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I stumbled across Shanghai just by walking through Black Cat Alley. I heard of a speakeasy being back there, but never know how to get in! My friend finally explained you can make reservations online, which was great, because it is a really small establishment. Drinks are expensive, but delicious! Dark, cozy setting and it feels like you are transported to a foreign country.
The food, service and experience was a 10/10. If you're looking for something to do or you want to experience a cool date night this is the place. A dim lit space with excellent drinks and kind staff will make this a memorable experience. I still can't get over how this spot is located in an alley and you have to use a call box to get in. I thought, "Is this real life?" I was blown away by how intentional this space is. I cannot recommend enough!
It's best to make reservations if you want to visit. If not, you're taking a gamble on availability in a very small space. There are a lot of fun drinks we tried. This is a great spot for a date night or going out with the girls. Looking forward to bringing others to this secret spot.
This place was really fun! I love walking through the artwork to find the entrance. Once we were in, the entire place felt like you were somewhere else. We tried 4 cocktails and all were delicious. The service was great as well. Definitely a fun spot to hit up on a night out!
Love this spot for a fun cocktail, and a great place to bring newbies to the Milwaukee cocktail scene! I've always found it better to make a reservation, I haven't had good luck getting a table without one. That said, I've typically gone towards the start of the night before dinner for a cocktail or two with friends. This hasn't been a spot for me where you go to hang out all night, more of a stop on the course of the night. Can be tricky to find the entrance for those who don't know where they are going, and a little intimidating for a single female who was meeting us and felt unsure about walking into an alley. Once you know, it's all part of the experience, but agree that it can be intimidating for some. Cocktail menu is always on point, so many options across any liquor and flavor preferences you have, mocktails included. Bartender greeted us at our table, asked if we had any questions, and promptly took orders, and checked in when we were ready for round 2. Ambiance can't be beat - it is indeed small, but it's cozy and the interiors and lighting makes it that much more memorable. Will continue to come back to Shanghai Speakeasy, and bring friends too!
Initially got their espresso martini, but it was not good at all. It tasted like it was from a store bought premix and poured it into a glads without doing anything for $20. They let me swap it to one of their other drinks which was much much better. The pear cocktail is extremely good and what I expected from a speakeasy like bar.
This was so cool to finally check out! I've heard about it for years but never made it in. First of all, finding this place is kind of fun. It is a hidden speakeasy, so do some research ahead of time on how to find it.... Or don't. I won't ruin your fun. The space itself is small and intimate, with a dark, candlelit-feel. It might be a little hard for those with less than stellar eyes to read the menu in that lighting, but smart phones easily fix that. The menu is creative and has something for everyone. Absinthe cocktails, seasonal, all different bases, AND mocktails. We each got a different seasonal drink and they were fantastic. Service did feel slow to us considering we were the only ones in the space at the time, but I do think it was a little bit due to the time and weather. We went during our first snow storm and I don't think they were expecting many visitors. That being said, the staff was super kind and helpful in figuring out what we wanted and I'd go back again!
OBSESSED with my drink here it was everything i wanted - earl grey tea, bits of lavender, oat milk!!!!!!???? the menu has a bit of everything for everyone. and it's a fun speakeasy that you had to find. also so lowkey and was not crowded at all when we went on a saturday night. so affordable too!!! highly recommend checking this place out
Pros: Creative menu and good drinks, the staff Cons: Need a reservation Details: This place is a really cool speakeasy that you can get to through black cat alley. Inside has some decor that reflects both the pharmacy and movie theater, which I felt was a nice touch. The space is basically a converted end of an alley behind Landmark. You should get a reservation as there are only a few seats. There was a time limit, but service was really fast, so we never felt rushed. The drinks had some strength to them. Our waitress helped with recommendations as well.
This was a good experience overall. Cocktail night was wonderful. Loved finding this quaint speakeasy in Milwaukee. Due to the size, please make a reservation. When you ring the bell they will ask if you have a reservation. Cocktails were good and the service was on point. Will definitely come back here again to try a few more cocktails.
