By Noura Khan
Special to The Times Kuwait
In a world where more cities are rising as formidable contenders on the global travel map, Shanghai stands tall—not only for its futuristic skyline and cosmopolitan energy, but also for the singular experiences it offers those in pursuit of something extraordinary. One such experience is dining at Flair Rooftop, an elevated escape perched atop The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, widely recognized as one of the finest rooftop destinations in the city. If you are a lover of panoramic views and golden sunsets, Flair should be at the very top of your Shanghai list.
We arrived just before sunset, as the golden hour began casting its soft light over the Huangpu River. From the moment we stepped out onto the terrace, the view felt almost cinematic. The iconic Oriental Pearl Tower stood majestically within reach, glowing in amber tones. To one side, the historic Bund shimmered with European elegance, and to the other, Lujiazui’s skyline pierced the sky with futuristic precision—a seamless conversation between Shanghai’s past and future.
Flair’s design blends contemporary Asian elegance with urban sophistication. Low lounge seating, candlelit tables, and curated lighting create an atmosphere that is both stylish and soothing. It is the kind of place you do not just visit; you linger.
Staying for dinner was the best decision we made that day. The menu offers a vibrant fusion of Asian flavors, from freshly prepared sushi to fragrant Thai curries and an impressive selection of handcrafted signature cocktails. As the sun dipped below the horizon and the city transitioned into a sea of sparkling lights, we dined surrounded by the most breathtaking skyline.
We started with the Flair Signature Sushi Platter, elegantly presented and bursting with freshness. A Thai green curry followed, delicately spiced and full of aromatic layers. Each course felt like it was carefully composed to reflect the view itself; refined, expressive, and unforgettable.
What elevated the evening even further was the music. A perfectly curated lounge soundtrack played softly in the background, setting the mood without ever overpowering the moment. As darkness blanketed the city, the rooftop transformed into an intimate, cinematic space suspended above Shanghai.
As more destinations step into the spotlight, Shanghai continues to prove that it belongs among the world’s most exciting cities. Places like Flair Rooftop are part of this evolution—where architecture, gastronomy, and atmosphere unite to deliver a memory, not just a meal.
Whether you are visiting Shanghai for business, leisure, or creative inspiration, make time to experience the magic of Flair. It is not just a rooftop; it is a symphony of light, flavor, and emotion, set against the ever-evolving canvas of one of Asia’s most dynamic metropolises.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 105k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
