Since 2009, Mr & Mrs Bund has been where Shanghai comes for long, lively dinners with a view -- Chef Paul Pairet's French-and-beyond menu, shared around the table, soundtracked by 70s/80s pop and a breeze off the Huangpu. It's the kind of place people save for a night out.

But here's the thing: you don't need to wait until evening.

Weekdays from 11:30am–2:30pm, they run a Lunch Express that's basically a cheat code for experiencing Pairet's greatest hits without committing to the full dinner production. Two courses from 280rmb, three from 350rmb, and you're in and out in under an hour if you need to be -- or you can linger with a glass of rosé (August's buy-one-get-one deal makes that even easier).

The menu changes monthly, but expect the same quality and indulgence the restaurant built its name on: prime rib carved at the table, seafood as fresh as the view, and desserts worth loosening your tie for.

It's a lunch worth making time for -- whether you're slipping out from the office, showing off the Bund to visiting friends, or just treating yourself because, well, why not?

Lunch Express is available Monday to Friday from 11:30am to 2:30pm at Mr & Mrs Bund, offering a relaxed dining experience with comfortable flavors and stunning Bund views. Set menus start from 280rmb per person, making it a great option for a midday break or casual gathering. Available on weekdays, excluding national holidays; the menu is refreshed monthly.