The Place
Housed in a chic four-story villa next to Camel Sports Bar, Mo’s is a new entrant to Shanghai’s food scene, combining Spanish and Italian classics with a dose of steak for good measure. Boasting a bar and lounge, nice and comfy couches as well as a lush rooftop patio, it’s easy to see why this place is always packed.
The Food
In this weather, starting with a plate of salad is rarely a bad move. Fresh spinach salad (RMB68) proved that we made the right choice. Here, nutritious and crisp baby spinach leaves mingle with feta cheese, roasted nuts, mushrooms and truffle vinaigrette, strengthened by juicy slices of mango – a tasty starter indeed.
Equally good are Mo’s other appetizers: gambas al ajillo (RMB88)- sautéed prawns with garlic and fresh chili – and a gorgeously melting pan-fried foie gras (RMB128).
As for the mains, there are a lot of choices and it’s clear that Mo’s aim is to leave no diner hungry with a range of burgers, sandwiches (RMB78-128), risotto (of course) and grilled meat too. Spaghetti ‘allo scoglio’ (seafood spaghetti, RMB118) sees slow-cooked marinara with shrimp, mussels, clams and a touch of lemon zest. Though a treat for the eyes, it was clear the spaghetti hadn’t absorbed much of the sauce’s flavor.
Risotto de pescadors (seafood risotto, RMB168 for one; RMB268 for two) is served in a shallow iron pan topped with two carabinero prawns. Waiters consulted whether we prefer our risotto rice softer or harder when we ordered, so chefs prepare to suit different palate.
Mo’s isn’t all about seafood, however, grilled Australian bone-in rib-eye steak (320g, RMB238) is a serious cut for hearty appetites. Grain-fed 300 days for an extra marble, the steak is undeniably tender and nicely complemented with a classic black pepper sauce.
Then again, we weren’t overly keen on the chewy strings of sinew running through certain parts – not necessarily the fault of the chef but rather the butcher. 2/3
The Vibe
The restaurant was fully booked on our first visit, and half booked on our second – not too bad for having only been open for a month. Waiters are efficient and helpful, but it is a bit noisy when sharing the room with large crowds. One little tip: the rooftop patio offers tranquility and a verdant view of Yueyang Lu, although there is only one thing to beware of: mosquitos! 0.5/1
Value for Money
Our wine-less dinner for three people came to a little over RMB900, but this is in the heart of former French Concession – you don’t need us to tell you rent in this part of town is particularly gui. We appreciate the quality of the food they’re bringing, but it would be better if food come in bigger portions so more people can share. 0.5/1
Total verdict: 3/5
Price: RMB250-300 per person
Who’s going: locals and expats
Good for: steak, grilled food, dates, groups
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