One of the oldest cities in the world, Shanghai has gradually evolved into one of the foremost economic powerhouses. Its prime location at the mouth of the Yangtze River has made it a popular port town making it an excellent international trading portal.


With a population of over 20 million people it is one of the largest urban masses in the world. The city is filled with a vast array of attractions ranging from the modern to ancient historical landmarks that have been around since the city’s founding.


Chinese food is a popular cuisine worldwide. With its multitude of styles such as Szechuan and Cantonese, the delicacies highlight different aspects and flavours focusing on signature ingredients.


Dining in Shanghai opens the door to infinite possibilities ranging from humble street food to elegant fine dining. Hawkers and roadside cafes can be easily found throughout Shanghai. These outlets sell simple foods such as steamed and friend buns with exotic fillings such as spiced beans, crab and savoury rice. They are most certainly unique to the region and are rarely found outside Asia.


A signature delicacy unique to Shanghai is that of Beggar’s Chicken, a succulent chicken is marinated in sauces and herbs and then wrapped in lotus leaf. This in turn is covered in mud and then allowed to bake. In ancient times the mud was naturally supplied when the chicken was baked in a covered hole in the ground. After it is cooked the lotus leaf is peeled away and the diner is presented with a hot juicy chicken dish.


Seafood is a popular food item on Chinese menus with 100s of different dishes being made in different styles using common and exotic ingredients. Hairy Crab is a menu staple, a seasonal dish, it is present in middle to high end restaurants. A freshwater crab with hairy appendages its meat is said to have a relaxing cooling effect of the body. A popular haunt for hairy crab lovers is the Wang Bao He restaurant. But book early as its food is regularly in high demand.


Had enough of Chinese food? Do not despair as Shanghai has a wide choice of eateries serving international cuisine. Head to Ad Domus for what is considered by many to be the best Italian in the city. For a more formal, subdued dining experience, M on the Bund offers the finest French cuisine with amazing views over the Yangtze River. Ideal for a romantic get together or celebrate to a special occasion, the M on the Bund is said to be the classiest restaurant in Shanghai attracting local and international personalities to its establishment.

Authentic Chinese cuisine is just one of the many exciting experiences one can hope to discover when visiting Shanghai. Travellers looking for a luxury boutique hotel in Shanghai need look no further than The Langham Yangtze Boutique Shanghai. This exquisite abode offers a stunningly luxurious retreat blending modern comforts with eastern charms. A unique hotel in Shanghai, it resides with an iconic art deco building from when Shanghai was known as the ‘Paris of the east’.

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