Very hard to find which was fun! But after finding it it was delicious. I love cocktails. Always trying speakeasies in cities I travel to and really enjoy infusing liquors and creating cocktails and syrups. This place definitely hit the spot. Creative cocktails and probably more creative than I've seen in Milwaukee. Good priced too. Nice little bite sized snacks.
For my 1000th review--why not review one of my favorite things in all the world? A speakeasy. I'm a sucker for a speakeasy and Shanghai did not disappoint. A speakeasy in the truest, hidden, and most secluded fashion, Shanghai serves up enchanting cocktails to be enjoyed by the flickering candlelight in their low lit bar. It's lovely. In order to stop by, you'll have to take a wander down Black Cat Alley. When you come to a chain link gate with an intercom next to it, press the button on the intercom and a voice will inquire as to the number in your party and if there's room, they'll buzz you through the gate (it's sticks a bit, so pull hard). Once you're through the gate, you'll walk straight ahead until you come to a red door at the end of the alleyway. And, voila--you've made it. The bar itself is intimate and lovely. Personally, I wouldn't go here with a group larger than say 3 or 4. The spot lends itself perfectly as a date night spot, which is what I was there for. They have a small but inventive cocktail menu. When I was there, it was Negroni Week, which Shanghai was participating in. I tried the Hug Your Friends cocktail from their Negroni menu, which was a sort of coffee forward version of a Boulevardier. Delicious! I also ordered their Sundowner Old Fashioned, which was one of the better Old Fashioneds I've had the pleasure of consuming in Milwaukee (or anywhere else for that matter). They also had a special Absinthe Cocktail menu for those who may be interested in that. The service was lovely in every way. Get (secretly) to it!
One of my go-to's in the city! Kat curates the menus perfectly, so a bad cocktail doesn't exist here. My personal favorite is the Shanghai Fog, followed by the 'Dealers Choice' option -- essentially create-your-own cocktail. Perfect for date night or just a conversational night out with friends. You won't be disappointed!
Went early on a Saturday we didn't have reservations but it was 6pm and they had room! I tried a seasonal drink this time and shut the front door! It had matcha in it- absolutely delicious - if I hadn't already had a cocktail earlier at dinner I would have ordered another! read more
6 months ago
My friend and I visited Shanghai recently after an event. It's a fun little space and feels a little exclusive with the speakeasy style entry. We ordered a couple cocktails and they were interesting, but not the best I've ever had. They felt like they'd been created to focus on being unique, rather than on winning flavor combinations. Sadly, our server was also distracted and kind of awkward, chasing us out into the courtyard to secure a credit card as if we were going to drink and ditch. His manner did not add to the overall experience. I've been meaning to try this place forever and now I can cross it off my list and move onward to better drinks and service read more
9 months ago
I stumbled across Shanghai just by walking through Black Cat Alley. I heard of a speakeasy being back there, but never know how to get in! My friend finally explained you can make reservations online, which was great, because it is a really small establishment. Drinks are expensive, but delicious! Dark, cozy setting and it feels like you are transported to a foreign country. read more
2 years ago
The food, service and experience was a 10/10. If you're looking for something to do or you want to experience a cool date night this is the place. A dim lit space with excellent drinks and kind staff will make this a memorable experience. I still can't get over how this spot is located in an alley and you have to use a call box to get in. I thought, "Is this real life?" I was blown away by how intentional this space is. I cannot recommend enough! read more
It's best to make reservations if you want to visit. If not, you're taking a gamble on availability in a very small space. There are a lot of fun drinks we tried. This is a great spot for a date night or going out with the girls. Looking forward to bringing others to this secret spot. read more
6 months ago
This place was really fun! I love walking through the artwork to find the entrance. Once we were in, the entire place felt like you were somewhere else. We tried 4 cocktails and all were delicious. The service was great as well. Definitely a fun spot to hit up on a night out! read more
