New Restaurants, Shops & a Nordic Market: PAC Mall Shows Promise

Shanghai has seen a slew of new developments this year, and this one in 'Old Jing'an' is showing more promise than most...

Singaporean company Keppel Ltd's debut project in Shanghai perfectly resonates with Old Jing'an's laid-back vibe.

In fact, the landmark mixed-use development, which is located in a small but spirited urban park district, is all about providing vivid daily experiences while keeping it chill.

To kick-start the debut of the district, PAC is presenting a Nordic Market that absolutely sleighs (pun fully intended), taking Shanghai's winter atmosphere to new heights!

PAC, with its accessible and enjoyable offerings, aims to become Shanghai's new hang-out spot without losing sight of what's important, whether it's nature, community or freedom.

To the north of Nanjing West Road, in the bustling heart of Old Jing'an is a part of Shanghai particularly rich in heritage and culture. 

As one of the oldest areas in the district, it is home to many elegant buildings and old mansions, and dotted with cultural and art museums, iconic residences and prestigious schools.

While exploring Yanping Road and Kangding Road, you'll find various cafes, small bars and street boutiques exuding an atmosphere of freedom, diversity and individuality, not to mention a blend of Chinese and Western or 'haipai' culture.

This 'Old Jing'an upstart' at the junction of Changde Road and Wuding Road reveals a well-curated collection of quality retail, from bespoke boutiques to flagship stores.

What makes PAC especially interesting is its layout: with no gated entrances or exits, you can walk along Changde, Wuding or Kangding Roads and seamlessly enter the development at anytime.

Its red-brick facade echoes Shanghai's 'haipai architectural elements' and its outlines, materials, and colours harmonise naturally with its surroundings. Though it hasn't been open for long, PAC already feels like part of the city's urban fabric.

PAC's prioritises are as such: integrating its architecture with Shanghai's existing fabric and forming a connection between the city and nature. 

Take, for instance, the forest trail on the side closest to its residential area — shaded by greenery, it'll easily make you forget that you're right in the centre of the city.

Climb up the open-air staircase to drink in your surroundings, which include an egg-shaped dome and plenty of open, green areas where children can exert their unbridled energy.

Not only do these open-air, social spaces let you appreciate the natural scenery and the changing seasons, but they also serve as adaptable social spaces. 

That said, if you're seeking solace and would rather come here by yourself for a moment of quiet, PAC provides that too, proving that urban life can also be peaceful.

So find yourself a cosy corner, whether it's on one of the public benches or inside the aforementioned dome, and explore all the infinite possibilities of the site.

PAC prides itself on prioritising quality over quantity and picking niche but refined brands. The mixed development area shines the spotlight on brands with distinctive personalities and aesthetics and that offer an artistic, avant-garde and inspiring customer experiences.

Promoting a free and easy open air concept, PAC couldn't be further away from the traditional, confined shopping mall experience.

In fact, one of PAC's specialities has to do with the great outdoors: sporting brands, especially those at the intersection of luxury.

Some of our favourites include American-Austrian brand HEAD, which specialises in high-end skiing, snowboarding, swimming, tennis and other racket sports equipment and apparel, and now's the time to gear up for the snowy slopes!

We're also partial towards Italian bicycle manufacturer Pinerello. The shop at PAC isn't any regular store either, but China's premium flagship outlet. For the first time ever, shoppers in Shanghai can peruse Pinerello's entire series of models, and the brand's iconic BOLIDE model used by Italy's national team can be viewed in store — a limited-time exhibition and unique experience by worldwide standards.

Championing a different kind of speed, trendy electric motorcycle brand Beach Monkey has opened its first clubhouse-themed store in the country, and it just so happens to be in PAC. In true clubhouse fashion, the space will collaborate with supercars, whiskey, high-end cigars, and artists to explore the multi-faceted nature of urban social life.

Providing gourmets with good reason to get out of the house this winter, PAC is home to several new exciting F&B concepts.

