Romantic Shanghai

Description:

Opened in 2005, this hotel imbibes the class and courtesy of the group's name in its services and amenities. Sited at an unbeatable location, equidistant from the neighborhoods of Nanjing, Huangpu and The Bund, the hotel is ideal for those keen on doing some sight-seeing in the city, while enjoying a luxurious stay. Check into one of the decadent rooms, overlooking the magnificent city skyline, and make yourself at home, with the overabundance of amenities at your disposal. Business visitors can access the Radisson Club and Lounge, situated on the 32nd-38th floors of the hotel, to avail of a host of special features suited to them. Adjoining the hotel, is a 10-storey shopping center with a SEGA World Entertainment Center, a movie cinema and a skating rink, which wraps up a comprehensive vacation package.

Description:

Brought to you by Kathleen of the KABB American bistro fame, this popular, unpretentious "just-the-drinks-ma'am" kind of bar has expanded in the last few years to seven locations, though the most popular are those at Tongren Lu and on Maoming Lu. Draft beers are reasonably priced and the grub is pretty good as well. The crowd starts off mostly foreign, which has a funny way of drawing in the locals. 11am to 2am.

Description:

Easy to walk by without noticing it, Whisk is tucked off Huaihai Lu down an unmarked alley. A casual dining space in cool greens and whites, the décor is also chocolate focused, with quotes about chocolate on the walls and huge jars of chocolate buttons. For those without a sweet tooth, there is a selection of risottos and paninis with ingredients such as prosciutto and artichoke, but the food is found lacking and drab, and the real reason to go is for desert. For the chocolate lover - chocolate shots, cupcakes and cookies are just the tip of the iceberg. Service is efficient and prices are reasonable. This is the most romantic desert place in town, or the perfect ladies out treat.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you love birds, fish, flowers, dogs, and other interesting creatures, the Bird and Flower Market is a perfect place to search for your next pet.

Description:

Lining the streets between Nanjing and Weihai Roads are cages and cages of birds and animals. There are many different types of birds, including multilingual parrots that like to entice customers with their skills. There are tanks brimming full of fish, turtles, and frogs. The small streets are crowded with people and toys and accessories for you pet. There are also cats and dogs in some of the stores and you need to be careful, otherwise you will end up walking out of the market with a few cute new pets. You can find many different types of flowers on the streets as well, if you just look around.

Description:

The road to see and be seen on for shopping, eating, pub-crawling or simply absorbing Shanghai's famous modern feel.

Description:

Hunan cuisine is known for hearty portions, chili flakes and roasted, flavorful meats. Gu Yi's popularity is based on their careful orchestration of these elements, to the hollering joy of Shanghai's populace. Especially in demand is the chicken and bamboo shoot hot pot and the chili covered ribs. If you love spicy food, this place is sure to bring a tear to your eye. Those who are not so enamored will find plenty of variety on the menu as well. A second location is located on Nanjing Road.

Description:

Direct your cab to DongPing Road and Hangshan Road and embark on an adventure into the local expatriate scene. For expats living in Shanghai this is their escape. Visit Sasha's pub and Zapatas bar for a true taste of the West, or stroll along DongPing Road and dine at any of the nearby cafes or classy restaurants, from Thai to Irish to local cuisine and even a German café, DongPing Road is a hidden gem that only the expats and locals know of. Peddlers stalk the streets selling a wide array of goodies, including giant stuffed teddy bears, ornamental dishes and trinkets like key chains and T-shirts. This is a nice retreat if you are homesick, prices are steep but the imported food is sure to meet your expectations.

Description:

The two-story building was once home to Chiang Kai Shek and his wife, Soong Mei Ling and later became a music school. Today, the compound is home to a restaurant and bar and stylish outdoor patio. Prime, the upscale restaurant on the second floor, is one of the classier places to enjoy a western style steak or romantic dinner for two. Sasha's famous patio attracts diners on sunny afternoons and is ideal for Sunday brunches, large events and after work gatherings. With affordable pub grub downstairs and high brow cuisine above, this spot has something for everyone- at every budget.

