DOWNTOWN. Desserts are the specialty of the house at this stylish café, where a young professional crowd gathers in the evening. Try the warm chocolate cake, drizzled with a sweet, fruity glaze, and served with ice cream scooped into a baked pineapple cup; the bread pudding with caramelized pears in vanilla sauce; or the decadent baked banana tart. With a bar upstairs and a patio in the back, there is plenty of room to relax in.

BUND. This café, which serves light meals, coffee, and tea, is popular among area professionals and young people. An outdoor balcony offers cityscape views, while guests enjoy great Italian espressos and cappuccino drinks. Inexpensive snack options include chicken, ham, or tuna salad sandwiches. METRO: Huang Pi Nan Lu

WAITAN. Located in a building "on the Bund" that dates back to the 1920s, this Continental-style restaurant is arguably the classiest in Shanghai. Wealthy expatriates and Chinese tend to favor M, helping to make it one of the most chic places in town. Their best dishes include the confit of rabbit served on pappardelle, crispy suckling pig served with roasted potatoes and wilted greens, and Mediterranean seafood stew served with croutons and rich rouille.

DOWNTOWN. Despite its location in the middle of a busy shopping mall, this café manages to evoke the feeling of a peaceful neighborhood establishment, with colorful couches, greenery, and lampposts situated throughout. Join the locals, who come for a cup of tea and a game of cards, and don't miss the special "happy hour" dessert deal. Two people can enjoy coffee or tea and share three desserts for one low price. Many crepes, cakes, and ice cream flavors are available to choose from. METRO: Huang Pi Nan Lu

DOWNTOWN/OLD FRENCH CONCESSION. This shop is an excellent place to enjoy coffee or tea and a sweet pastry before perusing the unique collection of books collected by the café's owner, Deke Erh. Enjoy your beverage surrounded by artistic displays lovingly created by Erh, a Shanghianese photographer. He has created a wonderful refuge from the chaos of the city, featuring old-fashioned lamps, tall wall clocks, intimate tables, and beautiful photos and art. Popular among the artsy crowd and with foreigners. METRO: Shanxi Nan Lu