Shanghai: Immersive Republican Era Dinner Experience & Show

Travelers looking to step back into Shanghai’s glamorous Republican Era will find this dinner experience offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. Hosted in a stylish venue on The Bund, it combines a curated set menu, traditional costumes, and a lively stage performance—all within a cozy, small-group setting. Our review covers everything from what to expect, the value of the experience, and tips to make your night memorable.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to dress up in authentic costumes, complete with makeover services. Second, the delicious Shanghai fusion cuisine paired with storytelling about each dish. Third, the stage show recreates the glamour of 1930s Shanghai with actors and interactions that keep you engaged. The only potential downside? The tour lasts just 1.5 hours, so it’s more of a lively evening activity than a deep dive into history—perfect for those wanting a taste, not an exhaustive lesson.

This experience is ideal for lovers of culture, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a stylish, fun night out with friends or a romantic partner. If you’re after an authentic look into Shanghai’s past with a side of entertainment and good food, this tour will tick many boxes.

Good To Know

• Authentic costumes and makeup allow guests to fully embrace the Republican Era look.
• A multi-course fusion menu with storytelling enhances your dining experience.
• Live performance and interactive drama recreate 1930s Shanghai in a vintage-style banquet hall.
• Photo opportunities include a historic spiral staircase and river-view terrace.
• Small group setting ensures a personalized experience and better interaction.
• Timing is perfect for an early evening activity, with photos at sunset offering the best views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Location and Atmosphere

Nestled on the 5th floor of a building at 22 Zhongshan East 2nd Road, the venue offers a strong sense of stepping back in time. The interior design boasts vintage touches—crystal chandeliers, neon signs, and retro wallpaper—that immediately transport you to the 1930s. The venue’s ambiance is carefully curated to evoke early 20th-century Shanghai elegance, creating a perfect backdrop for the evening.

Guests often arrive an hour early for the included costume and makeup services. The choice of costumes across three floors includes enhanced cheongsams, velvet dresses, long gowns, and gentleman’s top hats, accessorized with pearl necklaces or vintage-style hats. The professional makeup artists craft a vintage look that complements your face shape, and many guests appreciate their attention to detail, such as vintage wave hairstyles that feel truly authentic.

Costume and Makeup: Fully Immersive Dressing

We loved how seamless the transformation was. Guests are encouraged to select their costumes, and the accompanying makeup services are thoughtfully designed to match your chosen era look. One reviewer noted, “The makeup artists did a fantastic job—my vintage waves and red lipstick made me feel like I stepped right out of a 1930s Shanghai movie.” For many, this part of the experience is a highlight, providing perfect photo opportunities and boosting confidence to fully enjoy the evening.

The Dining Experience: Fusion Cuisine with a Story

The set menu is a notable aspect. It offers a multi-course meal of Shanghai fusion dishes, with each serving accompanied by a projection explaining its story. The dishes are a blend of traditional and modern elements, such as Pu’er Braised Pork with Abalone and Cognac Foie Gras, which showcase the culinary creativity of the chef. The Black Pepper 5A Snow Beef Cubes are consistently praised for their tenderness.

Notably, the jasmine milk jelly dessert offers a delightful, fragrant finish that leaves a lingering sweetness. Several reviewers felt that the food’s quality and presentation exceeded expectations, considering the intimate setting. The narrative aspect adds depth—you’re not just eating but also learning about the significance of each dish, making the meal both a taste and visual story.

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The Performance: A Live, Interactive Show

The centerpiece is a live performance of “Evening Shanghai,” staged in a 1930s-style banquet hall. The scene is set with vintage gramophones, neon lights, and crystal chandeliers—creating a lush, glamorous environment. Actors in period costumes perform a lively mix of dialogues, songs, and improvisations that mimic a typical night at a fancy Shanghai restaurant or family gathering during that time.

Guests are given “mission cards” that can lead to playful interactions, such as participating in a mock family confrontation or gossip session. One reviewer appreciated this aspect, saying, “It felt more like being part of the story rather than just watching a show.” The performance is well-paced, with the serving of each dish synchronized with the unfolding drama, making every bite part of the narrative.

