The ecological fusion eatery, called Canopia, is in hot water for a meal that contained elephant dung. The menu also included meals such as fresh leaves, ice cubes coated in honey pollen and a dish inspired by the rotten scent of parasitic flowers. For the mains, diners could feast on bamboo worms, moss, sour ants and pheasants.

The elephant poo was reportedly disinfected before being plated up "dried" and "crushed". Canopia also created a drink influenced by the salty and fishy smell of the local river. According to local press, a customer who ate at the restaurant advised "not to expect too much from the food".

They added that the experience was just "a model of excessive rituals." Guests were guided through the fixed menu with most dishes delivered via a sliding tabletop. But the dinner also included tours of an on-site ingredient exhibit and greenhouse.

Canopia, promised a "wild survival" experience inspired by the flavour of the rainforest. To gnaw leaves, lick ice and taste sour ants as well as elephant poo, customers could expect to pay just over £400. The restaurant itself was filled with greenery and plants as part of its decor.

The fixed menu was only offered on weekends, as reported by NeedToKnow. Canopia is located in Maqiao, a town in the Minhang District, Shanghai, China. During a recent inspection, authorities found the restaurant's supply of ingredients such as bamboo worms, ants, and elephant dung.

The Minhang District Administration for Market Regulation confirmed last week that the restaurant was being investigated. The venue, on Zhongqing Road, has since suspended operations.