Our Local Expert Says:

An expat secret and a great place to take a date.

Description:

Live jazz nightly is the hallmark of this local institution, Shanghai's longest running and still the best venue for live jazz and blues. The bands are skilled, the tunes are tight, and the informal, darkly atmospheric club often attracts standing-room-only crowds on weekends. 7pm to 2am. Live music plays from 9:30pm to midnight during the week and from 10:15pm to 1:30am on Friday and Saturday.

Description:

Hangzhou is home to scenic West Lake, a mirror-perfect pool of water surrounded by weeping willows, beautiful stone arch bridges and botanical gardens. What makes the lake so memorable, however, are the people. Arrive at the lake around 6:00am and you will meet such an array of kindly elderly people that you'll want to relocate to the city permanently. These happy individuals descend on the lake every morning for tai chi, dancing, aerobics, sword play and more. In addition, meet locals having their morning tea at many of the lake-side cafes as they play checkers, cards or just chat about old times. Aside from West Lake, Hangzhou has vast silk markets, rolling scenic hills for hiking and a beautiful temple full of practicing monks and mountain-side rock carvings. Plan to spend the entire day here but do not be surprised if you end up spending more than just one.

Description:

This maze-like hutong offers every dining, drinking and entertainment possibility and is home to the artistic underbelly of Shanghai. During the daytime, explore the hutong for its creative scene with galleries, photography exhibits and a sprawling honeycomb of organic shops, design houses and modern furniture and fashion for sale. You can easily spend an entire evening wandering the maze while munching on Italian ice cream, French baguettes or Thai veggies or drinking at any of the well-stocked bars or cafes. TaiKang Road area is a juxtaposition of the business-minded Shanghai and the creative and modern underground that is emerging in pockets across the city. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to get lost in the maze- part of the charm and a feature of the hutong that makes it worth returning to again and again.

Description:

This venue is an oasis of music and sumptuous cocktails, seemingly imported directly from Monaco. Shanghai's hottest DJs and most beautiful people rock the MAO dance floor late into the night. The space feels like a breath of fresh air to the off-the-Bund club scene and the outdoor garden and semi-private rooms allows for a change of atmosphere within the same space.

Description:

Opened in 2005, this hotel imbibes the class and courtesy of the group's name in its services and amenities. Sited at an unbeatable location, equidistant from the neighborhoods of Nanjing, Huangpu and The Bund, the hotel is ideal for those keen on doing some sight-seeing in the city, while enjoying a luxurious stay. Check into one of the decadent rooms, overlooking the magnificent city skyline, and make yourself at home, with the overabundance of amenities at your disposal. Business visitors can access the Radisson Club and Lounge, situated on the 32nd-38th floors of the hotel, to avail of a host of special features suited to them. Adjoining the hotel, is a 10-storey shopping center with a SEGA World Entertainment Center, a movie cinema and a skating rink, which wraps up a comprehensive vacation package.

Description:

Rated among the best Thai restaurants in Shanghai, the deservedly popular Simply Thai boasts stylish ambience and terrific food. The menu features various curries and other traditional favorites, with a full bar. Though a bit overpriced, the experience is pleasant and the food not undeserving of renown. Recommended are the more affordable lunch specials and the terrific vegetable and rice dishes. Wonderfully decorated in charming Thai style, this intimate and cozy restaurant exudes a faint smell of incense. Beloved among its loyal clientele are the outdoor courtyard (for alfresco dining on warm nights) and the late-night drink specials. Service is English-friendly and professional and this is a classy place to take a date.

Description:

Located on the ground floor of Building 4 of the Ruijin Guest House, the posh and opulent Face Bar attracts Shanghai's beautiful people. The huge wooden faces lining the walls of this atmospheric establishment give the bar its name. Take a seat at the antique Chinese tables, or recline on the opium beds and sample the numerous, decadent alcoholic creations. For the teetotaler, the non-alcoholic lemonades are homemade and delicious. The wine list changes every few months. Happy hour is from 5:30pm until 7:30pm.

