Bistro In Light: Shanghai Tavern X YELLOWKORNER

The Shanghai EDITION and French art gallery YELLOWKORNER have converged to create "Bistro in Light," an art-meets-food project at Shanghai Tavern, and it's not just a meal with pictures on the wall.

The Exhibition

Within Shanghai Tavern, an exhibition features the compelling work of four contemporary photographers from YELLOWKORNER: Christopher Anderson, Nicolas Velter, Alexandre Fauvre, and Franck Bohbot.

In response, and under the direction of Executive Chef Rossi Wei, Shanghai Tavern has crafted a corresponding evening bistro menu, like a sensory extension of the exhibition.

It’s a low-key way to experience both the exhibition and the restaurant — have a few tasty bites as you read through the picture book menu, which by the way, details each artist and their work.

The Bistro Menu

The menu features a progression from snacks and finger foods to shareable small plates and more substantial courses for a proper sit-down meal.

Oyster with Vietnamese Sauce

To begin, the Oyster with Vietnamese Sauce (¥38/each) does a brilliant job of awakening the appetite. It's seasoned with a bright, piquant sauce that hums with acidity, zest, and a noticable kick of chili.

Australian Wagyu Beef Tartare

The Australian Wagyu Beef Tartare (¥68) is a compelling choice, and my personal preference. Well-seasoned hand-cut beef tartare is elegantly served on brioche toasts, adorned egg yolk truffle dressing, earthy mushrooms, and hazelnuts.

Iberico Cheese, Ham, and Truffle Toasties

They also have Iberico Cheese, Ham, and Truffle Toasties (¥88/two), a sophisticated take on the finger sandwich.

Tomato Salad & Burrata

For those settling into a full dinner, the Tomato Salad & Burrata (¥48) makes for a perfect starter, featuring confit tomatoes and a vibrant basil jelly.

Black Tiger Prawns

A worthy follow-up is the Black Tiger Prawns (¥98), grilled and lavished in a spirited chili and garlic sauce.

Red Wine Braised Beef Cheek

The offerings then shift toward more substantial plates, such as the Red Wine Braised Beef Cheek (¥88) with hummus, mushrooms, and crispy flatbread. It’s a hearty cut with a rich sauce that tiptoes between a shareable tapa and a standalone entrée.

Char-Grilled Octopus

Another standout is the Char-Grilled Octopus (¥78). The tender octopus gains a kick of spice from nduja, which is then balanced by cool feta yogurt, creamy mashed potato, and sharp pickled onions.

Grain-Fed Australian Wagyu Beef Sirloin

Or, for something a little more classic, you can always opt for the Grain-Fed Australian Wagyu Beef Sirloin (¥158), or Grilled Lamb Cutlets (¥108), or Char-Grilled Iberico Pork Loin (¥108).

In the end, "Bistro in Light" succeeds by making the connection between gallery and bistro feel natural rather than forced — the art gives you something to talk about, and the menu gives you everything to savor. Consider it a two-in-one destination for your next night out.

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Shanghai Tavern, The Shanghai EDITION
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