First, the positives - the space, open and airy, coupled with comfortable sofas and chairs, is a welcome change to the fast-food-esque coffee shops that are proliferating Shanghai. Also, the coffee is delicious and the Espresso Corretto hit the spot. The gelatos are also pretty decent.

On the down side, the food - especially the sandwiches, could use some work. Our Panini Proscuitto Cotto (which sounded like the right thing to order), was a piece of processed ham and cheese on bland ciabatta. And even worse, was the apatheic attitude by the waitstaff. Although they were not rude, it seemed as if they would rather be somewhere else and not waiting on customers.

Even with the lackluster service, we do recommend Rensessence for the relaxed and cozy atmoshpere, as well as pretty decent coffee.