Sasha’s Shanghai Restaurant and Lounge
The former residence of the once-prominent Soong family, Sasha’s can be found in a grand old mansion slightly off the beaten track in the French Concession. Balconies wrap around the building’s two stories and the garden is a refreshing place to take in an evening aperitif. Come to savor continental European cuisine, Pan-Asian specialties, afternoon tea or weekend brunch, and mingle with the locals, both expatriate and Shanghainese, who seem to adore this place in equal numbers.
Address: 11 Dongping Road, Xuhui District
Century Park
At 140 hectares, this may be one of Shanghai’s largest parks, however it’s often overlooked by the masses. Masterminded by English architects, the scenery is a confluence of eastern and western cultures: think New York’s Central Park meets Japan, in the heart of China. Lotus ponds, Japanese bridges, tree-lined lawns and protected ecological zones mark this park out as a tranquil oasis in which to escape the buzz of the city. If you don’t fancy a walk, hire a tandem bicycle or pedal-car instead. Don’t forget the camera!
Address: Hua Mu Road, Pudong District
A Hua Noodle Shop
This old-school Shanghai noodle shop is well known among office workers in the area—so you can be sure that it’s worth a visit. Come here for the signature dish: a big bowl of tangled noodles topped with pork liver and coated in a tasty broth. This nostalgic family-style diner will transport you to old Shanghai with its decor, ambience and entertaining staff. Tuck into an authentic Shanghai noodle dish like a local, with the locals.
Address: 182 Tangqiao New Road, Pudong District
Need somewhere to stay? The Sheraton Grand Shanghai Pudong Hotel & Residences are centrally located for all these attractions.
See something in Shanghai that makes you swoon? Share it on Instagram @momentum.travel
Photo: Shutterstock