This used to be our favorite restaurant in all of Shanghai, but since the departure of Chef Steve Baker (to Mesa), the food has slipped somewhat. Most importantly, they no longer offer the incredible Caesar salad.
The decor is minimalist, but T8 is very warm and inviting. You can either sit in the large room (compared to the other rooms) that include an open kitchen to watch the chefs in action, or you can choose a more secluded table in one of the many semi-secluded nooks around the main room.
The food and service are superb, the wine list is good (a business associate complained that there weren't enough California or French wines on the menu), and the prices are steep for Shanghai standards.
If you are on an expense account, or if you want to be pampered with great food and service, you'll love T8. If you are looking for a more local experience, absolutely do not come here.
Additionally, the last time Iwe were there, our out-of-town guest was politely asked by our waitperson to leave a tip on his bill after he signed with no tip (which, he did, after we had earlier told him tipping isn’t de rigueur in Shanghai), which kind of put a kink in our night. What we expect (and other restaurants in Shanghai - especially in 5 star hotels – actually do as part of their bill) is to automatically include a service charge on the bill. When’s there is an option in Shanghai, the norm is.... no tip.
Despite its shortcomings, the overall atmosphere, layout, and service (other than the involuntary tip demand) still makes T8 one of best restaurants in Shanghai. Reservations essential.