Shanghai diners are certainly no strangers to French food, so Le Royal Meridien had its work cut out when launching Allure. They succeed by sticking close to tradition, preparing dishes to top-notch French standards without skimping on the ingredients.

One of the highlights of the meal, la truffe noire RMB 148 (the black truffle is featured in Epicurious on P126) is a deceptively simple-looking cream soup with a velvety, delicate flavor, an excellent accompaniment to la St. Jacques, roasted scallops and mushrooms topped with a dollop of creme fraiche (RMB 178). Those with hearty appetites can pair le beouf, wrapped in a thin, buttery crust (RMB 148), with the earthy l'agneau, pan-fried lamb with eggplant, tomato and pine nuts (RMB 208).

Save room for some excellent desserts, including our favourite, a combination of Brittany shortbread, creme brulee and pear with brown sugar (RMB 78).

Allure 
Open time: 11am-2:30pm, 6-10pm. All cards.
Location: 8/F, Le Royal Meridien Shanghai, 789 Nanjing Dong Lu
Tel: 021-33189999
Cost for two (excluding drinks): RMB 838