LumDimSummary: Chi Fan for Charity 2011

 First I was waiting on all the beautiful pictures and before I knew it, work started piling on and somehow one of the most important events of 2011 has slipped under the radar for a complete LumDimSum re-cap (or as I like to call it – LumDimSummary), but I refuse to let this one go.  Better late than never right?  I swore I’d complete this post before the end of 2011, so I figure it would be an appropriate time to finish off 2011 with a post dedicated to one of the most inspiring and exciting events of this year – Chi Fan for Charity (CFFC)!

Originally founded by Michael Crain, Chi Fan for Charity quickly made a name for itself as one of Beijing’s most highly-anticipated culinary and charity events of the year. Already in its third year, CFFC 2011 was beyond magnificent and I beam with pride every time I think about the dedicated team of volunteers and all the people who donated so much of their time, energy and resources to make this event such a success.

Rallying together over 500+ Beijingers to dine in Beijing’s top dining establishments with all proceeds going to support local Chinese charity organizations in need, they exceeded their goal of raising over RMB 300,000 in just one night.  Involving 39 generous and charitable restaurants in Beijing, we were able to raise a substantial amount to be donated to two very worthwhile charities – Bethel Foundation and New Hope Foundation.

 Not only was CFFC able to make a difference in Beijing, but the event was also expanded to Shanghai for the first time this year thanks to the help of organizing sponsor Austen Morris. Check out my recap of my weekend in Shanghai just to reserve my seat at Shook! together with my table host Alan Wong here.

“What started in Beijing by Michael Crain three years ago as an idea to raise a bit of money for worthy causes has mushroomed into a two city effort which this year engaged 26 of Shanghai’s best restaurants, many of the city’s most influential movers and shakers and over 200 fine-diners and late night revelers. 

Chi Fan for Charity Shanghai was able to raise over 200,000RMB with all profits going directly to Heart to Heart Shanghai, Chi Heng Foundation and Compassion for Migrant Children.  With these funds, Chi Fan for Charity has already been able to:

• Donate three life saving heart surgeries to Heart to Heart Shanghai for Chen Wenyu, Wang Zhi Yuan and Jiang Yu Han at Yodak hospital earlier this month.

• Help operate Compassion for Migrant Children’s Shanghai’s Xinan Community Center and enable:

Migrant babies and pregnant mothers to participate in CMC’s Early Childhood Development program which is designed to help migrant parents provide the best possible start for their children and covers health education, literacy, socialization and learning through play activities. 

Migrant children aged 5-13 to receive academic assistance and an opportunity to participate in creative activities (such as music, arts & crafts, dance, sports, field trips) which are aimed at helping them develop healthy social and character skills) 

We are also proud to announce that the combined efforts of Chi Fan for Charity Beijing and Shanghai raised over 500,000RMB for charity.”  - Kelly Olver, Katie Littlefield and the CFFC Team 

With all that said, here’s a recap of Beijing’s third annual Chi Fan for Charity Event.Check out photos from many of the dinners that took place throughout the city and of course my favorite part, the Official After Party at Hatsune Sanlitun with DJ Patrick Yu.

Chi Fan for Charity 2011 Dinners:

(listed in alphabetical order)

Agua:

Barolo:

Chef Too:

Cru Steakhouse:

Carmen:

Grange:

Hercules:

Kagen:

Kagen Teppanyaki:

Karaiya Spice House:

Modo:

Mosto:

Nobu:

Punjabi:

ROOMbeijing:

Sureno:

Transit:

CFFC After Party at Hatsune  Sanlitun:

Photos courtesy of the very talented Helen Couchman & Lakshitha Tharindu

Get Your Sights On Temple Hotel

Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) is one of the most talked-about new venues in Beijing and their new hotel as a part of the same compound as the restaurant and bar is sure to be top-notch.

The Temple is now open for weekend brunch both Saturdays and Sundays from 11AM-3PM.  Check them out, but best to make a reservation in advance.

LDS Review of Temple Restaurant Beijing: click here.

Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) Details:

• Address: #23, Shatan Beijie, off WuSi DaJie, Dongcheng District. Beijing. 100009 東城區五四大街以北，沙滩北街23号

• Tel: 8400 2232

  

Ring in 2012: Best Breakdown for Beijingers!

Celebrate the close of another year and ring in 2012 with a bang…as it may be our LAST (dun dun DUN!)  just kidding - fingers crossed the world will not end this year.

I’ve posted a Christmas list last week (click here), but here’s an updated list for the upcoming New Year Weekend.

For foodies, many of Beijing’s top restaurants are hosting special NYE dinners and New Year Day brunches while night owls can party to their heart’s content at practically all night clubs around the city.

In order of my preference (and timing of the night), here goes the breakdown down to 2012:

NYE Dinner Options:

1. Agua’s Spanish NYE Menus

Agua’s arranged for special Spanish set dinner menus for the days surrounding New Year’s at RMB 528 per person.  You can indulge in Agua’s signature suckling pig or some of their other house specialities this holiday season.

RSVP: 5208-6188

2. An M New Years

Roaring fireplaces and a spectacular view, Capital M has prepared everything you could want for a warm, intimate holiday occasion. Check out their happenings for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day below.

