FUMI Coffee is a new shop on Fumin Lu, where local Shanghai hipsters are flocking to get their caffeine fix. The space is trendy and well designed, and the flashy, reflective surface and white brick walls make excellent neutral backdrops for those #coffeegrams.
We were very excited to see a shiny silver La Marzocco machine, which is usually a good indicator of some quality espresso pulls. It was a warm sunny day, so we opted for ice drip coffee (RMB38), served in a curiously clinical test tube beaker on a wooden board.
Sadly, the drip does not live up to its presentation. Although light and smooth, we found it void of any notes of acidity, fruityness, or flavor that give drip coffee its character. The flat, lifeless aftertaste reminded us of a Starbucks or Family Mart batch brewed coffee. We liked their extra-milky piccolo though, (RMB30) – think of it as a pint-sized latte. 
For a specialty coffee shop, FUMI boasts a rather long beverage list, including a matcha mocha (RMB38), affogato (RMB 52), and fresh orange juice (RMB 35). The coffee menu reads like a top 40 of cult beverages, including coconut cold brew, bubbly nitro coffee (made famous by Portland, Oregon's Stumptown), and the 'shakerato fizz,' (all RMB38) which is renowned LA coffee stand G&B's specialty drink.
All things considered, it feels a little try hard if not down right pretentious. Drip coffee aside, however, the espresso beverages are good enough and the location is prime. Wifi is fast, service is very friendly, and our superficial selves really dig the photogenic space.
Price: RMB20-60
Who's going: trendy locals and expats
Good for: coffee, afternoon tea, desserts
See a listing for FUMI Coffee
Want more Shanghai cafes? Read our coffee shop roundups here, here and here.
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