Chinese New Year to me, means a lot of things- being a ‘mixture’, my dad- a Chinese, my mum-a Eurasian and married to an Indian. I get the best of everything, culture, religion and traditions. From lunch and dinner get together to seeing random children in the kampung-hood walking up to you with ‘Xin Nian Kuai Le’ greetings, their hands stretched out for “you know what”….and not forgetting the massive traffic jam if you leave for your destination during peak times.
But most importantly, Chinese New Year is about family and friends and celebrating the start of a New Lunar Year.
It was the first day of Chinese New Year- we decided to have our dinner at Royale Chulan- Han Pi Yuen Restaurant – What better way to celebrate anything……
The menu had a great selection. Mr Edward greeted us and led us to a private room and briefed us about the menu and their signature dishes and something you can’t get anywhere in Seremban.
Step aside ‘the traditional’ Yee Sang, prepared by Chef Jack’s special combination Yee Sang of fresh Salmon, assorted vegetables, crackers , oranges….. steamed it’s way to our table! I allowed my taste buds to explore the fundamental flavours of spicy, sour, sweet and salty. It was heavenly…
Some might ask, what is in the menu? All set of menus will include dishes associated with prosperity, luck, success, love and wealth which are the characteristics commonly associated with Chinese New Year.
Our mains came fairly swiftly after our appetizers but still with enough time to relax and enjoy the company and surroundings.
Among the highlights was the Glutinous Rice with lobsters, it was tasty and easy to chew. One piece was not enough, we took extra helpings, of course. The sauce was wonderful too and having it with the warm glutinous rice to mop up the sauce did wonders! A typical Chinese meal with some carbs, and since it is Chinese New Year, rice symbolises a link between heaven and men as a sign of fertility and wealth for the New Year @ Royale Chulan, Han Pi Yuen Restaurant, they have prepared this signature glutinous rice with lobster.
Steamed Tiger Grouper with Chicken Essence- it was an impressive dish. It had the right formula. The creaminess of the broth was overwhelming for my palate. Splendid texture that leaves me wanting for more….
Overall, the Chinese New Year feast at Royale Chulan, Han Pi Yuen Restaurant didn’t miss any mark nor did it spring any surprises! Dishes here didn’t deviate far from it’s traditional form and flavour. You can expect quality and consistency and thus be assured that your traditional Chinese New Year feast here won’t be a disappointment.
chrisywong.com 