Barbarossa

231 Nanjing Xilu, near Huangpi Nanlu
inside People’s Park
21/6318-0220

HOURS: Daily 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

METRO: People’s Square (Line 1, Line 2, Line 8), exit 10

Watch the sun set over People’s Park [1] at this gorgeous lakeside cocktail bar—one of the best-located nightlife spots in downtown Shanghai. Nestled inside a lily grove in an eastern corner of the park, Barbarossa [2] looks like a Bedouin tent floating on the water and features a crenellated terrace looking out onto the lake.

Low stools and comfortable velvet divan couches make up the seating and the walls are decorated with mosaics and mirrors that reflect the low, warm lighting. A popular ladies’ night runs on Wednesdays, when women can drink free cocktails while listening to house music.

On a warm evening, there’s no better place to enjoy the night air and watch People’s Square come alive beyond the treetops. If you’re in need of a meal, check out the North African fusion restaurant downstairs.