Last 2 Days to Vote: CW Readers’ Choice Awards 2012

Last month saw theBeijinger’s 9th annual Reader’s Choice Restaurant Awards results which took everyone by surprise with underdog Home Plate Bar-B-Que beating out industry big heads Maison Boulud, Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) and Hatsune and totally sweeping the ceremony in every category possible from Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese), Restaurant Personality of the Year (Seth Grossman), Best New Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese), Best American, and Outstanding for Best Value for Money. Well done to a venue that deserves massive credit for serving the world’s best BBQ pulled-pork sandwich of all time.

*Voting is underway for theBeijinger’s 2012 Reader Bar & Club Awards until May 9th.

Following theBejinger’s Restaurant Awards was Time Out’s Food Awards 2012 just last week where high-end French legend Maison Boulud dominated in all overall categories – Reader’s Choice Restaurant (the only category foodies can vote on), Best International Fine Dining, Best Service, Chef of the Year (Brian Reimer) and Restaurant of the Year.  Other honorable mentions include Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) for Best New Restaurant, Runner up for Restaurant of the Year and Best International Fine Dining, Barolo at the Ritz-Carlton for Runner up for Chef of the Year for Gianluca Visani, Best Service and Best International Fine Dining, and Migas for Best Business Lunch and Best International Casual Dining. Click here for full list of 15 restaurant awards.

That leaves the last expat magazine’s Reader’s Choice Awards – CityWeekend’s 10th Annual Reader’s Choice Awards featuring 28 dining categories and 11 nightlife categories.

“The F&B scene has changed immensely in 10 years and we’ve changed along with it. We’re the only game in town that has its own proprietary voting site which makes it easier for us to identify and weed out spammers. We don’t create a million categories so that everyone gets an award. We limit the number of categories so that a win really means something. Cast your vote below and make your voice heard.” – The CityWeekend Team

CityWeekend.com.cn’s Online Voting Ballot

With only a few days left (voting closes at midnight on April 30th), this year is already looking very competitive with Cityweekend reporting that there could potentially be “a lot of upsets in the making”.

Click here for article update on Reader Awards categories.

Here’s how CW’s Categories are looking thus far:

• Best Tex Mex/Mexican: Avocado Tree is in the lead

• Best Italian: Barolo and Cepe needs to watch out for La Pizza creeping up in the votes

• Best Beijing Duck: Da Dong and Duck de Chine are going head-to-head with just one vote separating the two

• Best American: Home Plate and Element Fresh are close ties

• Best Dessert: Divina and Comptoirs are inches apart from the rest of their competition

• Best Service: GungHo! is shining through the rest of the competition

• Best Wine: Toss up between Enoterra and Modo

• Best New Restaurant: Could it be Susu or Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB)

• DJ of the Year: Could Eddie LV be stealing DJ Blackie’s title? 

• Best Nightlife Newcomer: Haze or Spark? 

• Who will take the title for Best Restaurant of the Year?  Being the only category without suggested options, everyone is fair game. Obviously you can see who I’ve entered into my ballot…

Strongly disagree with the way these categories are looking?

Here’s your chance to sway the votes in your favor – Spread the word and VOTE!  Just go to this link to CW’s 2012 Readers Choice Awards Ballot.

Happy Voting! 

 Finals Days of Voting for CW’s Readers’ Choice Awards!

Fez Alfresco Rooftop Bar Re-Opens Friday, April 20

Fez Rooftop Bar Re-Opens for Spring and Summer

One of Beijing’s finest rooftop bars, Fez Bar on the 6th floor of Nali Patio just above award-winning Spanish restaurant Agua will be reopening its al fresco lounge starting tomorrow, Friday, April 20.

A perfect place for pre- or post-dinner drinks, weekend afternoon lounging (they have a great brunch that they will plan to relaunch this year), Fez is a preferred destination to sip on quality cocktails and champagne in a stylish, upscale atmosphere.

