Shanghai’s Timeless Eatery: How Paul Pairet Redefined the French Brasserie
Nestled on the sixth floor of a heritage building on the iconic Bund waterfront, Mr & Mrs Bund has been an institution in Shanghai’s competitive dining scene for over a decade. Since opening its doors in April 2009, Chef Paul Pairet’s establishment has earned a reputation for doing something refreshingly simple yet deeply effective: taking classic French brasserie cuisine and injecting it with a modern, creative spirit, all served in a high-energy, family-style setting.
The Pairet Philosophy
Three-Michelin-star Chef Paul Pairet, also the genius behind the ultra-exclusive Ultraviolet, envisioned Mr & Mrs Bund as a place of sophisticated comfort. He aimed to create a “timeless eatery” where the atmosphere is as important as the food. The dining room offers stunning river views, and the ambiance is enhanced by great music and a festive energy that makes it a popular spot for date nights and group celebrations.
Pairet’s menu is legendary not just for its length—it’s famously extensive—but for its focus on updated classic French dishes with global twists. The core idea is “family sharing style,” encouraging guests to order multiple plates and pass them around the table.
Signature Experiences on the Plate
The culinary journey features a wide array of options, from chilled seafood platters to charbroiled steaks that thenewyorkerdeli.com are expertly carved at the table. The image of a table laden with numerous small, artfully presented dishes captures the essence of the dining experience: variety, quality, and generosity.
Diners can expect signature dishes that have become Shanghai classics, such as the delicate “Egg Caviar Dill” or the flavorful “Fish Soup.” The menu highlights elements often found in a traditional steakhouse or grill, ensuring that every palate is catered to. The presentation is stylish and modern, without being overly refined, allowing the bold flavors to take center stage.
A Lasting Impact
On the dining scene for over ten years, Mr & Mrs Bund never seems to age. Its success lies in the combination of consistent quality, a unique serving style, and Pairet’s witty, playful approach to traditional French fare. It was the very first restaurant from China to make it onto The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, a testament to its innovation and lasting appeal.
In a city where dining trends come and go rapidly, Mr & Mrs Bund has secured its place as a reliable and vibrant beacon of modern French dining, blending the best of classic cuisine with a contemporary twist that keeps diners coming back for more.
