China's GDP Grows 5。3% in 1st Half of 2025

The economy remains \x26#39;highly resilient.\x26#39;

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By Ned Kelly


China's gross domestic product (GDP) has surpassed expectations, growing 5.3% year on year in the first half of 2025, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Tuesday.


Better than the 5.1% forecast by many economists, China's GDP reached around RMB66.05 trillion (USD9.24 trillion) in the first half, NBS data showed.


The country has so far avoided a sharp downturn, despite US President Donald Trump's tariffs and a prolonged crisis in the property market, in part due to measures announced by Beijing to help support the economy, as well as a trade truce with Washington.


A tariffs war had seen Trump and the US imposing a 145% levy on Chinese imports. In return, Beijing introduced a 125% duty on some US goods, before they were paused after negotiations in Geneva and London. The two sides now have until August 12 to reach a long-term trade deal.


Analysts had expected a bigger impact from tariffs on China's economy, but the country remains "highly resilient," said economist Gu Qingyang from the National University of Singapore.


Growth was also boosted by firms rushing to ship goods before potential new tariffs or changes to China's export strategy take effect, he added.


The economy "withstood pressure and made steady improvement despite challenges", said an NBS statement.


The tertiary industry expanded 5.5% year on year in the first half, outpacing a 3.7% increase in the primary industry, and a 5.3% increase in the second industry.


China was particularly boosted by its industrial output, which increased by 6.4% compared to the same period last year.


Equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing sectors posted rapid growth, with higher demand for 3D printing devices, electric vehicles and industrial robots.


The country's per capita disposable income reached RMB21,840 during the January-June period, marking a 5.3% year-on-year increase in nominal terms.


"This is a hard-won achievement, especially given the sharp changes in the international environment and increased external pressures since the second quarter," concluded the NBS.


Follow our official WeChat account, ThatsShanghai, for all the latest China news.



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24 Awesome Upcoming Events in Shanghai

The city is your oyster!

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Featured Event

Free Flow Wine @ Mignon 9

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Enjoy two hours of free flow wine by the glass at Mignon 9 for only RMB190 per person. Whether you're relaxing with friends or pairing with delicious bites, it's the perfect way to wine down your weekend.


Available every Friday to Sunday from 11am to 8.30pm. Don't miss this elegant and easygoing wine experience in the heart of the city.


Reserve now on 5466 0398 or 191 0177 2760.


20% Off!

For a limited time, snag RMB100 Mignon 9 vouchers for just RMB80!


Click below to get yours now:


Every Fri-Sun, 11am–8.30pm; RMB190


Mignon 9 No.71 Wuyuan Lu, by Wulumuqi Lu, 五原路71号, 近乌鲁木齐路

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Last Chance!

Papuwa, Chengdu @ SIHE

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Papuwa, Chengdu's vibrant and unconventional cocktail bar, has set up a temporary residency at Shanghai's popular Chinese restaurant SIHE.


Located in the back room with immersive lighting and jungle-tinged techno beats, the pop-up reflects Papuwa's fun, no-frills ethos.


The pop-up features 16 eclectic cocktails, all priced at RMB108, and each showcasing unexpected ingredients and cultural influences.


Running until July 19, Papuwa's pop-up is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts seeking creativity, fire, and fun.


READ MORE: Frogs, Fire & Flavor – Papuwa Chengdu Cocktail Pop-Up


Until July 19, 7pm-Close


SIHE 17 Xiangyang Bei Lu, by Changle Lu, Jing'an District 襄阳北路17-1号, 近长乐路

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Wednesday

Double Down Wednesday @ Lawry's The Prime Rib

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Enjoy a prime deal every Wednesday—order any Prime Rib (California, English, or Lawry's Cut) and get a second one FREE!


Just make sure everyone in your party orders a dish. Plus, they have specials for two oysters (RMB62) and two glasses of wine for the price of one.


For an extra touch of indulgence, sip on two glasses of the exquisite Double Diamond for RMB322.


Whether you're in the mood for tender prime rib, ocean-fresh oysters, or a perfectly paired pour, Lawry's delivers a flavor-packed experience every Wednesday.


Reserve now on 6211 1778 / 18321408026 and make your Wednesday nights taste better.


