Local Talk: Dongping Lu
Unlike its famous neighbour Hengshan Lu, Dongping Lu is a relatively quiet road in the bustling Former French Concession. When strolling along up the street, you will encounter lots of historical architecture and some unexpected surprises. This street perfectly exemplifies the melting pot of the historic and modern sides of the city along with the blending of local and foreign cultures.
Shanghai Brewery
The famous Shanghai Brewery is well known amongst the local expat community. With great beers brewed right next to your seat, hearty food and sport matches on the televisions, it is always a safe bet. Although it might be noisy and hard to find the waiters during peak time, the atmosphere is worth the wait. Even if you are not a big beer lover, their pizzas, burgers and steaks will make you crave another visit.
Shanghai Brewery. 15 Dongping Lu, near Hengshan Lu. Tel: 3461 0717.
Sasha’s Restaurant And Bar
Built in 1928, this French Renaissance style building was once the Soong family’s mansion. Ten years ago, Chinese movie “Leaving Me, Loving You” was shot in the house. The sense of history makes a visit to Sasha’s extremely memorable. Drinking or dining here is an exploration into the area’s glorious past.
Sasha’s. 11 Dongping Lu, near Hengshan Lu. Tel: 6474 6628
Phonepha, The French Tailor
This is the perfect store for those looking for decent tailoring in the city. Founded in Paris, The French Tailor has been operating in Shanghai since 2003. Top quality materials are the name of the game here and, naturally, your suit will be made to measure. An appointment is highly recommended.
The French Tailor. 7 Dongping Lu,
near Hengshan Lu. Tel: 5465 2468.
Zen Lifestore and Zen Café
Zen Lifestore offers items and trinkets that integrate Chinese and Western elements. A wide variety of products are available, ranging from aromatherapy items to neo-vintage furnishing. After rummaging on the ground floor, climb the stairs to visit the second floor and enjoy a cup of coffee at Zen Café, whilst appreciating the exclusive products from over 40 designer brands. The furniture and crockery at this café have all been selected from Zen’s own collection.
Zen Lifestore and Zen Café. 7 Dongping Lu, near Hengshan Lu. Tel: 6437 7390. Web: www.zenlifestore.com
Green & Safe
A cross between an organic restaurant and marketplace, all the produce that Green & Safe sell and serve come directly from Kunshan Organic Farm. It’s difficult not to fall instantly in love with this place at the sight of their bright, spacious store, big wooden farmhouse table and all kinds of salads, tempting pastries and home style breads.
Green & Safe. 5 Dongping Lu, near Hengshan Lu. Tel: 5465 1288
D.O.C Gastronomia Italiana
From just walking past this eatery, you will be enveloped by a strong aroma of Italian cuisine and be impressed by their
modern, industrial style. The name D.O.C stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, a set of Italian laws enacted
in 1955 to protect the names, origins, production methods and characteristics of Italian food and wine; the purpose being to
protect the tradition and quality of Italian produce. The ethos of this law is embedded into the heart of everything at D.O.C Gastronomia Italiana, which claims to be the most outrageously Italian pizzeria, bar and restaurant in Shanghai.
D.O.C Gastronomia Italian. 5 Dongping Lu, near Hengshan Lu. Tel: 6473 9394.
Web: www.docitalian.com
Madison Café
If you are a coffee lover, or just looking for something unique, then Madison Café is the right place for you. This little café
serves over 80 types of coffee from all over the world. All the beans are imported directly from their country of origin allowing you to turn getting your daily fix into an adventure around the globe in cups of coffee.
Madison Café. No. 2, 105 Dongping Lu, near Hengshan Lu. Tel: 6403 6658
CM Feiyue Shoe Store
This small store provides sneakers, canvas shoes and sports shoes from the famous and ever popular local old brand, Feiyue.
The store provides it customers with good quality shoes, warm service and unbelievably low prices. If you are tired of Adidas, Nike and Converse, this is a great alternative. Make sure you don’t miss the hidden door.
CM Feiyue Shoe. No. 15, 2 Dongping Lu, near Hengshan Lu Tel: 136 7188 2040.
