Eenie, Meenie, Miney, Mo… Deciding on where to drink on Yongkang Lu (永康路) is sometimes a daunting task. After all, you’re given an entire street’s worth of bars. And luckily, Yongkang Lu caters to all tastes – even those who aren’t interested in drinking. Cafes and restaurants are also plentiful along the road. If you come at Happy Hour (typically 4-8), you can score a deal at virtually every place. Read on for some of Yongkang’s best (and worst) spots to maximize efficiency whilst bar hopping. El Luchador 85 Yongkang Lu 永康路85号 If you want to begin your night with Coronoritas and tequila, look no further. Munch on their Baja Fish Taco or chow down with a burrito. Before you leave, order dessert. They’ve got churros to die for (at a hefty price of 45RMB). La Coyota 227 Xiangyang Nan Lu, near Yongkang Lu襄阳南路227号, 近永康路 Although technically not on Yongkang Lu (it’s on the cross street), La Coyota is home to arguably the cheapest burrito (35RMB) in Shanghai. In warmer weather, they have a buy two, get one free margarita deal. Le Café des Stagiaires 54-56 Yongkang Lu永康路54-56号 One of Yongkang’s hottest spots – and rightly so. During Happy Hour (4-8pm), beers start at 15RMB and wine at 20RMB. Even afterwards, you won’t want to leave the cozy and charming French-inspired space. Plus, certain wines remain reasonable starting at 30RMB post Happy Hour. Revolucion Cocktail 58 Yongkang Lu永康路58号 This funky Cuban themed bar is also one of the most popular places, if you can’t tell by the ever-present crowds. Cocktails have a Latin twist, sure to spice up your average margarita or mojito. A tangy, yet sweet Amaretto Sour topped with frothy egg whites will set you back 38RMB. Dean’s Bottle Shop 40 Yongkang Lu 康路40号 The name may make it sound like your average liquor shop, but once you enter, you’re greeted with an entire wall filled with unique beers from around the world. Dean’s Bottle Shop collection offers beers you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in Shanghai – they range from upstate New York brewed to a beer with over 30% alcohol content. Even if you’re not a beer drinker, it’s worth it to check out their impressive stock. Café del Volcan 80 Yongkang Lu 永康路80号 This tiny, unassuming coffee shop is sure to impress any coffee snob. Sip your French pressed Yuannese-sourced cup of joe outside on a nice day and people watch. Pain Chaud 29-31 Yongkang Lu 永康路29-31号 In short, Pain Chaud is basically a cheaper Farine. Delectable French pastries run you about 30 RMB or less. Recently, they’ve expanded and have added a sit-down café offering simple pasta dishes. Oh My Kebab 50 Yongkang Lu 永康路50号 Forgo the food at Oh My Kebab, and just head straight for the drinks. Unfortunately, their meat is dry and chewy. While it’s still chilly out, enjoy their winter cocktails, Salted Caramel Bourbon Hot Chocolate (30RMB) or Spiked Cider (25RMB). Please note that Yongkang Lu is in a residential area, so customers are not allowed to drink outside past 10PM. Most bars will stay open until around midnight. In other words, pregame here instead of stumbling here after a late night of clubbing to ensure that everything is open. This article was written by Tatiana Bautista. Send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Photo Credit: Tatiana Bautista