GLOBETROTTING EPICURE

New openings in Shanghai and Austin

Located along Huangpu River, The Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai is the latest glamorous address heating up Shanghai’s dining and drinking scene. Of the six signature dining venues, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito stands out for contemporary Italian fare by awardwinning chef Niko Romito (of three Michelin-starred Reale). Expect Broken Pasta with Octopus and his take on the classic Tagliatelle with Ragu to go along with exclusive limited-edition autographed bottles of Podernuovo a Palazzone Di Giovanni Bulgari (250 bottles available; price upon request). The adjoining Il Bar offers The Bvlgari Aperitivo (free with every drink order) and the brilliant skyline and riverbank. For a cocktail with a local twist, sip the Shi Ku Meng (price upon request), a concoction of of yellow rice wine gin and Dubennet Lillet, which is available at the rooftop bar, La Terrazzo.

There’s also Chinese haute cuisine restaurant, Bao Li Xuan. Housed within the storied Chinese Chamber of Commerce (integrated into the hotel), the restaurant serves an impressive menu of Shanghai and Hangzhou classics. The Whisky Bar is steps away and offers an invigorating nightcap of aged grappa and rare whiskies from Japan, Scotland, Ireland and U.S.A.

Last but not least is II Cioccolato, where fine chocolate gems meticulously handcrafted by Maitre Chocolatier at the Bvlgari workshop next door flood the senses. Raw cocoa is transformed into delectable truffles such as Rosemary Lemon (RMB60/S$12), but go for the exclusive Xinjiang Red Date & Ginger flavour (RMB120). No 33. North Henan Road, Shanghai, China, 200085.

Tel: +86 21 3319 6188