The Music Café Where Li Zongsheng and Ashin Brew Coffee and Guitars

If you’ve ever wondered where rock ‘n’ roll meets roasted beans, Shanghai’s Sweat & Tears might just be your answer. This isn’t your average coffee shop—it’s a handcrafted convergence of music, artisan coffee, and high-end guitars, co-founded by music legends Li Zongsheng and Ashin. Opened in a prime Xintiandi spot, it quickly became the city’s most talked-about cultural café.

In short: Located at 5/101-201, Xintiandi Xinli, 380 Huangpi South Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, Sweat & Tears serves expertly crafted coffee, premium food, and sells rare Lee Guitars—all under one roof. The average spend is about 108 RMB per person.

What Is Sweat & Tears?

Sweat & Tears is a lifestyle café and guitar showroom created by iconic musicians Li Zongsheng (known as the 'Father of Chinese Pop Music') and Ashin (lead singer of Mayday). It opened in Shanghai’s trendy Xintiandi district and quickly drew attention for its unique fusion of live music culture, artisan coffee, and fine dining. The space is designed to feel like Li Zongsheng’s personal creative studio, filled with his handwritten lyrics, vintage gear, and custom instruments.

The Guitar Experience: Lee Guitars and Master Craftsmanship

One of the café’s main draws is its selection of handcrafted Lee Guitars. Customers can browse limited-edition models, watch luthiers perform maintenance, and even inquire about purchases. The most exclusive guitar in the shop is a rare piece made from precious nanmu wood, produced in quantities of no more than five per year—combining acoustic excellence with visual luxury. The presence of working guitar technicians adds authenticity to the space, making it more than just a retail corner.

Coffee and Culinary Offerings

To complement the musical and instrumental experience, Sweat & Tears serves elevated coffee drinks developed with guidance from Taiwan’s first World Barista Champion, Lin Dongyuan. The café goes beyond standard espresso offerings with creative, expertly prepared specialty coffee. Food options include slow-braised beef noodles, black sugar pancakes, and handmade pasta—each dish crafted with care. This culinary dimension transforms the visit into a full-sensory experience, where taste and sound intermingle.

The Vibe: A Creative Meeting Point

The overall atmosphere of Sweat & Tears is curated to reflect decades of musical heritage combined with modern café culture. It’s a place where fans, musicians, coffee enthusiasts, and foodies overlap. Whether you're there for a guitar, a cup of carefully brewed coffee, or simply to soak in the creative energy, the space resonates with authenticity. The décor includes original lyric sheets and musical instruments that tell stories of decades in music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Sweat & Tears located?

Sweat & Tears is located at 5/101-201, Xintiandi Xinli, 380 Huangpi South Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai. It's situated within the bustling Xintiandi area, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.

What kind of coffee does Sweat & Tears serve?

Sweat & Tears serves specialty coffee drinks crafted with consultation from Taiwan’s first World Barista Champion, Lin Dongyuan. While the menu isn't detailed in the source, it features innovative, high-quality coffee preparations beyond basic espresso.

Can I buy guitars at Sweat & Tears?

Yes, the café has a selection of Lee Guitars available for purchase, including limited-edition models. The most exclusive guitar is made from nanmu wood, with only five made each year.

What food is available at Sweat & Tears?

The menu includes beef noodles, black sugar pancakes, and pasta. All are described as “artisan” or “carefully prepared,” adding a culinary dimension to the music-and-coffee concept.

What is the average cost per person at Sweat & Tears?

The average spend per person is approximately 108 RMB, reflecting the premium quality of both the food and the overall experience.

Who are the founders of Sweat & Tears?

Sweat & Tears was co-founded by Li Zongsheng, known as the 'Father of Chinese Pop Music,' and Ashin, the lead vocalist of the band Mayday. Both are influential figures in Asian music.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Music-Lover Cafés

For a café like Sweat & Tears that blends music with coffee culture, FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Huakui offers bright citrus and floral tones with a juicy body—perfect for energising creative spaces. Their Yirgacheffe delivers delicate berry notes and a tea-like finish, ideal for paired listening sessions. Finally, the Lintong Mandheling brings earthy depth and chocolatey richness, balancing out lighter roasts for food pairings like black sugar pancakes or beef noodles. All three beans highlight the craft and care that aligns with Sweat & Tears’ ethos. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.