Three on the bund (Wai Tan San Hao)
One of the splashiest and most luxurious developments to hit Shanghai, Three on the Bund is a "lifestyle destination" that was one of the first outfits to bring some world-class swank to the Bund in the last decade. Built in 1922, this former Union Insurance Company Building now houses an art gallery, exclusive fashion outlets (including a Giorgio Armani store), and a luxurious Evian spa, but it's the fine-dining restaurants, all with stunning vistas of the Bund and Pudong, that draw the crowds. For even more exclusive and intimate dining, the domed Cupola atop the building offers private dining for two, service by a private butler, and a menu from any of the following outlets. Note: Reservations required at Jean Georges, Laris, Whampoa Club, and the Cupola; reservations recommended at New Heights.
Three on the Bund is located at Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu 3 (entrance on side street at Guangdong Lu 23). tel. 021/6323-3355. www.threeonthebund.com. Metro: Nanjing Rd. (E).
Jean Georges (fourth floor; tel. 021/6321-7733; daily 11:30am-2:30pm and 6-11pm). From amuse-bouche to dessert, it's the finest contemporary and light French fare from world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. You'll be singing the Marseillaise after the foie gras brûlee with dried cherries and candied pistachios. There are more than 5,000 bottles of wine to choose from, and a 30-seat wine cellar private dining room, all cloaked in dark blue and deep wine hues. Expect a dinner for two to hover immodestly around ¥2,000.
Whampoa Club (fifth floor; tel. 021/6321-3737; daily 11:30am-2:30pm and 5:30-11pm). Classic Shanghai dishes learned from a passel of old-time Shanghai master chefs are given a creative spin here. Indulge in the tasting menu, which was delicious when I was there, and don't miss the tea-smoked eggs with caviar. A professional tea sommelier can help with selecting from more than 50 teas from all over China.
Laris (sixth floor; tel. 021/6321-9922; daily 11:30am-2:30pm and 6-10:30pm). In a light, breezy setting, larger-than-life Australian chef David Laris creates wonderful "New World" cuisine inspired by his previous culinary stints in Hong Kong, Vietnam, Macau, and London (as executive chef of Mezzo). Seafood gets top billing here (scallops on parsnip mash, and cod filet with mono miso are signature dishes), with a crustacean-stocked seafood bar. A special Chocolate Room (which churns out the Laris signature chocolate) gets raves from guests. Save room for the "Pandan Leaf Panna Cotta."
New Heights (seventh floor; tel. 021/6321-0909; daily 10am-2am) is the option for casual, more affordable bistro-type fare, with rooftop views of the Bund and Pudong rivaling that of M on the Bund next door. There's also free Wi-Fi here for those with their own laptops. Dinner for two should be in the ¥400 range.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
