The Best New Hotels in the World: 2019 Hot List

"The past 18-odd months have seen a bonanza of hotel openings in China’s largest city, notably the Capella in the French Concession, the Middle House in the central Jing’an district, and the astonishing Amanyangyun on the outskirts. Bulgari stands out for its ability to channel the city vibe without losing a sense of the brand's Italian DNA. Foster + Partners designed the tower as a shiny mirror in which to reflect Shanghai’s wild eclecticism and energy. Inside, an immaculately choreographed tussle between Italian and Chinese design is enacted in marble and bronze versus silk and lacquer. There are marvelous views in every direction, though there is no need to take an ear-popping elevator ride to the upper levels to peep at Shanghai’s history. Those familiar with the brand will notice hallmarks of the jewelry house’s other five properties here. The exterior shimmers like a case filled with gems. The 82 rooms—including the ornate Bulgari Suite, said to be the biggest in the city—follow a palette of dark wood and balanced monochrome. Chef Niko Romito’s lasagna, like at the Bulgari hotel in Beijing, is the dish to order at Il Ristorante; you’ll also want to do lemon gelato at Il Giardino, prosecco at La Terrazza, and a knockout negroni at Il Bar. Directly across from the garden is Shanghai’s former Chamber of Commerce, also part of the hotel and redone with a whiskey bar and a superb Chinese restaurant. Doubles from about $770." - CNT Editors