While it may only be the start of another semester, homework, tests, and projects are just around the corner. For those of who who need a change of scenery from the academic building or dorms, check out these cafes around town to discover new study spots. Or, if you’re like me, at least Instagram a shot of your latte, Macbook, and Chinese textbook to make it look like you’re being productive. Sumerian Most expats will agree that Sumerian is the best coffee shop in Shanghai, but be sure to go early on weekends to make sure you can grab a seat. Instead of making a separate trip to Spread the Bagel, you can save time and fix your bagel and coffee craving in one spot. Boom Boom Bagels are now served at Sumerian, offering an extensive amount of bagel sandwich variations. Plus, the owner’s dogs, Doudou and Burrito, are usually roaming around the café. Even better, Sumerian is apparently opening up another shop in Pudong sometime this year. 415 Shaanxi Bei Lu, near Beijing Xi Lu 陕西北路415号, 近北京西路 Seesaw Cafe The coffee is reasonably priced, and sourced from all over the world. However, most impressive is the design of the café. Plenty of natural light pours in from the high ceilings, keeping the atmosphere lively. The brightly lit interior makes writing that GPC paper a bit more pleasant. Although regarding food, don’t come and expect to have a full meal. Offerings are limited to cookies and cakes, so eat lunch beforehand. Also, if you’re more of a late-night café-goer, Seesaw is open until 11 on weekdays. Jingan Design Centre, 433 Yuyuan Lu, near Wulumuqi Bei Lu 静安区愚园路433号静安设计中心内, 近乌鲁木齐北路 Lanna Coffee Although it’s a fairly new establishment to the Shanghai café scene, Lanna Coffee sources Yunnanese coffee and other single-origin, high-quality beans. Situated in Jing’an, its vicinity to Cinnaswirl and Co. Cheese Melt bar is just another thing to pull you in and diversify your dining options. 8 Yuyuan Dong Lu, near Tongren Lu 愚园东路8号, 近铜仁路 Baker and Spice A safe bet would be Baker and Spice, especially considering it has locations all over Shanghai. Whether you want to stay on this side of the river, or already find yourself in Puxi, it’s likely you’re not far from a branch. The food and coffee are both moderately priced and the quality is consistent. Also, the bread’s not a bad buy if you’re one of those people that’s into that whole fiber thing. Locations all throughout Shanghai. This article was written by Tatiana Bautista. Send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Photo Credit: Tatiana Bautista