RSVP:  reservations@capital-m-beijing.com    (86-10) 6702 2727

M’s Holiday Menus Here:

New Years Eve at Capital M

988 RMB per person (pre-booked/pre-paid tickets only)

Begin your New Year’s Eve celebration with Champagne cocktails and canapés around the bar with our Brass Band performing Jazz, followed by a delectable seven-course menu. As the clock strikes 12, savour the unforgettable experience of a Champagne toast on the terrace overlooking Tian’anmen.  Includes Champagne cocktails and canapés and a Taittinger Champagne toast on the terrace at midnight.

 New Year’s Brunch- 11:30am-5:00pm

288 RMB per person 

Ring in the New Year with Capital M’s delicious New Year’s brunch: it’s a fabulous start to the year!

7. Terra’s South-American NYE Menu

In line with SALT, TERRA will also be hosting holiday dinner for the days surrounding New Years.

“At Terra we go beyond the standard traditional fare and spice up the holidays with a delicious South-American styled Menu…with the inclusion of… mouth-watering South American Roast Suckling Pig.” – Jennifer Eden, PR Director for both TERRA and SALT

RSVP: 6591 9148

 Check out full menus at their website here and see below for summary of each -

New Year’s Eve – Party Menu – Saturday December 31, 6pm-late

Ring in the new year with excellent contemporary cuisine, serious sparkling and great tunes in Terra’s modern, hip surrounds. 4 courses and free flow ensures a night full of fun, laughter and luck. 4 courses 358 rmb. 4 courses + free flow bubbly or beer 578 rmb.

New Year’s Day – Revive, Recover and Celebrate! Sunday January 1, 2012, 11am-11pm.
It’s time for resolutions, recovery and more fun. Kick back in style and enjoy Chef Paulo De Souza’s delicious New Year’s Day menu and a bit more bubbly – why not?
2 courses 218 rmb. 3 courses 258 rmb. 2 courses + free flow 428 rmb. 3 courses + free flow 468 rmb.

LDS Top Picks for NYE Nightclub Options:

1. Alfa’s NYE Party 

“Beijing’s Biggest Gay Night”, Alfa’s serving 2-for-1 on drinks and free CD of Alfa’s top music hits for all attendees while supplies last. FREE admission

More info here.

2. Aria’s Classy, Jazzy NYE Countdown 

Croon to jazz by Valeria Proano and her trio of talented jazz musicians. Free admission.

More info here.

3. Haze’s NYE Celebration

Party at Haze with one of Beijing’s Top DJ Line-Ups: DJ Patrick Yu, Donald Summer, Yang Bing, Zhi Qi, Pancake Lee and Max Feelgood. RMB 100 admission.

More info here.

4. Genesis 2012 Countdown at Lantern

The Acupuncture group will be launching yet another massive techo-bash to ring in the new year. Expect a line-up of Acupuncture’s legendary DJ gang at Lantern Club.  RMB 100 (pre-sale) or RMB 150 (door).

“Gorge on an aural banquet with futuristic techno grooves from Beijing’s best DJs and thaw away those winter chills as the surreal visual installations conjure the crowd into near sensory overload. Ride with us through time and space and count down to a great 2012! Party like it’s the end of the world!” – Miao Wong, Acupuncture Group Voice

More info here.

5. NYE 2012 at Migas’ NEW BAR

Featuring their newly opened bar with a lot of Funky music and hip DJ’s including Bite-Size Buddha, Metro Tokyo and Bottin Italia.  RMB 120 (presale) or RMB 150 at door includes 1 glass of Mumm champagne.

More info here.

6. NEW! Nova NYE Party in 798′s D-Park  

Dance in the New Year with UK DJ and Producer Dance Legend Darren Emerson and a great DJ line-up of both local and international talents.  RMB 120 (presale) or RMB 200 (door).

More info here.

7. Party at Punk with Kid Fresh

3x DMC World Champion Kid Fresh is back at Punk to ring in the New Year. Last year was a bash, see pictures below for proof! FREE before 11PM, otherwise it’s RMB 50 admission.

More info here.

 Pics from Kid Fresh’s last performance at Punk. More pics on his website here.

8.  Show Off at Xiu Bar this NYE

Champagne bottles flying off the shelves is exactly what you should expect at their NYE celebration. Admission is RMB 400 which includes 1 glass of Moet champagne.

More info here.

9. YEN Countdown to 2012

Widely known as one of the most popular NYE parties every year in Beijing, YEN is sure to be a hit for those looking to party in a crowded warehouse with thousands of other nightowls.  DJ line up includes Yangbing, Ouyang, Slide, Donmy Liu and Mia(from Shanghai).

More info here.

…and that’s a wrap!

Just remember: Despite the rumors of 2012, you don’t actually want to make this your last new years so remember to be safe and have a blast this NYE! 

LDS Discovery: Karaiya’s Hunan Spicy Broiled Fish

Karaiya’s Hunan style Spicy Broiled Fish  飘香鱼

On average, I eat at Karaiya Spice House once a week.  It’s a choice pick for my Beijing crew’s “family dinners” and most definitely a top destination for anyone who is coming or leaving Beijing and needs a “Karaiya fix”. I say “fix” as if Karaiya was an addiction and for our group of friends, it really is because as much as we all enjoy hole-in-the-wall, super local, cheap Chinese food once in awhile, it’s really not something I like to do regularly knowing how horrendous the hygiene is and the obscene amount of oil they drench their dishes with really does take a toll. On the other hand, knowing that Karaiya is a part of the Hatsune Restaurant Group, it is guaranteed to use only quality ingredients and high hygiene standards.

Considering I’m such a regular, for me to know the restaurant menu inside-out is expected.  And I thought I was pretty much a savvy Karaiya expert until I recently discovered Karaiya’s Hunan style Spicy Broiled Fish  飘香鱼 (RMB 108).

At first, I thought it was an “off-the-menu” dish since I had never even noticed it on the menu before!  They need to seriously reconsider the real estate this dish occupies on the menu because it’s definitely worth it!

Unfortunately for this fish dish, Karaiya’s Signature Fish Dish (RMB 158 for Perch Fish or RMB 258 for Mandarin Fish) is undoubtedly one of the most popular dishes on the menu and for good reason – it’s amazing!  With yellow Hunan peppers on one side and red on the other, this steamed fish is both spicy and the sauce is super addictive.  I like to dip scoop out spoonfuls of this sauce and pour it over rice and everything else for that matter.

“Traditionally in Hunan this dish is served using a steamed fish headcovered in spicy peppers and simmering in special Camellia oil collected from trees.We prepare this Hunan specialty using the whole fish, and our tree oil is shipped weekly from rural villages in Hunan.”  - Alan Wong, owner of Karaiya Spice House and the Hatsune Restaurant Group

Karaiya’s Signature Mandarin Fish with Two Types of Hunan Peppers

But the downside of this Signature fish’s popularity is that all other fish dishes are then overshadowed and very often entirely overlooked.  That is the case with Karaiya’s Hunan style Spicy Broiled Fish  飘香鱼.

Not only had I never ordered it before, I didn’t even notice it on the menu!  How that happened is beyond me, but I blame the Signature Fish Dish for being so ridiculously good, we never had the desire to try anything else.  But now that I have recently been introduced to their Spicy Broiled Fish, and I may have discovered a new favorite! It’s a giant bowl filled with tender fish pieces drenched in spicy yumminess.

If you are a general fan of 水煮鱼, then you will get hooked on Karaiya’s take on this popular Sichuan dish, but obviously it’s Hunan style.

Karaiya Spice House won Time Out’s 2011 Award for Best Regional Chinese.

Click here for LDS article.

Karaiya Spice House Details:

• Address: 3F, Building 8, The Village at Sanlitun, No. 19 Sanlitun Road, Sanlitun

  (3rd floor of the Nike Building across from Hatsune) 朝阳区三里屯路19号The Village南区8号楼

• Tel: 6415 3535

• Website: www.hatsunesushi.com (Karaiya Spice House is part of the Hatsune Restaurant Empire)

*LumDimSum Discovery Explanation: Whenever I try a dish worth sharing, I will post this find as a LumDimSum Discovery.  Just search tagged “LumDimSum Discovery” articles for more recommendations.

LDS Hook-Up: 2 Free Tickets to Simple Plan Concert

Canadian rock band Simple Plan is back in Beijing to debut their upcoming Asia Tour. Performing at Yugongyishan, this concert will be a nice change of pace from the massive stadiums hosting thousands of fans. With a capacity of only 700 pax, fans can get up-close and personal with Simple Plan.

“Simple Plan had a spunky, energetic punk sound, textured like Cheap Trick, but raw like Pennywise.”

A group of five former high school pals Pierre Bouvier, Jeff Stinco, David Desrosiers, Sebastien Lefebvre and Chuck Comeau who came together in 1999 to form this multi-award winning punk-pop band with hit singles like “I’m Just A Kid”, “Welcome to My Life” and “Jet Lag”.  

Here’s your chance to see them perform live!

LDS HOOK-UP

Thanks to Street Hustle Promotions, a lucky LDS reader will get the chance to win a pair of tickets to see Simple Plan live!

For your chance to win 2 FREE TICKETS to the Simple Plan Concert on Friday, January 6, answer the following question in the comment section:

Who is your favorite member of the Simple Plan band and why?

To answer, click here and scroll down to comment section.  Be sure to leave your email address so I contact the winner directly!

Deadline is Monday, January 2 at 12PM Noon.

Tickets are RMB 380 at the door (pre-sale tickets are SOLD OUT!). Official ticket booking websites: Piao.com.cn or sendmetickets.com

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, January 6, 2012
• Time: 7:30PM
• Location: Yugongyishan
• Address: 3-2 Zhang Zizhong Road
• Tickets: RMB 380 (door)
• Buy Tickets: Piao.com.cn or sendmetickets.com

A Very Merry LumDimSum Christmas

California is about 16 hours behind Beijing, so please forgive the belated post, but after a peek into my very merry Christmas, I hope that perhaps you’ll understand why I’ve been distracted.

