High Rolling in XinTianDi

by Monica Liau
on Friday, April 30, 2010

The new line 10, which has transfer stations at NanJing East Road and HongQiao Road, also has a stop dedicated entirely to XinTianDi. Where previously the walk was a full 10 minutes from HuangPi South Road Station on line one, the walk is now only five minutes out of exit 6. Perhaps a bit frivolous, but convenient if you're trying to avoid the crowds heading to People's Square.

In terms of XinTianDi itself, it's easy for so-called "seasoned residents" - like yours truly - to sniff the place off as a trap. The multitudes of tour guides waving flags and screaming in bullhorns at seas of red hats and cameras are not the most encouraging prospect when you're hung-over and looking for weekend brunch. My pocketbook also begins to whine and groan whenever I even go near the place, much less enter the grounds.

Nevertheless, I gave XinTianDi another try over the weekend. The sun was shining, the brooks were babbling and at 11:00am, the tour crowds had passed through and the weekend partiers had yet to emerge from blistering headaches. There were even a couple of outdoor tables at Paul's Bakery which, despite my gripes on the cost, still serves up an excellent chocolate croissant. Should you be looking for something more substantial, Kabb's has hearty sandwiches for hearty prices, though I have to say their breakfast is nothing special. Va Bene is a gorgeous space to sit for a leisurely Italian lunch and cocktail, surrounded by glass and foliage.

If big mussels sound appealing, head down the road to newcomer on the scene Chambar Bistro, a cute Belgium joint that cooks up said bi-valves in white wine, beer, herbs and more, with foie gras salads and Liege-style greens also making an appearance amidst the mix of fish and meats.

For something with a whole lot of class, T8 brunch is pretty tip top. Though I was told recently by one disgruntled diner that the service was appallingly poor for the price you are paying, not many have had complaints about the creative and clever food that Chef Roger Johnsson brainstorms in his open kitchen.

In terms of smart spending, I'm sorry to say there aren't really many options. However, another recent addition to the scene, Buten is easier on the wallet and offers nice Japanese nibbles. Rolls are priced at around RMB25 and appetizers from RMB10 to RMB30. For a sweet treat, Nice Restaurant is having a special on "Yogurt of Paradise" for RMB25, a mound of frozen yogurt smothered in fruit.