CBD Seafood

2 Photos

by Ingrid Peterson
on Monday, February 04, 2008 12:00 AM

CBD Seafood is digging a niche for itself in the Xintiandi strip like a clam at low tide. Instead of being buried in the back lanes, you'll find it front and center on the south block and inviting passerby's to come for in for lunch, tea, or dinner. One would assume a focus on seafood, and there's plenty of that, but above all CBD is Australian style dining. This means plenty of Aussie beef, New World wines, and big plates with a fresh garden's worth of color.

The space is petite for Xintiandi, with dainty detailing like pastel chandeliers. Blue and white are laid on heavy in tablecloths and carpeting, creating a subdued space for intimate conversation. CBD cries out to be a date place, or an afternoon gossip spot with your closest confidant cake and coffee (tea served from 2:00-5:30). Without question, the house specialty is the CBD seafood tower for 588rmb, meant to dazzle with layers of delectable sea life as you like it. Feed your date Alaskan crab legs, lobster and oysters, but ask yourself first, is it suave to wear a bib?

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and the dinner sets at CBD are on board. Expect food done simply like Australian rib eye dressed with black peppercorn sauce, mixed greens and mashed potatoes. There are some delicate touches saved for the cuisine as well as the decor, the desserts like mango sorbet or tangy condensed fruits with ice cream for example. Call ahead to hear about VIP options.

A simple menu and a tendency not to muddle in complex flavors, CBD Seafood allows for its imported seafood and beef to stand on its own.