Mercato by Jean-Georges: A “Farm Chic” Masterpiece on the Shanghai Bund
Perched on the 6th floor of the historic Three on the Bund, Mercato by Jean-Georges remains one of Shanghai’s most iconic dining destinations. Since its debut in 2012, this vibrant Italian restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten has redefined upscale casual dining by blending rustic charm with the high-octane energy of the Lujiazui skyline.
A Sensory Design by Neri&Hu
The restaurant’s interior, crafted by the world-renowned design firm Neri&Hu, is a masterclass in “farm chic” aesthetics. The space honors the building’s industrial heritage by stripping away layers to reveal original steel columns and Victorian plaster ceilings. This raw, industrial foundation is softened with reclaimed wood, warm leather, and hand-blown glass bulbs, creating an order.chuanfurestaurant.com atmosphere that is both sophisticated and unpretentious. The crown jewel of the design is the perimeter of floor-to-ceiling windows, offering diners an unobstructed, panoramic view of the Huangpu River and the illuminated skyscrapers across the water.
Cuisine: Italian Soul with Modern Flair
The menu at Mercato focuses on contemporary Italian cuisine with a commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Jean-Georges’ signature style is evident in the light, vibrant flavors that avoid heavy creams in favor of herbal vinaigrettes and vegetable essences.
Signature Highlights include:
- Wood-Fired Pizzas: Each pizza begins with a proprietary house-made dough, baked in an Italian wood-burning oven to achieve a perfectly charred, “light-as-air” crust. The Black Truffle with Three Cheeses and Farm Egg is a perennial favorite.
- Seafood Specialties: Standouts include the Porcini-Crusted Salmon with warm leek vinaigrette and the Wood Oven-Roasted Icelandic Halibut.
- Sharing Concept: True to the “Mercato” (market) name, the menu emphasizes family-style sharing, featuring a wide array of antipasti, handmade pastas, and crudo.
Experience and Practical Information
Mercato has consistently been recognized as a Michelin-Selected Restaurant from 2018 through 2026, a testament to its enduring quality in Shanghai’s competitive food scene.
- Average Cost: Expect to spend approximately ¥500 to ¥800 (RMB) per person (roughly $70–$110 USD), depending on wine and cocktail selections.
- Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for window-side tables during the evening light show.
- Location: 6/F, Three on the Bund, 3 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, Shanghai.
Whether for a romantic date or a lively group gathering, Mercato offers a quintessentially “Shanghai” experience: world-class food set against one of the most famous cityscapes on earth. For current menus and booking, visit the Jean-Georges Official Website.