Since it’s now universally accepted that Le Baron is the only club Shanghai’s hipsters are interested to be seen at, Donghu Lu is in the process of establishing itself as the city’s new late night party street. Hoping to fill a gap in the street for a trendy pre-drinking spot is The Parrot, a new cocktail bar from the Funkadeli Group.
Going for a cleaner, more tropical vibe than upstairs neighbor Craft Bar, The Parrot is surprisingly spacious for a narrow back alley domain.
Colorful geometric wallpaper of parrots and cocktails fill the walls, while the exposed concrete floor, minimal furnishings and low lights keep things from becoming too cheerful. Cocktails are also surprisingly good, considering how damn cheap they are (RMB55-65).
The cucumber and chili margarita (below) makes for a fresh, smooth sipping and vegetal libation; while their Mai Tai (above) is also not half bad.
Those drinking on a budget will appreciate the boozy charms of the Islay old fashioned; what it might lack in balance is compensated by its sheer volume.
Catering to a mixed crowd of mainly expats (for now), The Parrot will also host live DJ sets from around 10pm, readying patrons for their inevitable transfer to Le Baron over the road. Owner Fabio J. Testi tells us The Parrot won’t be a late night venue; anticipating the party to carry on “only” until 3am on the weekends, and 2am on weekdays. Kids these days, eh.
At any rate, The Parrot looks like it’s off to a good start already, more than filling Donghu Lu’s void for laidback but good quality pre-drinks and party bar.
Price: Draft beer from RMB35, cocktails RMB55-65
Who’s going: the Euro party gang
Good for: pre-drinks, cocktails, DJ sets, groups
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