24 HOURS IN SHANGHAI

Katja Loher, multi-disciplinary artist

» WHERE TO EAT

As Shanghai’s only three Michelinstarred restaurant, high-concept Ultraviolet takes experimental and experiential dining to a whole new level. The dining experience starts from the meeting point where you are taken to a secret location – a windowless room with nothing but a long table set for 10 guests. You are then immersed in a multi-sensory feast, centering on the unusual taste combinations of each course. The atmosphere is driven by music, smells and images projected onto the walls. Despite the fanfare, the star of the show is very much the food. There are 20 courses of culinary alchemy, such as Pop Rock Oyster and Truffle Burnt Soup Bread. Hardcore food lovers will relish this chance to engage their imaginations as well as their stomachs.

» WHERE TO DRINK

San Diego meets Shanghai at Stone Brewing Tap Room, an American craft beer spot whose sustainability-focused California sensibilities have been transported to China. Opened in 2018, the industrial-chic restaurant and bar is overflowing with some 30 types of suds, including house brew Stone Scorpion Bowl IPA. The roll-up garage doors usher a nice breeze indoors, while the expansive garden seating area is ideal for tucking into elevated gastropub fare like chicken and waffles and crab cakes benedict. The food is best paired with a refreshing Tangerine Express beer.

» WHERE TO STAY

The Middle House. I love waking up in the beautifully designed suite. I will do my morning meditation and then head down to the wonderful pool to swim for 30 minutes, while envisioning the new artwork that we will install right here where viewers will be able to swim through the art. For another spot of artwork, head down to the other installation sites at The Middle House. The show will be the third chapter and overarching concept for the exhibition the Chinese theory of the Five Elements. I’ll be creating a novel journey through the different elements.

» WHAT TO DO

Take an evening bike ride down to the Bund, Shanghai’s waterfront boulevard. While cycling along the Bund, Shanghai’s street life is in full force. It’s bustling with locals ballroom dancing, exercising, and practicing tai chi and qi gong. During the night, towers are lit with flashing neon lights reflected in the Huangpu River. It is a liberating way to experience this vibrant city and enjoy that classic view.