(That's Shanghai )
Updated: 2007-02-12 10:43

For many of us, living in China's most cosmopolitan city produces a longing to return to nature. Shui yuan,which means "the source of good things", offers a little piece of nature right here.

This smoke-free restaurant is a mix of wood, stone, brick and bronze accompanied by the soothing sounds of Chinese instrumental music. As we sat in one of the velvety brown seats overlooking the Bund, the staff was quick to offer cucumber-scented water. We ordered Chef Wu's signature home-style braised pork (small, RMB 98) which was subtle in flavor; wok-fried spinach in XO sauce (RMB 98) tasted mild enough but could have used additional sauce. Portions are small, though SY merits applause for its refined service and quality ingredients. All in all, this provides for a dining experience worthy of its aim.

Food: 3/ Service: 4/ Atmosphere: 3/ Cost for two (excluding drinks): RMB 312

Shui yuan
Daily 11:30am-2:30pm; 6-10:30pm.
Address:3/F, One on the Bund, Yan'an Dong Lu
Tel: 021-6330 8098