August 13, 2025 |
Perched high above the heart of Central London – the 28th floor to be exact – Evgeny Kuzin’s Shanghai Me London is where the seductive glamour of the Magic City in the 1930s meets unparalleled views of The Big Smoke’s soul-stirring skyline. Already well established in Dubai and Doha, now the restaurant – which specialises in Pan-Asian cuisine – is making its European debut with a UK location (opened in July) nestled on the iconic rooftop of the London Hilton on Park Lane.
From the moment you step inside, you’re transported into an era of old-world sophistication, where lacquered woods, geometric motifs and golden accents pay tribute to Shanghai’s golden age. At the same time, the space effortlessly blends deeply rooted tradition with modern innovation.
Shanghai Me’s menu is a celebration of Asian cuisine with a contemporary twist, drawing inspiration from the culinary traditions of China, Japan and Vietnam. The vision for London is spearheaded by chef Izu Ani partnered with chef Yukitaka Kitade and together, they have curated a menu where each dish emphasises freshness, presentation and intricate layers of flavour.
Once inside, we were struck by the pure magnitude of the place, it’s moody yet gilded interior design, that unequivocal view and the consistent hum of chatty guests who filled every seat available and then some. Our evening began with Yellowtail Carpaccio with Truffle, a dish that set the tone for the night’s refined sense of indulgence. Delicate slices of yellowtail with subtle sweetness heightened by the earthy aroma of truffle, created a melt-in-the-mouth kind of harmony that somehow felt both luxurious and restrained. That’s the magic of a good meal; those complementary contrasts and evocative effects.
Next came the Bluefin Tuna Sushi with Gold Leaf, each piece perfectly formed and served immaculately. The deep, rich flavour of the tuna was complemented by the delicate shimmer of gold leaf, a touch of decadence that elevated the dish without overpowering its ocean-fresh taste.
The Crispy Duck Salad offered a vibrant contrast. Shreds of golden, crunchy duck skin mingled with tender meat, its richness offset by bursts of fresh orange and sweet grapes. The citrus lifted the dish, bringing in an unusual combination to complement and balance the savoury depth of the duck. Across the board it was a sweet symphony of textures.
When it came to the main courses, our tastebuds had the chance to indulge in bold, unforgettable flavours. The Lobster with Singapore Sauce stole the limelight, succulent and cloaked in a glossy, fragrant sauce that was both spicy and sweet, its complexity unfolding on the palate in waves. Each bite carried the delicate brininess of the shellfish, wrapped in a warming spice that lingered just long enough.
The Tiger Prawns in Chilli Sauce offered a fiery yet elegant kick. Plump, juicy prawns were bathed in a rich, deep-red sauce that delivered heat without overwhelming the dish, allowing the natural sweetness of the prawns to shine through.
Equally indulgent was the Shredded Duck with Chinese Garlic and XO Sauce. This dish was a celebration of umami flavours. Think smoky, tender duck pulled into fine strands and coated in the aromatic richness of garlic and moreish depth of XO sauce. Every forkful was a nod to tradition.
To end the evening, we, of course, had to try the desserts. Which was the showstopper, you ask? The Milky Cake with Mango, Passionfruit and Banana Compote was as beautiful as it was indulgent. The sponge was impossibly light, soaking up the sweet milky moat of sauce beneath it, while the fresh compote added a lively tang that danced against the creaminess of the cake. It was the kind of dessert that vanished almost without us realising.
The Japanese Cheesecake followed, airy and delicate, with a subtle sweetness that made it irresistible. It’s texture somewhere between mousse and sponge, dissolved gently on the tongue.
Finally, the Blueberry Ice Cream which brought a refreshing close to the meal. Creamy yet bright, it balanced the richness of the preceding desserts with a hint of tartness from the blueberries. A cool, clean finish after an evening of bold, indulgent flavours.
Dining at Shanghai Me London is about more than the food, it’s about the atmosphere, the artistry, the ancestry and the view that stretches across London’s glittering skyline. Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply to indulge, the combination of world-class cuisine, striking decor and breathtaking views guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Shanghai Me is an escape into a time and place where elegance reigns supreme, flavours tell stories and the city unfolds, quite literally, at your feet.
Photography courtesy of Shanghai Me.
