The top line: Following the openings of Gaia and La Maison Ani, Fundamental Hospitality has added a third site to its London estate. Shanghai Me originally opened in Dubai in October 2019 in The Exchange building in the Dubai International Financial Centre and has since launched a second restaurant in Doha. A fourth location, in Monaco, is also planned. As with its sibling sites, Shanghai Me London combines a look inspired by 1930s Shanghai with a contemporary menu of elevated pan-Asian dishes. The opening is being led by Izu Ani, chief research officer at Fundamental Hospitality, and executive chef Yukitaka Kitade.
On the menu: Shanghai Me’s menu is as extensive as it is pricy with multiple sections covering everything from soups and small plates to sushi and noodles, and several dishes pitched at around the £100 mark. They include a ‘signature’ plate of roast duck paired with foie gras and caviar (£110); and king crab leg with wasabi gratin (£90). Perhaps the most exciting element of the menu is the ‘library’ of dim sum featuring an extended range of steamed and fried dumplings. They include prawn and truffle har gow (£8); wagyu beef cheung fun rice noodle rolls (£24); and barbecue chicken char siu sou puffs (£8).
The vibe: The 1930s Shanghai-styled interiors, overseen by designer Richard Saunders, takes plenty of inspiration from the Art Deco golden era of China, which it combines with rich textures including deep red velvet chairs and low lighting. It’s a smart, striking space, complemented both day and night by the restaurant’s extraordinary views of London. Next door is Shanghai Me’s dedicated cocktail bar and lounge concept, Bund, which serves snacks from the restaurant and features live DJ sets until the early hours.
And another thing: Further expansion, both in the UK and internationally, could be on the cards for Fundamental Hospitality in the years to come. Back in February it was reported that the group is mulling a possible float on the London Stock Exchange. Founder and chairman Evgeny Kuzin revealed that plans to take the business public are in the early stages. He said he is looking at listing in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, but has not ruled out London or New York, in the next three to five years.
22 Park Ln, London W1K 1BE // https://shanghaime-london.com/