The morning sun hits the quiet streets of Shanghai’s historic French Concession, and a familiar line begins to form on Xiangyang Road. Hungry locals, expats, and tourists all wait patiently outside a bright, glass-fronted venue. They are all here for one reason: to get a seat at EGG Café, one of the city’s most beloved and enduring brunch spots. Founded in 2015 by local culinary entrepreneur Camden Hauge, this cozy neighborhood gem helped spark the western-style specialty coffee and all-day breakfast trend that has taken over the city. Today, it remains a bustling community hub where great food, fresh design, and welcoming vibes come together.

As the name suggests, eggs are the star of the show here. The kitchen team is known for its playful and creative twists on Western breakfast classics. Guests can dive into a plate of Avocado Toast topped with perfectly poached https://toastclubandkitchen.com/ eggs, or enjoy a steaming bowl of Shakshuka, a comforting dish of eggs baked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. For those looking for a mix of local and Western flavors, the cafe frequently serves innovative fusion items. A prime example is their popular egg and cheddar cheese sandwich served inside a crispy Chinese shaobing flatbread.

The cafe also cares deeply about inclusivity. While meat lovers can indulge in thick-cut bacon steaks, there is a large and dedicated selection of vegetarian and vegan options. Diners can find unique plant-based treats like taro hash browns, vegan matcha doughnuts, and homemade sodas. To wash it all down, baristas serve up incredibly strong, high-quality specialty coffee and unique breakfast cocktails.

What truly sets EGG Shanghai apart from other cafes is its unique layout and warm, community-driven atmosphere. The ground floor is small, bright, and lively, featuring big windows that let in plenty of natural light. Walk up the stairs, and you will find a cozy second-floor loft space. This upper level serves as an excellent alternative workspace for remote workers and creatives who want to sip coffee while typing away on their laptops.

The venue is also completely pet-friendly, meaning you will often see local dogs hanging out with their owners. The English-speaking staff members are famous for being incredibly friendly and relaxed, making everyone feel like a regular customer right away.

As day turns to night, the venue smoothly transitions into an intimate evening spot. While the daytime is all about lattes and poached eggs, the nighttime menu highlights a unique selection of local Chinese natural wines. Furthermore, the cafe regularly hosts its famous “EGG Chef’s Table” events. During these exclusive weekly dinners, talented guest chefs from across Shanghai are invited to take over the kitchen and cook a special tasting menu for a small group of ten people.

If you want to experience this iconic spot for yourself, you can visit them at 12 Xiangyang Road (North) in the Jing’An district. They are open every single day from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Because they do not take regular table reservations during the day, it is highly recommended to arrive early on weekends to beat the long brunch queues.