Description:

Defined as one of the top 30 new restaurant-bars by the Conde Nast Traveler, this eatery offers a 360 degree, extraordinarily panoramic view of the bustling cityscape from its perch on the 50th floor of the Bund Center. The interior is done in traditional Chinese style, with lava lamps, crystal and curtains, but don't let the vibe fool you, the food is worth the patience. Live Jazz bands play as patrons enjoy their meals. Try out the set meals, or browse through the menu for some delicious local and western fusion cuisine. The signature dishes are particularly worth enjoying, including their hallmark seafood dishes with lobster, monk fish and red snapper. Located in the trendy Bund area, this hot spot it worth definitely worth a visit.

Description:

Opened in 2005, this hotel imbibes the class and courtesy of the group's name in its services and amenities. Sited at an unbeatable location, equidistant from the neighborhoods of Nanjing, Huangpu and The Bund, the hotel is ideal for those keen on doing some sight-seeing in the city, while enjoying a luxurious stay. Check into one of the decadent rooms, overlooking the magnificent city skyline, and make yourself at home, with the overabundance of amenities at your disposal. Business visitors can access the Radisson Club and Lounge, situated on the 32nd-38th floors of the hotel, to avail of a host of special features suited to them. Adjoining the hotel, is a 10-storey shopping center with a SEGA World Entertainment Center, a movie cinema and a skating rink, which wraps up a comprehensive vacation package.

Description:

Even though most Chinese residents consider these morning tai chi gatherings as nothing more than "life in general," most foreign visitors are drawn to them. It represents the rare chance to witness Chinese culture without the gleam of tourist hype. Hundreds gather each morning along the Bund, a rebuilt hump of land overlooking the Huangpu River, to practice the disciplines of tai chi and kung fu. Some even take it one step further by practicing ballroom dancing, an odd sight at dawn. All "practices" are open to the public.

Description:

The hotel is situated right in the heart of town, so if you feel close to collapse under the strain of your shopping bags, drop in here for a steam bath or sauna. Or even a massage if you feel like it. For a one-off payment you can spend all day in here making use of the hotel's five-star facilities.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best place for group parties

Description:

From the bright red and green floral fabric everywhere to the customers and the wait staff, Dongbei Ren is loud. The décor is Chinese Revolutionary retro with pictures of liberators hugging every wall, while staff in pigtails or even military costumes shout out orders. Customers may sit at kangs or in themed rooms such as a North Korean room. Comfort food prevails with plenty of dumplings, breads, noodles and big caveman-like lamb shanks with an endless supply of tea and beer. One fish dish even comes with an accompanying song sung by staff members. Popular, so get there early to avoid missing out on a local favorite and a tourist must!

Description:

The Bund borders the murky Huangpu river, with Pudong across the way. Along the Bund are many old European buildings, mostly the financial and museum. There is much to see and do on the waterfront. There was many restaurants, some floating in the river. Many vendors try to sell their good to passersby, whether they be kites or memorable photos with the natural backdrop of cityscape. There are also the occasional floating advertisements, with large screens going up and down the river.

Our Local Expert Says:

Located in Old Town, the Yu Gardens are a must see tourist shopping destination.

Description:

You can find almost anything you want in the Yu Gardens bazaar. With renovated old Chinese buildings, and winding streets full of shops and salespeople, you are sure to spend all day seeing everything. There is an antique mall that sells little trinkets, statues, jewelry, and paintings. Many restaurants can be found; among them are places for foreigners. There are also the many street food vendors for the curious. One of the most interesting shops is the 2RMB stores; the equivalent to an American dollar store.

Our Local Expert Says:

The opposite side of the Bund offers an unparalleled view of Puxi’s cityscape as well as a more relaxed and hassle free riverside excursion.