Love this spot for a fun cocktail, and a great place to bring newbies to the Milwaukee cocktail scene! I've always found it better to make a reservation, I haven't had good luck getting a table without one. That said, I've typically gone towards the start of the night before dinner for a cocktail or two with friends. This hasn't been a spot for me where you go to hang out all night, more of a stop on the course of the night. Can be tricky to find the entrance for those who don't know where they are going, and a little intimidating for a single female who was meeting us and felt unsure about walking into an alley. Once you know, it's all part of the experience, but agree that it can be intimidating for some. Cocktail menu is always on point, so many options across any liquor and flavor preferences you have, mocktails included. Bartender greeted us at our table, asked if we had any questions, and promptly took orders, and checked in when we were ready for round 2. Ambiance can't be beat - it is indeed small, but it's cozy and the interiors and lighting makes it that much more memorable. Will continue to come back to Shanghai Speakeasy, and bring friends too! read more
Initially got their espresso martini, but it was not good at all. It tasted like it was from a store bought premix and poured it into a glads without doing anything for $20. They let me swap it to one of their other drinks which was much much better. The pear cocktail is extremely good and what I expected from a speakeasy like bar. read more
This was so cool to finally check out! I've heard about it for years but never made it in. First of all, finding this place is kind of fun. It is a hidden speakeasy, so do some research ahead of time on how to find it.... Or don't. I won't ruin your fun. The space itself is small and intimate, with a dark, candlelit-feel. It might be a little hard for those with less than stellar eyes to read the menu in that lighting, but smart phones easily fix that. The menu is creative and has something for everyone. Absinthe cocktails, seasonal, all different bases, AND mocktails. We each got a different seasonal drink and they were fantastic. Service did feel slow to us considering we were the only ones in the space at the time, but I do think it was a little bit due to the time and weather. We went during our first snow storm and I don't think they were expecting many visitors. That being said, the staff was super kind and helpful in figuring out what we wanted and I'd go back again! read more
1 year ago
OBSESSED with my drink here it was everything i wanted - earl grey tea, bits of lavender, oat milk!!!!!!???? the menu has a bit of everything for everyone. and it's a fun speakeasy that you had to find. also so lowkey and was not crowded at all when we went on a saturday night. so affordable too!!! highly recommend checking this place out read more
2 years ago
Pros: Creative menu and good drinks, the staff Cons: Need a reservation Details: This place is a really cool speakeasy that you can get to through black cat alley. Inside has some decor that reflects both the pharmacy and movie theater, which I felt was a nice touch. The space is basically a converted end of an alley behind Landmark. You should get a reservation as there are only a few seats. There was a time limit, but service was really fast, so we never felt rushed. The drinks had some strength to them. Our waitress helped with recommendations as well. read more
9 months ago
2 years ago
This was a good experience overall. Cocktail night was wonderful. Loved finding this quaint speakeasy in Milwaukee. Due to the size, please make a reservation. When you ring the bell they will ask if you have a reservation. Cocktails were good and the service was on point. Will definitely come back here again to try a few more cocktails. read more
Very hard to find which was fun! But after finding it it was delicious. I love cocktails. Always trying speakeasies in cities I travel to and really enjoy infusing liquors and creating cocktails and syrups. This place definitely hit the spot. Creative cocktails and probably more creative than I've seen in Milwaukee. Good priced too. Nice little bite sized snacks. read more
4 years ago
For my 1000th review--why not review one of my favorite things in all the world? A speakeasy. I'm a sucker for a speakeasy and Shanghai did not disappoint. A speakeasy in the truest, hidden, and most secluded fashion, Shanghai serves up enchanting cocktails to be enjoyed by the flickering candlelight in their low lit bar. It's lovely. In order to stop by, you'll have to take a wander down Black Cat Alley. When you come to a chain link gate with an intercom next to it, press the button on the intercom and a voice will inquire as to the number in your party and if there's room, they'll buzz you through the gate (it's sticks a bit, so pull hard). Once you're through the gate, you'll walk straight ahead until you come to a red door at the end of the alleyway. And, voila--you've made it. The bar itself is intimate and lovely. Personally, I wouldn't go here with a group larger than say 3 or 4. The spot lends itself perfectly as a date night spot, which is what I was there for. They have a small but inventive cocktail menu. When I was there, it was Negroni Week, which Shanghai was participating in. I tried the Hug Your Friends cocktail from their Negroni menu, which was a sort of coffee forward version of a Boulevardier. Delicious! I also ordered their Sundowner Old Fashioned, which was one of the better Old Fashioneds I've had the pleasure of consuming in Milwaukee (or anywhere else for that matter). They also had a special Absinthe Cocktail menu for those who may be interested in that. The service was lovely in every way. Get (secretly) to it! read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
