Despite its name, this bar could do with a few more shows. Live bands are not the priority here - a pity given it provides a decent setting for live music.

At the rear of the empty stage there is a redundant-looking drum kit in front of walls covered with signed band posters, but above the sizeable floor space there sits a big screen television playing music videos. Like the majority of Shanghai bars and clubs, Show Bar is dominated by dance tunes from the DJ booth. A small central bar looks cool enough but, as with the rather limited number of bottles on display, its size suggests a restricted regular crowd. A balcony runs along the wall opposite the entrance and overlooking a series of arched enclaves, nice spots to avoid the video noise below - and to sneak a peak at the band, when there's one to see.

Show bar
Daily 8pm-2am. All cards.
Address:138 Fenyang Lu, by Taiyuan Lu
Tel: 021-133 2199 8485