Eating Tasty Shanghainese Food in a Refurbished Villa

I'd heard there was a grand place for traditional fare down a lane somewhere north of Nanjing Road but I hadn't figured out where it was. Finally, some friends in the know invited us out and happily, Fu 1039 is now on my map.

Fu 1039 serves traditional as well as new Shanghainese cuisine in a stately renovated villa a la Shanghai 1930. Step back in time and imagine yourself a Taipan. It's easy to do in this glorious villa, surrounded by art-deco furniture and chinoiserie.

The dishes don't disappoint. The drunken chicken (pictured) melts in your mouth and I've had a craving for the stewed pork belly ever since our divine dinner. Fu 1039 is a must-dine to sample Shanghai - architecturally and gastronomically - during your visit.

Photo: Sara Naumann.