A Neighborhood Full of Flavor and Creativity

Iván Camilo Silva Ramón, or Don Ivancho, is a Colombian publicist with a deep passion for people, flavor, and storytelling.

Having lived in China for over seven years – five in Beijing and more than two in Shanghai – he has made the city his creative playground. As marketing director for Bottega Food & Beverage Group, he oversees brands like Bottega, Forno, Ática, La Diosa, and Capri by Bottega, bringing a touch of Latin warmth and global flair to Shanghai's dining scene.

For Don Ivancho, China has become more than just a place to live – it's a space for creativity, cultural exchange, and constant reinvention, where every story and flavor helps redefine what it means to feel at home abroad.

Could you introduce the neighborhood you live in?

I recently moved from Xuhui, right next to the iapm mall, to Jing'an, around Zhenning Road and Yan'an Elevated Road. The neighborhood is a great mix of old and new – local residential blocks, lively shopping streets, and plenty of cafés where locals and expats mingle.

What's the best thing about living in this neighborhood?

Location, location, location. I can easily walk to Jing'an Temple, the tree-lined historic downtown in Xuhui. I get around mostly by scooter, but even by Didi, Yan'an Road makes everything super accessible – the Bund, the Pudong New Area, and the airport.

What attraction here should not be missed?

The best way to truly feel the neighborhood is to walk it. You'll find endless small shops, creative cafés, restaurants, and leafy spots where you can just sit and enjoy life. Grab an iced Americano in the summer or mulled wine in the winter; walk, breathe, and enjoy. You'll feel at home here.

Oh, and if you're into immersive theater, Sleep No More (1013 Beijing Rd W. 北京西路1013号) is a must-see. Shanghai is one of the few cities in the world where it's performed – not for everyone, but unforgettable if you love performance and storytelling.

What's your favorite cafe near your home?

I'm very simple when it comes to coffee. Beijing Colombian, I drink it big, dark, and straightforward – so yes, I do collect a lot of stars at Starbucks with my "Grande Americano 大杯美式咖啡." But recently, I discovered Head in the Clouds (217 Zhenning Rd 镇宁路217号), a cozy restaurant and café just across the street. It's got a lovely terrace, lots of plants, those signature Shanghai windows, and most importantly – really good coffee.

Where should someone eat around here?

Of course, I'd say Bottega Jing'an (Bldg 1, 457 Shaanxi Rd N. 陕西北路457号1幢), but I don't want to be too biased. My personal favorites nearby are Yaya's (329 Tongren Rd 铜仁路329号), Spread the Bagel (32 Yuyuan Rd E. 愚园东路32号), Bastard (Room 102, No. 30, Lane 319 Jiaozhou Rd 胶州路319弄30号102), Papito Pancakes (1035 Changle Rd 长乐路1035号), and Latina Brazilian Steakhouse (2/F, 74 Tongren Rd 铜仁路74号2楼).

From high fashion to emerging designers, from flowers to fresh produce, where do you shop in your neighborhood?

For big brands, I head to Jing'an Kerry Center. For unique finds and Shanghai-style gifts, I love walking around the historic downtown. For daily essentials? I'm a big fan of Meituan – I usually order groceries from Oklah, Lianhua, or Just Fresh.

Is there a neighborhood place you recommend for a night out or simply a drink after work?

Yes – after dinner, get a Negroni at Yaya's (329 Tongren Rd 铜仁路329号). It's one of the best. For a casual glass of wine, Purism Wine Bar (57 Dongzhu'anbang Rd 东诸安浜路57号). And if the night needs to keep going, head to Roam (909 Yan'an Rd M. 延安中路909号).

Have you made any new discoveries in your neighborhood lately?

Just across from my home, Yongyuan Road is quickly emerging as the latest food and retail destination in Jing'an District – a stretch redefining what it means to dine, shop, and hang out in the city. Once overlooked, the area is now home to creative cafés, boutique shops, and trendier restaurants, all gathered around a small grassland that gives the neighborhood a rare open-air charm.

And a bit further in Jing'an, Sultan (801 Wuding Rd 武定路801号) offers great food and generous portions with prices that make sense. It's perfect for sharing with friends.

I'm still exploring the area, so if you've got favorite spots, drop them in the comments – I'll definitely check them out.