Saying a prayer for Rendezvous (and other food news)

Closing Dish: Although we haven't ventured out into the heat to check with our own eyes, we did hear from a very credible source that, at least for the 12 minutes he was standing in front of the place, Rendezvous Cafe appears closed for business. Apparently, all the lights were out and a sign written in Chinese had been placed on the locked doors.

It wasn't too long ago that Rendezvous was duking it out with old standbys and new players alike for the title of "Best Burger in Town." The cafe was also a great spot for those who enjoy greasy-spoon American breakfasts, especially at really great prices. Although the Xujiahui restaurant had closed down a while ago, we (and perhaps the owners) felt that burger loyalists would find their way to their Nanjing Lu location without a problem. Unfortunately, in the last couple of trips Shanghaiist made it down there we found Rendezvous to be a very lonely place to eat indeed.

If anyone has better info on whether we've already seen Rendezvous' last days, please drop us a note. Until then, we'll be praying that its burger will live on and fight for its crown another day.

In other closure news: Sherpa's now has the recording of a man's voice when you call. We preferred the female voice. But they also tell you recent news when you are on hold. We learned:

• Kenny Rogers has closed down in Puxi and Pudong
• Indian Vintage has closed down
• Copengahen restaurant is "no longer serving food." Hmm, what do they plan on serving in lieu of food, napkins?

And on the rumor mill: Shanghaiist hears that Henry's may be shopping itself around for a buyer or partner. Given that it's got some of the best beer in town (if not the best), there shouldn't be a problem generating interest. Let's hope high quality beer keeps flowing on the Bund.

Also: The Chinese Business Network has a nice interview with Frank Steffen, managing partner behind A Future Perfect, syzygy, and the recently opened Bund Brewery (which we hope can start serving beer of Henry's caliber very soon). Although short, we get a tiny little nugget of knowledge about the restaurant biz in Shanghai, and is worth checking out.

Eric Hu is Shanghaiist's Food Editor. Email tips, recommendations, and news and gossip about Shanghai's food scene to food at shanghaiist.com.

Photo by mjnewhook