The original Big Bamboo (but not the original location), is located just behind the Portman Ritz Carlton on Nanyang Lu. In simple terms, this is one of Shanghai's best places to just hang out, drink, and shoot pool.
Although it isn't a "trendy" bar, Big Bamboo seems to always have a decent expat crowd sipping brews, watching sports, and relaxing due to its casual and friendly atmosphere.
Sports on TV are predominantly Aussie, NZ, and European Leagues, but Big Bamboo does show the occasional MLB, NBA, and NFL game. However, it is definitely NOT an American sports bar.
The food is Western bar food, and includes burgers, salads, pizzas, nachos, and chicken wings for lunch and dinner, as well as a weekend brunch menu featuring omelettes, pancakes, steak & eggs, and waffles.
If you find yourself out on Hongmei Lu, the new Baby Bamboo attempts to bring a little Bamboo out to the burbs of Hongqiao.