The renowned cocktail master Yao Lu’s cocktail-making skills are held in high standards —when you enter the bar, you are here trying his libations in reverence. In The Union Trading Company, with not just an extensive, well-curated list of cocktails on their menu, but a very competently crafted food menu.
Yao Lu has pushed the Shanghai cocktail scene in exciting new directions, but ironically the secret of his success is old-fashioned hospitality.
International crowd comes to this exclusive space
The interior decor is warm and classic – it boasts a striking bar with tall chairs and forms an exclusive space where elegant, modern small plates and beautiful classic cocktails meet. At the second floor, it brings one to another cozy dining space for serious diners.
I went straight to their cocktail menu. Much lauded is the Southern China Iced Tea (RMB$90), which packed a real rummy punch by using the Southern China candy. The composition of sweetness kept intact, rather than doused by the typical high sugar content. The result is an extremely refreshing and sprightly drink that makes a great palate opener.
Pair The Union Trading Company’s 560 State Street (RMB$90) with a couple of small plates. It was a competently crafted cocktail with a serious yet slightly fiery kick.
The Murder In The Vines (RMB$95), literally, was with rhythmic flavours from the citrus, raisins and bourbon base – definitely a cocktail choice for the ladies I must say.
Verdict
Carefully feel your way along their expansive cocktail list. The Union Trading Company is just a stone’s throw away from IAPM Mall and Shaanxi Road South Metro Station, this is one bar venue you should make part of your travel adventure.
Review Rating: 8.5/10
The Union Trading Company
64 Fenyang Rd, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 6.00pm to 2.00am
Nearest station: Shaanxi Road South Metro Station
