Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan’s Culinary Innovation Blends Tradition and Modernity, Offering Signature Dishes and Exclusive Dining Experiences in Shanghai

Published on December 22, 2025

In the heart of Shanghai’s rapidly evolving Qiantan District, the newly opened Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan is setting a new standard for luxury dining in the city. As Shanghai transforms into a global hub for culture, commerce, and creativity, the hotel is at the forefront of this renaissance, introducing cutting-edge culinary experiences that seamlessly blend local heritage with global influences. This exciting new chapter for the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand brings with it an unparalleled focus on gastronomy, making the hotel a must-visit destination for food lovers and connoisseurs alike. With two stunning restaurants, an exclusive chef’s table, and unique dining experiences that evoke the spirit of Shanghai’s heritage, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan is redefining the city’s luxury dining landscape. Located in the trendy Qiantan District of Pudong, the hotel is close to the famous Bund, adding another layer of glamour to this already dynamic neighborhood.

The hotel’s commitment to excellence is evident not only in its world-class service and facilities but also in its dedication to culinary artistry. From the Peacock Alley with its elegant atmosphere to the immersive chef’s table experience, every meal is designed to be memorable, with flavors that both reflect and celebrate Shanghai’s modern vibrancy and rich cultural past.

Let’s dive into the culinary innovations that are making Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan one of the most talked-about destinations in Shanghai.

ARAME: Celebrating Ocean Flavors with Contemporary European Cuisine

On the ground level of Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, ARAME introduces a contemporary take on European cuisine with a deep connection to the ocean. Named after a delicate variety of seaweed, ARAME offers a luxurious yet welcoming environment that celebrates seasonal ingredients and locally sourced seafood.

Signature dishes at ARAME include:

• Blue Lobster: Charcoal grilled and wrapped in marinated pig ear terrine, this dish is served with crispy rice cakes, ají peppers, and a reduction of Taizhou red prawn broth.
• Wellington Potato: Layers of Manchego cheese, bacon, and potatoes encased in flaky pastry, accompanied by a black truffle-infused mushroom sauce.
• Grilled Calamari: Known for its tender texture, this dish is enhanced with fermented chili, Yunnan tree tomato reduction, and aromatic herbs.

The restaurant’s wood-fired grill, fueled by lychee wood, enhances the natural quality of each ingredient, making every dish a celebration of authentic flavors. The restaurant also offers a leisurely brunch service, with extended hours on weekends until 3:00 p.m., allowing guests to enjoy a relaxed start to their day.

Fu Cheng: A Modern Take on Min Cuisine

Located atop the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, Fu Cheng brings Min cuisine—a specialty of Fujian province—to the heart of Shanghai. Helmed by the celebrated Chef Justin Yang, who is also the owner of Michelin-starred restaurant Hokkien Cuisine, Fu Cheng combines the traditional flavors of Quanzhou with a modern, creative twist.

Notable dishes include:

• Deep-fried Eel with Finger Lime: Revived from a family recipe, the eel is air-dried for 36 hours before being deep-fried and glazed with honey, finished with citrus accents.
• Braised Beef Steak: Slow-braised with curry and satay spices, this dish is inspired by Southeast Asia’s Maritime Silk Road.
• Double Boiled Duck Soup with Sandworm: A rich, flavorful broth prepared with Fujian duck and dried sandworms.

In addition to the culinary delights, Fu Cheng offers a personalized tea-pairing service led by tea sommeliers, who carefully select teas like Yancha from Fujian and Pu’er from Yunnan to complement each dish.

Peacock Alley: Timeless Elegance with a Contemporary Twist

Inspired by the original Peacock Alley at Waldorf Astoria New York, this iconic venue at Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan continues the brand’s legacy of elegance. Serving as a refined gathering space, it blends urban energy with tranquil river views, offering an exceptional place for guests to relax and enjoy the best of afternoon tea.

The offerings include:

• Western pastries with Eastern twists, such as kumquats and Chinese walnuts, highlighting the fusion of cultures.
• A serene atmosphere that evolves throughout the day, turning into an elegant lounge by night, where soft lighting and river reflections create the perfect ambiance for intimate conversations or a sophisticated evening.

Peacock Alley embodies the timeless sophistication of Waldorf Astoria while embracing Shanghai’s modern charm, making it the ideal spot for both casual and upscale gatherings.

Starlight: An Immersive Chef’s Table Experience

For the ultimate culinary adventure, Starlight offers an exclusive chef’s table experience that is both immersive and interactive. Guests at Starlight are invited to engage with the chefs as they prepare each course in an open kitchen, offering an up-close and personal dining journey. This experience is designed to celebrate seasonality, precision, and culinary storytelling, with each course crafted to create a sense of connection between the guest, the chef, and the dish. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Huangpu River and the West Bund, making the experience not only a feast for the palate but for the eyes as well.

With its breathtaking backdrop of the Shanghai skyline, Starlight is the perfect setting for those seeking a unique and personalized dining experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional restaurant dining.

A Contemporary Culinary Destination for Shanghai

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan’s culinary offerings represent a blend of local heritage and global artistry. With its exclusive dining experiences, the hotel has become a destination in itself for those looking to indulge in the finest culinary experiences Shanghai has to offer. Whether enjoying a seafood-inspired meal at ARAME, savoring Min cuisine at Fu Cheng, or relishing the elegance of Peacock Alley, every meal at Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan is an opportunity to explore new flavors and enjoy exceptional service.

Conclusion: A Culinary Landmark in Shanghai’s Qiantan District

The newly opened Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan is more than just a luxury hotel—it’s a gastronomic destination that’s setting a new benchmark for fine dining in Shanghai. With its stunning restaurants, personalized dining experiences, and commitment to culinary excellence, the hotel is quickly becoming a central player in the city’s vibrant food scene.

By blending the traditions of Shanghai with contemporary gastronomic artistry, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan is crafting a new chapter in Shanghai’s culinary history, offering an unforgettable dining journey for locals and visitors alike.