Located in a renovated warehouse just off a ferry terminal north of the Bund, Obelisco, Shanghai’s only Argentinian restaurant, serves up hearty beef and meat dishes alongside an impressive South American wine list in a unique space.

We started with a mixed plate of grilled meats and the Obelisco salad (RMB35). The grilled plate (RMB80) features an assortment of liver, tenderloin and two sausages: one blood and the other typical pork. The blood sausage is incredibly soft and delicate to the touch, while its more solid counterpart is significantly better. The salad is typically Argentinian with hearts of palm, shrimp and iceberg lettuce tossed with a thousand island-like dressing. The sauce is a little heavy, but the clean boiled shrimp and hearts of palm are delicious.

We then ordered sides and beef plates. The creamy spinach, mashed potatoes and corn pancakes (RMB35-45) are forgettable, but the beef, flown in from Argentina, is delicious. The ribeye (RMB195) is grilled perfectly to order, just don’t expect any frills. It’s literally just a piece of juicy, tender meat―simple, but satisfying.

The dessert menu features a few Spanish and Latin American-inspired favorites, but the dulce de leche (RMB60) really stands out. The flan is served alongside the iconic milky sauce, giving the dish both sweet and smoky highlights.

Better for private parties than à la carte dining due to its location, the space is a good fit for events or for groups looking for something different.

Our rating: 3.5/5

DETAILS

What: Obelisco

Where: 32 Qinhuangdao Lu 秦皇岛路32号

Tel: 6572-1666

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