READ MORE: Prime Time at Lawry's: Home of the Legendary Rib Roast


Every Wed, 5-10pm


Lawry's The Prime Rib B1, 168 Wuyi Lu, by Zhaohua Lu 武夷路168B1, 近昭化路

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Thursday

New Oriental Chinese Music Scene @ Shanghai Concert Hall

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This performance weaves together the lyrical beauty of Chinese music, evocative lighting, and dynamic stagecraft to create a transcendent artistic experience—where timeless tradition meets contemporary expression.


Through nine original Shanghai-style compositions, the production unfolds in a symphony of contrasts: ethereal elegance collides with bold grandeur, while intricate rhythms pulse with emotional depth, shattering conventional auditory boundaries.


Innovative lighting and visual design transcend the confines of the traditional stage, transforming the entire theater into an immersive canvas. This multidimensional audio-visual journey reimagines Shanghai-style music for the digital age, merging sound and space into a seamless artistic tapestry.


Audiences will embark on a visceral exploration of cultural identity—drawn into the very DNA of the city's heritage, where every note and shadow whispers of infinite possibility.


Click below to get your tickets now:


Jul 17-31, 2pm & 7.30pm; RMB100-880


Shanghai Concert Hall 523 Yan'an Dong Lu, by Jinling Zhong Lu, Huangpu District 延安东路523号, 近金陵中路

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Rooster Run @ The Rooster

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Shanghai, it's time to put on those running shoes!


Head to The Rooster every Thursday at 7.30pm and kick that summer body into high gear with an organized 5 km fun run around Shanghai!


What's more? All finishers will receive a free ice cold beer as a refreshing reward for making it through this fitness challenge!


20% Off!

For a limited time, snag RMB100 The Rooster vouchers for just RMB80!


Click below to get yours now:


Every Thu, 7.30pm; Free


The Rooster 107, 445 Jiangning Lu, by Wuding Lu, Jing'an District 江宁路445107, 近武定路

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Friday

Crazy Travel Stories @ Soda Comedy Club

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Surviving paradise… barely.


Missed flights, lost luggage, durians, and dodgy hostels—come hear real travel disasters turned into comedy gold!


Join comedians Li Ying, Piper, Chin Wang, and Horace as they take you on the funniest misadventures from their journeys around the world (and maybe just to Pudong Airport).


READ MORE: From Farm Girl to to Comedy Queen – the Herlarious Li Ying


For all the latest show details, and to purchase tickets, click below:


Fri July 18, 9pm; RMB128


Soda Comedy Club 7/F, Block A, 830 Nanjing Dong Lu, by Xizang Zhong Lu, Huangpu District 南京东路830号A馆7楼, 近西藏中路

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Friday, Saturday & Sunday

FEAST X Food Carnival @ Columbia Circle

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Shanghai's rainy season is finally over, and the summer vibes are getting stronger! Got any plans to make unforgettable memories this summer?


Come to FEAST X and dive into an immersive food adventure! You'll discover tempting gourmet delights, cool lifestyle brands, fun food experiences, and chat with culinary experts and fellow foodies!


Fri, Sat & Sun July 18, 4pm-10pm, 19 & 20, 12 noon-10pm; Free Entry


Columbia Circle 1262 Yan'an Xi Lu, by Panyu Lu, Changning District 延安西路1262号, 近番禺路

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Taste of Two Legends: Shafer Wine Dinner @ Morton's The Steakhouse

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Morton's The Steakhouse are offering the below indulgent wine dinner all weekend.


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Fri, Sat & Sun July 18, 19 & 20; RMB988


Morton's The Steakhouse IFC Pudong, 4/F, 8 Shiji Da Dao, by Lujiazui Huan Lu, Pudong District 纪大道8国金中心IFC4陆家嘴环路

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Slowboat Brewing Residency @ JUNTO

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Big news for beer and burger lovers—Slowboat is teaming up with JUNTO, Shanghai's hottest new social bar!


To celebrate, they're hosting a launch weekend filled with brews, burgers, and challenges.


Launch Weekend – All-You-Can-Drink!

July 18 & 19 | 5–10pm

For just ¥198, guests can enjoy unlimited pours of 10 Slowboat beers, including IPA, Gose, Pilsner, and more.


Burger Pop-Up

July 18–20 | 1–10pm

Award-winning Slowboat burgers will be available for three days only. Burger enthusiasts won't need to travel to Beijing to satisfy their cravings!


But the fun doesn't stop there—Slowboat Brewing will remain on tap for another month.


