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New Opening: Odd Couple Explodes With Retro 80s Energy

ShanghaiWOWeng 2019-04-05



Tucked within a famous Xintiandi landmark, where Devils Snare used to be, lies a new 80’s retro-themed cocktail lounge, “Odd Couple”. 




Inspired by the movie of the same name, this may already be an indicator of the genius yet odd coupling of the distinct creativity of Shingo Gokan (from renowned Shanghai hot spots Speak Low and Sober Company) and Steve Schneider (from NYC fame Employees Only and the bar of the same name in Singapore and Strangers Club in Panama).


Photo Credit: Odd Couple


Both born in 1983, they met in a cocktail competition a decade ago and struck a friendship based on mutual admiration of each other’s craft. The idea of opening a bar together was born six months ago, and the rest is history. How odd is this odd couple? The menu holds a clue. Schneider’s high pace, high cocktail volume drinks and intense flavoring is a contrast to the delicate and finesse of Gokan's. It's kind of like the Ying to the Yang.


Photo Credit: Odd Couple


Designed by award-winning Atsuhiko Sugiyama of the renowned Tokyo-based firm The Whole Design, this is based on what an 80’s era - Gokan and Schneider would imagine - bar of the future would look like. 



The entrance was inspired by Pacman, and if you want to play a game of Pac Man, you can!



And their dual drink menu is like a video game challenge between Player 1 vs. Player 2; you can take on the different tastes like citrus, flower, vegetable, tea, strong, sweet, tropical, and low ABV.


Photo Credit: Odd Couple


Low ABV


Pac Man, RMB 100. Manzanilla sherry, sue honey, egg white, lemon


In the low alcohol category, the duo provides contrasting approaches to the drinks. Schneider comes in strong with his Otobot which creates a distinct taste that is punchy and packs an aftertaste that keeps you coming back for more, versus Pac Man, a concoction from Gokan which is mellow and with soft citrusy aromas. 


Otobot, RMB 110. Oloroso sherry, coconut water, lime


Flower


Faye Faye, RMB 120. Bacardi, jasmine, mango, longan, elderflower


When it comes to the flowery cocktail, Gokan’s Faye Faye smells like a gentle and well-kept garden that has a powerful jasmine aroma with a silky smooth finish. Schneider’s take features Roseanna, a bold drink with a strong citrus note and a tangy sorbet flavor that reminds you of a wild summer field.


Roseanna, RMB 120. Bombay Sapphire, hibiscus, Campari, grapefruit sorbet


Vegetable


(Left) Crazy Girl, RMB 120. Bombay Sapphire, watermelon, pineapple, basil; (Right) Lazy Boy, RMB 120. Tequila, jalapeno, tomato, green chartreuse


For the drinks in the vegetable category, they both have a strong earthy flavor that showcase the differences between both bar geniuses. Gokan’s Crazy Girl focuses on a feminine basil aroma mixed with sweet pineapple and watermelon flavors. Schneider’s Lazy Boy is direct and strong, with spicy and complex mix thanks to the use of tomato juice and jalapeño peppers. 


Sweet


Mr. Softee, RMB 170. Pear brandy, vanilla ice cream, Moet & Chandon Champagne


If there is ever two different interpretation of sweet cocktails, this would be it. Gokan’s Mr. Softee encompasses everything about an 80’s styled childhood. Made with pear brandy and mixed with champagne and ice cream, it will remind you of a local ice cream shop. On the other hand, the Mata Hari is a signature drink from Schneider ‘s Employees Only bars, where pomegranate is translated into a tangy sweetness that pops ever so slowly in the mouth as it’s mixed with Hennessy VSOP and chai vermouth. 


Mata Hari, RMB 130. Hennessy VSOP, chai vermouth, pomegranate, lemon


Signature drinks



So what happens when these two genius minds come together? Brilliant cocktails, of course! Taking a cocktail classic and giving it their magic touches, it’s truly an odd fashion when you combine Japanese whisky with American rye for this classic.


Odd Fashion, RMB 130


The Taka High Ball is another signature drink on the menu. Instead of using whisky, they use Calvados brandy, making it refreshing and smooth. This is a favorite of Gokan when he was setting up SG club in Tokyo and is named after Taka from El Calvados bar.


The center of all the action from the "chefs" table


There is a lot of heart in this place. From a "chefs" table where you sample cocktails instead of food to honor Gokan and Schneider’s close friend, John, to naming a signature drink after their favorite bartender.  


Photo Credit: Odd Couple


As odd as the coupling is for Gokan and Schneider, their unique chemistry makes for a memorable experience if you are a cocktail enthusiast. Despite their different styles, the convergence of their craft and inspiration creates a bold and unique environment for this explosive duo. 



The Odd Couple

Address: No. 25, Lane 181 Taicang Lu, near Xingye Lu

Tel: 021 6333 2363

Hours: Daily, 8pm to 2pm (soft opening)



 

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