Speak Low

Nestled within the vibrant labyrinth of Shanghai’s streets is a cocktail bar that serves as a whispered secret among connoisseurs and enthusiasts: Speak Low. This speakeasy-style establishment has become an essential pin on the city’s cocktail map, not just for its drinks but for the experience it offers. Let's embark on a journey through its concealed doors and uncover the magic behind them.

The Entrance: A Prelude to the Mystery

Speak Low challenges its guests right from the start. The entrance is a concealed door behind a bookshelf in a bartending equipment store. It's a nod to Prohibition-era hidden bars, a fitting introduction to a place named "Speak Low." But this is only the beginning of its layered story.

Layers of Intrigue: A Bar Within a Bar

Speak Low is a treasure trove spread across multiple levels, each offering a distinct ambiance. As patrons ascend the stairs, they find themselves discovering more intimate and exclusive sections. Each floor represents a different facet of the bar’s personality, from casual and vibrant to refined and hushed.

A Mixologist’s Dream

The brainchild behind this establishment is Shingo Gokan, a renowned mixologist who has left his mark on the global bartending scene. His passion and creativity are evident in every concoction served at Speak Low. The menu is an artful blend of classic cocktails and innovative creations that infuse local flavors and ingredients. Expect to encounter drinks laced with sake, matcha, or yuzu, all masterfully crafted to delight both the palate and the eyes.

Ambiance: Intimate and Evocative

Low lighting, wood-paneled walls, and vintage décor elements transport guests to a bygone era. The ambiance is reminiscent of 1920s America, yet there's a distinct contemporary touch. Hushed conversations fill the air, as jazz tunes create an auditory backdrop. The ambiance is as much a part of Speak Low’s allure as its cocktails.

Craftsmanship in Every Sip

While the décor and ambiance invite guests in, it's the cocktails that make them stay. Each drink is a testament to the bar's dedication to craftsmanship. From the ice shape to the garnishes, every detail is meticulously thought out. The presentation, often theatrical, adds another layer to the drinking experience.

Global Recognition

Speak Low isn’t just a local favorite. It has garnered international acclaim, finding its way onto lists of the world’s best bars multiple times. This recognition is a testament to its commitment to excellence and its ability to provide a unique experience that transcends borders.

A Journey Beyond the Drink

Speak Low is more than a bar; it's a journey. It encourages guests to explore, to converse, and to savor. In a city as sprawling and dynamic as Shanghai, it offers a pocket of intimacy, a place where time seems to pause.

A Symphony of Sensations at Speak Low

In the heart of Shanghai, Speak Low serves as a whispered invitation to those in the know. It’s a space where history, craftsmanship, and innovation converge. For those seeking an evening that offers more than just a drink, but an experience that resonates and lingers, Speak Low is the destination to seek. After all, the best stories often lie behind concealed doors.