Almost everybody who lives in Hong Kong has been to Shanghai a handful of times. You have been to the Bund, paid respect to the City God Temple, and lounged around Zhou-zhuang. But have you visited their secret hideaways? For a more local perspective, here are a few places you could try.
Fine Dining - Ultraviolet
Due to be open in early October, Ultraviolet is the first restaurant to present food in a theatrical manner. Tucked away in an unassuming part of Shanghai, the location is so secretive that you need to be led to know where you are going. The restaurant only serves ten guests every evening, so you can ensure you are getting Chef Paul Pairet's full attention. Not only do they serve an avant-garde menu made in a state-of-the-art kitchen, the entire dining experience is choreographed by a dedicated audiovisual team to ensure that the surroundings, the aroma, the lighting, the breeze, and of course, the music, goes well with the gourmet cooking. Their complimenting bar and lounge area will round up the evening on a sweet note.
Home Cooking - Tian Mu Xi Cai Shi Chang
So you are a bit of a cook yourself? Head over to Tian Mu Xi Cai Shi Chang, and you will be guaranteed cuts that are fresher than those in City Shop. While shopping for your groceries, you can also get taste of the piping hot Harbin Dan Bing. They also make raw Xiao Long Bao in front of your eyes with meat, shrimp, and crab just bought from the market, so all you need to do is pop it in the cooker for a bit of steaming once you get back to your serviced apartment for a juicy treat.
Contemporary Art - Experimental Painting Manual Exhibition at Feizi Gallery
Want to experience Chinese contemporary art first hand? Feizi Gallery is showcasing the Experimental Painting Manual from now until 31 August 2011. The idea stems from a traditional Chinese painting textbook, Painting Manual of the Mustard Seed Garden, and the exhibition itself focuses on the progress three young local artists, Huang Yi-shan, Shen Liang, and Wang Jun, on experimenting with easel painting. Special guests from a variety of art professions are invited to share their views on the collection, and art critic He Gui-yan will be giving a lecture on this series.
Traditional Massage - Tao of Loong Preserve Health Club
Worn out from all the crazy shopping and binge eating in Shanghai? If you want to find a place with traditional Chinese massages, Tao of Loong will be your best bet. They don't have the fancy spa decor, but do they have the best Chinese doctors and bonesetters to make sure you head off feeling brand new.