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Shanghai's 'Beer Lady' Turned a Grocery Store into a Craft Beer Hub
Yindi Zhang, known as the Beer Lady of Shanghai, grew a small neighborhood grocery into a beloved craft beer destination with multiple stores, surviving the pandemic by converting a suburban store into a central kitchen.
Yindi Zhang, a retired-looking auntie in Shanghai, is actually the entrepreneur behind one of the city's most beloved craft beer destinations. Starting from a simple neighborhood grocery store, she expanded into multiple retail outlets across Shanghai, including a 400-square-meter store. Her deep knowledge of beer and welcoming approach helped her connect with customers in commercial districts and residential neighborhoods alike. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, when Shanghai came to a standstill, Zhang transformed her largest suburban store in Songjiang into a central kitchen to support herself and her employees. This act of care reflected her philosophy that optimism is key to overcoming difficulties. Today, only one store remains, located near Suzhou Creek. It has become a popular spot for younger generations, offering beers organized by country on its shelves, allowing visitors to explore global beer cultures without leaving the city. Patrons gather there to watch football, enjoy the riverside breeze, and share pints with friends.