Fusion Food = “Small Portions”

Posted on Jan 3, 2012 by CASUDI in China, Food | 1 comment

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What exactly is “fusion”, when referring to food? “Small portions” was how our Shanghainese guide Nelson Zhu categorized it, when we asked him to find us “fusion food” for our first night out in Shanghai. And did he ever hit the jackpot!

TMSK is in the trendy Xin Tian Di district of Shanghai, and has a great deal more than delicious food going for it; a novel interior design, and its own exciting music group. Our dinner was a feast for the eyes and the ears.

The music is a “fusion” of contemporary folk music, Pingtan and Kunqu opera, infused with electronic music. The group was started in 2001 by Liuligongfang with three members, and now boasts over sixteen, with participants predominantly from the Shanghai Music Conservatory. The costumes (see below) are inspired by elements of traditional Chinese dress, infused with Western styling intricacies. Both acoustically and visually the TMSK band is “One of a Kind” and puts on a great show! (who knew the san-xian 3-stringed banjo could be played like an electric bass?)

TMSK the restaurant has many distinct architectural details, predominantly out of cast glass (often backlit), which embellish and highlight the interior design. The result is fabulous, and enhances the culinary, visual and musical experience. The unique tableware has a medieval/contemporary flair, and can even be purchased in a little boutique within the restaurant. Side note: a visit to the restrooms are a must:-)

And we haven’t even talked about the food yet!! (It was unique, visually arresting, and delicious!)

Xin Tian Di is itself a fusion of eastern and western cultures; located within the historic French Concession of Shanghai, it has been beautifully repurposed into an area of shops, restuarants and galleries, and though bordering on the “touristy” it’s a really fun place to visit and eat! Both are must-do’s when visiting Shanghai!