Prada has made its first foray into standalone dining in Asia with the opening of Mi Shang Prada Rong Zhai, a distinctive culinary destination that merges fashion, cultural heritage, and gastronomy. Located in Shanghai’s historic Rong Zhai residence, this new venture represents a significant milestone for the Italian luxury brand as it expands beyond fashion into experiential offerings. The restaurant, whose name translates to “Milan Shanghai,” symbolises the deliberate cultural dialogue at the heart of the concept.
With its doors now open from 10am to 10pm daily, Mi Shang Prada Rong Zhai invites visitors to experience luxury beyond the confines of traditional retail spaces. This move aligns with the growing trend of fashion houses creating immersive brand experiences that extend well beyond clothing collections.
The restaurant concept was brought to life through the creative direction of acclaimed filmmaker Wong Kar Wai, marking his second collaboration with Prada. Drawing inspiration from the philatelic concept of Tête-bêche (where stamps are printed in opposite orientations) the design establishes an elegant dialogue between Milan and Shanghai, creating a sophisticated space where two distinct cultures converge while maintaining their individual identities.
A cinematic dining space by Wong Kar Wai
Wong Kar Wai’s signature aesthetic is immediately recognisable throughout Mi Shang Prada Rong Zhai. The filmmaker, renowned for visual masterpieces like In the Mood for Love and Happy Together, has crafted interiors that balance refined elegance with subtle theatricality.
The space plays with mirrors and contrasting elements to create a harmonious visual experience that feels both contemporary and timeless. Every detail has been meticulously considered, from the lighting that casts cinematic shadows to the thoughtful arrangement of furnishings that guide visitors through different zones of the restaurant.
This careful curation seamlessly integrates Prada’s sophisticated design sensibility with the historic charm of Rong Zhai. The restaurant occupies the second floor of this meticulously restored residence, which has previously served as a venue for Prada’s cultural programming and exhibitions in Shanghai.
A culinary dialogue between Italy and China
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The menu at Mi Shang Prada Rong Zhai represents a true fusion of culinary traditions, bringing together Italian and Chinese gastronomic heritage in a thoughtful conversation. Rather than simply combining elements from both cuisines, the approach emphasises mutual respect and enhancement, allowing each tradition to shine while creating something entirely new.
Guests can choose between an all-day café service for a more casual experience or opt for fine dining for special occasions. Operating from 10am to 10pm, the venue caters to various dining preferences throughout the day, from morning coffee to elegant evening meals.
The culinary offerings mirror the design philosophy – maintaining the distinct characteristics of both Italian and Chinese culinary identities while fostering an enriching dialogue between them. This approach creates a dining experience that feels authentic rather than forced, sophisticated rather than trendy.
Fashion meets gastronomy in a historic setting
Prada’s venture into standalone dining represents a natural evolution for luxury fashion brands seeking to offer more comprehensive lifestyle experiences. While fashion houses operating restaurants isn’t entirely new – with brands like Ralph Lauren, Gucci, and Saint Laurent having established successful dining venues – Mi Shang Prada Rong Zhai stands apart for its unique cultural synthesis and artistic direction.
The location itself adds another layer of significance to the project. Rong Zhai is a historic residence that Prada meticulously restored several years ago, preserving an important piece of Shanghai’s architectural heritage. By establishing its first Asian restaurant within this space, Prada reinforces its commitment to cultural preservation while creating new ways for visitors to engage with both the brand and the historic building.
