Recently expanding to satisfy growing demand, Paddy Fields has opened its new branch with a wealth of beautiful home furnishings from East Asia. Chinese antique works and Indonesian goods combine to offer decadently appealing ideas for the home. Rich mahogany tones coupled with the deep greens and purples of ethnic silk designs make for four-poster beds that simply yearn for lazy Sunday mornings, whilst seashell serving bowls and an array of silver candelabras adorn a stylish dining table. Including traditional bureaux, high-backed dining chairs and low-slung teak futons intermingled with large gothic-style bird cages and brightly colored woven bags, the range is extensive, the look elaborate and elegant. Look out for ‘Raerity’ bedding by local designer Rae Leung, available in store and to order custom made. Paddy Fields also offers an alteration and made-toorder service on furniture items.

Opened: Feb 3.

What: New Italian restaurant on Maoming Lu brought to you by the people from Tapas Bar and chef/owner Antonio Sciaraffa.

Look: Painted in a sunny orange palette, this 50-seater has a warm, intimate Mediterranean feel. There is a small bar at the entrance and a second-floor dining room for non-smokers.

Food: Affordable pastas, pizzas and antipasti. We tried a trio of meats with smoked scamorza cheese and provelone with reduced balsamico and peppers, followed by two big plates of pasta. The scallop with white truffle is a creamy affair with thick papardelle noodles, but the herbal, delicious spaghetti with meatballs stole the show.

People: Maoming Lu sleaze have slithered elsewhere, and it now seems poised to become a casual eating street – something that befits this picturesque part of town. This restaurant should draw the same mix of expats and locals that head to Tapas Bar for affordable foreign food.

Bill: ¥450 for two, with a good bottle of wine.