Shanghai has long been at the forefront of nightlife, but in recent years a new type of cocktail bar has emerged, capturing the attention of both locals and travelers: experimental cocktail bars.
Creative Laboratories for Cocktails
In these bars, the bartender is as much an artist as a mixologist. A standout example is Penicillin Shanghai, a venue renowned for its focus on sustainability and its unique “laboratory-style” concept. Here, cocktails are crafted with unusual and local ingredients such as fermented rice water, flower-infused tequila, and house-made bitters.
The result is drinks that surprise and impress. Guests are treated to an experience where flavor, aroma, and presentation come together in entirely new ways.
Why Is This Trend So Popular?
This new wave of cocktail bars offers much more than a classic drinks menu. They combine:
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Local ingredients, making each cocktail distinctive to its place
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Innovative techniques, such as fermentation and infusion
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Aesthetic design and atmosphere, where the setting is part of the story
For many, it’s this mix of creativity and the sense of discovering something exclusive that makes these bars so appealing.
A Global Movement
Shanghai is not alone—experimental cocktail bars have appeared in several major cities around the world. But the city’s dynamic food scene and its ability to blend tradition with modern innovation often make Shanghai a leader in this movement.
Tips if You’re Heading to Shanghai:
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Visit Penicillin Shanghai for a taste of sustainable mixology.
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Explore neighborhoods like the French Concession and Huangpu, where several creative new bars have opened.
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Be ready for unexpected flavors—this is all about stepping outside your comfort zone.
