2009 July 4th Rundown

You know where we’re going to be tomorrow, but if for some in explicable reason you don’t have a hankering for some Kelley Lee BBQ and rapturous Boxingcat brews, here are a few other options in town. We’re not including the AmCham bash because Sheshan isn’t quite “in town,” plus we think it’s just a tad criminal to spend 350 RMB (non-member price) for an American Independence Day bash in this wretched economy.

Nothing speaks to Americans’ “can do” spirit more than Barbie, the ever young and ever plastic icon who has now laid claim to her own swath of Huaihai Lu, and her own David Laris restaurant (which we indeed enjoyed a few weeks back). Tomorrow, the Barbie Café is throwing their own “Barbie-que” and will be serving up American BBQ classics: burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, blueberry pie and the like. 85 RMB per person (minimum 2 people), 45 RMB for the tots.

Those looking for a slight twist to their BBQ may want to consider teppanyaki at Kagen, which is offering a lunch buffet for 168 RMB. This is good teppanyaki folks, and guests who bring an official US identification will can enjoy free-flow sparkling wine as well. Grilled meat and free booze; why quibble, this sounds pretty damn American to us.

Two-headed Hengshan Lu monsters Sasha’s and Zapata’s will have a celebration in their combined outdoor patios. 180 RMB at Sasha’s gets you access to their American BBQ and unlimited flow of America’s favorite brew, Stella Artois, 150 RMB gets you Mexican BBQ with unlimited Coronas and frozen margaritas.

Looking for something a little more subdued, a little more cultured? Try Tale of 4 Cities, which is throwing their first July 4th bash in their wonderfully quirky art center location that overlooks a bizarrely quiet and tranquil human-made lake. 88 RMB for all you can eat and drink combo (beer only, we believe).

Picture by laura padgett on Flickr.

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