Mainland China continues to astonish first-time visitors with its remarkably efficient mass transit systems and a digital-first approach to communication and payments. However, during a recent visit to Shanghai, I discovered an unexpected delight: the city’s burgeoning coffee culture, which is truly world-class and invigorating.
As of 2024, Shanghai boasts an impressive 9,115 coffee shops, including an abundance of Starbucks, making it the city with the highest number of these iconic coffee houses globally, according to Dao Insights, a publication from the China-focused digital creative agency Qumin. The growth of coffee consumption in China has been staggering, surging nearly 150% over the past decade. The United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service estimates that coffee consumption will reach 6.3 million bags by the 2024/25 period, with each bag weighing approximately 60 kilograms (130 pounds).
Shanghai’s coffee scene goes beyond mere numbers; it is characterized by style, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Among its highlights is the Captain George Flavor Museum coffee shop, owned by George Jinyang Peng, who recently clinched the World Brewers Cup championship in 2025. His approach to coffee blends seriousness with an artistic flair that captures the essence of Shanghai’s vibrant culture.
Local guide and author Christopher St Cavish observes that “no restaurant can resist a viral boost,” highlighting the power of social media in showcasing the city’s coffee offerings. With each cup, visitors are not just experiencing a drink but a snapshot of Shanghai’s dynamic lifestyle and creative spirit. This intersection of culture and caffeine is a testament to the city’s evolving tastes and its embrace of global trends while forging a distinct identity of its own.