Shanghai Tang Founder, Sir David Tang Dies

Sir David Tang OBE, passed away aged 63 on the 29th of August in the Royal Marsden Hospital, London, with his wife Lucy by his bedside. His death was announced on Wednesday by The Financial Times (FFT) Newspaper who he wrote a regular column for. 

"David Tang was a remarkable man of many talents whose charm, erudition and wit were ever present… He will be sorely missed." - Lionel Barber, the FFT editor

Tang, born in Hong Kong and educated in the UK was best known for his fashion label Shanghai Tang which he launched in 1994. He was also well known for his outspoken political views surrounding the Hong Kong government. He was knighted in 2008 for his charitable work both in the UK and in Hong Kong.

Tang was also a well-known socialite, founding several popular night clubs in Hong Kong, Beijing, and Singapore, most notably the China Clubs. He also ran several restaurants including the China Tang in the Dorchester, London, and many in Shanghai including the Shanghai Tang and the Shanghai Tang Cafe. As well as running several Shanghai based department stores.

"Enter Shanghai Tang and prepared to be wowed by jade green windows and Ming and Qing dynasty home ware and embroidery. Fit for an emperor, the lavish family-friendly restaurant specializes in local Shanghainese delights" - Shanghai WOW, 50 Resturants to Try Before you Die 

Tang also had a monopoly on distributing Cuban Cigars to the Asian Pacific and was widely regarded as the best-connected man in London and Hong Kong. He was regularly photographed with celebrities like Kate Moss and Russell Crowe.

"witty, charming, intellectual, salacious… RIP dear friend Sir David Tang, the privilege was mine." – Russell Crowe

Tang had been diagnosed with cancer and told he only had a few months to live; he planned a farewell party at the Dorchester Hotel in London. Unfortunately, he died before the party could take place. He left behind his wife Lucy and two children from his first marriage.

"Shanghai Tang Cafe is truely Shanghainese cusine... Well worth a visit."  

A great way to get a sense of the man is to visit his restaurant, Shanghai Tang. Arguably one of the best restaurants in Shanghai, you can also visit his cafe Shanghai Tang Cafe or one of his four department stores.

Shanghai Tang

Address: 373 Huangpi Nan Lu

Shanghai Tang Cafe

Address: 900 Shen Chang Lu

Shanghai Tang Department Stores

Address: 868 Middle Huaihai Lu

                 5999 Middle Jia Song Lu

                 Hongqiao Airport T2 

                 Pudong Airport T1

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