Prada opens its first stand alone restaurant in Shanghai, Mi Shang

Prada has brought a slice of Milan to Shanghai with the grand opening of Mi Shang, its very first standalone dining space in Asia. Situated in the brand’s beautifully restored historic mansion, Rong Zhai, Mi Shang is a true gem, offering a all-day breakfast, fine dining, and confectionery spread across four distinct and uniquely styled rooms.

Leading the culinary charge is none other than Michelin-starred chef Lorenzo Lunghi, alongside master pastry chef Diego Crosara. Together, they’ve crafted an innovative menu that marries Italian and Chinese flavours in a way that’s never been done before. Imagine classic Italian ravioli, but instead of the usual fillings, they’re stuffed with traditional Chinese dumpling ingredients. Then there’s the pak choi, which gets a twist with a rich cacio e pepe sauce, and let’s not forget the Chinese mushrooms paired with a zesty green salsa dressing. It’s a menu that takes you on a journey through two rich culinary worlds, blending them in the most unexpected and exciting ways.

 

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The design of Mi Shang is just as extraordinary as the food. Conceived by renowned arthouse director Wong Kar Wai, who envisioned the project drawing inspiration from the philatelic concept of Tête-bêche, a pair of stamps printed in opposite orientations, whether by design or mistake. ​ The renowned Hong Kong director, famous for his cinematic masterpieces, has transformed the second floor of Rong Zhai into a dining retreat that’s simply stunning. The Dining Room, with its chic pink and pistachio booth seating, mirrored walls, and elegant Murano lamps, has an air of cinematic nostalgia, evoking the romantic, dreamy atmosphere of In the Mood for Love. Just next door, The Library offers a peaceful escape, with its blend of antique Chinese and Milanese design elements. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a good book or simply soak in the beautiful surroundings. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of coffee table books that span Chinese craftsmanship, decorative arts, and Italian design, adding a thoughtful cultural touch to the space.

At the heart of Mi Shang is The Caffè, a stylish space centred around an exquisite bar counter crafted by local artisans. They’ve painstakingly restored the villa’s original wooden features, adding intricate turned-wood scrollwork and geometric Murano lighting, which brings a sense of old-world glamour to the whole experience. The vibe here feels like stepping back in time to Shanghai’s lively social scene of the 1910s and 1930s, giving you a real taste of its golden era. For something a bit more exclusive, The Study is tucked away in The Caffè. With its vintage yellow wallpaper and walls adorned with Qing dynasty ceramics, this private space is ideal for special occasions or intimate gatherings. And, of course, there’s the charming outdoor area, The Terrace, located in the mansion’s backyard. This alfresco dining space is a true oasis, with its 1930s Italian bamboo tables and chairs, offering a peaceful setting for a leisurely meal surrounded by greenery.

But the real sweet treat here is the Pastry Shop, where Italian desserts get a modern twist. You’ll find vintage cabinet displays that take inspiration from Prada’s early boutique designs, showcasing a tempting array of desserts like Pasticcini – a traditional mignon treat reimagined in a larger, more indulgent form. Other delights include regional classics like Cassata, Pasticciotto, Delizia al Limone, Panna Cotta, Tiramisù, and even a whimsical swan-shaped Bignè Chantilly. For something a bit different, there are pralines, jelly candies, and coated nuts, all wrapped in biodegradable, plastic-free packaging, making it a sustainable choice as well.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee, a leisurely lunch, or a celebratory dinner, it’s a place where every moment feels special.

Mi Shang is open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: No.186, North Shaan Xi Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai