M Restaurant Group is an award-winning collection of restaurants and lounges that have pioneered independent fine dining in China. The Group was founded in 1989 by trail-blazing Australian entrepreneur Michelle Garnaut – the signature ‘M’ – with the opening of M at the Fringe in Hong Kong (1989-2009). Born in Melbourne, Australia, Michelle Garnaut is a restaurateur (and former cook) whose impressive culinary career spans over three decades. Her eclectic roles have ranged from dishwasher, waitress and food stylist, to chef, caterer and proprietor of one of China’s trend-setting independent fine dining companies, M Restaurant Group. The M collection currently comprises M on the Bund restaurant in Shanghai, Glam lounge dining & bar in Shanghai and Capital M restaurant and bar in Beijing. Each M venue has become a city institution, situated in a privileged location that captures the heart of its destination: from the historic waterfront Bund in Shanghai to the ancient Qianmen district of Beijing overlooking Tiananmen Square. They also share quintessential ‘M’ characteristics: delicious modern European cooking using homemade and responsibly sourced ingredients; stylishly comfortable décor; warm, polished service; fine wine and drinks, and a flourishing and fun personality. M’s classic dishes have also become famous across China. Signature delights include Mandarin Beluga Caviar, M’s Crispy Suckling Pig, Slow-baked Salt-encased Selected Leg of Lamb, and of course, M’s Famous Pavlova. Distinctive dishes bearing Middle Eastern and North African influences, plus the seasonal inspirations of the M chefs, complement the nostalgic classics. M on the Bund (Shanghai) Opened in 1999, M on the Bund is the original independent upscale restaurant on the Bund. Conde Nast Traveler magazine declared it to be one of the ‘World's Most Exciting Restaurants’ immediately after opening, and M is regarded as the pioneer of Shanghai’s now fashionable riverside dining scene. It is no surprise that M on the Bund has received more awards and accolades than any other independent restaurant in Shanghai. Located on the seventh floor of the 1927 Nissin Shipping Building, M on the Bund’s modern dining room is inspired by Shanghai’s Art Deco-infused 1920s history. The spacious alfresco garden terrace and coveted window seats offer the city’s best vistas of the historic Bund buildings, the Huangpu River and futuristic Pudong skyline. The combination of modern European cuisine, glamorous ambience and stellar views has made M on the Bund a celebrated Shanghai icon. Glam (Shanghai) At 5 on the Bund - the same address that has been home to Shanghai institution and Bund pioneer, M on the Bund restaurant, Glam is a sophisticated new dining lounge & bar for guests over 18 years of age. Opened in September 2015, Glam epitomises modern Shanghai chic. Behind sparkling crystal curtains, the casually sophisticated lounge in a palette dark jewel tones inspired by the feathers of a peacock is adorned with an eclectic suite of bespoke armchairs and contemporary artworks. The menu, created under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Hamish Pollitt offers a delicious array of modern food designed for sharing, at prices that will have guests coming back often. With each menu, he respects the seasons, highlights local ingredients and introduces something new every month. Feeding the Mind and Soul – A Cultural and Artistic Hub A core part of the M philosophy is to bring the community quality cultural events and eclectic entertainment. Garnaut founded, and continues to run, the annual Shanghai International Literary Festival (now in its 12th year), and also the 4-year-old Capital Literary Festival in Beijing. M Restaurants also frequently host history talks, chamber music recitals, visiting DJs and performance art. Charitable Ventures and Empowering Women M Restaurant Group has a long history of supporting charitable projects across China. As a successful female entrepreneur, Michelle Garnaut is eager to support initiatives that empower women in their local communities. The M Group actively promotes the Village People Project, which aims to improve the lives and health of women in rural China through the creation of solar-powered community bathhouses. In 2015, Garnaut also helped establish Mentor Walks in Shanghai and Beijing, which bring together established and emerging women leaders to connect, learn, mentor and share experiences.