As Shanghai enters what is commonly known as the dog days of summer on July 16 – which comprise the three 10-day periods predicted to be the hottest period of the year – locals are seeking refuge in icy treats to beat the heat.

Yu Guiren Dessert Shop

One popular spot is the Yu Guiren Dessert Shop, which specializes in Taiwanese taro balls. Using high-quality taro from Dajia in Taiwan, the store hands out its signature desserts. The bestseller, the Big Taro Ball No 1, combines chewy taro balls with ice cream, tapioca pudding and red beans, offering a rich and satisfying treat.

[Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]

Address: Room 29, 5F, Xingwang Food Court, No 133 Qipu Road, Hongkou district  

Business hours: 10 am – 6 pm

Tang Bo Fu & Qiu Xiang Jia shop

For those looking to combine stargazing with sweet indulgence, the very popular Tang Bo Fu & Qiu Xiang Jia shop (Chinese: 糖博府＆秋香佳) near the SNH48 Theater – named after the popular girl group SNH48 – is a must-visit. The double-layer steamed milk custard is a standout, featuring a thin, wrinkled milk skin atop silky steamed milk, complemented by perfectly cooked red beans.

[Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]

Address: Room 7, No 229 Harbin Road, Hongkou district

Business hours: 12 pm – 9 pm

Leona Italian Gelato

Ice cream enthusiasts should head on down to Leona Italian Gelato, a shop which offers over 210 flavors. The summer-exclusive, colorful gelatos served in small cones are both visually appealing and refreshingly light – perfect for those who prefer a less sweet frozen treat.

[Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]

Address: Room 25, 3F, Ruihong Tiandi, Hongkou district  

Business hours: 10 am – 10 pm

Luneurs

Luneurs, a local French-style bakery and ice cream brand, is known for its daily fresh-made pastries and ice creams. The shop's salted caramel ice cream, featuring caramel crisp cookies, offers a unique texture and flavor profile that's not overly sweet.

[Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]

Address: Room 11A, 1F, Raffles City (North Bund), No 999 Dongdaming Road, Hongkou district

Business hours: 10 am – 10 pm

Hao Yu Bao Bing

[Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]

For a nostalgic experience, the Hao Yu Bao Bing shop (Chinese: 好钰刨冰) brings back childhood memories with its traditional ice-shaving machine. The signature green bean shaved ice, especially when paired with red beans and osmanthus honey, is a true summer delight.

Address: No 2398 North Sichuan Road, Hongkou district

Business hours: 8 am – 10:30 pm

All in all, these cool treats offer Shanghai residents and visitors a delicious way to stay refreshed and revitalized during the hottest days of summer – proving that even in the mid of a heatwave, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season.

Source: "scofcom" WeChat account