LumDimSum Snapshots of My Christmas Day:

My LumDimSum Family

Christmas Gifts All Around – candy&caviar for Everyone!

LDS Christmas Feast:

I hope all of you had a memorable day surrounded by people you love, good food and if you were nice this year, I hope Santa brought you what you wished for!

Merry Christmas!

LumDimSum Christmas Cheer 2011

Merry Christmas!!!

Allow me to share a corny Christmas joke I just love:

What do you get if you cross a snowman with a vampire?

(scroll down for answer)

.

.

.

Answer:

Frostbite! 

No matter how much older I get each year, the traditions surrounding Christmas season never seem to get old.

From decorating our tall Christmas tree to baking cookies for Santa, listening to Christmas carols, visiting neighborhoods famous for their insane amount of Christmas lights and decorations, last-minute Christmas shopping and spending the day with family, this is a holiday that rightfully encourages childhood innocence, playful fun, generous giving, a renewed sense of hope and a charitable spirit.

If any of you have some fun or silly Christmas jokes, please feel free to share by posting a comment to this article (click here and scroll down to comments).

I wish you all a very merry Christmas wherever you are in the world!

Snapshots of My Very Merry LumDimSum Christmas:

Be Merry this Christmas: Beijing’s Best Holiday Feasts

Christmas is literally just around the corner (sorry for not posting this sooner!), but hopefully this reaches all Beijingers before it’s too late!  If you don’t have Christmas plans yet and you’re anti-hotels like me, there’s still plenty of quality options for a special Christmas/NYE dinner at Beijing’s top dining destinations.

Merry Christmas and with only a few days left, I hope you all make the best of the rest of 2011!

Christmas Dinner Break Down: (in alphabetical order)

1. Agua’s Spanish Holiday Menus

Agua’s arranged for special Spanish set dinner menus for the days surrounding both Christmas and New Year’s at RMB 388 or RMB 528 per person.  You can indulge in Agua’s signature suckling pig or some of their other house specialities this holiday season.

RSVP: 5208-6188

2. Blue Frog’s 3-course X-Mas Dinner 

Blue Frog provides a simple, no-fuss holiday 3-course Xmas dinner menu for only RMB 298 per person.  And if you know anyone who’s a massive Blue Frog Fan, you can treat them to a gift card from their favorite frog.

RSVP: 6417-4030

3. An Very M Christmas and New Years

Christmas trees, roaring fireplaces and traditional holiday goodies – Capital M has prepared everything you could want for a warm, intimate holiday occasion with Christmas carols, holiday treats and of course their stunning views. Check out their happenings for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day below.

RSVP:  reservations@capital-m-beijing.com    (86-10) 6702 2727

M’s Holiday Menus Here:

 Christmas Eve Dinner

6pm, with Christmas carols by the International Festival Choir at 7.30pm

Christmas Specials, served alongside our a la carte menu ~ and Christmas crackers & holiday treats

 Christmas Family Lunch

11:30-5pm, with Christmas carols at 1.30pm by the International Festival Chorus

Adults: RMB 488 and Kids (over 3 years): RMB188, including gifts and lots of Christmas treats

Celebrate an old-fashioned family Christmas at Capital M: Santa reads Christmas stories by the fireplace, with hot chocolate and marshmallows for the kids, and a Christmas gift, of course!

Christmas Dinner at 6PM

Christmas Specials, served alongside our a la carte menu, with Christmas crackers, holiday treats and surprises for all!

New Years Eve at Capital M

988 RMB per person (pre-booked/pre-paid tickets only)

Begin your New Year’s Eve celebration with Champagne cocktails and canapés around the bar with our Brass Band performing Jazz, followed by a delectable seven-course menu. As the clock strikes 12, savour the unforgettable experience of a Champagne toast on the terrace overlooking Tian’anmen.  Includes Champagne cocktails and canapés and a Taittinger Champagne toast on the terrace at midnight.

 New Year’s Brunch- 11:30am-5:00pm

288 RMB per person 

Ring in the New Year with Capital M’s delicious New Year’s brunch: it’s a fabulous start to the year!

4. Celebrate Christmas Twice at The Hutong –

A very cozy, humble and homely type place, The Hutong would probably be my choice pick for where to spend Christmas holiday with close friends.  They are also winning me over with their combined dinner + Christmas classic – A Christmas Story (organized by Electric Shadows).

If you are also looking for where to spend Christmas Eve, you can enjoy an interactive cooking class and learn all the holiday staples – Roasted Turkey, glazed carrots, homemade gravy, red cabbage cider, apple crumble, just to name a few.  Celebrate Christmas Twice at The Hutong.

RSVP: 15901046127

5. Lollipop Bakery’s Holiday Cups of Love

Lollipop Bakery‘s spiced apple and cinnamon cupcakes decorated in snowflakes and holiday colors might be “the perfect treat to enjoy next to a glowing log fire with a steaming cup of tea.”  RMB 340 per dozen with holiday decoration or just RMB 220 per dozen of cupcakes in standard decoration.

