Shanghai’s Mellowers Coffee: Latte Art World Champions

If you’ve ever watched someone pour a perfect latte art design—roses, tulips, hearts—and wished you could sip that masterpiece, you’re not alone. Many coffee lovers visit specialty cafés just to see those intricate pours and taste the well-balanced milk-and-espresso drinks behind them. One Shanghai café has become a go-to destination not only for great coffee but also for watching world-class baristas in action.

At Mellowers Coffee’s new location in Shanghai’s Putuo District, both the 2023 China Latte Art Championship winner and runner-up work behind the bar. That means expertly poured designs and café-quality drinks are the daily standard.

Where Shanghai’s Latte Art Stars Work

Mellowers Coffee has opened a spacious new branch at 1F, Hongji Fashion Center, 68 Tongchuan Road, Putuo District, Shanghai. The spot is known for drawing in coffee enthusiasts—and now, championship-level baristas. With plenty of seating, including two swing seats at the entrance (first-come, first-served for couples and friends), it’s ideal for everything from casual meetups to family outings.

Champion Baristas Behind the Cup

This Mellowers location is home to Li Qi, the 2023 China Latte Art Championship winner, and another top barista who took second place in the same national competition. Their skills ensure every drink that leaves the bar is as visually stunning as it is flavorful. These aren’t just trained staff—they’re proven competitors on the national stage.

Signature Drinks That Made Mellowers Famous

Mellowers first gained attention for its “Sweetheart Rain” , a drink where a marshmallow cloud sits atop the coffee. As the drink warms, the marshmallow slowly melts, dripping into the cup like rain—an effect beloved by customers. Though originally a seasonal offering, “Christmas Snow” remains on the menu due to its popularity. Served in a wooden cup tied with a red ribbon, it features white cream topped with edible gold flakes. Diners often scoop the gold-dusted cream first, then enjoy the rich coffee beneath.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Mellowers Coffee’s new Shanghai location?

Mellowers Coffee’s new branch is located at 1F, Hongji Fashion Center, 68 Tongchuan Road, Putuo District, Shanghai. It’s a large space designed for gatherings, with iconic swing seats near the entrance.

Who are the champion baristas at Mellowers Coffee?

The 2023 China Latte Art Championship winner, Li Qi, and the runner-up both work at Mellowers Coffee’s Shanghai location. They are known for creating intricate and beautiful latte art designs.

What is the Sweetheart Rain drink at Mellowers?

Sweetheart Rain is Mellowers’ signature drink featuring a marshmallow cloud that slowly melts into the coffee as it warms, creating a “rain” effect. It’s especially popular with female customers.

Does Mellowers still serve the Christmas Snow drink?

Yes, although originally a holiday seasonal drink, Christmas Snow remains on the menu due to high customer demand. It comes in a decorated wooden cup with red ribbon, topped with gold-flaked cream.

Is Mellowers suitable for group visits?

Absolutely. With its large space, it’s great for family gatherings, girlfriend meetups, and other group occasions. The swing seats by the entrance are a popular photo spot.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Latte Art Practice

For those wanting to practice latte art at home, FrontStreet Coffee recommends its Classic Blend—an approachable medium-to-dark roast combining beans from multiple regions, with strong crema and notes of toast and caramel. Also consider the Specialty Blend, which highlights nutty and chocolatey tones for smooth milk drinks. Both are stable, flavorful espressos ideal for developing pouring technique. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.