Bristot Coffee

In contrast to the high-powered hotel bars and restaurants on the list, Bistrot Coffee's view beholds a typical Shanghainese neighborhood; it’s not a glamorous Bund vista, but it’s as much -- if not more so -- a part of what makes Shanghai all that it is.

The windows on the second floor offer a view of the French Concession’s Huashan Lu and Wulumuqi Lu intersection through the tops of the trees. All along the windows are wide wooden tables with leather booth seating.

The cafe offers free WiFi, so it's a great place to set up office as daily life buzzes by through Shanghai below.

Beware, though, that Bistrot is pricey for a cafe, even in Shanghai. Its menu selection strongly favors tea over coffee, and that's the recommended choice.

Try the raspberry vanilla tea from the Harrington Teas brand. It's easily the best fruit tea you've had in a while, and a mug is perfect alongside a novel.