OLD FRENCH CONCESSION. Baci, located in Park 97 in Fuxing Park, serves unique, California-inspired Italian cuisine. This restaurant is one Shanghai's "in" places and the post-modern look inside makes the place very trendy. Their signature dish is their thin-crust pizza, which comes in all flavors and varieties, including an interesting salmon option. Baci also offers a full range of pasta dishes, each with its own California twist. METRO: Huang Pi Nan Lu

DOWNTOWN-NORTH. This coffee shop is decked out in modern style, with black-and-white chairs and a cozy sofa perfect for enjoying coffee and tea with fresh Danishes and muffins. Lots of area professionals stop here during the day for the lunch special, which includes a drink, soup, and a pasta or rice dish for one low price. METRO: Jing An Si

OLD FRENCH CONCESSION. This American-style restaurant, which is perhaps one of the most popular dining destinations in Shanghai, has a relaxed atmosphere. The dining area is spread out over two levels, with windows and doors that open street side during warmer weather. Kathleen's signature dish is their hamburgers; however, the Greek salad and chicken pesto sandwich are also popular. The restaurant is located conveniently close to some of Shanghai's best nightspots. METRO: Shan Xi Nan Lu

HENG SHAN LU. When you walk into this hip café, you might feel like you've taken a wrong turn and ended up in a funky little coffee shop in Manhattan. Business is brisk among the trendy young professionals of Shanghai, who come in for Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee, espressos, and cappuccinos along with a slice of cake. Rice and noodle dishes are also available for a quick but satisfying lunch. METRO: Heng Shan Lu

Just like other large cities around the world, you can't swing your luggage without hitting a Starbucks. And it's a good thing, too; this is one of the most popular coffeehouses in the area, with the typically great coffee you expect at Starbucks as well as good vegetarian pizza and inexpensive soups and salads. Plenty of snacks, muffins, and desserts are available to go with your steaming double mocha latte. Order to go, or relax in the clean, modern dining area.