The W Shanghai’s seasonal poolside bar and fly terrace lounge is a massive space decked out in ways that scream contemporary design. An eclectic collection of low level chairs and other sitting contraptions with their bold, solid colours and clean curved lines make you feel like you’ve stepped into a gathering of hip designers who met up inside some kind of pantone commercial. This is where the cool kids hang out.
Sadly the pool is closed come dusk, but that doesn't make it an any less desirable destination for some al fresco drinks with friends, albeit amidst hundreds of photoshoots against the stunning backdrop of both the Pudong skyline and the full span of the Bund. Smartly served in various (reusable) plastic cups so that no one's swimming in a pool full of broken glass when things get rowdy, drinks are pool appropriate – icy, fruity and fresh. Try the dark purple hued You've Got the Beet with rich dark chocolate infused tequila and subtle bursts of beetroot and blueberry sweetened with agave or a frozen, gin-based take on a Basil Drop cocktail.
Reservations recommended.
