The Place
A brisk 10-minute walk from Chegongmiao station, in an industrial parking lot, lies a new franchise of the popular beer hall Commune. With multiple locations across Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing, this restaurant has its formula down pat.
Image by Phoebe Kut/That’s
Inside the large space there is a wall lined with half a dozen fridges of domestic and imported craft beer as well as a full aisle of spirits on sale. If you’re a beer enthusiast and want some elevated classic comfort food, this is the perfect place to hang out.
The Food & Drinks
Image by Phoebe Kut/That’s
Upon entering the establishment, we headed to the fridge wall to pick out some beverages. Commune’s boozy offerings range from ciders, ales, lagers and coolers to the hard stuff – whiskey, vodka and rum. It is worth noting, though, that while there’s a wide range of cocktails and international bottled beverages, there are only five beers on tap.
A Belhaven Twisted Thistle IPA (RMB38) and a Tempt No.7 Elderflower Cider (RMB32) caught our eye. Both bottled beverages hit the spot: flavorful, thirst quenching and, well, alcoholic. We also chose to try a playful strawberry daiquiri (RMB38), which we’d categorize as a sugar rush-inducing treat.
In additional to alcoholic elixirs, Commune also offers classic Western comfort foodstuffs, such as pizzas, pastas, salads and sandwiches. We’d definitely recommend starting with the Turkish-style fried chicken wings (RMB38), which arrived plump and juicy with a crispy coating. The Canadian Bolognese spaghetti (RMB42) came shortly (perhaps a bit too quickly?) after we sat down. It was a well-portioned serving of pasta with a good ratio of meat to tomato sauce. Worthy of note: all food orders and drink purchases are settled at the cash register on the left side of the bar. So, once you’ve picked your poison, be sure to head there to pay for it.
The Vibe
Image by Phoebe Kut/That’s
Exposed brick, wood paneling and black leather upholstery accented by tall indoor plants come together to effortlessly pull off a modern industrial vibe. There is an endless amount of seating inside and outside on the patio area, which totals around 900 square meters and is perfect for large parties and celebrations. Be sure to come before 9pm on weekends because the place gets packed!
Price: RMB105
Who’s going: beer enthusiasts, patio loungers, expats who want a taste of home
Good for: drinks with friends, hookah sessions, relaxing on a humid summer night
Nearest Metro: Chegongmiao (Exit C), 10 minutes’ walk
Open daily, 11am-4am; see listing for Commune.
[Cover image by Phoebe Kut/That’s]
0 User Comments