Inside Prada’s Cinematic Experience at Rong Zhai

Where Milan meets Shanghai.

Based on the philatelic concept of tête-bêche – two stamps opposing each other – Rong Zhai is a place that transcends cultural boundaries by bringing together Milan and Shanghai. Created in collaboration with film director Wong Kar Wai, the project was infused with a cinematic ambience that was highly reminiscent of both of Shanghai’s Golden Ages. Prada at Rong Zhai is exactly like stepping into a time machine and being transported on the set of Fei Mu’s “Spring in a Small Town” (1948) for example.

Located in the affluent, residential neighbourhood of Jing’an, the 1918 mansion was the home of Yung Tsoong-King and his family. Nicknamed the ‘Flour King of China’, he resided there throughout the 1920s to the late 30s. During the six-year restoration process, Prada tapped architect Roberto Baciocchi and a group of Italian artisans to oversee the work. Not long after its opening to the public, exhibitions, events, and guided tours allowed a cross cultural exchange between the mansion, Prada, and the public.

Mi Shang Prada Rong Zhai is the Prada’s first stand-alone restaurant in Asia and is located within the historic walls of the mansion. Just a few months prior, the restaurant celebrated its one-year culinary anniversary and earned its place in the Michelin Guide 2026 and Gambero Rosso’s Top Italian Restaurants of 2026. The Executive Chef, Riccardo La Perna, serves up Italian cuisine with subtle Chinese influences. Specialities include roasted pigeon breast with yunyan morels, spaghetti alla chitara (king crab, and chickpea broth), lobster tagliolini, and kinmedai. Quintessentially Sicilian desserts include Millefoglie (a whisked mascarpone cream with a strawberry sorbet) and Semifreddo (rhum marinated cherries with a chocolate sauce). Guests can also visit the Pastry Shop, that was inspired by Prada’s first Milanese store in 1913, to take home more delightful treats.

Blending antiques and curated art like the Chinoiserie-style motif of an elderly man, each room echoes on from a traditional yet refined aesthetic. Rooms include the Dining Room and the Caffè bar for dining, the Library, the Study and a terrace overlooking luscious greenery. Meals and pastries can be enjoyed on the terrace in the warmer months.

Prada Rong Zhai is located at No.186, North Shaan Xi Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai and is open from 10am until 10pm everyday.

Check it out below.