Revolving Restaurant

Overview

Perched high within the futuristic silhouette of the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai, China, the Revolving Restaurant offers a truly unparalleled dining experience. Situated in the tower's second main sphere, typically around 263 to 267 meters above the bustling metropolis, it stands as one of Asia's highest revolving eateries. Guests are treated to a dynamic, ever-changing panorama of Shanghai's iconic skyline, including the historic Bund, the modern Lujiazui district, and the winding Huangpu River. The restaurant serves an extensive buffet, featuring a rich array of both Chinese and Western delicacies, ensuring a culinary journey as memorable as the visual one.

History & Cultural Background

The Oriental Pearl Tower itself is a monumental symbol of Shanghai's dramatic transformation and rise as a global city. Construction commenced in 1991, with the tower reaching completion in 1994 and opening its doors to the public in 1995. For over a decade, until 2007, it proudly held the title of China's tallest structure. The tower's distinctive design, characterized by its eleven spheres of various sizes, draws inspiration from profound cultural imagery. It is said to evoke an ancient Chinese verse describing 'large and small pearls dropping on a plate of jade' or from a Tang Dynasty poem, 'Pipa Song,' which speaks of pearls falling onto a jade plate, encapsulating both grace and prosperity. This architectural marvel quickly transcended its role as a television tower to become a celebrated cultural icon and a defining landmark of Shanghai's modern identity.

What Makes It Special

The core allure of the Revolving Restaurant lies in its continuous, breathtaking 360-degree rotation, offering an uninterrupted spectacle of Shanghai's urban landscape. As diners enjoy their meal, the restaurant gracefully completes a full circle approximately every two hours, providing a comprehensive visual narrative of the city's vibrant life from a unique aerial perspective. Its impressive elevation of 263 to 267 meters firmly establishes it among Asia's highest revolving dining venues. The seamless fusion of delectable buffet offerings—ranging from traditional Chinese fare to international favorites—with the ever-evolving cityscape outside its panoramic windows creates an experience that is both gastronomically satisfying and visually stunning. This dynamic backdrop makes every visit distinctly memorable, showcasing the city's architectural prowess and the serene flow of the Huangpu River.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Oriental Pearl Tower is not just a structure; it is a bustling hub that welcomes millions of visitors annually, with figures often exceeding 5 million. The visionary design of the tower, a result of a selection process from twelve different proposals, was finalized in 1988, setting the stage for its iconic construction. The journey to the Revolving Restaurant itself is part of the adventure, as guests ascend swiftly in a high-speed luxury elevator, reaching their destination at an impressive speed of 7 meters per second. Beyond the restaurant, the tower complex hosts a variety of attractions, including the Shanghai History Museum located at its base, providing cultural context to the city's rapid development. Other observation decks, such as the thrilling glass-bottomed corridor, further enhance the visitor experience. The Revolving Restaurant boasts a considerable capacity, capable of accommodating approximately 350 guests simultaneously, allowing many to share in this elevated dining and sightseeing event.

Visitor Perspective

For many travelers, a visit to the Revolving Restaurant is more than just a meal; it is an immersive journey through Shanghai's architectural grandeur and urban dynamism. The ever-changing views offer a captivating insight into the city's contrasting facets—from the historical charm of the Bund to the futuristic towers of Pudong. Whether illuminated by the soft glow of daylight or sparkling with the myriad lights of the city after dusk, the vistas from this unique vantage point are consistently spectacular. Visitors often highlight the experience as a 'must-do' to gain a true appreciation for Shanghai's scale and beauty. To ensure a table at this popular attraction, especially for evening dining, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, securing a spot for an unforgettable memory high above Shanghai.