Cool Docks

505 Zhongshan Nanlu, near Fuxing Donglu

HOURS: Vary

METRO: Xiaonanmen (Line 9)

Shanghai is home to several lifestyle hubs like Xintiandi and Tianzifang [1]. The Cool Docks is South Bund’s answer to this phenomenon. It was built in the former Shanghai Oil Plant close to Pu Pier, the city’s first wharf.

As the area develops, it will eventually fit seamlessly into the South Bund stretch, but for the moment it remains something of an outpost. Cool Docks consists of a main square with a fountain, around which are clustered restaurants and bars.

Renovated shikumen (stone arch gate) lanes lead to a series of shops and yet more dining venues. Highlights include Kebabs on the Grille, Caffein Intelligentsia, and Stiller’s [2].