There was a day in Shanghai which I spent roaming alone, as my dad had flew back to Hong Kong for work and mom was having a classmates gathering. Walking amidst sparkling office towers and nostalgic back alleys, I was marveling at the metropolis's rapid changes. Strolling further down the shopping belt of 淮海路 soon brought me to 新天地!
新天地 is a cluster of stone houses that had been preserved by the local government. Converted to cafes, restaurants and pubs (Lawry's and Paulaner Brahaus are found here!), it is a popular hangout among expatriates and young locals alike, with people lazing away the afternoon with a cup of tea and comes night, blaring live bands and loud gatherings with beer in hand. Wanting to take a break and reluctant to settle on regular Starbucks and Coffee Bean joints, I was delighted to find Paul Patisserie!
While it was a pity that the Al-Fresco area was full, the interior seatings wasn't too bad either, with the wooden decor and violin background music giving a comfortable homely feel. I still managed to get a good spot beside the large glass window!
Chocolate Macaron (RMB 38), Latte (RMB 28)
Boy that was one huge macaron! About the size of a mug coaster, I couldn't resist ordering when I saw it sitting at the cake counter! The crust layer didn't crumble easily and had a good soft chew to it. Layer of chocolate spread was thick, smooth and creamy, but did get abit overly sweet towards the end. While it was a little pricey (more expensive than cake slices in fact), I guess it would be alright to be shared by two!
As always, a warm cup of Latte pleased me and nicely accompanied the macaron indulgence.
With nowhere to rush to, I thoroughly enjoyed myself in its tranquility, sipping away my latte and taking bites at the macaron, doing nothing but daydreaming and peaple-watching. It was a good one hour break before I move on with my exploration, refreshed and ready-to-go. If you have the luxury of time, do drop by for a cuppa!
Paul Patisserie @ 新天地, Shanghai
Unit 1, Building 17, Lane 181
Taicang Road
For more information on 新天地, visit their official website.
Taken with Nikon D70
7 comments:
新天地 looks very touristy but it's totally my kind of place! Pity I'm not going with my folks, if not I'll definitely drop by, especially at Paul's hehe.
Your photos are looking good!
Hehe I bet i wouldnt be able to resist that huge a macaron either ;)
ice: Thanks! Its equivalent to Hong Kong's 兰桂坊, but with more cafe and dining options. U should pay Shanghai a visit soon! =)
foodoshoot: Hi! yup i was pretty satisfied with my afternoon tea, if only Paul's will open an outlet in Singapore!
i want more sweet treats from paul! :D
Harris: Fly to Shanghai then, at least the tickets are cheaper than to Dubai. Ahaha
My folks just came back from Shanghai. I had asked them to get me macarons from Paul's but the macarons weren't available when my parents were there. Sobs. You're so lucky!
ice: Ooo.. find a chance to fly yourslf there then, better eaten fresh!
Hope your parents enjoyed Shanghai!
Post a Comment