Shanghai, Illuminated.

Gastronome and the City
May 24
2 min read

Updated: 23 hours ago

Known for its skyline, the Oriental Pearl Tower, Lujiazui and the Bund have become global symbols of modern China.

I travelled to Shanghai to represent SIAL Network at Asia's largest food and beverage trade exhibition, meeting exhibitors, buyers and industry leaders while strengthening food trade connections between Australia, New Zealand, Asia and beyond.

Yet some of the most memorable moments happened outside of business.

The exhibition had ended, however the opportunities and insights continued.

One evening was spent at Obscura, a 15-seat Michelin-starred Chef's Table showcasing Chinese culinary techniques and premium produce from around the world. Across an 11-course wine-matched degustation, ingredients including Australian Wagyu, abalone, cucumber and Riesling blurred the line between dining and theatre. A blind-box lucky draw featuring eight additional dishes added an element of surprise.

There was a stay at The Yangtze Boutique hotel, a Master Therapist Experience at Banyan Tree On The Bund, walks through Nanjing Road, Xintiandi and the heritage streets of the Former French Concession, a private dumpling cooking class, Querencia, a flamenco dance performance that brought an unexpected rhythm to the metropolis, and the timeless waterways of Zhujiajiao.

Together, these encounters revealed a city where commerce and culture coexist, innovation meets tradition, and global influences strengthen local identity.

What began as a professional mission became a study in movement, atmosphere and possibility.

This final chapter concludes a three-part series exploring Shanghai through editorial photography, digital illustration and film.

Some places leave an impression.

Others leave a spark.

Pearl. Skyline. Shanghai.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/78f37d_0bc1e964fdcb4a189b94406ab7d42a53/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Obscura

538 Xikang Road

Jingan, Shanghai

China

+86 191 2147 1147

obscura-sh.com