Shintori

Japanese Cuisine - “One of the most stylish places in town” (and winner of Top Decor honors in the Shanghai Survey)

An Japanese accessed from a “bamboo-lined walkway” occupies a “minimalist”, raw concrete–lined space with an “open kitchen” and communal tables; the black-clad crowd is “über-cool” and the “nouveau” menu is as “contemporary”as they come, but given “prices as high as the Jinmao Tower”, it’s best savored “on an expense account.”

The first thing you notice about Shintori is the lack of a sign in the entrace... and the bamboo trees, after you pass through the cenent archway. Shintori is big! And minimalist, a la Japanese style. One can't help but be WOW'ed when entering the main dining area. The place is one huge, wide-open warehouse with very vey high ceilings. Clean, light-coloured cement walls all around, mak it easy on the eyes and give the place a distinct sleek, modern, almost "New York"-trendy feel. You won't be disappointed.

The cusine and drinks are very well presented. Fom the big jar of "rock and roll" salad, which the waitors will personally shake in front of you to mix in the dressing, to the selection of different designed sake cups and the beer glasses that detach from their bases, Shintori has many touches that impress.

The food at Shintori is unquestionably good. Whether or not it is the best Japanese food in Shanghai is debateable, although many people say that it is. But Shintori is a must-see simply because of how impressive the venue is. Try the grilled cod: it is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

• 803 Julu Rd, near Fumin Rd
• 巨鹿路803号，近富民路, 地铁2号线静安寺站3号口
• Jingan district (French Concession area)