“This exotic chill-out oasis for cool cocktails and parties adopts a Moorish andMediterranean theme, Fez Bar will be open from the end of April to the end of September, open every day of the week from 5PM to late night.”  - Fez Bar Team

Opening party will have a RMB 35 mixed drink deal, but starting April 21-April 30th, Fez’s soft opening drink deals will also include a selection of other cocktails for the same RMB 35 price.

“Cocktails mixed in a tent-style bar at the rooftop venue will include perfectly done tequila & rum based classics (Mojito, Piňa Colada, Margarita), excellent summertime wines from Spain (from mucat to verdejo or albariño grapes), as well as Champagne and fine liquors.”

Just last year Fez Bar moved to Nali Patio’s rooftop from its original location in the compounds of Ch’ien Men 23 (where fine dining French restaurant Maison Boulud still stands its ground as one of the last remaining survivors of the original Ch’ien Men establishments).  Operated by Agua Restaurant Group (Hong Kong, London, Beijing), Fez’s cutting edge design was created by Hong Kong Designer and restauranteur David Yeo.

This year, Fez aims to pump up the music with international DJ’s who will hold residency at Fez Bar this year. Thursday nights will feature DJ Ba’Al from Spain playing soothing Caribbean, Afrocuban, Latin Jazz and Brazilian beats while Irish DJ Moto will take the decks on the weekends playing a mix of House, Funk, Tech House, and Chill Out Lounge.

Aside from Fez Bar’s unbeatable views of the surrounding Sanlitun area, they are also known for their innovative (and pricey) cocktails created by European mixologists, tapas menu, charming staff, and most notably for attracting the city’s most stylish clientele.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, April 20, 2012

• Time: 10PM-onwards

• Location: Fez Bar

• Address: 6th Floor of Nali Patio above Agua, No. 81 Sanlitun North Street in Chaoyang District

• To Make a Reservation: 5208 6188 or email annie.fu@aqua.com.hk

A Spanish Visit at Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB)

My first meal at Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) was a private business lunch a few months ago when they were first in soft opening period and not even open outside of dinner hours. It was a few months ago, but I remember it like it was yesterday. Everything from the food to the service was impeccable and every detail was looked after. Granted they opened the restaurant just to accommodate our party of 10, which is an ideal situation to leave a perfect, lasting impression. (Click here for previous review of TRB)

I’ve only had the opportunity to dine at TRB once since it’s opening, and yet it’s still the top new place I recommend to others for special occasion celebrations and out-of-town guests. And when I first heard about TRB’s “Spanish Visit”, I immediately found my excuse to rush back to TRB for a proper dinner event.  The event featured a gastronomic 5-course meal paired with Spanish wines and a presentation of 5J Iberico ham for only RMB 480 all inclusive was a deal I could not miss.

Arriving at TRB for the first time in the evening, it definitely has a different vibe than during the day time.  It’s a lot of mysterious and you really feel the 600 years of history within the temple much more.

LumDimSum Snapshots of TRB’s Courtyard Entrance by Night:

Within TRB’s restaurant, we gathered at the bar for glasses of sparkling wine and all the Iberico ham we could stomach.  Complete with warm, toasty cheese balls, it’s amazing I had enough self-control to leave stomach room for the 5-course wine pairing dinner. Not going to lie, we were all over that Iberico ham and devoured more than our fair share.  Such a treat to see it sliced right in front of you.

TRB Welcome Drinks & Iberico Ham:

And now to the best part – TRB’s impressive 5-course dinner with paired Spanish wines. Highlights of the meal were definitely the Salt Cod Egg White and Garlic Soup starter, Fillet of Monkfish and the generous spread of beautifully presented desserts.