Description:

Stroll along the east side of the Huangpu River on the PuDong Bund walkway. Though it spans only a short distance, the area is modern, clean and quiet and the boardwalk is lined with excellent cafes and bars as well as classy and tasty restaurants. From the PuDong Bung you can get closer to the water and away from the peddlers and advertisements that line the west side of the river. In addition, the PuDong Bund tapers off on the southern end into a small but fragrant garden through which you can trek on the way back to one of the many luxury hotels that lie directly behind the Bund. Of added benefit, the Shanghai Ferry terminal lies 200 yards south of the PuDong Bund, where one can take a local bicycle ferry across to the Puxi side for half a Rmb, this is a truly local experience and one you should not miss out on.

Description:

Jin Mao Tower is a full 88 stories high, an auspicious number in China full of luck and longevity, and Jin Mao has earned just that. The Grand Hyatt, mid-way up the tower, is home to one of the most awe-inspiring feats of modern architecture, a hallow core that ascends the interior of the building. The 88th floor holds a viewing room complete with glass looking holes into the interior lobby some 50 floors below. Meanwhile, the classy Cloud 9 Bar, on the 87th floor, serves the best martinis in Shanghai and delivers a breath-taking panorama of the city. With only a few days stay in Shanghai, make the Jin Mao Tower bar or viewing room a nice way to end a pleasant and relaxing evening. Don't forget your camera!

Description:

Located in "expatriate central," Kathleen's buzzes with foreigners homesick for Western food. Diners enjoy contemporary American fare and fine brunches. The casual and cheerful interior is trendy with a bar flanking one side of the room. The menu and staff are English-friendly. Come and dine on dishes such as pasta with feta cheese and tomatoes, burgers, burritos, Greek salad, milkshakes and desserts. Two course lunch for 100RMB, dinner for two 800-900RMB.

Our Local Expert Says:

In addition the Shanghai Literary Festival, Glamour Bar also hosts cultural lectures and events on weekend afternoons. A swanky place to enjoy Bund views day or night.

Description:

Now a Bund classic, the Glamour Bar is an elegant space for an evening cocktail or to take a date or a visitor. Wooden floors, leather chairs, velour ottomans and sparkling deco lamps combine for a feminine, chic interior, while huge, arched and paned windows provide a view over the Huangpu River and the futuristic Pudong area. Service is mixed as is the quality of the drinks. However, besides the view, the other draw card is the selection of random live acts and events from cabaret to book launches that take place on a semi-regular basis. The Glamour Bar is also home to the annual Shanghai Literary Festival.

Description:

Supposedly the highest hotel in the world, the Grand Hyatt Shanghai occupies the top 33 floors of the 87-floor Jin Mao Building. The dramatic height creates a wonderful panorama of the neighboring Pu Xi District and Huang Pu River. The chic and modern atmosphere, the floor-to-ceiling windows in the guest bedrooms, the Hyatt's five-star attention to detail and fine dining options all make this hotel one of the best Shanghai has to offer.

Description:

Let the sweet aroma of red roses and fresh tea guide you to this Cafe and shop. Facing the street, you'll have a great view while feasting on your meal. Take your seat by the floor to ceiling glass window and go on with placing order. Visit with friends or a business associate. A warning-the crowds really increase during the weekends, so hurry up if you want to get that seat by the window.

Our Local Expert Says:

Truly the best chocolate cake is Shanghai. Very popular among expats, you are likely to find many young customers at work on laptops while enjoying coffee and a sweet bite.

Description:

Easy to walk by without noticing it, Whisk is tucked off Huaihai Lu. A casual dining space in cool greens and whites, the décor is also chocolate focused, with quotes about chocolate on the walls and huge jars of chocolate buttons. For those without a sweet tooth, there is a selection of great risottos and paninis with choice ingredients such as prosciutto and artichoke. For the chocolate lover - chocolate shots, cupcakes and cookies are just the tip of the iceberg. Service is efficient and prices are reasonable, so even if you leave feeling a little plumper, at least your wallet hasn't lost too much weight.