Italian luxury brand Dolce&Gabbana opened its first cafe worldwide in Shanghai, China, bringing its signature brand of Italian maximalism to the dining world with DG CAFFÈ.
It’s an unapologetically lavish space serving a menu steeped in Sicilian tradition alongside a visually stunning afternoon tea service.
About DG CAFFÈ
Perched on the second floor of Citic Square on Nanjing Xi Lu, the café sits above the brand’s showroom, accessible via the mall’s escalators. In a sea of generic retail spaces, DG CAFFÈ makes an immediate impression.
The interiors are a maximalist’s dream: dazzling colors, bold embroidery, and wallpaper so vivid it practically hums. This is Dolce&Gabbana’s “more is more” philosophy in physical form — ostentatious, yes, but undeniably compelling.
The space is divided between traditional dining tables and a lounge area with plush couches, all adorned with the brand’s signature Carretto Siciliano motif. The effect is vibrant, a nod to Mediterranean exuberance — and every detail is shoppable.
The café’s exclusive collaborations with renowned Italian brands aren’t just for show: Bialetti’s iconic Moka pots, Donnafugata’s Sicilian wines, and Italian crafted tea sets on display are all available for purchase. Nice gifts for your fancy friend who would love nothing more than a flex-worthy matching tea set.
And yes, the destination itself is an Instagrammer’s paradise — though that’s hardly the only reason to visit.
The Food
The food, thankfully, isn’t an afterthought. The menu, curated by Chef Gianluca Serafin, delivers Italian classics through a distinctly Sicilian lens — serious pasta dishes and secondi share the spotlight with signature cakes, afternoon tea, and house-churned artisanal gelato.
Start with the Burrata (¥168), a dish so ubiquitous in Shanghai that it’s easy to dismiss. Here, it’s worth the hype — locally made by a seasoned burrata-maker, never frozen, and luxuriously creamy. Paired with pesto, asparagus, artichokes, and fresh basil.
The Fritto di Pesce (¥158) is another surprise. At first glance, the price might raise eyebrows, but the towering pile of shrimp, octopus leg, and white bait justifies it. The batter is light, the seafood sweet and tender, the tartar sauce generous. No skimping here.
Pastas are where the kitchen shines. The signature Spaghetti Trapanese (¥128) is the Sicilian take on pesto, adding in tomatoes and almonds for a boost of acidity and richness. The sauce clings to al dente noodles, boasting fresh flavors bursting with umami.
The Gnocchi Al Pomodoro (¥98) is an elevated take on the homestyle comfort. Fluffy dumplings are served in a bright tomato sauce, punctuated by creamy mozzarella and fresh basil. It’s simple and satisfying.
For seafood lovers, the Seafood Linguine (¥138) features al dente pasta coated in a tomato sauce enriched with prawn stock, topped with tender squid and prawns. The flavors are subtle yet distinct — a light, summery take on coastal Italian cooking. (Though it wouldn’t have hurt to add an extra grating of Parmesan at the table.)
For mains, the Beef Cheek (¥218) is a decadent standout. Slow-cooked to fork tender, draped in a glossy beef jus, with small king mushrooms and caramelized pearl onions adding depth.
The Seared Black Cod (¥258), meanwhile, is a cleaner affair, its Mediterranean accompaniments (olives, capers, roasted peppers) letting the fish’s natural sweetness lead.
Afternoon Tea & Dessert
Desserts lean into spectacle, literally. The signature DG Tiramisu (¥88) arrives in a Carretto Siciliano motif Bialetti Moka pot.
Looks aside, the tiramisu itself is excellent — sharp espresso with creamy mascarpone. Definitely recommended.
The Tortina al Limone (¥98), a lemon cake laced with limoncello syrup encased in white chocolate, is refreshingly bright and light, though the real star might be the gelato.
They also have six house-churned gelatos and sorbets, priced at ¥38 for one flavor, ¥58 and ¥78 for two and three. The Pistacchio, made with high-quality paste and speckled with crushed nuts, is deeply aromatic, while the Cioccolato, crafted from Guanaja 70% dark chocolate, is rich and sinful. Both are excellent.
Then there’s the afternoon tea — undoubtedly the main attraction for most patrons, and understandably so. The space, after all, was designed for this very ritual. It’s priced at ¥598 for two (including coffee or tea), and comes with five savory bites and five sweets. Available daily from 2:30pm to 5pm.
Nomfluence Readers Deals
Two special set menus available for Nomfluence readers when you book via the link below! Deals are valid until November 30, 2025. For detailed menus, click the booking link.
- Set Menu For Two (¥528) (originally ¥856)
- Set Menu For 3-4 (¥788) (originally ¥1,284)
Click here to book your table.
Sicilian Summer Apericena Event
DG CAFFÈ is hosting a Sicilian Summer “apericena” night on August 30 from 7pm to midnight.
Combining aperitivo and dinner, the event will highlight over a dozen Sicilian specialties, including antipasti, pizza, foccacia, and more, courtesy of Chef Gianluca Serafin. Food will be paired with Sicilian-inspired cocktails by SinoDrink brand ambassador Simone Rizzello. Special guest DJ MaxIndaBooth providing the vibe for the evening.
Tickets are ¥298 per person, which includes Sicilian specialties and three themed cocktails. Call to RSVP: 021-52912807.
