Ortensia: A Fusion of Cuisine and Design Excellence
Ortensia, the newest addition to Shanghai’s fine dining scene, offers an extraordinary blend of French-Japanese culinary artistry and impeccable interior design by the acclaimed Chris Shao Studio. As the second location of the Michelin-recognised Parisian restaurant, Ortensia’s Shanghai outpost balances the sophistication of Paris with the elegance of Japanese aesthetics, infused with the historic charm of the city’s Shikumen architecture.
Chris Shao draws inspiration from hydrangeas, known as ‘hortensia‘ in French, and the iconic Shikumen style—a hallmark of Shanghai’s architectural heritage. The result is a luxurious space that harmonizes classic and contemporary design, creating an immersive, culturally rich dining environment.
The restaurant’s two-story layout reflects this fusion. First Floor: A patio influenced by Shikumen elements, complemented by lush floral accents that evoke the delicate beauty of hydrangeas. And the Second Floor: A refined mix of retro Shikumen details and French-inspired panelling, blending old-world charm with modern sophistication.
Recognised as one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Elite in 2020, Shao has made his mark on luxury design through projects like 111 Varick Street in SoHo and high-profile developments across New York and Shanghai. His multidisciplinary ventures include founding OBJECTIVE, a high-end furniture and art platform, and the Banks catering brand, which celebrates lifestyle innovation for Shanghai’s younger generation.
With Ortensia his design elevates dining into a sensory journey, where Shao’s interiors provide a fitting backdrop to the innovative French-Japanese fusion menu. This harmony of flavours and aesthetics makes Ortensia a standout in Shanghai’s competitive gastronomic landscape.
