N Shanghai there is only one place to be – the Bund. This storied riverfront promenade stretches in a graceful arc, lined by some of the most impressive historic confections that China has to offer. The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund premiered here late 2010 with the 20-suite Waldorf Astoria Club in a heritage building that in the 1920s served as the Shanghai Club for gentlemen.

There are 257 rooms and suites spread across two buildings. Stiffen your moustache and strut like a lord, pausing to peruse artefacts and clubby corners for those postprandial whispers. Think palladium columns, marble, gables and cupolas. Waldorf Suites are grandiose with plaster walls, timber panels, chandeliers, mahogany furnishings and claw-foot bathtubs.

The newer Waldorf Astoria Tower is connected to the Club via a grand restaurant and an elegant lounge. The guestrooms are more contemporary with cool muted shades and powder blue accents. Several offer broad views of the Huangpu River skyline. Melding work with pleasure is an art and this address, one of the best Shanghai business hotels, has perfected the blend.

The cognoscenti will make a beeline for period tipples. Try a classic cocktail at the legendary Long Bar, whose impressive 34m marble bartop has been carefully restored. Or enjoy afternoon tea served with red velvet cupcakes at Salon de Ville. Savour four restaurants – Pelham’s, Grand Brasserie, Wei Jing Ge Chinese Restaurant and Peacock Alley – six meeting rooms, a business lounge, spa and fitness centre. Then, at crack of dawn, sample tango and tai chi on the Bund.