Craft, Shanghai
Shanghai is a city of mending nationalities which is arguably more than any other. The breeding of cultures, juices, and spirits is seen no where better than at the latest hot spot lounge Craft. Singaporean Jerrica Lee opens Craft with Russia’s national drink – Vodka, in the China’s most cosmopolitan city, Shanghai.
Aside from the over 30 different vodkas, multitude of colorful home-made infusions, and the color mix-mash & industrial setting, Craft actually makes some good drinks. Of the seven I had, no not on the same night – though I probably could, the Blueberry Thyme Cobbler and the (White) Russian were my favorites. But I confess, the Dude (of The Big Lebowski) inside of usually has the White Russian as one of my go-to drinks. The cobbler, a peculiar name for a liquid consumable, was a sweet and appealingly sour, or tart in this case, drink. I don’t believe the garnish of the Thyme sticking out added much flavor, but who knows. Hence it was my 4th drink that night and I doubt I could have distinguish apple pie from a pumpkin at that rate.
Craft is up against some big hitters in the area with El Willy, Dakota’s, Monkey Lounge, Bar 88, Wagas, Cantina Agave right across the street. Yet, I think Donghu Lu could squeeze in another venue, such as Craft.
What to Order: White Russian (CREAM DRINKS FTW), Blue Berry Thyme Cobbler What not to Order: I think all the drinks are pretty good, though there’s one of two that I wouldn’t order more than three times … But I’ll reserve judgement and let you decide.
Rating 3 Pigs Price Range 2 $/¥/NT
Links Smart Shanghai, City Weekend, Enjoy Shanghai