(City Weekend)
Updated: 2006-05-30 09:10

As the maitre d'pushed a cart laden with steak, wine, liquor, garlic and mushrooms our way, we knew we were in for a show.

The curtain went up for the main act, and with a loud whoosh, liquor-fueled flames nearly licked the ceiling. The result was a delicious Flamed Sirloin Steak (RMB 250).

Likewise, the rest of our experience at this recently renovated French villa was a pleasure. The stone exterior houses two stories of romantic tables, while a rustic wood and glass porch lies sheltered under the shade of magnolias and palms. Pours of house wine (for as little as RMB 25) perfectly complemented the Goat Cheese Terrine (RMB 55) and Stuffed Chicken with sweet onion sauce and vegetable couscous (RMB 165).

Tack on impeccable service, and there seems little wrong with Le Magnolier, but beware some of main courses' expensive price tags.

Location: 882 Julu Lu  
Tel: 021-62496068