The hidden street of “net-famous” cafes

In the XuHui Area, near IAPM, hides a street just 600 meters long. It was once known as the “bar street” and was a highly favored spot for late night drinks. Due to the noise pollution that it created, however, the majority of bars and stores along the road were closed down, making YongKang Road the way we know it today. Currently, this small road is home to many “internet-famous” spots and is filled with both yummy and photo-worthy foods. Ranging from fancy gelato to noodles in a Shanghai alley, here is an introduction to a few worthwhile stops along YongKang Road:

Glare Gelato (75 YongKang Road)
Standing out for their simplistic white storefront, Glare Gelato is “internet-famous” for a reason. The gelato itself is solid–nothing extraordinary but definitely tasty. Their available flavors differ depending on the day, but a few of their best-selling ice creams include Hazelnut, Coconut, Mint, and Dragonfruit. The real sales-making aspect of the shop, however, is the layout and look of the place. With silver tin tables, white walls & floors, and florescent lights, the venue is great for photos.
Recommended for: photogenic friends who are craving good ice cream and high-quality photos to post.

SPOOOON! (59 YongKang Road)
If you are more of a frozen yogurt fan than gelato, you may prefer to walk a few hundred meters for this shop instead. Though less “photo-worthy” than other venues on this street, the Greek yogurt and froyo made here are rich in flavor. Offering all sorts of toppings, this place would be great for a break from a scorching sun. Unlike other chain froyo places, the store is more proper with stairway-style seats offered.
Recommended for: any group of people looking for good yogurt-made products.

Tea funny (46 YongKang Road)
Hiding behind colorful walls, Tea funny is a very artsy drinks and dessert place. Known for their edible cookie cup, the store puts a lot of emphasis on the placement of their products when serving them to the customers. This is their claim to internet fame: their aesthetics. As expected, however, selective desserts and drinks can be a little pricey. Their most popular handmade milk capped tea is 48 in a regular cup, 58 in a bamboo cup (which you get to bring home), and 68 in their unique cookie cup. If you’re willing to spend some money for a more out-of-the-ordinary dessert experience, this is a good place to go.
Recommended for: anyone who might want to try a more special drink/dessert.

好再来面摊 (142 YongKang Road)
This destination is completely different from the previous ones in that it is much more obscure and not as well known. There are no lines of people waiting to eat here, and there isn’t even a door. This spot is simply a noodle place in a small alleyway, in its most authentic form. The place is run by a Shanghainese couple who live in that alleyway. The noodles are, therefore, made directly from home. The seats are simply stools and the tables are portable, but that only adds to the beauty of the place. Someone who doesn’t see the charm of this store may judge it simply as a cheap noodle place on the side of the street. However, with the passion that the store-runners hold for their business and the Shanghainese vibe, it is truly the most unique experience one could get from this entire street.
Recommended for: anyone who appreciates and loves Shanghainese culture.

Whether you are looking for an afternoon of tasty desserts or a nice spot for brunch, YongKang Road is the place to go.