The place
Newly opened on Shandong Lu, Equilibrium is a spacious café selling salads, sandwiches, pastries, coffee and breakfasts, and sister to the original, less cool branch in Pudong's Superbrand Mall. It’s also ‘sandwiched’ betwixt fellow café The Press and Buzztime Coffee. We imagine the three must vie over customers pretty fiercely in this predominantly local-frequented street.
The food
When it comes to food, however, Equilibrium seems to be winning the battle with an expertly curated menu of exactly the kinds of things we’re trying to eat at breakfast and lunchtime. Emmentaler with tomato, red onion, lettuce and cress (RMB58)?
Pulled pork or Danish meatball on sourdough (RMB58)? Spiced duck salad with pancetta and roasted pine nuts (RMB49)? Yes please.
Breakfasters are also cared for – yogurt with honey, granola and bananas (RMB28) was particularly pleasant paired with a fresh and decently made almond and chocolate croissant (RMB18). No making that tough choice between almond croissant or pain au chocolat here fam.
Coffee is stronger than some will care for – our cappuccino (RMB32) was robust and heavy – we’d guess they’re using a less fatty milk than what seems to be the prevailing fashion in Shanghai. Fine if you like it that way; if not try the milkier latte (also RMB32).
More substantial eats are also on the menu, including risottos (RMB58), pastas (RMB45+), soups (RMB28) and roasted snapper (RMB88), as well as a selection of juices, shakes and beers.
Food verdict: 2/3
The vibe
Equilibrium has the feel of a hip, slightly more upmarket Pret a Manger. With ample seating both downstairs and on the upper mezzanine level, we could easily stay for hours with a good book (or work, more likely) – just as equally as we could drop by for a quick bite to eat and an espresso.
Vibe verdict: 1/1
Value for money
Ingredients are good quality and fresh, and the space is nice to be in. It’s a yes from us.
Value for money: 1/1
TOTAL VERDICT: 4/5
Price: RMB25-88
Who’s going: caffeine loving locals, creative types
Good for: coffee, breakfast, salads, sandwiches
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