Monthly Challenges

  • Tuesdays: Hang like a monkey for 60 seconds and get 50% off Monkey's Fist IPA.

  • Thursdays: Do push-ups for discounts on Slowcari Sweat Gose—each push-up earns 1% off!

See you at JUNTO!


July 18, 19 & 20, 1-10pm


JUNTO Jiaozhou Lu 273-60-3-9 胶州路273603-9101

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Women Who Kill @ The Pearl

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Captivating cabaret experience Women Who Kill explores the gripping question: what drove her to commit the deadly act?


Drawing inspiration from the popular TV series Why Women Killand crafted by the creative team of Ksenia Geddes and Trenton Schneiders, this production invites audiences into a mesmerizing realm of intrigue and blurred realities.


Step into the role of a sleuth and uncover the hidden motives behind these women's deadly choices.


READ MORE: Murder, Music & Mystery: 'Women Who Kill' Debuts This Weekend


Click below to get your tickets now:


Fri, Sat & Sun July 18, 19 & 20, Doors 6pm, Show 7pm; RMB280


The Pearl 471 Zhapu Lu, by Wujin Lu 乍浦路471号, 近武进路

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Saturday

HORIZON Rooftop Party ft. ZEMENTAL @ POP on the BUND

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Space Panda presents an electrifying rooftop soirée at POP at Three on the Bund!


This time, they're teaming up with France's ZEMENTAL collective to bring a fresh wave of energy to Shanghai's skyline.


Expect to dance for ZEMENTAL's cutting-edge sounds for a night of boundary-pushing beats and hypnotic vibes.


Get ready for an unforgettable summer celebration under the stars, where music, culture, and sky-high views collide.


POP Bar's rooftop will be transformed into a pulsating open-air dancefloor, keeping the energy alive until late night.


With Space Panda's signature sound and ZEMENTAL's French flair, this is your ultimate urban escape.


Click below to get your tickets now:


For table booking and more info, please contact WeChat ID: Emilboo


Sat July 19, 3pm-Midnight; Presale RMB158, includes on drink


POP on the BUND Three on the Bund, 7/F, Zhongshan Dong YiLu, by Guangdong Lu, Huangpu District 中山东一路3号, 外滩三号7楼, 近广东路

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Summer Bartenders Class @ 12-Bar Blues

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Throughout July, 12-Bar Blues—That's Shanghai Cocktail Bar of the Year, Editors Choice—will be hosting a bartending class every Saturday for "mixing and life experience."


July 19 is a class on combining coffee and cocktails, plus techniques in using coffee filters to milk-wash. The focus here will be on creating stunning cocktails both in flavor and appearance.


Two cocktails and a hand-poured coffee will be enjoyed during this episode. 


Sat July 19, 4-5pm & 5-6pm; RMB199


12-Bar Blues 2/F, 1331 Fuxing Zhong Lu, by Fenyang Lu 复兴中路1331号2楼, 近汾阳路

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Escape to Utopia Rooftop Party @The Shanghai EDITION

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Get ready for Escape to Utopiaa 10-hour rooftop party at the stunning garden terrace of The Shanghai EDITION Hotel.


Dance under the sky with Shanghai's top eight DJs spinning nonstop beats, creating an unforgettable vibe high above the city. Immerse yourself in mesmerizing beats amidst breathtaking panoramic views.


Whether you're chasing sunsets or dancing under the stars, this rooftop experience promises elevated energy and vibrant crowd vibes.


Escape to Utopia is the ultimate rooftop party experience that promises to transport you to a tropical oasis in the heart of the city, Escape. Dance. Uplift. Utopia awaits.


Click below to get your tickets now:


Sat July 19, 4pm-2am; RMB168


The Shanghai EDITION 199 Nanjing Dong Lu, by Henan Zhong Lu, Huangpu District 南京东路199近河南中路

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Colombian Independence Day Rooftop Party @ Highline

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Get ready to turn up the heat this summer as VIVA & P.A.S Events proudly presents the Colombian Independence Day Rooftop Party on the stunning Highline Rooftop, located at the prestigious Ascott Hotel in the heart of Shanghai.


This special event promises a unique cultural celebration, bringing together the spirit of Colombia with the vibrant energy of Shanghai's nightlife scene.


