Banyan Tree TOPS
Banyan Tree TOPS’ position on the north Bund offers unique views. Photo by Peter Winter
Occupying a secluded spot on the northern Bund, TOPS perches itself on the 13th floor of the urban-resort Banyan Tree Shanghai. The newly opened bar has lain dormant in the colder winter months thanks to its open-air seating, but when warmer weather beckons make it a point to catch the 180-degree views of the Pudong and Puxi skyline from this modern haunt. An effervescent, white long bar is the centerpiece of the space, flanked by neon-tinted bamboo fencing and angular sail canopies. With a generous capacity of 250 revelers, its long floor plan hugs the side of the Bund taking advantage of its breathtaking panoramic views. Drinks run the gamut from standard expense account bottle packages to the hotel’s signature Banyantini. Snacks, however, are not to be missed with hot and cold tapas from the hotel’s chef, Fernando Corona. Try a sampling of nibbles from his native Spain including a sinful imported chorizo, clams escabeche with bell pepper salsa, or the cured Iberic blood sausage. DJs spin an atmospheric blend of mellow house to drum and bass all in palatable volumes still quiet enough to hear your drinking partner. For more privacy, retire to one of the ample couches situated near the edges of the bar’s glass-and-steel balcony.
Catch views of both Pudong and Puxi sights from the bar. Photo by Peter Winter
Banyan Tree Shanghai on The Bund, 19 Gong Ping Road; 86-21/2509-1188; Banyan Tree TOPS
