Botanik is closing. Not for the season, but for good. The last day of service is Sunday, September 1. The announcement was made via press release earlier today.
Botanik is one of the most unique concepts in Shanghai. It is a seasonal restaurant that serves a multi-course menu using ingredients sourced only from China. Additionally, the dishes and cocktails use edible plants and herbs from its rooftop garden, most of which have been foraged from all over China.
This year is their second run, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the powers that be have decided to end the season early.
Here’s an excerpt from the press release:
Dear friends and beloved guests,
After two successful years, we have decided to close Botanik. The final day of service is September 1, 2019.
Botanik is a truly unique concept and has strived to prove that China does have an immeasurable wealth of quality products if you know where to look. The rooftop garden, which houses more than 100 varieties of edible plants, makes it one of the most magical dining spaces in the city. It has been our greatest pleasure and honor to be part of this project.
We would like to say a big thank you to everyone for your support and for coming over the last two years. We could not have done it without you!
Statement from Elijah Holland:
“After three years in China, the team has decided to part ways and journey on for new opportunities. It’s been a fantastic experience and I’ve had the greatest pleasure to work alongside my very talented friends and colleagues.
Battling the elements has been a challenge, a fun but sometimes tiring one. We had this outdoor space, and we put in our all, and turned it into something beautiful and unique.
All good things must come to an end. We are sad to leave Botanik, but it has been an unforgettable journey. We are all looking towards the future. Don’t ask us why, ask us what’s next!”
Elijah Holland and Agata Holland will return to Australia for a new opportunity and adventure. Chef Joshua Moroney will also head to Australia. Mixologists Zander Boshoff and Julia Markina will journey to Hong Kong to work with Dining Concepts restaurant group. Lynnea Pearson will return to Seattle to help out with the family business at Taylor Shellfish Farms.
Bookings are still open for Botanik, every Thursday to Sunday until September 1.
To make your reservation, add “botanikshanghai” on WeChat.
Read this to find out what Botanik is all about.
From my last visit:
Botanik
Address: 4/F, No. 301, 169 Jianguo Zhong Lu, near Ruijin Er Lu 建国中路169弄301号4楼
Tel: 18616326327
WeChat: botanikshanghai
Dinner: Thursday-Sunday, dinner seating from 6pm-7:30pm (reservations only)
Botanik’s bar: Thursday-Sunday from 5:30pm (walk-ins accepted, but reserve to be safe)
