Plan your visit to Taste Of China immersive dining experience| Timings, tips & more

Taste of China is a multi-sensory dining experience that combines a 7-course meal with live performances, projection mapping, and storytelling. Since the experience follows a fixed sequence with timed seating, planning ahead helps you choose the right seating zone, arrive on time, and fully enjoy the immersive flow without interruptions.

Navigating your way

Arrive at the venue entrance early

The experience is hosted inside a dedicated indoor venue within a commercial complex. Arriving 20–30 minutes early gives you enough time for check-in, seating allocation, and pre-show instructions.

Check your session timing

Each show runs at fixed time slots (usually in the evening). Late entry may not be permitted once the experience begins, as the sequence is synchronized with performances and projections.

Know your seating category

Choose between section B, section A, or VIP seating. While all include the same menu and show, proximity to the stage and immersion levels differ—VIP is closest, while section B offers a wider perspective.

Follow the guided seating & continuous flow

Staff will escort you to your assigned table, and seating changes are not permitted once the experience begins. The dining and performances run as a continuous, timed sequence without formal breaks.

How to make the most of your time

Visit typeDurationRouteWhat you get

Full experience

2 hours

Arrival → Seating → Full 7-course experience → Exit

A complete immersive dining show, ideal if you’re fitting this into a broader evening itinerary.

Handy tips

  • Choose seating based on experience preference: Go for VIP if you want close-up interaction and maximum immersion, section A for balanced views, and section B for a wider, more theatrical perspective.
  • Keep your schedule buffer-free: Avoid tight plans immediately after your session, as the experience runs on a fixed flow and may extend slightly.
  • Limit movement during the show: Since the experience is synchronized, it’s best to remain seated to avoid missing key moments in the performance or dining sequence.
  • Inform staff about dietary needs in advance: If you have dietary restrictions, check availability and inform the venue beforehand, as menu customization may be limited.
  • Plan transport in advance: Evening sessions can coincide with peak traffic. Booking a taxi or rideshare in advance helps ensure a smooth arrival and departure.

Explore the Taste Of China immersive dining experience

7-course “journey across China”

The experience is structured as a culinary journey through seven major regions of China, each represented by a distinct dish and cultural theme.

What to look out for

  • Regional storytelling: Each course reflects a specific region (east, west, north, south, central, Greater Bay Area, and Shanghai).
  • Modern reinterpretations: Classic dishes are reimagined with contemporary techniques and artistic plating.
  • Thematic pairings: Every dish is paired with tea or specialty drinks curated to match its flavour profile

270° projection “living landscape”

The walls transform into a continuous moving panorama inspired by China’s landscapes and cultural scenes.

What to look out for

  • Cinematic transitions: Scenes shift from rivers and mountains to historic and cultural settings.
  • “Edible scenery” concept: Visuals are designed to align with the dish being served, blending food with environment.
  • 360° soundscape: Audio design enhances immersion, making you feel part of the environment.

Narrative-led experience with interactive tables

The journey is guided by a themed storyline (featuring a virtual host) while projection-mapped tables respond dynamically to each course, blending storytelling with tactile visuals.

What to look out for

  • Story progression: The experience unfolds in chapters across different regions of China, linking food, visuals, and performances.
  • Interactive table visuals: Elements like flowing water or koi fish appear and evolve with each course.
  • Seamless integration: Food, projections, and table interactions are synchronised to create a layered, immersive experience.

Live performances & cultural acts

The experience is enhanced with live cultural performances integrated into the dining sequence.

What to look out for

  • Traditional elements: Acts may include Chinese dance, opera-style face-changing, or martial arts.
  • Timed integration: Performances align with courses rather than running separately.
  • Central stage design: Ensures visibility across all seating zones.

Taste of China immersive dining experience timings & best time to visit

AttractionDayTimingsLast entryClosed on

Taste of China immersive dining experience

Mon–Sun

10am–10pm

Entry closes at session start

Open year-round; timings vary by booking

Best time to visit

Early vs evening sessions

Evening sessions (around 7pm) offer the most immersive atmosphere, with darker lighting enhancing projections, stage effects, and overall mood. Afternoon sessions feel more relaxed and are better if you prefer a quieter, less intense visual experience.

Weekday vs weekend

Weekdays typically have fewer guests, allowing for a calmer, more comfortable experience with less crowd movement. Weekends and holidays are busier, creating a livelier ambience but with fuller seating across all zones.

Where is the Taste Of China immersive dining experience located?

Promenade along the Bund with historic buildings in Shanghai, China.

Address: Unit LG1-03, Basement 1, The Bund City Hall Plaza (formerly Old Municipal Government Building), 270 Henan Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China. Find on Maps.

Taste of China is located in Huangpu District, close to The Bund, one of Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront areas. The venue sits within a historic building complex, blending cultural heritage with a modern immersive setup.

Its central location makes it easy to reach from major areas like Lujiazui, Nanjing Road, and People’s Square, making it a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing in Shanghai.

Closest landmark: The Bund waterfront and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, both within walking distance.

Getting there

CRH high-speed bullet train at a station platform in China.
  • Travel time: ~5–15 minutes from central areas
  • Nearest station: East Nanjing Road (Line 2, Line 10)

Take the Shanghai Metro to East Nanjing Road Station, one of the closest access points. From there, it’s a short 5–10 minute walk toward Henan Middle Road and the Bund area where the venue is located. This is the easiest option if you're coming from places like People’s Square or Lujiazui.

Red taxi driving through a busy intersection in Hong Kong.
  • Travel time: 10–25 minutes depending on traffic
  • Common pickup areas: The Bund, People’s Square, Lujiazui

Taxis and rideshare services like DiDi provide a direct drop-off near the venue. For smoother navigation, it’s helpful to show the venue name in Chinese (as mentioned on your ticket), especially during busy evening hours.

