New Cafés Open at Shanghai Expo Source Phase One

Last night, Shanghai’s waterfront Expo Axis lit up its iconic steel sunflower structures—known as the ‘Sun Valley’—as part of a gala event marking the grand opening of Phase One of the Expo Source complex. Located near China Art Museum in Pudong, the new district instantly attracted attention not just for its architecture, but for the cluster of dining venues now open to the public.

As of last night’s launch, at least four notable food and beverage brands have opened inside Phase One, including Wangding, Civet Coffee, Shanghai Mansion, and Expo Mansion. More retail, cultural, and entertainment spaces are set to follow when the full development opens in 2013.

What Is Expo Source and Why Does It Matter?

Expo Source is a planned ultra-large-scale commercial complex situated on the former grounds of the 2010 Shanghai Expo, right next to the China Art Museum. Though the entire project was slated for completion in 2013, Phase One debuted ahead of schedule with immediate appeal to both locals and visitors. Designed as a multi-use destination, it aims to integrate retail, F&B, culture, entertainment, exhibitions, and leisure all under one roof—an unusual combination for Shanghai at the time.

Which Cafés and Restaurants Opened First?

Among the first tenants to open their doors in Phase One were several well-known names. Wangding and Civet Coffee quickly became points of interest for coffee enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Other early entrants included Shanghai Mansion and Expo Mansion, indicating a mix of local and themed dining options. These openings set the stage for what will eventually be a diverse culinary lineup in the completed complex.

What Other Features Debut with Phase One?

Beyond new restaurants, the opening night also reintroduced some of the Expo’s most memorable public art installations. The Sun Valley’s light and music fountain show returned, drawing crowds eager to see the illuminated steel structures in action once again. Additionally, visitors found new photo-friendly spots such as a 3D anamorphic floor painting and a sloped water feature, turning the plaza into an attractive urban gathering space—especially for photography fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Expo Source in Shanghai?

Expo Source is a large-scale mixed-use development located in Shanghai’s Pudong district, adjacent to the China Art Museum on the former site of the 2010 World Expo. It was designed to combine retail, dining, entertainment, culture, and exhibitions in one space.

When did Phase One of Expo Source open?

Phase One officially opened on December 29, 2012, with an evening event that included the relighting of the Sun Valley structures and the return of its fountain and light show.

Which cafés opened in Phase One?

The first food and beverage tenants to open included Wangding and Civet Coffee, alongside Shanghai Mansion and Expo Mansion. These were among the earliest brands to begin operating in the new complex.

What features debuted with the Phase One opening?

In addition to new restaurants, the public reopening featured the return of the Expo’s famous Sun Valley light and music fountains, along with new installations like a 3D pavement artwork and a sloped water feature meant to attract photographers and visitors.

Will more retailers and attractions open later?

Yes. Phase One launched with a limited selection of venues, but the full Expo Source development was scheduled to open completely in 2013, promising a broader range of retail, cultural, and entertainment options.

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