Photo Opportunities and Views

The venue offers superb spots for photos. The spiral staircase, lit with warm yellow lights, is praised for its vintage aesthetic—perfect for capturing the classic vibe. The terrace on the 6th floor provides sweeping views of the Huangpu River, the Bund’s iconic skyline, and Lujiazui’s modern skyscrapers. Especially during the 30-minute window before and after sunset, these views are stunning, offering a stark contrast between old Shanghai and the modern metropolis.

Guests often mention that these photos turn into keepsakes. The private room corridor’s dark green wallpaper and brass lamps lend an old-Hollywood feel that enhances every shot.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour is designed for small groups—limited to five participants—which fosters intimacy and personalized interaction. The experience lasts 1.5 hours, making it a perfect early evening activity. It’s recommended to book 2-3 days in advance due to limited spots, and early bird tickets are more economical, offering better value for a memorable night out.

Guests should bring a camera and a power bank to capture memories and keep devices charged. Smoking indoors isn’t allowed, aligning with the venue’s refined atmosphere. While the experience suits most adults, children under 3 are not recommended due to the duration and nature of the show.

The Value of the Experience

Compared to other cultural or dinner experiences in Shanghai, this tour offers a well-rounded package—interactive performance, authentic costumes, engaging storytelling, and a delicious meal—all in a cozy setting. For around the price of a good restaurant dinner, you get an immersive journey into Shanghai’s glamorous past, perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a unique cultural insight.

The expertly guided experience ensures you’re well-informed and engaged throughout. The hosts, known for their attention to detail and friendly interaction, elevate the evening from just a meal to an enjoyable storytelling adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This experience is best suited for those who want a stylish night out with a dash of history and culture. It’s ideal for travelers craving a personalized, intimate activity that combines visual storytelling, good food, and entertainment. The costumes and performance add a playful, immersive element that transforms a typical dinner into a memorable event.

If you’re a fan of vintage aesthetics or curious about Shanghai’s glamorous past, this tour offers a fantastic, straightforward way to experience it firsthand. The small group size ensures a relaxed, friendly environment where you can enjoy interactions and take plenty of photos.

While it doesn’t replace a full history lesson, it definitely offers a lively taste of what life might have been like for the wealthy and fashionable in 1930s Shanghai. The balance of entertainment and aesthetic appeal makes it a worthwhile addition to your Shanghai itinerary.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group format makes it easy to mingle and participate actively, making it a fun option for solo visitors.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive about an hour early to enjoy the complimentary costume and makeup services and settle into the vintage ambiance.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is fine, but dressing up in vintage-inspired outfits or elegant clothing can enhance the experience, especially if you plan to take photos.

Can I choose my costume?
Guests can select from three floors of costumes, including traditional cheongsams, velvet dresses, and gowns, to match their style.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Not recommended for children under 3, as the experience involves a staged performance and a dinner setting designed primarily for adults.

What kind of cuisine is served?
The set menu features Shanghai fusion dishes with stories behind each, offering a delightful blend of traditional and modern flavors.

Is there a photographer available on-site?
Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras and power banks; professional photography services are not mentioned.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect early evening activity.

What are the views like from the terrace?
The terrace offers outstanding views of the Huangpu River, the Bund, and Lujiazui’s skyscrapers, especially stunning around sunset.

How do I book the tour?
It’s recommended to book 2-3 days in advance due to limited spots. You can choose the “Reserve & Pay Later” option for flexibility.

Final Word

This Shanghai Republican Era Dinner & Show offers a charming glimpse into the city’s glamorous past with a fun, interactive twist. From vintage costumes to a lively stage performance and stunning river views, it combines entertainment, culture, and a hint of nostalgia in one compact, enjoyable package. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply in search of a unique night out, this experience delivers genuine value and memorable moments—perfect for adding a special touch to your Shanghai visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby