We thought we used to know what fantastic Chinese food tasted like. But then we tried Hakkasan, and it gave us a whole new meaning to the word delicious.
Eating at this fine-dining restaurant is an experience you’ll never, ever forget (for all the right reasons, of course).
Housed within the famous Emirates Palace, the most flashy of the capital’s hotels, the menu is always full of fascinating flavours and beautiful dishes.
But now that the stylish restaurant is celebrating Chinese New Year with a special menu, we have one more excuse to treat ourselves to a night out there.
Although the new year falls on February 5, the menu is available from January 28 to February 24.
The dishes are designed to be shared with loved ones, and each is presented with flare and creativity.
The feast is kicked off with a refreshing welcome drink, before the wonderful plates are introduced.
The Peking duck with crispy bean curd and mango features a fantastic mix of colours, textures and sweet and savoury flavours, while the roasted jasmine chicken with sticky rice is a relatively simple combination but one that works brilliantly.
The seafood dishes are also magnificent. The wok-fried lobster with chives and lily bulb is on another level of delightful, and we don’t think we’ve ever had a soup that is quite as decadent as Hakkasan’s Chilean sea bass and bamboo pith broth. Served with petals floating on top of the steaming liquid, it’s totally picture perfect.
The desserts are just as exceptional. Presented in a shimmering purple case, the ‘wealth pot’ looks absolutely gorgeous.
Adorned with the Chinese symbol for good fortune, it’s intended to bring good luck to all who enjoy its sweet filling.
Guests are also encouraged to write down a wish and tie it with a ribbon to the traditional Chinese wishing tree. The whole experience is a dream come true.
Dhs498. Jan 28-Feb 24. Open daily 6pm-midnight. Emirates Palace, West Corniche (02 690 7999).
WHAT IS IT...
The Chinese New Year menu at Hakkasan
WHY GO...
To ensure good luck for the year ahead, and because it’s only available until February 24