Hakkasan is a fancy and fashionable Michelin-starred Chinese chain that comes to Shanghai via London. Part of an international chain which also boasts branches in New York, Miami, Vegas, San Francisco, the UAE and even Mumbai, the soul of the menu is Cantonese and features traditional status ingredients like abalone or bird's nest as well as more Western notions of luxury like crispy roast duck with caviar. There are other simpler standbys like salt and pepper squid or pepper steak stir-fried with merlot. The beverage program is huge, with voluminous wine list and extensive cocktail program, too. But it's most striking feature is the space itself. It's beautifully appointed with dim lights and intricate wooden screens which create cozy little alcoves, creating a multisensorial dining experience with eclectic soundtrack and jasmine incense aroma. They've got two separate cocktail bars, a resident DJ and weekly pipa performances. It's an impressive place, best for a splurge or to impress important people.