Baker and Spice is a chain brand in Shanghai, run by "Wagas Shanghai Ltd." In 1999, an Australian student in Shanghai opened up a small cafe inspired by having trouble finding a good sandwich. Later on, Jackie Yun worked together with the original founder to expand Wagas into a multi-award winning cafe and bakery brand, establishing Baker & Spice in 2010 and continuing with similar concepts to start up Lokal. The brand perfectly captured Chinese consumer's increasingly health-conscious eating habits as income levels increased.
The interior is very light and cozy with white ceilings, minimalistic design, and dangling lamps. Turquoise-green chairs were also an aesthetic addition. The glass panel windows allows sunlight to stream into the restaurant, which fits with the restaurant's brunch theme.
Photo of restaurant interior(the floor patterns with a granite-like look was also unique)
Rainbow Grilled Beef Power Bowl - 78rmb
The freshness of the vegetables and the oil-lemon sauce mixture cut through the meatiness of the beef well. The pop of the corn that added to the texture of the dish was also pleasant. Black rice, and the more separated quality of each grain of rice, was desirable compared to white rice.
Grilled Salmon, Cauliflower, and Pumpkin Puree - 78rmb
The delicious sweetness and silky texture of the pumpkin puree complemented the slightly different richness of the salmon. However, the highlight was the cauliflower salad with apple and almond as it was a creative deviation from traditional kale or spinach salads.
Grilled Beef, Barley, Pear, Fig, and Potato Salad - 78rmb
This one's my personal preference over the rainbow beef bowl.
Salmon and Spinach Eggs Royale - 68rmb
The runny yolk combined with sauteed spinach laid on top of whole-grain bread, is one of the best dishes at Baker and Spice. A tangy(almost mayo-like but more organic) sauce is applied onto the bread which adds acid to the creamy dish. Definitely try this one out.
Basil Pesto Penne - 68rmb
The Feta cheese that was incorporated into the pesto makes the pasta very creamy(could be stodgy for some but I personally enjoyed it). The herby fragrance gets rid of the heaviness and makes the pasta taste fresh.
Biscoff Oatmeal Latte - 38rmb.
A layer of cream whipped on top with a warm caramel-hinted coffee at the bottom will remind you of Christmas. Its a soothing sweet caramel coffee drink.
Carrot and Apple Juice - 36rmb
Overall, Baker and Spice is a great breakfast or lunch spot for a casual Sunday outing with family or friends. The fresh smoothies and juices as well as classic English and American Breakfasts(along with healthier less conventional options), make up their diverse menu.
Location: Shanghai, Pudong, Lilac Mall 1st floor
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