One of my go-to's in the city! Kat curates the menus perfectly, so a bad cocktail doesn't exist here. My personal favorite is the Shanghai Fog, followed by the 'Dealers Choice' option -- essentially create-your-own cocktail. Perfect for date night or just a conversational night out with friends. You won't be disappointed! read more
3 years ago
This place is slick as sh*t! Go here. The alley to lead here is magical and doesn't feel like Milwaukee. The drinks were amazing. My husband doesn't even like absenthe (sorry, my spelling sucks) and thinks It was great. The sake drinks were great and I had gin. Which I swear by and would recommend to anyone. :). Do. It. Now. Do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars. read more
This speakeasy is Milwaukee's best craft cocktail joint- Fight me on it! They help you get in, make you feel comfortable (the are limiting their capacity so very safe during Covid), and ask you what you feel like drinking. The bartender made me a very good citrus drink. We also got a traditional absinthe drink which was so good! Please consider this joint for a night when you want some delicious drinks and some risqué atmosphere (the food smells wafting in through the surreptitious curtains will guide you to food to Crossroads Collective). All up! read more
2 years ago
Loved the concept and delivery of this place! Wish Milwaukee had more like it! Drinks were exceptional, service was great as well! read more
2 years ago
It's a cute space. Tiny though so it is likely better to have a reservation. Service is fine and the drinks are unique. read more
2 years ago
Such an awesome date night spot! We got two sake drinks that were chilled and tasted very good. We then enjoyed the Shanghai fog which was my fav and the lady bird. Service was quick and attentive. Would recommend making a reservation ahead of time on weekends. read more
Such a sneaky place to get to, but it was awesome! I'm from out of town but some folks who were taking photos in Black Cat Alley steered me the right way, as I passed the entrance my first time around. We got seated toward the entrance door and we were shown the drinks and given plenty of time to choose and add on more drinks throughout the night. The ambiance was very relaxed, dim lit, and intimate. Most of the seating, as far as I could see, was against the wall like bar seating and two seat tables. Not sure about farther down the hall though. I believe it's reservation only, but they were easy to do online. We got some yummy drinks-- I especially loved the one I got if you're into sweet fruity cocktails. These had lychee popping jellies in them! read more
A great place for some late night drinks- it has a small cozy feel, with a variety of unique drinks! I haven't tried the food (I'm not sure if they offer food actually?), but everyone working was super professional and really nice! read more
This is the perfect place to come grab a few drinks! It's located in Black Cat Alley, behind Crossroads Collective. The alley is pretty interesting and you can definitely get some cool photo ops there. In the alley, there's a gate marked with S. Just ring the intercom and they'll direct you in. If you have more than just two people, I'd recommend a reservation! The drinks we had were very tasty. They're so good about putting taste descriptions of the drinks on their menu, so you have a heads up what you're getting into. I had the Shanghai Fog and the All Eyes On Me. I really liked both, but perhaps I liked the All Eyes on Me a little better. It was just the right amount of sweet and the pineapple foam on top was so good! The person I was with had the Playing with the moon, and the Under it's curse. They really enjoyed both of them - said the Playing with the moon was excellent! They have a list of wines and beers as well in case cocktails aren't your thing, but I'd definitely recommend trying one of their cocktails! Highly recommend trying this place, you won't be disappointed! read more
