By Michael (smartshanghai.com)
Updated: 2008-01-21 10:47

Last year there was a lot of fanfare over the opening of Ascendas Plaza on Tianyaoqiao Lu near Nandan Lu because it seemed like Xujiahui was finally expanding in a necessary direction. Ascendas, however, proved to be a disappointment with bad restaurants and a stuffy, drab layout, and Xujiahui residents had to look elsewhere for convenient dining options.

A few months ago, though, Novel Place opened a block up the street and we love it. The space is open instead of boxed in, so you can walk around in the fresh air as you window shop. It's also pleasant to look at, with a tastefully modern look. There's your usual selection of clothing shops, but the main attraction is the smart selection of restaurants under the street level. And! Finally! City Shop! Near Xujiahui! Yes!

The first restaurant we tried here is Applebee's, an American suburban diner chain. This is their first location in China. We walked in on opening day and were greeted by a cheery management staff who looked like they were still in Kansas City, with their tucked-in white company polo shirts. We found the burgers almost passable, but it was for the salmon that we’ve since returned for a few times. Just like in North America, you go to Applebee's for the ease, comfort and reasonable prices, not to be awed by the food. What we like best about the place is the service, and they've done a very good job at training the staff. They come by your table and ask if the food is okay, and when the meal is done, they leave the bill on the table so you can sort it out at your leisure, instead of doing that nervous hover dance.

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