Looking for the top high-concept dinner in Shanghai? I just had an unforgettable night at Taste of China, and the vibes were unmatched. It was a total sensory overload—in the best way possible. Imagine pairing seven distinct regional dishes and premium teas with live martial arts and visual performances. It was truly a feast for both the eyes and the soul. Check out how it went down!
Taste of China Basic Info
- Restaurant Name: TASTE OF CHINA 味 Immersive Restaurant.
- Location: Bund City Hall Plaza/Old City Hall.
- Timing: Lunch (12-2) and Dinner (7-9).
- Capacity: 60-person cap (highlighting the "exclusive" feel).
- How to Book: I booked easily through the Trip.com app, though domestic users can also use the WeChat mini-program.
- Dietary: Emphasized the pork-free/alcohol-free/vegetarian options, which is a major selling point for many travelers.
How to Get to Taste of China?
Transport Mode | Route / Details | Walking Time & Directions |
Metro (Subway) | Lines 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station | 5-8 mins: Take Exit 3, walk south along Jiangxi Middle Road to the Bund City Hall Plaza. |
Taxi / Didi | Show driver: 江西中路215号 (外滩老市府) | 1 min: Ask for drop-off at the intersection of Jiangxi Middle Road & Fuzhou Road. |
Bus | Lines 17, 64, or 316 to Fuzhou Rd/Jiangxi Middle Rd | 2 mins: The stop is almost directly in front of the plaza entrance. |
Walking | From The Bund (Waterfront) | 10 mins: Head west from the Peace Hotel/Bund bull toward the historic City Hall area. |
What Makes "Taste of China" So Unique?
Walking into this restaurant, I realized it’s more than just a meal—it’s a 'Tastable Travel' experience. I’ve always been fascinated by the depth of Chinese cuisine, but this took my appreciation to a new level. Unlike a typical dinner:
- A Culinary Theater: It’s a curated first stop for travelers, offering a deep dive into China’s vast geography and culture through a sensory lens.
- Narrative Dining: The focus isn't just on the ingredients, but on the stories and heritage behind every bite.
- A Holistic Journey: By fusing 'Food + Scenery + Culture,' it bridges the gap between the palate and the soul, showcasing the true spirit of regional hospitality.
Which Regional Flavors Did I Discover on the Menu?
Dining here is a full-scale production. Led by the animated Chef Cheng Baobao, the experience is broken into thematic chapters
Chapter 1: Wisdom (Jiangnan)
The experience began in the serene, misty landscapes of the Jiangnan region. I enjoyed the 'Four Treasures of Jiangnan'—a beautifully balanced selection of four appetizers—complemented by the delicate aroma of Longjing Tea. As I ate, the atmosphere was transformed by a graceful traditional umbrella dance that swept through the room.
Chapter 2: Responsibility (Beijing)
The second chapter transported me to Beijing, where the focus was on the deep-rooted tradition of Chinese craftsmanship. I savored authentic Peking Duck, perfectly balanced by the floral notes of Jasmine Tea. The ambiance was so immersive that I could truly feel the 'Artisan Spirit' and dedication required to master such a world-renowned dish.
Chapter 3: Benevolence (Guilin)
I felt like I was drifting down the Li River as I tasted a tangy Fish in Sour Broth. This course, paired with earthy Pu'er Tea, even included a traditional fishing performance to celebrate harmony with nature.
Chapter 4: Integrity (Sichuan & Chongqing)
The energy shifted as we hit the Southwest! I dived into a bold, spicy Mapo Tofu (paired with more Pu'er) while being mesmerized by a live Sichuan Opera Face-Changing show."
Chapter 5: Heritage (孝) — Returning to the Central Plains
Chapter five brought me to the heart of Chinese civilization: the Central Plains. I sat down to a soul-warming 'Nourishing Hot Pot' served with Imperial Chrysanthemum Tea. The real showstopper here was the entertainment—a high-octane martial arts performance centered around noodle-making that had a truly unique and captivating charm.
Chapter 6: Connection (合) — The Fusion of the Greater Bay Area
The sixth course transported me to the Greater Bay Area, where the culinary traditions of the East and West converge. I enjoyed a selection of delicate Hong Kong Dim Sum, beautifully complemented by the refined notes of Silver Needle White Hair Tea.
Chapter 7: Innovation (新) — The Spirit of Modern Shanghai
For the final act, we returned to Shanghai, where the menu celebrates the city's innovative energy. The 'Sweet Fermented Rice Balls' served with Silver Needle tea provided a gentle, thoughtful finish to the night. It’s rare to find such a well-executed concept: a curated seven-course experience where the tea pairings are just as intentional and sophisticated as the food itself.
To ensure every guest feels welcome, the menu is strictly pork-free and alcohol-free. If you have specific dietary preferences, they also offer a dedicated vegetarian menu, making the entire journey both inclusive and delicious.
What Makes the Technology Behind "Taste of China" Unique?
For those curious about the 'Tastable Travel' concept, the technology at Taste of China is what truly brings the story to life.