Yes I am all about this speakeasy! I've only been to two others speakeasies in my life, but this one takes the crown! If you enjoy hidden speakeasies and cocktails look no further. I heard of Shanghai from a friend when asking if they know any speakeasies in town. Let's say they made a really good recommendation to an enjoyable speakeasy. Shanghai is hidden in the black cat alley area and will need to buzz in just to get into the speakeasy. It's probably better to make a reservation for the speakeasy, but both times I went they weren't too busy so I was able to get in with no reservation. Once inside Shanghai you are instantly thrown back in time as if you were in the prohibition era. It is small inside which totally matches the vibe! Now the drinks is where Shanghai shines even brighter. Like I stated earlier this is more of a cocktail joint so they don't have many beer choices. However, the bartender can pretty much make whatever cocktail your heart desires. They have a good choice of unique mixed drinks on their menu, but my favorite is dealer's choice. This option you tell the bartender what you like and she'll make you a cocktail to that taste. Every time I go there I do this option and have never been disappointed! Another amazing part of Shanghai is the bartender. She is so friendly and fun to talk to. She makes Shanghai so much of a joy to be at. She gave us a run down on the history of speakeasies and even told us about some other really cool speakeasies throughout the country! Overall this is the place to go to! If you love cocktails Shanghai will be heaven for you. I recommend this place for any occasion from hanging with friends to a romantic date night. Shanghai is small so I would keep the group size on the smaller side. read more
I had such a good experience at Shanghai last night. I made a reservation for me and two of my friends for a girls night and I have to say it is probably the perfect spot for a girls night or an intimate date. There is not a whole lot of room, so I would recommend getting a reservation just in case althoughI do believe they allow walk-ins only if there is space available. There was only one other couple seated while we were there, and I can't imagine they would be able to seat much more than that. I actually really love that because it made the whole experience feel exclusive and all the more special. If you do decide to come, i would recommend coming early to make sure you get a spot. I did have a hard time finding the entrance in the Black Cat Alley, but honestly I thought that was part of the fun trying to find where the door was! The setting is very romantic with it's dim lighting and is decorated with vintage posters. I ordered two cocktails: "Turtles all the way down" and a "Dealer's choice" where our bartender made a customized drink based on the alcohol/flavors that I like. Both drinks were so refreshing and delicious! Also strong but not overbearing. Our bartender was so nice, friendly, and invested in making sure we had a quality evening. I will definitely be coming back! read more
5 years ago
Fantastic bar! Cozy environment with a great team. I don't often order a "dealers choice" where you tell them what you're in the mood for and the bartender makes something, but we decided to try it and got three 5/5 amazing drinks. We couldn't believe how each one was EXACTLY what we would want. Excited to try more creations, this bartender is a genius and the hostess was delightful. read more
Cute, quiet spot for some cocktails! They have a few beer options for those not interested in drinking liquor. Bartender was helpful with suggestions. Someone in our group ended up not liking their cocktail and the bartender brought them a complimentary beer, which was so sweet! Only a few tables inside, so had to put our name on a waitlist. read more
Definitely plan ahead if you're wanting to go to Shanghai with friends. They have one table that accommodates more than 3 people so you're gonna want to snag a reservation on tock if you're going with a group! That being said, it's completely worth it. They have great cocktails, wonderful ambiance and the service is great as well. Try their CBD cocktail if you're looking for a special experience! read more
This was a have to see what it's about place. I suggest going after dark, because half the fun is walking into the alley and getting in ( it's perfectly safe and well lit). Inside is tiny and this is more of a romantic talking spot. The drinks are quite good and tasty. Service was slow and they never returned to us for another drink so we got up and went to them to pay( it should be noted that there were only 5 people sitting and we were 3 of them) we then left. It's a fun place to say you've been there but doesn't have much return value. read more
2 years ago
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More info about Shanghai
2238 N Farwell Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53202
East Side, Lower East Side
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Food & Alcohol
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