visit to this pretty nail salon is a treat that will leave you and your nails looking perfectly pampered. Darling Nail’s services include standard manicures (RMB 91) and pedicures (RMB 206) to more intricate requests for nail art (RMB 88 - RMB 200). Darling Nail. 91 Danshui Lu, near Xing’an Lu. Tel: 156 0173 6977

Le Crème Milano

This is the most recent branch of the five Le Crème Milano stores in Shanghai, complete with vibrant decor and hand painted murals; courtesy of the store owner himself. One spoonful of this handmade gelato will easily explain the difference between this fresh, high quality delight and shop bought ice cream. The store has a wide range of flavours from traditional cream-based treats to fruit sorbets; including cocktail flavours, like Vodka Orange, that are made to order. This gelato shop is a no-brainer when it comes to choosing a gourmet dessert indulgence at a reasonable price. One scoop starts from RMB 20. Le Creme Milano. 262 Danshui Lu, near Fuxing Zhong Lu. Tel: 180 4977 5733. Web: www.lecrememilano.com

Luccio’s

Luccio’s creates a contemporary environment with ambient lighting and deep blue walls that exudes warmth that is reflected in its simple and delicious Italian cuisine. This luxurious comfort food, including gnocchi with broad beans, shrimp and mint, as well as a champagne and lobster risotto; the aroma of which leaves every diner’s mouth watering in anticipation (from RMB 78). Compliment your meal with one of their myriad of carefully chosen Italian and French wines (starting from RMB 148) and a scrumptious dessert to finish (starting from RMB 48). Luccio’s. 242 Danshui Lu, near Fuxing Zhong Lu. Tel: 5352 0587. Web: www.luccios.com.cn

Mix Drink

Upon stepping across the threshold at Mix Drink, you would be forgiven for feeling as if you have been transported to a Parisian bar in Montmartre, with its narrow interior and intimate upper level. The bar offers a wide selection of spirits and friendly service. This spot makes for a perfect evening with friends when the idea of going to a loud club doesn’t seem appealing. Drink prices start from RMB 50. Mix Drink. 238 Danshui Lu, near Zhizong Lu. Tel: 138 1860 5329

Simply

This quaint little shop displays a vintage themed assortment of clothing from various international designers. From brocade jackets to suede boots, this could very well be the costume closet of the film Almost Famous, with the surprise perk of the odd futuristic knitwear piece. Get your nostalgic wardrobe staples at this unassuming store that caters to anyone with a budget of RMB 200 to RMB 3,000 alike. Simply. 194 Danshui Lu, near Fuxing Zhong Lu. Tel: 134 8221 8958

Small Spice

This cosy eatery is an expat favourite; always packed during lunchtime around the ‘Tokyo style’ single wooden table, while owner Tsukino cooks up a storm. The curries served here are made from a fusion blend of Chinese, Indian and Japanese spice to create a unique taste that is full of flavour (starting from RMB 28). The eclectic menu also serves a number of Chef’s Specials including marinated octopus (RMB 50) and an assorted cheese platter (RMB 60), not to mention a unique selection of alcoholic beverages from plum wine (RMB 35) to White Brooklyn Lager (RMB 38). Small Spice. 250 Danshui Lu, near Fuxing Zhong Lu. Tel: 5386 5035. Web: www. small-spice.com