Is the new Arch a knockoff?

We've heard a lot of buzz about Arch opening up a new place on Changshu Lu near Changle Lu. And we had friends who were looking forward to smoke-free Mondays and Wednesdays within walking distance from home. Too good to be true? Seems to be the case based on this email sent out to the aFuturePerfect mailing list by Arch owner Frank Steffen:

Dear and most valued customers,

As some of you might have already noticed, Arch Restaurant / Bar will open on another location in Shanghai. Me holding the majority of the shares of the original Arch on Wu Kang Road and being the Managing Partner, I feel the responsibility to inform you that this second location is not being developed with my involvement. My silent partner is performing this stunt all on her own, even without having felt the need to tell me about it. Well, common where we are. I truly wish her all the best.

I strongly believe that this city is big enough for more restaurants, like syzygy for example, opening on the 15th of November, more info at: www.syzygyland.com.cn, or aFuturePerfect on the Bund, or Arch Pudong. But, and there is a but, you, the customers have the chance and maybe the obligation to choose the venues that are treating you with respect and provide fairness, apart from the highest quality standards, constant creation of the new and the best price value ratio.

It lies in my strong interest to make sure that a.m.Therapy, my holding company for Arch, aFuturePerfect, syzygy and what may follow soon is not being thought of when visiting copies. My heart and passion is in the restaurant business. Thank you very much for all your ongoing support.

Sincerely,
Frank Steffen

We're sure he does indeed wish her "all the best." Sad situation, but definitely not surprising, given our surroundings. So, think twice before visiting the new Arch, even if it is within walking distance. By the way "syzygy" is indeed a word and we have heard from reliable sources that the space is "amazing," even if it is way out in "OuterPudongLand," as the website (best viewed while high) says.

Photo of the real Arch by 2 Dogs.