Kartel is definitely not your average wine lounge. It got character, it got class, and it got attitude. You won't find any oak barrels here; instead you get sofas modified from bathtubs and colorful Chinese porcelain stools.

Run by Vincent Landais, former partner at Dr. Wine, Kartel offers three floors of pure vinous delight in a sophisticated setting. As the design company Dariel & Arfeuillere puts it, the concept here is ‘Destroy Chic’. You can find the ‘Destroy’ part in the 5th-floor main lounge, where exposed concrete walls and stripped down pillars make for the raw backbone. These are juxtaposed with elegant chrome-plated armchairs and Art Deco inspired tables.

The space downstairs is more intimate and mature. Equipped with moldings and a fireplace, it reminds one of traditional Parisian salons. The rooftop terrace is the perfect place to take in the city view, which comes with a separate bar and comfy sofas.

With a focus on Burgundy and Bordeaux, the wine list here is diversified and affordable, with bottles starting from around 300rmb. 18 types of wine by glass are also available, while cocktails lovers can sample a number of wine-based cocktails, such as Strawberry Crush (55rmb) and Sweet Lady (65rmb). – Stella Shu

More Shanghai bars in: French Concession