Where to Eat this Dec: French Bistro Under Golden Canopy

Autumn is still in full color, and although winter is just a step away, Shanghai's streets are glowing with golden foliage - brilliant gingko trees and the leafy plane trees that characterize the former French Concession. 

Why not savor the last autumn days by taking a slow walk under these yellow canopies and then slipping into a cozy French bistro for some hearty food and a glass of wine?

This month, we're heading to Xinhua Road, a street that is far less touristy and a hidden gem to locals. The trees here are taller, the canopy is denser, and during December, the entire street feels like a long, glowing yellow tree tunnel. 

Under the golden canopy, Le Bec operates several spots - including the Villa Le Bec 321, an upscale French restaurant inside an old European villa, featured in Michelin and The World's Best 50 Restaurants. They also run a bakery and an ice cream shop nearby. But this month, we're visiting Le Bec 62, located at 62 Xinhua Road - a more budget-friendly, no-fuss French bistro.

The interior feels almost like a neighborhood grocery: shelves stacked with wine, fridges lining the walls, and simple stool seating that keeps the atmosphere relaxed. Their wine selection is laid out in a clear way - first divided into white and red, then sorted by price tiers, regions (old world vs. new world), and grape types. Sure you can find a bottle that fits your mood and your budget.

Their food is also no-fuss and unpretentious. Their signature ham-and-cheese "sandwich" is more like a French pie - very creamy, almost custardy in texture, and quite unlike the typical ham and cheese you'll find elsewhere in Shanghai. 

They also offer cold appetizers served in small glass jars, like different salads and spreads.

Another highlight is their French casserole: slow-cooked with herbs and seasonings in the traditional French way, but served, playfully, in a bright-colored Beijing-style mini hot pot and served as a side of steamed rice.

And if you have room for dessert, their ice cream parlor just a few steps away. A crisp autumn breeze with a scoop of ice cream. Satisfaction.