The purpose of dining in an upscale Chinese restaurant is often to impress guests, rather than truly enjoy a fine meal, but at Tiandi Yijia patrons can do both.

The chic interior, bathed in soft yellow light, is modern and warm, while the staff is accommodating and knowledgeable, providing attentive service throughout the meal. As one might expect, the restaurant spotlights traditional delicacies, as well as a variety of Beijing, Cantonese and Shanghainese dishes presented in the style of Chinese Nouvelle cuisine. Our braised spareribs in sweet soya sauce (RMB 78) were subtly flavored, too subtly perhaps, as the dish needed a touch more sauce. Meanwhile, our health-conscious dinner companion found the braised pumpkin with assorted vegetables (RMB 68) a rewarding choice.

In the end, a visit to Tiandi Yijia means an impressive selection of dishes prepared to a high standard of quality and served in sophisticated surroundings. Ganbei.

Tiandi Yijia 
Location: 3/F, 6 on the Bund, Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu
Tel: 021-63297333
Open: Daily 11am-11pm. 
Cost for two (excluding drinks): RMB 417. All cards.