Guests will be treated to a spectacular evening featuring:

  • Top Colombian DJs spinning the best of Latin, reggaeton, and tropical beats

  • Authentic Colombian-themed décor and props to immerse guests in the fiesta vibe

  • A lively crowd, breathtaking rooftop views, and an unforgettable atmosphere

Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best tropical outfits, ready to dance, sip, and celebrate under the open sky.


This rooftop experience is more than just a partyit's a tribute to freedom, culture, and community.


Whether you're Colombian, Latin American, or simply a lover of Latin music and culture, this is the ultimate summer rooftop gathering you won't want to miss.


Click below to get your tickets now:


Sat, July 19, 5pm-1am; RMB98-158


Highline Rooftop 6/F, 282 Huaihai Zhong Lu, by Huangpi Nan Lu Huangpu District 淮海中路282号雅诗阁公寓6楼,近黄陂南路

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Mykonos Island Soft Opening @ Lago by Bellagio

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The wait is over. The skyline. The sunset. The summer escape—on the terrace.


Mykonos Island, the Mediterranean-inspired rooftop pop-up, opens this Friday—and you're on the list.


Golden hour drinks, deep grooves, and open-air energy as day fades to night. They're calling it a soft opening—but the vibe will be anything but soft.


Dress in white. Keep it light. Let the island spirit lead.


Sat July 19, 6pm-Late; RMB120-150

 

Lago Bellagio Shanghai, 188 Beisuzhou Lu, by Zhapu Lu, Hongkou District 北苏州路188号, 近乍浦路

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Saturday & Sunday

Find Nokitty @ RIINK

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Meet NoKitty, the chunky, sassy feline created by twins Meli and Kaly, who's known for knocking over milk cartons and expectations!


This weekend, RIINK transforms into a NoKitty wonderland filled with surprises and activities. Highlights include a NoKitty Treasure Hunt, free limited-edition tattoo stickers, a Kids' Coloring Corner, Fuji Instax photo opportunities, and DJ BigWave spinning epic beats on Saturday night.


Share your party pics on Red Book or WeChat for a surprise gift!


Head long from from 2pm for a weekend of fun, food, skating, and NoKitty adventures!


Send message on RIINK WeChat with secret code 'That's How I Roll' for a special RMB88 Skate & Shot Deal for That's Shanghai readers ONLY!


READ MORE: Exclusive ¥88 RIINK Deal for That's Shanghai Readers!


Sat & Sun July 19 & 20, 2pm-Late; Free Entry


RIINK Shankang Li, Building 18, Room 102, 358 Kangding Lu, by Shaanxi Bei Lu 静安区康定路358号陕康里18号楼102室

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Biergarten – Summer Edition @ Zeitgeist

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Staying in Shanghai this July? Zeitgeist has summer evenings covered with cold beers, fresh pretzels, and a cozy beer garden vibe.


Warm nights turn into cool moments with friends, bites, and refreshing drinks—all without leaving the city.


Summer Vibes by DJ Thomas Paninaro. Free beer for everyone from 4-5pm!


Sat & Sun July 19 & 20, 4-10pm; Free Entry


Zeitgeist 537 Haifang Lu, by Xikang Lu, Jing'an District 海防路537号, 近西康路

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BEIDOU @ Shanghai International Dance Center

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Choreographer Geng Zibo (director of MAD WORLD and SECRET WORLD) presents BEIDOU, a mesmerizing dance theater work inspired by the ancient Chinese constellation, the Big Dipper.


Blending celestial mythology with contemporary movement, the piece follows a young Polaris traveler's surreal journey through time and space.


With striking visuals, evocative choreography, and an original score, BEIDOU explores themes of destiny, transcendence, and the eternal dance between humanity and the cosmos.


Presented by Shanmian Theater—a pioneer of China's independent dance scene—this production merges traditional Eastern aesthetics with bold modern experimentation.


Don't miss this medium-theater debut from one of China's most innovative dance collectives.


Click below to get your tickets now:


Sat July 19, 7.30pm & Sun July 20, 2pm; RMB162-1,000


Shanghai International Dance Center 1650 Hongqiao Lu, by Shuicheng Lu 桥路1650近水城路

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Sunday

Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza @ Cages

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The third Sunday of every month means Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza at Cages!


Head along to enjoy the classic flavors on offer: Meat Lover, Pepperoni Madness, Chicken Parmesan, Ham & Chicken, and Vegetarian.


