Fumin Lu
By Regina Smith
Situated in central Jing’an district, Fumin Lu has historically been in prime position to host a selection of some of the best in dining and nightlife. Only five minutes’ walk from Jing’an Temple (metro lines 2 and 7), Fumin Lu is our pick for July in offering the most scrumptious of gelatos, the frostiest of margaritas and the trendiest in summer threads from a little place called Topshop, all geared to keeping you as cool as a cucumber this summer.
The Pottery Workshop
As the name suggests, The Pottery Workshop is a gallery and studio, displaying and selling works by local and international artists, and providing an art space where budding creatives can try their hands at pottery and sculpture. The Fumin Lu branch displays impressive works like those of dog-lover Liao Liang, with rice bowls (RMB 70 upwards), teapots (RMB 500 upwards) and sculptures (RMB 1,000 upwards). But be on the look out for Caroline Cheng’s Prosperity Series, featuring beautiful butterfly dresses (RMB 150,000 upwards).
The Pottery Workshop. 176 Fumin Lu, near Changle Lu. Tel: 5403 1366. Web: www.potteryworkshop.com.cn
The Pottery Workshop Studio. Lane 1A, 180 Shaanxi Nan Lu, near Changle Lu. Tel: 6445 0902
Le Crème Milano
What more could you ask for on a hot summers day? Serving up a selection of scrummy vanilla, strawberry, mango, etc. flavours as well as something a little bit different (Ferrero Rocher anyone?), Le Crème Milano is a refreshing retreat from the outdoor heat. Serving scoops of gelato from RMB 18 upwards, as well as homemade cakes and tiramisus, (RMB 35 upwards) you can also find a selection of fresh juices (RMB 35) and iced coffees (RMB 25 upwards) to help you stay cool.
Le Crème Milano. 173 Fumin Lu, near Julu Lu. Tel: 5403 3918. Web: www.lecrememilano.com
Subconscious Day Spa
Offering a selection of Thai, Swedish and traditional Chinese massage therapies, Subconscious Day Spa offers a step out of time in this tranquil little haven. With foot massages (RMB 150), signature oil (RMB 250 upwards) and hot stone treatments (RMB 350 upwards), you’ll leave feeling relaxed and like you haven’t quite broken the bank. Though that being said, there’s also a vast selection of nail (manicure RMB 100 upwards) and waxing treatments (RMB 50 upwards) and even yoga classes (RMB 200) to make this spa your home away from home.
Subconscious Day Spa. 183 Fumin Lu, near Changle Lu. Tel: 6415 0636. Web: www.subconsciousdayspa.com
Papaya 2
Still relatively new on the scene since its opening in March 2012, Papaya 2, the unconventional Japanese bar, has undergone a summer face lift. Gone are the garish honeycomb walls and the love heart seats in favour of a classier interior to match the quality tipples which have secured proprietor Kyo-san as an acclaimed mixologist. A vast selection of rum, gin and vodka cocktails (RMB 60 upwards) are the name of the game here, and a daily 6 – 9pm happy hour ensures you get your money’s worth.
Papaya 2. 185 Fumin Lu, near Julu Lu. Tel: 5404 2815
Madame Mao’s Dowry
This little lady may quickly become your new best friend once you’ve discovered UK trendsetters Topshop’s wares in her hidden trove, as well as a vast selection of high-quality imported clothing and locally designed qipaos. There are also one-of-a-kind accessories from local and international designers including ‘Candy Wrap’ necklaces (RMB 60), 1970s propaganda posters and postcards, as well as gorgeous and informative little brochures detailing the history of Fumin Lu.
Madame Mao’s Dowry. 207 Fumin Lu, near Julu Lu. Tel: 5403 3551. Web: www.madamemaosdowry.com
Cantina Agave
Few restaurants can claim they’ve won the hearts of the Shanghai public, but Cantina Agave is definitely one of them. Since opening in 2008, it’s won countless awards, as ‘Best Mexican’ and claims the prestigious ‘Award T’ for offering over 100 different types of tequila. A trip to Cantina is not complete without a signature Margarita (RMB 50 glass / RMB 200 pitcher) in fruity lime, passion fruit, strawberry or mango. Tacos start at a ridiculously cheap RMB 20, and the macho nachos (RMB 45 half order / RMB 60 full order) with a choice of meat toppings will easily feed a family of four.
Cantina Agave. 291 Fumin Lu, near Changle Lu. Tel: 6170 1310. Web: www.cantinaagave.com
Moved! Art + Shanghai Gallery
For those already familiar with Fumin Lu, you might be interested to know that Art + Shanghai, formerly situated at 22 Fumin Lu, has moved to the Embarkment Building at North Bund (370 Suzhou Bei Lu, near Jiangxi Xi Lu). You can still check out its wonderful collection of mixed media works from renowned local artists including Ye Hongxing (with her ‘Common Wealth’ collection), as well as the latest exhibition ‘In Between Days’ featuring photography from Liu Ren, Wang Lang and Tong Ng, and sculpture from Huang Yulong.