To Order, call: 13552772683 or Email: Cupcakes@LollipopBakery.cn

6. Migas Might Fancy Holiday Menus

Migas is going mighty fancy with a beautiful 5-course Christmas meal for RMB 380 per person and also an 8-course New Year’s Menu for RMB 500 per person or RMB 900 paired with Arzuaga wines.

RSVP:  5208-6061

7. Modo’s 4-course Christmas Eve & NYE Dinner Celebrations

Modo’s Christmas Eve Dinner Set Menu is RMB 390 per person and RMB 420 for their NYE set menu.  See full menus here.

RSVP: 6415-7207

Be Merry at Modo

8. Mosto Christmas Dinner

Mosto’s 4 course Christmas Eve menu is priced at RMB 490 per person and their 5-course NYE menu is set at RMB 550 per person.

RSVP: 5208-6030

9. SALT’s Special Holiday Dinner

SALT will be hosting 4 special dinners: Christmas Eve Dinner, Christmas Day (12PM-10PM), NYE Countdown Dinner from 6PM-Midnight and New Year’s Day Brunch from 12PM-4PM.  Leave it to owner Gaby Alves and chef Paolo to put together some really special holiday meals for Beijingers with options for meal + free flow drinks or just the special set menus of 2-5 courses.

RSVP Essential as Seating is Limited: 6537  8457

Here is SALT’s Holiday Meals Breakdown:

SALT Christmas Eve – Saturday December 24, 6-10.30pm

Indulge with friends and family for SALT’S Christmas Eve as Chef Paulo De Souza adds contemporary flair to traditional Christmas Cuisine. Beef Tenderloin with Foie Gras Scent and Dark Chocolate-Sherry Sauce and Black Forest Glass, Dark Chocolate Marquise, Cherry Pavlova will tempt while special Christmas Cocktails and Champagne ensure a delightful evening. 5 courses 398 rmb.

SALT Christmas Day – Sunday December 25. 12pm-10pm

Celebrate Christmas with an extended brunch, late lunch, early dinner or evening get-together as SALT opens it kitchen all day to present a fun, warming Christmas with festive flair. Roast Turkey, Pressed Apples, Glazed Wild Pork Roulade, Corn Roesti and Figs and Spiced Bread Crusted Foie Gras with Pumpkin Cannelloni will delight.  2 courses 218 rmb, 3 courses 258 rmb. 2 courses + free flow 428 rmb. 3 courses + free flow 468 rmb.

New Year’s Eve Sparkling Celebrations – Saturday December 31, 6pm-midnight.
Light up the night at SALT for their popular New Year’s Eve Sparkling Celebrations. Ring in the new year with an innovative 5 course feast and free flow sparkling in delightful festive surrounds. 5 courses 568 rmb. 5 courses + free flow 798 rmb.

New Year’s Day – Sunday January 1, 2012, 12-4pm
Welcome in 2012 with a celebration (or recovery!) cocktail or two and a scrumptious brunch at SALT. Delicious contemporary cuisine, hearty portions, free flowing sparkling and tempting treats from the bar. 2 courses 218 rmb, 3 courses 258 rmb. 2 courses + free flow 428 rmb. 3 courses + free flow 468 rmb.

10. Susu’s Special Xmas Dinner for Two

Christmas at Susu is something sweet and perfectly shared between two.  Price for 7 dishes shared between 2 is RMB 666 total.

RSVP:  84002699, or email: beijingsusu@gmail.com

SUSU’s Special Christmas Set

12.24-25.2011

Susu Champagne Cocktail

Sugar Cube, Angostura Bitters

Shrimp & Pork Spring Roll

The classic, with a pinch of pineapple. Homemade peanut dip

Salmon Cucumber Salad

Salmon seared and diced, cubed cucumber, bed of greens, squeeze of lime.

Hue Beef Noodle Soup

Legendary. With lemongrass & shrimp paste, sliced beef and pork.

Tamarind King Prawns

A Statuesque pair drizzled with tamarind reduction, steamed vegetables.

Shaking Beef

Cubed and flash fried with sautéed onions, green pepper. Side of sweet potato fries.

Lemongrass Panna Cotta

With pear confit, red wine reduction

 Susu’s Tamarind Prawns

11. Terra’s South-American Holiday Menu

In line with SALT, TERRA will also be hosting holiday dinner for the days surrounding both Christmas and New Years.

“At Terra we go beyond the standard traditional fare and spice up the holidays with a delicious South-American styled Menu…with the inclusion of… mouth-watering South American Roast Suckling Pig.” – Jennifer Eden, PR Director for both TERRA and SALT

RSVP: 6591 9148

 Check out full menus at their website here and see below for summary of each -

A Very Terra Christmas – Saturday December 24 6-11pm & Sunday December 25 11am-11pm

Terra presents a festive menu with Latin twists and old favourites. Chef Paulo De Souza spices up Christmas with Tender Turkey, Succulent Seafood, Christmas Ceviche and of course, Christmas Churros and delicious desserts. Perfectly paired with Terra’s Winter Rum Cocktails or go free flow and liven up the season!
2 courses 218 rmb, 3 courses 258 rmb. 2 courses + free flow 428 rmb, 3 courses + free flow 468 rmb.

New Year’s Eve – Party Menu – Saturday December 31, 6pm-late
Ring in the new year with excellent contemporary cuisine, serious sparkling and great tunes in Terra’s modern, hip surrounds. 4 courses and free flow ensures a night full of fun, laughter and luck. 4 courses 358 rmb. 4 courses + free flow bubbly or beer 578 rmb.

New Year’s Day – Revive, Recover and Celebrate! Sunday January 1, 2012, 11am-11pm.
It’s time for resolutions, recovery and more fun. Kick back in style and enjoy Chef Paulo De Souza’s delicious New Year’s Day menu and a bit more bubbly – why not?
2 courses 218 rmb. 3 courses 258 rmb. 2 courses + free flow 428 rmb. 3 courses + free flow 468 rmb. 

…and that’s a wrap!  

*Merry Christmas and Enjoy the Last Days of 2011!*

Jungle Bells: DJ Goldie and Syndicate at Yigongyishan

DJ Goldie is back in Beijing for the fourth time (that’s how much we love this guy) and he is back playing at Yugongyishan tonight Friday, December 23 at 10PM.

His previous set in 2008 was voted “Night of the Year” in theBeijinger’s Bar & Clubs awards where he “played an unbelievable 4-hour mix of unreleased tracks that tore Yugong Yishan to pieces.”

More than just a DJ, Goldie’s also an actor with a role in Guy Ritchie’s “Snatch” and the James Bond film “The World is Not Enough”.  This guy also happens to be a graffiti artist, drum ‘n’ bass icon, DJ and producer.

“Goldie is a total original, a multi-talented complex shape shifter, who’s sold more than 2.5 million records worldwide.”

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, December 23, 2011
• Time: 10PM
• Tickets: RMB 70 (pre-sale), RMB 100 (door)
• Ticket Locations: Cafe Zarah, NLGX Design and Yugongyishan
• Ticket Online: www.clubzone.cn
• Location: Yugongyishan
• Address:  3-2 Zhangzizhong Lu, Dongcheng district, 东城区张自忠路3-2号段祺瑞执政府旧址西院
• Website: Click here.

Fun in the Snow: Nanshan Ski Village is OPEN

Nanshan Ski Village (photo courtesy of Mellowparks.cn)

Nanshan Ski Village officially opened last weekend, but I figured the slopes would be way too crowded on the opening weekend to even bother making the trip up.

But this weekend should be more bearable. I assume most foreigners already exited Beijing to spend the Christmas weekend back at home (like me) and most locals will be spending the weekend indoors. If I were still in Beijing this weekend, I’d definitely compensate for the fact that I’m not home for the holidays with a trip out to play in the snow.

And thanks to the guys at Mellowparks, they’ve also put up some kickers, boxes and ramps for those willing.

See map below for directions to get out to the Nanshan ski village (only an hour+ travel time from Beijing):

For all ski/snowboarding fans, save-the-date for the 10th Red Bull Nanshan Open:

Going strong for a decade now, the Red Bull Nanshan Open has become the largest slopestyle snowboard competition in Asia with 5Star TTR status. The event will take place on the weekend of January 14-15, 2012 and is an event that has been building momentum over the past years and guaranteed to be bigger and badder than ever.

Organizers Steve Zdarsky and Marco Huang are known to build Asia’s top terrain parks for the top snowboarders all around the globe.

Event Details:

• Date: January 14-15, 2012
• Time: All-Day
• Location: Nanshan Ski Resort
• Prize Money: USD$50,000
• Website: www.mellowparks.cn

LumDimSum Discovery: Obentos Pumpkin & Tofu Salad

Obentos’ NEW! Pumpkin & Tofu Salad

As soon as I heard about Obentos‘ new winter menu with different curries and dishes, I was happy to go and try it out and what do I order? Their new Pumpkin & Tofu Salad with Soy Ginger Dressing (RMB 48).

It’s a cold salad, so you should go for one of their new hot dishes if you’re looking to warm up from the cold outside, but their Pumpkin & Tofu salad is a big hit!  It’s a massive salad loaded with mixed lettuce, tofu squares, chunks of pumpkin, red and yellow cherry tomatoes, spinach, soy beans, sunflower seeds and black & white sesame seeds.

And the best part, Obentos has expanded their delivery menu so now you can enjoy this salad in the comfort of your own home!

Click Link for Previous LDS Review of Obentos:

Bento Pushers: Obentos Japanese is in Business!

Welcome Winter with Obentos Winter Menu

Obentos Contact Details:

• Address: Just west of The Place Cafe in Central Park, Unit 106-107, Bldg 9, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District, 朝阳区朝阳门外大街新城国际9号楼106-107室

• Tel: 6597 0085, 6597 0223

NEW! Wellness Spa by Hummingbird in Central Park

Wellness Spa’s VIP Room

It’s bigger. It’s better. It’s Hummingbird’s newest branch in Central Park – the NEW! Wellness Spa by Hummingbird.

The original Hummingbird Therapeutic Spa Retreat is keeping it’s original space on the Northeast end of Central Park, but their new Wellness Spa (just east of Lime Cafe in a more centralized location of Central Park) will help them accommodate the high demands of their growing customer base and dedicated Hummingbird fans.

