Constellation I and II: Hide and seek
Constellation I: 96 Xinle Lu, near Xiangyang Bei Lu 新乐路96号, 近襄阳北路; Constellation II: 1-2/F, 33 Yongjia Lu, near Maoming Nan Lu 永嘉路33号1-2楼, 近茂名南路 +86 21 5404-0970 (1); +86 21 5465 5993 (2)
7pm-2am (or later)
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If you can't find the bottle you're looking for at Constellation, you won't find it anywhere in Shanghai.
Constellation bar had an almost "Fight Club" veil of secrecy at its original location, behind a mysterious brick frontage on Xinle Lu. Drinkers were initiated through friends, and journos had a pact to keep it out of local listings mags lest the bijoux lounge lose its sophisticated, low-key vibe.
The secret is now out, but with a second (official) venue recently opened nearby, there is enough Constellation to go around. The trained in Japan and bow-tied owner Kin runs the show and ensures his long cocktail list is immaculately maintained.
Constellation II has a 1930s vibe with leather armchairs and deco antiques spread across two floors. The original (still our fave) is a bit edgier and gets going late -- if the three lounges are occupied, squeeze onto the long bar. The two Constellation bars are worth a visit, be it late at night or for after dinner drinks.
Become a regular and see if you can pry out of Kin the location of the third unofficial branch of the bar -- good luck.
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