Metal Hands, Shanghai

#shanghaionbudget Metal Hands in Shanghai is a sleek, design-forward café that feels like stepping into a sci-fi space capsule — you might even forget you’re in the bustling city. The interior features concrete walls, wooden accents, mirror-embellished “capsule” baristas’ stations, and skylights framed by greenery — a perfect blend of industrial minimalism and otherworldly charm . But the real story is the coffee. Famous for its “dirty” style drinks — espresso poured over cold milk — and creative seasonal specials like cinnamon “fried-egg” latte, iced coconut poached-egg latte, and matcha offerings, each cup is as visually striking as it is flavorful . You’ll also find pour-overs, rich hand-drips, and a cozy menu of croissants, sandwiches, and desserts . The vibe is intimate and artistic — low seating, calm atmosphere, and small size mean it’s often quiet enough to work or reflect (though peak hours can fill up fast) . Note: outlets are limited, so bring a charged laptop if you plan to linger . ⸻ If you’re drawn to design, crave standout drinks, and enjoy cafés that double as creative sanctuaries, Metal Hands is an essential stop on your Shanghai itinerary. Located at 234 Nanchang Road in Huangpu District.