Night Talk: Four New Venues

XTD Elevated

What: The Xintiandi landmark opens its fifth floor terrace

Why: Because there is still a lot of summer left to enjoy

How much: Mixed drinks RMB 70 – 90; Happy Hour special RMB 150

Where: The Langham Xintiandi Shanghai, 5F, 99 Madang Lu, near Taicang Lu. Tel: 2330 2288

As the Langham Xintiandi continues its elongated rollout of venues and services, the much anticipated debut of XTD Elevated, their fifth floor terrace, is finally upon us. Roughly half the size of a football pitch, the space is going for a South American/Southeast Asian tropical vibe. Seven semi-private bungalows stretch along one side, while comfy day beds and umbrellaed tables dot the rest of the patio. It’s definitely a unique space, and several corporate and fashion events have already taken advantage of the hip layout.

Mojitos are the name of the game at XTD and come in classic, ginger, grapefruit and strawberry variations. The bar stresses fruity freshness that makes for some very vibrant colours. A glass will set you back a rather steep RMB 90 or RMB 230 for a jug; thankfully the locale’s 95 minute happy hour, from 5:30 – 7:05pm, promotes a two drink and unlimited canapés deal for RMB 150. When the clock strikes five after seven, free shots are passed around the venue to mark the end of the drinking deals.

Interestingly, XTD Elevated plans to use an ordering system app for the iPad. Guests can create personalised profiles that will remember how they like their drinks made, which wine they prefer, etc. The hotel is also pushing a Sunday brunch with barbequed meats and seafood, as well salads and desserts, all paired with specially-made spirits from the bar.