Tasting Experience: A Tribute to Global Gastronomy at Shangri-La Paris

The Shangri-La Paris, a luxurious establishment situated in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, captivates visitors with its unparalleled views of the iconic Eiffel Tower. Originally built in 1896 by Prince Roland Bonaparte, a grandnephew of Napoleon, the hotel exudes an architectural and historical charm[1][3][4].

Many of the hotel's main rooms have been classified as historical monuments, including the grand salon, modeled on the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, adorned with Napoleon I's gold bee emblem[4]. Despite the prince's primary apartments not facing the Eiffel Tower due to its initial widespread derision[4], most guest rooms offer breathtaking vistas of the landmark. From the aptly named Eiffel View Room, guests can marvel at the nightly light show[4].

The hotel's Shang Palace restaurant, the only Michelin-starred Chinese eatery in Paris, is another allure. Executive chef Tony Xu, honing his skills in his hometown of Chengdu, China, where he also earned his first Michelin star, curates a delightful fusion of French and Asian culinary sensibilities[2]. Our experience began with an elevated selection of classic dim sum, followed by a captivating ice plant salad, its natural crystals providing a pleasing crunch[4]. Dishes like the elevated fried rice with lobster, asparagus, and brown rice, or the Waygu beef short rib with fragrant spices, left us savoring each bite[4].

In pursuit of a deeper understanding of this culinary oasis, we participated in a dim-sum lesson in the kitchen. The best chefs from China showcased their expertise, from the wok man and the Peking duck master to our dim-sum teacher, who spent 15 years honing his craft[4]. Our endeavors may not have rivaled the mastery of the chefs, but their patience and guidance made the experience unforgettable[4].

A considerable part of the produce used across the hotel's restaurants, including the Wagyu beef from Normandy, sourced from the first farm in France to produce pure-breed Wagyu, is procured from France[3]. After visiting the farm with the hotel's executive chef, we were treated to an exceptional barbecue featuring the farm's delectable cuts, seasonal vegetables, and exceptional local wines and cheeses[3].

For a traditional lunch, head to Le Stella, a beloved Parisian brasserie, or Breizh Café, offering delicious crepes and galettes made with organic Breton buckwheat[5]. Other nearby establishments such as the Marché couvert de Passy and La Grande Epicerie offer an array of fresh produce, bread, and cheeses[5], providing ample opportunities for gastronomic indulgence[5].

Post-shopping relaxation can be found at the Shangri-La's indoor swimming pool and outdoor terrace, or its state-of-the-art gym and spa, promising a tranquil escape[4]. With room rates starting at €2,000 per night and Eurostar Business Premier starting from £275, the Shangri-La Paris offers a delightful blend of luxury, culture, and cuisine, making it an ideal destination for discerning travelers[6].

[1] Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. (n.d.). Shangri-La Paris. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.shangri-la.com/paris/shangrila/[2] Chow, E. (2021, March 30). A masterclass in making dim sum at Shangri-La Paris. Coconuts Paris. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://paris.coconuts.co/news/a-masterclass-in-making-dim-sum-at-shangri-la-paris/[3] Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. (n.d.). Dining. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.shangri-la.com/paris/shangrila/dining/[4] Laing, N. (2020, October 5). Shangri-La Paris review - Parisian luxury meets Asia. The Telegraph. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/hotels/europe/france/paris/articles/shangri-la-paris-review/[5] Anon. (2023, June 26). How to eat like a Parisian. The Telegraph. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/france/articles/paris-eating-like-a-parisian/[6] Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. (n.d.). Room offers. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.shangri-la.com/paris/shangrila/offers/

The Shangri-La Paris boasts a Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant, Shang Palace, where Executive Chef Tony Xu blends French and Asian culinary traditions, serving dishes like elevated fried rice and Waygu beef short rib.
In addition to global cuisines, the Shangri-La Paris offers a cooking lesson, where guests can learn traditional dim-sum preparation from expert chefs hailing from China.
Beyond the culinary experiences, the hotel offers a luxurious lifestyle, complete with an indoor swimming pool, spa, and gym, ensuring a tranquil escape for its guests.
For food-and-drink enthusiasts, the Shangri-La Paris also offers tours to local food-and-drink producers, such as the Wagyu farm in Normandy, providing opportunities to explore global-cuisines beyond the hotel's establishments.