Shanghai's glittering skyline is the stuff of legend. The iconic view across the Huangpu River, featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower and the modern trio of skyscrapers known as the 'Lujiazui three-piece suit,' is a sight that defines the city's ambition and energy. Naturally, visitors and locals alike flock to rooftop bars to soak in these breathtaking panoramas with a cocktail in hand. While the city boasts an impressive array of high-altitude watering holes, the true magic of Shanghai lies in its diversity. The most memorable experiences often come from unexpected places.

This guide ventures beyond the conventional rooftop scene to explore alternative ways to enjoy the city's spectacular views, paired with exceptional food and drink. We'll uncover hidden culinary gems with stunning ground-level vistas, embrace the vibrant atmosphere of riverside festivals, and dive into the city's eclectic bar culture. From a romantic dinner on The Bund to a casual stroll along the river, you can experience the full splendor of Shanghai's cityscape without ever stepping into an elevator. It's about finding those unique spots where the ambiance, the flavors, and the view combine to create an unforgettable memory.

For an intimate evening with a direct view of the Oriental Pearl Tower, one standout option is a unique, car-themed restaurant located right on The Bund. Described as an excellent spot for a date or birthday celebration, its atmosphere truly comes alive after dark when the city lights begin to sparkle. While not a bar in the traditional sense, it offers beautiful cocktails and a menu that makes it a destination in its own right, proving that a spectacular view can be perfectly paired with a memorable meal.

The culinary offerings are as impressive as the scenery. Diners rave about several standout dishes:

• Spanish Ham Brioche: Served with a soft-boiled egg, this dish is a perfect starter, combining rich flavors and textures.
• Crab Paste and Tiger Prawn Ink Pasta: A visually striking and flavorful main course that beautifully marries seafood elements.
• Snow-like Flowing Heart Cheese: A unique and delightful cheese dish that is surprisingly light and not at all heavy.
• Flame-Grilled Pork Knuckle: The restaurant's signature dish, this pork knuckle is a showstopper. The exterior is roasted to a perfect crisp, while the meat inside remains incredibly tender and flavorful.

In addition to these, classics like steak and roasted chicken are also executed well, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. This establishment demonstrates that sometimes the best seat in the house is at a dinner table, where gourmet food and iconic views create a perfect Shanghai night.

One of the best ways to appreciate Shanghai's skyline is by joining the city's thriving 'Citywalk' culture. These urban strolls offer a more grounded, yet equally stunning, perspective. The public promenades along the Huangpu River are meticulously designed to provide sweeping, unobstructed views of the city's architectural marvels, and they are completely free to enjoy.

Two areas are particularly recommended for their scenic beauty:

• North Bund (北外滩滨江): This is arguably the best spot for photographers and romantics. Visiting at sunset provides a golden-hour view of the Lujiazui 'three-piece suit' and the entire Pudong skyline. The changing colors of the sky reflecting on the river and glass towers is a truly magical sight.
• Xuhui Binjiang (徐汇滨江): Known for its relaxing and artistic atmosphere, the Xuhui riverfront is perfect for a leisurely walk. The combination of gentle river breezes and lush green lawns creates a healing environment. It's not uncommon to encounter street artists performing here, adding to the area's charm.

To enhance the experience, consider stopping by one of the many independent coffee shops that dot the city's streets. Grabbing a handcrafted coffee to sip while you walk connects you to the local vibe and provides the perfect accompaniment to the world-class scenery.

Shanghai's vibrant event calendar offers another fantastic way to enjoy food and drink with a cityscape backdrop. Throughout the year, various open-air festivals transform public spaces into bustling hubs of culinary excitement.

One of the most anticipated events is the Shanghai Burger Festival. This gathering of 'burger heads' brings together vendors from across the country to showcase their most creative and delicious offerings. Foodies can indulge in unique creations like:

• Qingdao's Exclusive Caramel Goose Liver Beef Burger: A luxurious combination of top-grade foie gras and pure-blood Wagyu beef patty.
• Beijing's 'Beileye Burger': A carnivore's dream featuring a 160g Wagyu patty topped with traditional Beijing-style grilled meat.
• Leo's Hunan Zhangshugang Chili Wagyu Burger: A spicy delight using the 'Hermès of peppers' to create a rich, aromatic heat that complements the beef perfectly.

During the winter, the German Christmas Market at Bund Source offers a different kind of magic. Set against the historic architecture of The Bund, this festive market is filled with the scent of hot mulled wine and grilled German sausages. Visitors can wander among charming stalls, enjoy the lights, listen to live music, and even take a ride on a carousel. It’s an immersive experience that combines festive cheer with the unmistakable ambiance of old Shanghai, proving that a great view can be part of a larger cultural celebration.

While this guide focuses on alternatives to rooftop bars, it's worth noting the incredible diversity of Shanghai's bar scene at street level. The city offers a vast spectrum of experiences, from budget-friendly hangouts to intellectually stimulating gatherings.

For those seeking a more casual and affordable night out, the area around Fudan University is a great choice. University Road (大学路) is lined with bars that are popular with students and locals, offering a lively atmosphere without the hefty price tag of downtown establishments. On the other end of the spectrum, the chic neighborhood around Huaihai Road (淮海路) is known for its upscale, sophisticated bars where cocktails are an art form and the price reflects the premium experience, with drinks often costing around 100 RMB.

A truly unique Shanghai phenomenon is the rise of 'academic bars.' These are not typical nightlife spots. Instead, they function as social clubs where young people gather to engage in deep, intellectual conversations. Patrons might spend an evening discussing philosophy, literature, economics, or career development over drinks. It's a fascinating blend of a salon and a pub, offering a social experience that stimulates the mind as much as the palate, and a testament to the city's dynamic and multifaceted culture.