Top 10 Best Rooftop Bars in Shanghai

Lost Heaven Bar brings Yunnan-inspired flavors and aesthetics to the Bund, offering something refreshingly different from the typical rooftop bar formula. Their Lemongrass Mojito incorporates Southeast Asian herbs and aromatics, creating a drink that's both familiar and intriguingly exotic—much like Shanghai itself. The interiors feature rich woods, vintage Chinese propaganda posters, and low lighting that creates an intimate, mysterious atmosphere perfect for groups looking to escape the cookie-cutter rooftop scene. With solid ratings across hundreds of reviews, this place has proven staying power, attracting both adventurous foodies and cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate fusion done right.

The House of Roosevelt occupies a stunning 1920s building on the Bund, and its rooftop terrace channels the glamorous spirit of Shanghai's Jazz Age with contemporary cocktail craftsmanship. Their signature Roosevelt Old Fashioned features house-infused bourbon with star anise and orange peel, creating a distinctly Shanghai twist on the classic. The art deco-inspired interior and vintage-glam crowd make it perfect for special occasions or anyone wanting to experience Shanghai's sophisticated side—think anniversary dinners or celebratory drinks with a touch of historical romance. Live music on weekends adds to the throwback ambiance, transporting you to the city's golden era of cocktail culture.

Pop American Style Restaurant on the 7th floor of Three on the Bund brings a slice of New York energy to Shanghai's waterfront, with a sprawling terrace that's perpetually buzzing with stylish crowds. Their Classic Margarita is deceptively simple but executed flawlessly—fresh lime, quality tequila, and just the right salt rim—making it the perfect accompaniment to their American-fusion small plates. The atmosphere leans lively and social, attracting a mix of young professionals and tourists who come for the Pudong views and stay for the energetic vibe. Weekend brunches on the terrace are particularly popular, though sunset cocktail hour offers the most spectacular light show across the river.

While Speak Low is technically a multi-story speakeasy rather than a traditional rooftop bar, its top-floor terrace offers a secret-garden vibe that earns it a spot on any serious drinker's Shanghai itinerary. Their Penicillin cocktail—a smoky, honey-ginger masterpiece—is consistently ranked among Asia's best, crafted by bartenders who treat mixology as performance art. The entrance through a hidden door behind a faux barber shop adds theatrical flair, making it ideal for impressing out-of-town friends or anyone who appreciates craft cocktails with a side of mystery. Reservations are essential, especially for terrace seating, as this award-winning spot draws serious cocktail enthusiasts from across the globe.

Tucked away in the charming Yongjiating complex in the French Concession, The Roof offers a neighborhood vibe that's refreshingly unpretentious compared to downtown's glitzier options. Their house-made Sangria—loaded with seasonal fruit and poured generously—has locals returning week after week, especially during their well-priced happy hour. This is the kind of place where expats and Chinese hipsters mingle effortlessly, perfect for casual weekend hangs or unwinding after exploring the tree-lined streets of Xujiahui. The eclectic playlist and fairy lights strung across the terrace create an almost bohemian atmosphere that feels more Brooklyn than Bund.

Sir Elly's on the 13th floor of The Peninsula Hotel represents the pinnacle of Shanghai's luxury rooftop scene, where impeccable service meets one of the city's most stunning terrace views. Their French 75 is executed with textbook precision, while the champagne selection reads like a love letter to Reims and Épernay. This is where you bring clients to impress or celebrate milestone occasions—the dress code is enforced, the crowd skews sophisticated, and the atmosphere whispers old-world elegance with a modern Shanghai twist. Fair warning: the prices match the pedigree, but the terrace experience during golden hour is genuinely worth the splurge.

Hidden atop the Edison Hotel's auxiliary building, Kongzhong Garden Roof Garden is Shanghai's best-kept secret for those seeking a lush urban oasis. This verdant rooftop escape features an actual garden setting with potted plants, string lights, and a surprisingly extensive gin and tonic menu that showcases both classic and Asian-infused botanicals. The near-perfect rating isn't just hype—the intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for romantic evenings or catching up with close friends away from the typical rooftop crowds. Order their signature Lychee & Rose G&T and settle into one of the cushioned nooks for an evening that feels worlds away from Nanjing Road below.

Perched on the 7th floor of a Bund-adjacent building, The Fellas delivers one of Shanghai's most coveted views without the pretension of hotel rooftop bars. Their signature Negroni Sbagliato has become legendary among the city's cocktail cognoscenti, perfectly balanced and dangerously drinkable as you watch the sun set over the Huangpu River. The vibe is relaxed yet refined—think post-work drinks with colleagues or a low-key date night where the view does the heavy lifting. Pro tip: arrive before 6 PM to snag one of the corner tables with unobstructed Bund views.