Taste of nostalgia

He Wen has a fascination of the Shanghai of his grandparents era.

Every weekend, He mixes imported tea leaves to make English tea in the traditional way, serves snacks from the old Shanghai brands and plays vinyl records on the phonograph like his grandmother used to do.

"I really identify with the old Shanghai culture, which is in abundance in He's home, with the smell of incense, dance music and old pieces of furniture on display," says Shen Fang, a local office worker who is fond of vintage things and a regular customer at He's cafe.

Shen likes meeting up with close friends at He's place as she loves the quiet and charming atmosphere, which reminds her of her own childhood, surrounded by historical furniture and melodious rhythm.

To maintain the original condition of the antiques in the salon, He spends a lot of money getting professionals to maintain the phonographs and clocks.

"I am keen to retain the lifestyle of old Shanghai, mixing traditional and Western elements, and I want to share the lifestyle with more people who have similar ideas to me. As a Shanghainese, this is my life's mission," He says.

IF YOU GO

Lau Tie Ka nostalgic cultural salon

Address: No 18, Lane 295, Wanping Road, Xuhui district

徐匯區宛平路295弄18號

Website: www.douban.com/people/91610343/

Telephone: 186-1629-8987