More than twice the size of the original Hummingbird branch, this new space features a lounge space waiting area, an open room dedicated to mani/pedis, a spacious VIP Room, closed off foot massage rooms for up to 4 people, and Veda room dedicated to Indian style Hot Oil Massage.

Currently in it’s soft opening stages, I was invited to a Sneak Preview Party this past Sunday to see the new space and enjoy some celebratory champagne and catering by Hatsune!

Owner May Cheng gave me a personal tour of each of her new rooms.  The spa rooms wrap around in a U-shape to maintain the same sense of privacy as the original Hummingbird Spa. It’s got dedicated facial rooms and even some new speciality rooms – I’m most excited to try their new Indian-style Ayurvedic Oil-Dripping Treatment, where warm oil is dripped onto one’s forehead and applied to body in flowing and meditative movements.

LumDimSum Snapshots of the NEW! Wellness Spa:

After seeing their new VIP room, I couldn’t wait to try it out and since I was due for another facial, I booked a reservation that very Sunday night!  May has recently introduced a new line of facial skin care by Thalgo.  Highly recommended to moisturize, I can say that I left with my face feeling baby soft.

New Facial Skin Care by Thalgo

Customers can start booking appointments in the new Wellness Spa by Hummingbird, but they are in soft-opening stages so it is not 100% complete yet. May explained that construction work was finished at the last possible moment, so they are still finishing up final touches and are still filling some of their white walls with more decor.

In any case, it’s a great space and if you find yourself in the Central Park area sometime soon, I recommend popping in and checking it out!

LumDimSum Snapshots of Hummingbird’s Spa Opening Party:

NEW! Wellness Spa by Hummingbird:

• Address:  No. 6 Chaowai Da Jie, Central Park Tower 26, Unit 103, Chaoyang District 100020, Beijing  一休保健会所  北京市朝阳区朝外大街6号, 新城国际 3号楼103, 邮编 100020

• Tel: 6597 9119

  Map of both Hummingbird Branches in Central Park

  Click here for LumDimSum’s Review of the Original Hummingbird Therapeutic Spa Retreat:  Hummingbird Retreat: Leaving You Humming Blissfully

BJ FOoDiEs: “Dream” Charity Dinner at China Lounge

BJ FOoDiEs Monthly Charity Feast is normally held on a Sunday, but with the Christmas holiday just around the corner, they are hosting their first ever dinner on a Thursday – Dec. 22!

To celebrate the end of 2011, they are closing the year with a big, fancy Chinese feast featuring China Lounge’s signature dishes.  Price per person is bumped up slightly to RMB 150 per person, but with the following spread below, should definitely be worth it!

“We don’t know where the time has flown but can only wish everyone an VERY MERRY early XMAS & the happiest of new years  Hopefully 2011 has been a great one for all ya’ll – We hope ya’ll can join us as this is going to be a super special feast that….the final 2011 feast to say bye to everyone this year” - Xixi Cheng, Founder of BJ FOoDiEs

XMAS-XTRAVAGANZAAAA! 

China Lounge Set Dinner + Drink = RMB 150

 | APPETIZERS | 

DUCK LIVER

w/ organic sliced bread squares

NEEDLE MUSHROOMS 

w/ Shredded diced conpoy

CHINA THOUSAND SALAD

w/ Chopped Tuna, bacon bits, fresh greens 

FIVE SPICES BRAISED BEEF

w/ in-house spices

SPICY-SOUR EGGPLANT

w/ marinated dressing 

| MAIN COURSES: FAMILY STYLE |

STEAMED RIVER WEEVER

w/ garlic cloves & peeled shallots

STIR-FRIED KING PRAWN

house specialty w/ dried chilli, candied nuts, fresh ginger   

DONGBO PORK CHOP

w/ diced baby onions, rice wine, lettuce 

FRIED HOT STONE POT CHICKEN 

w/ black soy bean sauce

BAKED DUCK

w/ preserved bean curd strips 

EGG OMELET

w/ jasmine reduction, chopped scallions, dried shrimp 

SUZHOU BAMBOO SHOOTS

w/ salted vegetables, marinaded broccoli, sesame oil 

YING YANG RICE

w/ fresh garlic, green peas, chicken strips 

| FRESH FRUIT PLATTER |

“Indulge for a Cause”

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
• Time: 7:30-10:30
• Location: China Lounge
• Address: Workers’ Stadium South Gate, 工人体育场南门内
• Tel:  6501-1166
• Cost: RMB 150 includes dinner menu + drink
• RSVP: E-mail BJ Foodies Team – bjfoodies@gmail.com

December Charity Theme: ‘Dream’

The charity to receive this months proceeds will go to ‘Dream Corps” – The NGO is dedicated to promote reading among children in rural China by opening literature centers & developing reading programs. Through close collaboration with local educators & parents, we aim to inspire enthusiasm for learning in rural children.

For more information: www.dreamcorps.org

About BJ Foodies Group:

Organizing monthly group meals at about RMB 100/head with food/drinks included, this group of dedicated foodies is all about “satiating their inner-foodie appetites for good quality food, conversation & fine wining/sake-ing/cocktailing/beering while indulging for a cause.”

