We love insider secrets and an inconspicuous sign is all that announces this 1920s house on Nanging Road as a hotel. This is the stylish sibling to the original Jia in hong Kong and the creation of  wunderkind Singaporean hotelier and restaurateur Yenn Wong. Unlike many boutique offerings this one is seriously five star  and  the 50+ rooms combine luxury with trendsetting style (think furnishing by Monotti and Hans Wagner and artwork  by photographer Russel Wong. The Luxury Travel Bible readers will love the two penthouse suites complete with sunken Jacuzzi,  DJ facilities and a private steam room. We love the Giant Chinese bird cages in the lobby too. Shanghai's movers and shakers reserve tables at Issimo.

An honourable  boutique hotel mention also goes to Lapis Lazuli