Situated by the Science and Technology Museum, Gulistan is a friendly Turkic restaurant located in the mall above the local metro station.

As we entered, the owner hurried across the floor, offering us a hearty handshake and a cheery smile. Feeling good, we sat down, noted the somewhat confused decor, enjoyed the Arabic music and admired the contemporary art. Still feeling good, we allowed the waiter to make recommendations from the menu. The naan (RMB 3) arrived promptly, fresh from the oven, followed by a well-presented Turkish salad (RMB 25) and lamb kebabs (RMB 2), which were a significant improvement on the usual rou chuan available in Shanghai. While Gulistan isn't going to win any awards for serving haute Turkic cuisine, it provides a nice human respite, after a day spent exploring the world of science (and technology).

Location: C-05 AP Plaza, No. 2002 Century Plaza
Opening time: Daily 11am-9:30pm. No cards.
Cost for two (excluding drinks): RMB 76
Tel: 021-68546272