6 Shanghai bakeries to visit on easy bicycle ride, with a stop at each to try sandwiches, ciabatta, babka and chouquettes filled with ice cream
- From a space-age cafe to European-influenced ‘heritage bakeries’ and one associated with a casual fitness club, we sample the best of Shanghai’s baked goods
- Better still, our cycle ride takes you through parts of the one-time treaty port’s historic former French Concession
Shanghai’s dining scene is in flux, but its former French Concession has never quite shaken off its European mantle, as can be seen in the lovely London plane trees lining its streets and the plethora of bustling boulangeries and patisseries.
As flat as gravity will allow, thanks to being on the alluvial plain of the Yangtze River Delta, the city is a dream to cruise on two wheels (even with a baguette tucked under one arm).
Electric bicycles are available to rent on just about every corner; enlist the aid of a local pal or your hotel concierge to connect your credit card to one of China’s super apps, scan the QR code on your chosen steed, and you’re ready to speed off.
This beginner-level cycling route will take you past scenic parts of Shanghai – some of which overlap with parts of the former concession – and through the doors of six bakeries of repute.
Total distance: 5.55km (3.4 miles)
Total time: about 1½ hours (with a 10-minute stop per bakery)
