Bell Café and Bar

For an insider spot, seek out Bell, hidden in the maze that is Taikang Lu. It looks unassuming from the outside, but the owner has taken over the entire building and turned it into a Seussian maze of sitting, living and lounge rooms. Best of all is the serene living room on the top floor, with white couches and comfy armchairs. There’s also a small terrace for warm summer evenings. Tucked away at Bell, it’s hard to believe you’re in one of the world’s fastest-growing cities.