DOWNTOWN/OLD FRENCH CONCESSION. Among the most elegant dining experiences in Shanghai, Lan Na Thai offers vintage Thai cuisine amidst a classic wooden interior. Entrées include pork spare ribs, stir fried red snapper with vegetables, and spicy shrimp and noodles. The attire is casual during the day and dressier at night. Reservations are recommended. METRO: Shanxi Nan Lu

OLD FRENCH CONCESSION. Sandoz's cozy, second-floor dining area overlooks the trendy Mao Ming Lu, one of Shanghai's hot nightspots. The ambience is rather romantic with a bit of Portuguese flavor for good measure. This is the only Portuguese restaurant in Shanghai, and the signature dish here is balcalhau (cod served with a colorful assortment of peppers, onions, olives, and the like). Their oxtail soup and African chicken are also nicely done. METRO: Shan Xi Nan Lu

DOWNTOWN. With its lovely Southeast Asian decor, this restaurant offers a vast assortment of Thai, Malaysian, and Indonesian cuisine, using only the freshest spices, fruits, and seafood. Favorites include stir-fried anchovies with onions and red peppers, coconut-stuffed fish, and Soto Bandung soup. Currently, the only place in Shanghai with Malaysian and Indonesian food. Reservations are generally not required. Casual to business casual attire is appropriate. . METRO: Huang Pi Nan Lu