And don't miss this month's special... Philly Cheesesteak. Inspired by the iconic Philly sandwich—loaded with juicy sirloin steak, mushrooms, and a generous layer of melted cheese that pulls like a dream.


Please note, all pizzas must be pre-ordered due to limited availability. Scan the QR code above to get yours now!


Sun July 20, 12 noon until they sell out


Cages 3/F, Jing'an Sports Center, 428 Jiangning Lu, by Wuding Lu 江宁路428号静安体育中心3楼, 近武定路

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Tuesday

We Love Music Quiz @ BNC

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Next week's Tuesday quiz at BNC is We Love Music. Entry is absolutely free and—as always—there will be great prizes on offer.


If all that excitement is not enough for you, it is Pie & Mash Club (RMB68), while liquor is a double for the price of a single from 8pm!


Scan the QR on the poster above to reserve a spot!


Tue July 22, 7.30pm; Free Entry


BNC 685 Xikang Lu, by Changping Lu, Jing'an District 西康路685号, 近昌平路

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Ongoing

Birds of Paradise @ Union Trading Co.

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Harkening back to an older and shinier version of Shanghai (before those messy few years happened) a bar called Birds of Paradise (BOP) used to sing of summer in the heat, with a tropical tiki theme.


READ MORE: Shanghai Bar Review: Birds of Paradise


One of the creators behind that adventure, and the main man behind Union Trading Co., Yao Lu will be resurrecting their vision with a pop-up at UTC.


READ MORE: Man, Myth, Legend: Yao Lu on Union Trading Co.'s Evolution


The tropical vibe is being maintained by family-owned rum producer Flor de Caña, in celebration of Rum Month at UTC, and there are also guest shifts from prior BOP bar stars Lucky Huang of Boo's (July 10), Folen Cheng of Pop Corner (July 14), and Bella Lin of Flask (July 17).


Be sure to stop in for memories of Shanghai past served in a glass! 


July 10-27, 7pm-Close; Free Entry


Union Trading Company 306 Hengshan Lu, by Yongjia Lu 衡山路306号,近永嘉路

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Sip of the Summer: Watermelon Edition @ Cotton's

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This July and August, enjoy a delightful lineup of watermelon-inspired drinks at Cotton's.


Guests can enjoy creative concoctions like the Watermelon Mojito, Watermelon Margarita, Watermelon Coffee, and the playful Watermelon Basil Smash, all priced at just RMB48.


Whether you're craving something fruity, caffeinated, or herb-infused, each drink promises a cool and flavorful escape. Don't miss this limited-time celebration of summer's favorite fruit!


July & Aug


Cotton's 294 Xinhua Lu, by Panyu Lu 新华路294 号, 近番禺路

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¥188 Bottomless Glass @ Lawry's The Prime Rib

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Head along to Lawry's for lunch (or simply daytime drinks) and take advantage of a fantastic RMB188 free flow deal surrounded by sophistiation.


READ MORE: Prime Time at Lawry's: Home of the Legendary Rib Roast


Daily, 11am-3pm


Lawry's The Prime Rib B1, 168 Wuyi Lu, by Zhaohua Lu 武夷路168B1, 近昭化路

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Le Petit Chef @ Albero Spanish Restaurant

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Le Petit Chef returns to Albero Spanish Restaurant with an elevated concept—an extraordinary culinary voyage through the flavors and cultural richness of Spain, Italy, France and Japan.


By merging cutting-edge glasses-free 3D projection with haute cuisine, this multisensory showcase redefines the art of experiential dining.


As the animated Little Chef dances across the plate, preparing dishes in a whimsical performance, the real-life kitchen team works in perfect sync behind the scenes to craft and serve each course.


This fusion of virtual storytelling and real-time cooking blurs the line between entertainment and fine dining, transforming the meal into an engaging, interactive experience where fantasy meets flavor.


Offering just 14 exclusive seats per session to ensure an intimate and engaging atmosphere, for more information or to make a reservation please call +86 21 3867 9196.


July 1-Aug 30, 12 noon & 6.30pm; RMB788 adult, RMB488 child


Albero Spanish Restaurant 2/F, Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai, 1288 Lujiazui Huan Lu, by Dongyuan Lu, Pudong District 陆家嘴环路12882东园路

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Looking for More?

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▼For more events, click 'Read more' (阅读原文) below.