BJ FOODIES PURPOSE:
1. Just to eat a nice meal & catch up with real people & friends outside the clubbing-disease we all suffer from called Vics/Mix.
2. Opportunity to contribute our little bits to society while doing something we love – EATING. The Charity aspect is a supplementary & added bonus BUT NOT the main purpose of the group

A Very Merry Kagen Christmas Charity Party for BICCO

Charity Christmas Dinner at Kagen (photography courtesy of Nora Tejada)

On Saturday, December 10, Kagen Japanese Restaurant hosted a Christmas Charity Dinner to benefit the Disabled Chinese Orphans of BICCO (Beijing International Committee of Chinese Orphans) and with about 130 generous patrons in attendance, we somehow managed to reach our goal of raising over RMB 200,000!  That is an insanely high number because that means each person donated on average RMB 1,500!

Originally, the deal was set that for each ticket sold, RMB 500 would be donated directly to BICCO (which was already really generous of Kagen Restaurant), but in the end, owner Alan Wong generously donated ALL ticket sales to BICCO, meaning that the entire ticket sales (RMB 600 each) went to the children of BICCO.

In addition to ticket sales, we also managed to sell a butt-load of raffle tickets (raising RMB 9,400) and many silent auction prizes went for higher than it’s actual value (raising RMB 31,757).

Combining ticket prices, raffle tickets and silent auction prizes together with many personal donations to our cause, we were able to exceed our goal of more than RMB 200,000 and now Amy Zima and her team of dedicated volunteers are looking to expand their rehabilitation program to at least two other orphanages in China!

A BIG thank you to all our generous sponsors:

• The Wine Republic (who helped supply the 100+wines to bring out the Christmas spirit of giving)

• Heineken Beer for sponsoring 200 bottles of Sol Beer (also helped bring out spirit of giving)

• Ryan Cardwell & Ivy Academy for their Generous sponsorship and partnership in hosting this event

• Acoustic musician David Mitchell for donating both his talent and time to our event

• Photographer Nora Tejada for helping us to capture this unforgettable event

• Beijing Kids for their Media Sponsorship

• Event Volunteers: Ingrid Van Nijverseel, Stephanie Giambruno, Katja Schick, Stephanie Butler, Dannan Hodge, Luce, Christina Lieffring, Romulo Martinez, Kelly Charles, Oumou Barry

• Alan Wong and his Kagen Restaurant (for donating the entire restaurant space and sponsoring the 10-dish meal for everyone that night!)

• Silent Auction Sponsors: 

• A Food Affaire
• Alona Pilates
• Antonia Sampson
• April’s Adornments
• Bodhi Spa
• Chef Too
• Counting Sheep
• Elisabeth Koch Millinery
• Frontiers Chinese School
• GungHo! Pizza
• Hummingbird Therapeutic Spa Retreat
• The Hutong
• Ivy Academy
• Le Spa
• Little Gold Book
• LMC Boutique Clothing
• Oumou Jewelry
• Papabubble Candy
• Punjabi Indian Restaurant
• Ritz Carlton
• Scarlett (Hotel G)
• SinoScuba
• Starfish Wine & Seafood Restaurant
• Two Guys and a Pie
• Wondermilk
• Yoga Yard

Snapshots of the BICCO Charity Dinner Silent Auction Tables:

(Photos courtesy of Nora Tejada)

Snapshots of Christmas Charity Fun at Kagen:

(Photos courtesy of Nora Tejada)

Thank you to everyone who generously donated and contributed to our Christmas Charity Event for BICCO. We are in awe of everyone’s generosity and effort towards such a wonderful and dedicated organization!  Excited for some big improvements in 2012!

Kagen Restaurant Details:

• Located below the Original Hatsune on Guanghua Lu
• B1/F, Bldg C, Heqiao Dasha, 8 Guanghua Donglu, Chaoyang District
• 朝阳区光华东路8号和乔大厦C座地下1层
• Tel: 6583-6830

The Hutong & ChocoJing: Chocolate Like You’ve Never Seen

Chocolate is so good, it brings people together – men, women, children, people of all ages, from all backgrounds, it’s not wonder it is a treasured treat by all and a sweet we especially allow ourselves to indulge in during the holidays.

It shares the gift of happiness and warmth wherever it goes and if you’re around this Sunday afternoon, you won’t want to miss out on a chance to try chocolate like you’ve never had it before!

This Sunday, The Hutong will be hosting ChocoJing – a group of chocolate-addicted Beijingers who will be treating all to three unique chocolate recipes: Chili Hot Chocolate, Chocolate and Orange Duck and Banana Chocolate Dumplings.

Chef Sue will be working her magic in the chocolate factory kitchen so be sure to sign up in advance here if you plan to join in their chocolate feast.   RMB 250 per person.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, December 18, 2011
• Time: 2PM-4:30PM
• Location: The Hutong
• Address: 1 Zhongxiang Hutong, Jiudaowan, Dongcheng district 东城区九道湾中巷胡同1号
  
• RSVP:  Click here