Woman talking on phone in backseat of car.

Travel time: 10–25 minutes from central Shanghai

Drive toward Huangpu District via main city roads leading to Henan Middle Road. The venue is close to The Bund and easy to locate using GPS, but expect slower traffic during peak evening hours. Parking is available in nearby commercial buildings, though spaces can be limited—arriving early is recommended.

Facilities

  • Reception & check-in area: A designated entry zone where tickets are verified and guests are guided to their seating before the experience begins.
  • Dining & performance hall: A purpose-built immersive space with tiered seating, central stage, and 270° projection walls designed for a synchronized dining and show experience.
  • Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available within the venue or the building complex before entering the main hall.
  • Seating zones: Three seating categories—VIP, section A, and section B—each offering different viewing perspectives while including the same dining experience.
  • Waiting/lounge areas: Limited waiting space may be available near the entrance for early arrivals before seating begins.
  • Photography-friendly setup: The venue’s lighting and projections create strong photo opportunities, especially before the show begins and during transitions.

Accessibility

Lobby of TASTE OF CHINA restaurant in Shanghai with panda statue and bamboo decor.
  • Entrance & common areas: The venue is located within a commercial complex with lift access, making entry relatively convenient.
  • Seating layout: Tiered seating may involve steps in certain zones; accessibility can vary depending on seat location.
  • During the experience: Guests are expected to remain seated for most of the show, which may limit movement for those needing frequent access.
  • Guided assistance: Staff are available to guide guests to their seats, but it’s recommended to inform them in advance if you have specific mobility needs.
  • Suitability: While accessible to most visitors, those with limited mobility may prefer lower-tier or easily accessible seating zones where available.

Visiting with family

  • Age suitability: The experience is generally suitable for older children and teenagers who can sit through a full-length dining show.
  • Seating & comfort: All guests are seated for the duration, making it more suitable for families with children who are comfortable staying seated for extended periods.
  • Dining format: The multi-course meal format may not cater to very young children, so reviewing the menu beforehand is helpful.
  • Visual engagement: The immersive projections and performances can be engaging for children, especially those interested in storytelling and visuals.

Rules & regulations

  • Timely entry required: Entry is tied to your booked session. Late arrivals may not be admitted once the experience begins.
  • No seat changes: Seating is pre-assigned based on ticket category; switching zones during the experience is not permitted.
  • Photography guidelines: Personal photography is usually allowed, but flash and disruptive recording should be avoided during performances.
  • Food & beverages: Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the venue.
  • During the show: Guests are expected to remain seated and avoid unnecessary movement to maintain the immersive experience for all.
  • Respect the experience flow: The show follows a fixed sequence, interruptions or delays can impact both dining and performance timing.

Where to shop

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

  • Location: Near The Bund, Huangpu District
  • What to find: A bustling 6km shopping stretch with international brands, local boutiques, street snacks, and cafés—ideal for both casual browsing and premium shopping.

Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar

  • Location: Old City, near Yuyuan Garden
  • What to find: Traditional Chinese souvenirs, silk garments, handicrafts, and local snacks set within classic architecture and lively market lanes.

Yuanmingyuan Road

  • Location: Near The Bund, Huangpu District
  • What to find: A quieter, design-forward street featuring boutique stores, including local brands, artisanal goods, and premium lifestyle products.

Shanghai IFC Mall

  • Location: Lujiazui, Pudong (across the river)
  • What to find: Luxury international brands, fine dining options, and panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline in a modern mall setting.

Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre

  • Location: Huangpu/Jing’an area (central Shanghai)
  • What to find: Rare vintage propaganda posters and cultural memorabilia, offering a more niche and historically rich shopping experience.

Where to eat

Yuxing Ji Noodle Restaurant (People’s Square Branch)

  • Location: 151 Hubei Road, Huangpu District
  • What to eat: Signature crab roe rice and noodles, rich broths, and indulgent Shanghainese-style comfort dishes.

Lailai Snack Dumpling

  • Location: 504 Tianjin Road, Huangpu District
  • What to eat: Freshly made xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), crispy fried pork chops, and classic local street-style bites.

Long Time Ago Lamb Skewers

  • Location: 180 Yunnan South Road, Huangpu District
  • What to eat: Charcoal-grilled lamb skewers, spiced barbecue meats, and casual street-style grilled dishes.

Xiandelai

  • Location: 36 Yunnan South Road, Huangpu District
  • What to eat: Traditional fried pork chops, Ningbo-style sticky rice cakes, and hearty local comfort food.

Lost Heaven Bar

  • Location: Near The Bund / central Shanghai
  • What to eat: Yunnan-inspired dishes, regional specialties, and signature cocktails in an atmospheric setting.

Where to stay

Ascot Huai Hai Road (Xintiandi area)

Serviced apartments with kitchens and laundry facilities, offering a comfortable, home-style stay, ideal for families or longer visits in central Shanghai.

The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai

A 5-star luxury hotel with premium amenities, spacious rooms, and easy access to major attractions, perfect for a comfortable city stay.

Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre

High-end hotel featuring modern rooms, dining options, and proximity to shopping streets and key city landmarks.

Conrad Shanghai

Upscale property with refined interiors, top-tier facilities, and convenient access to central attractions and transport links.

Gubei Apartments (Changning area)

Residential-style serviced apartments and high-rise stays, ideal for longer stays with added space, privacy, and local neighbourhood access.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the Taste Of China immersive dining experience

Your ticket includes the full 7-course meal, tea pairings, immersive projections, and live performances. Seating category (VIP, A, or B section) determines your view.

Read More

About the Taste Of China immersive dining experience

Timings

Getting There