For starters, iconic chain Wan Hui (皖荟) has opened its first bistro concept called Wan Hui Shanye Hui Cuisine Bistro (皖荟·山野徽菜bistro). Upholding the farm to table ideology, the restaurant is committed to fresh, all-natural ingredients foraged from the wilderness of Anhui.

Founder Wang Li, who was born and raised in Anhui, attaches great importance to the traceability of ingredients and how they are farmed.

The contemporary Anhui dishes here take a lighter and healthier approach, and range from pickled and fermented Huangshan stinky Mandarin fish to handmade tofu paired with rice wine.

Other popular picks at RAC include Shaoxing restaurant Yueji (越稽) by celebrity chef Yu Bin from Jiangnan, creative contemporary Chinese restaurant Xian Ting Yuan (闲庭院), Tvino Spanish Tavern focusing on traditional Spanish flavours, Sultan Turkish Restaurant specialising in century-old Turkish food culture, new omakase restaurant UNI SHUSHI, innovative restaurant Nine Chu·Huaiyue (九厨·淮粤), and POMODORO, a new concept by well-known Italian eatery IL TEATRO — choices from all over the world.

Prefer a light bite over a full sit-down meal? Then pick one of the following places — from a new purveyor of doughnuts to the sister bakery of an existing cult bakery — at PAC. 

Created by a Chinese and Korean team, Bresca Bomboloni will be rolling out delightful doughnuts, but don't miss Table a Deli by cultbakery Bake No Title, or MillHill, a high-end, handmade dessert shop from Xiamen, either. Lastly, French bistro La Blanche presses the proverbial 'pause button' on hectic urban life.

Shanghai's 'first snow' of the season will be falling at PAC following the launch of its Nordic Christmas Market. 

Expect realistic wooden chalets, snowy scenery, 'aurora' lights, live performances, Christmas delicacies and more excitement.

When it gets too cold, step inside one of the market's many tents or sip on a Jack Daniel's whiskey beverage. More treats exist by way of MOVENPICK Swiss ice cream, authentic Thai tea by ChaTraMue, a special cinnamon-flavoured OATLY drink available just this season, and mulled wine — a must every winter.

Free of charge to enter and explore, this market has over 20 special stalls, not counting special presentations and handicraft workshops. 

There will also be charitable organisations helping the public to meet the needs of the less fortunate.

Besides feeding the public, PAC is also presenting a series of innovative live performances. Take, for instance, the Rhythm Orangutan, who has been called a "crazy musical adventurer" and specialises in playing handcrafted, eco-friendly percussion instruments.

Co-presented by Jack Daniel's, the opening night of the market on Christmas Eve or December 24th will see renown DJs spinning EDM, house and pop tunes; the resident jazz band of Shanghai mainstay, House of Blues & Jazz; and street performances by hip-hop master Wang Chuxiao.

Mime master Zhou Meng will bring laughter to the crowd with his exaggerated gestures and wildly imaginative interactions, while street artist Lu Xinyi will show off her physical finesse with a mesmerising crystal ball performance that's all the rage overseas. Meanwhile, an international magician will capture the magic of street art by transforming into a 'living statue,' reminding us life's possibilities are endless.

If you feel compelled to move your own feet, sign up for PAC's salsa dance classes. Professional teachers will be providing basic instructions on-site. 

Performance details. Follow PAC's official public account to learn more

Entertainment at PAC's 'Nordic Market' sees a festive mix of live music, DJ sets, salsa dancing, street performances, and captivating magic shows, which all build up to a Christmas Eve bash featuring Santa Claus himself and a lively Christmas parade.

Running from late 2024 through the New Year, PAC will transform into a vibrant live performance venue,’ offering Shanghai a fresh take on winter. 

Think dreamy atmospheres, upbeat vibes, and non-stop live entertainment that turns the urban district into a stage for seasonal celebrations. From autumn’s crisp days to the first moments of 2025, PAC invites you to embrace a new way to experience city life.

All images were shot by Time Out Shanghai. This article is not to be replicated without prior consent.