1221 Shanghai, China

Consistently named as one of Shanghai's best restaurants, the chic 1221 offers modern takes on Chinese cooking at affordable prices. To its fashionable Chinese and foreign clientèle, it is a stylish change from the utilitarian ambiance of other Shanghainese restaurants, and the bilingual menu is an added bonus. Situated inside a toy factory, the restaurant features maple furnishings complemented by subtle lighting. Recommended dishes include vegetable Bao Zi (dumplings), Crispy Tofu, Crispy Duck and Shredded Pork served with scallions and pancakes, and a fine selection of appetizers.