For Total Visual Immersion
- A Living Canvas: I found myself at the center of a 270° panoramic environment. The projections cover everything from the walls to your table, creating a seamless visual field.
- Dynamic Scenery: It felt like a digital window into the heart of China. Without moving an inch, I was transported from the elegant landscapes of Jiangnan to the breathtaking mountain ranges of the West through stunning, high-definition visuals.
Imagine your table, transforming into a flowing river or a bustling ancient market
A Visceral Environment
The restaurant layers spatial 3D audio and evocative soundtracks with regional scents, making the history of each province feel tangible rather than just a digital display.
Interactive Magic
My favorite feature was the tactile table engagement. I wasn't just watching the story; I was part of it. I could reach out and 'catch' virtual fish during the Guilin sequence or create ripples in a sea of digital stars during the Shanghai finale. This level of interaction turns every guest from a spectator into a key character in the journey.
Enjoy a special meal with an interactive tabletop engagement
Live Performance, Upgraded!
The way they integrate live art with technology is absolutely genius. You have these incredibly agile martial artists and graceful dancers performing right in front of you, but their movements are perfectly timed to the animations on the walls. It’s a 5D experience that blurs the line between the physical and digital worlds—I was completely mesmerized the entire time!
See how a live performer's movements are perfectly synchronized with the dynamic visual projections
Is it Worth the Price? My Honest Value Guide
Enjoy dinner with 7 regional dishes of China
I put together this table based on the local pricing to help you plan your budget (converted to USD at an approximate rate of AU$1 ≈ ¥4.78 RMB):
Package Type | Service Description | Price (RMB) | Price (Approx. AUD) |
Package One | Hanfu Rental Only: Choice of traditional attire to wear until the end of the meal. | ¥168 | $35.00 |
Package Two | Hanfu + Professional Styling: Includes Hanfu rental plus approx. one hour of hair and makeup styling. | ¥398 | $82.90 |
Package Three | Theme Photo Shoot: Professional photography session within the immersive scenes. Includes 30 raw photos and 6 retouched photos. | ¥498 | $103.75 |
Lunch vs. Dinner | Which to Choose?
The Taste of China experience runs like a well-oiled machine, offering two distinct sessions. Whether you’re looking for a refined lunch or a spectacular evening gala, punctuality is key to ensuring the 'culinary theater' starts on time for the entire group.
Alcohol drinks served by the Taste of China
- Quick Note: While the standard menu is alcohol-free, a selection of drinks is available for an extra charge.
Session | Starts | Be There By | Booking Tip |
Lunch Banquet | 12:00 PM | 11:45 AM | Book anytime before noon |
Dinner Banquet | 7:00 PM | 6:45 PM | Book anytime before 7 PM |
- The Two-Step Booking: Start by picking your date and submitting a deposit. Once the venue verifies availability, you’ll be prompted to pay the rest to secure your spot.
- Expect a Personal Touch: Stay alert for the "Golden Call"! A team member will reach out to you directly to confirm your seating arrangements.
- Plan Your Transformation: If you're opting for the Hanfu styling and professional makeup, the "2-Hour Rule" is essential. Show up at least 120 minutes early so you can get ready without any stress before the first course.
Great experience ! We really enjoyed the food, we could taste different things across China. The service was remarkable as well :) it would be even better if the venue lasted longer, we could enjoy more of the videos they showed on the screen to see the beautiful scenery of Chinese regions.Notes on the "Taste of China" Dress Code & Styling
Get your first traditional styling experiences here in Taste of China
I loved that Taste of China isn't just a meal—it’s a chance to live the culture. Here’s how to handle the dress-up part:
- Pick Your Era: They have everything from the strength of the Qin/Han to the delicate grace of the Song/Ming.
- Go All In: While you can just rent a gown, the Couture Experience is a must-do. I had an amazing styling team spend a full hour on my hair and makeup. It felt so authentic!
- Strike a Pose: Since the 5D visuals are so mind-blowing, I’d suggest booking the pro-photography add-on. You get 30+ photos (including 6 retouched ones) shot right at your table and in the scenic areas. It's the perfect way to remember the night.
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FAQs about Taste of China
How do I book a table at Taste of China?
You start by selecting your date on the Trip.com or Ctrip app and paying a deposit. Once the merchant confirms, you pay the remaining balance. A staff member from Taste of China will then call you personally to assign your specific seat, so please stay reachable by phone.Does Taste of China offer Hanfu styling?
Yes! Taste of China provides a stunning collection of traditional attire ranging from the Qin Dynasty to modern ethnic styles. If you purchase the Couture Hanfu & Makeup package, please arrive 2 hours before your meal to allow for the 1-hour professional styling session.Are there special dietary menus at Taste of China?
Absolutely. The fixed 7-course menu at Taste of China is strictly pork-free and alcohol-free. If you require the Vegetarian Menu, simply call the restaurant in advance to ensure they have your specialized courses prepared for your arrival.What is the age and pet policy for Taste of China?
To maintain the immersive atmosphere of the 5D theater, Taste of China does not permit infants or children under 6 years old, nor does it allow pets. Children over 1.3m tall are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the experience.