LumDimSum Snapshots of TRB’s ‘Spanish Visit’ Dinner Event:

TRB Spanish Visit’s Center Table for 20

TRB’s Spanish Visit Dinner Menu

Salt Cod Egg White and Garlic Soup paired with Luna Creciente, Albarino, Rias Baixas, Spain 2010

Pigs Head Pate with Goose Liver, Sherry and Fig Paired with Matsu, “El Picaro” Toro, Spain 2010

Fillet of Monkfish, Clams, Red Wine Sauce paired with Beryna, Alicante, Spain 2010

Roasted Pork Loin, Pimentos, Aubergine, Garlic, Lentils Jus paired with Pagos Del Mormeayo S.L. Gernacha, Vera de Moncayo, Spain 2010

Iced Saffron Parfait 

The Beijing Family at TRB’s Spanish Visit

 *If you missed out on this dinner but would be interested in joining in on more events like this one, check out this link here to the next Chi Fan for Charity Napa Wine Dinner where 5 participating restaurants (Brasserie Flo, Grange, Maison Boulud, TRB, and Vasco’s) are sponsoring spectacular set dinners paired with wines from Napa Valley’s top wineries.  I’ve booked my seat at TRB once again, but any of these restaurants would be a great choice to enjoy fabulous food with even more fabulous wines. 

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, April 17, 2012
• Time: Dinner begin at 6:30PM 
• Location: At the 5 Participating restaurants
• Website: Click here.
• Questions: Email MDC@chifanforcharity.org

theBeijinger’s 9th Reader Restaurant Awards: Winners, Runner Ups & LDS Picks Announced!

Family Photo Op at theBeijinger’s 9th Annual Reader Restaurant Awards

On Monday, March 19, 2012, theBeijinger just celebrated its 9th Annual Reader Restaurant Awards Ceremony at the Hilton Beijing.

Taking place from 11:30AM-2PM, the restaurant awards got my week off to a great start with a nice break on my mid-day on Monday with more food, sweets and ice cream I could have hoped for.  I was most impressed with the chocolate covered strawberries, chewy cookies and desserts by Sweet Tooth. I’m just thankful I had the self-control to resist drinking from the free flowing beer, wines, cocktails sponsored by Grand Marnier, Chimay, Leffe and Hoegaarden.

Always a grand affair, this year seemed bigger than ever with a very large crowd of both F&B big-heads and die-hard foodies. And it makes sense considering the amount of restaurants that were nominated and the strong readership who submitted ballots (thanks to social media platforms like Weibo, theBeijinger was really successful in reaching a broader audience this year).

“During three weeks of voting, over 5,000 readers and consumers cast ballots in 50 different categories, for over 250 nominated restaurants.”

That’s right- 50 categories and 250 nominated restaurants!  I was wondering how they were planning to read through 50 different categories (would be a nightmare to list off so many winners for so many categories) so I was relieved to find that this year, they displayed 30 of the 50 categories in the winding hall into the main event space.

So right off the bat, we were given the winners for the majority of the awards. It was so unexpected to walk into these displays without expecting to see so many announced in advance. Running around to find the categories Hatsune was nominated in, I was beyond stoked to discover Hatsune won Best Japanese for the 8th year in a row and Hatsune also won Best Decor (Hatsune Sanlitun) and Outstanding for Best Business Lunch (Mosto won this one!).

Hatsune Wins Best Japanese Restaurant (8 year running!) Photo of Hatsune’s two restaurant managers

Other Big Winners from the 9th Annual Awards Ceremony Include:

• Maison Boulud – Winning 7 Awards in total –  Best French, Best Service (Non-Chinese), Best Wine List, Best for a Romantic Meal, Outstanding for Impressing Visitors, Outstanding Place for a Celebration and Outstanding for Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese)

• Da Dong – Restaurant of the Year (Chinese), Best for Impressing Visitors (Chinese) , Best Beijing Duck, Outstanding for Best Service (Chinese)

• Home Plate Bar-B-Que – Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese), Restaurant Personality of the Year (Seth Grossman), Best New Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese), Best American, Outstanding for Best Value for Money,

• Nanjing Impressions – Best New Restaurant (Chinese)

• Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) – Outstanding for Best New Restaurant (Non-Chinese), Restaurant Personality of the Year (Ignace Lecleir), Best for Impressing Visitors (Non-Chinese), Best Decor

• Capital M – Best for Impressing Visitors (Non-Chinese), Best Outdoor Dining, Outstanding for Best Romantic Meal, Best Decor

Biggest Disappointments:

• Annie’s gets nominated for Best Service?  Seriously people?  Have you even eaten in the restaurant or are you just getting delivery to your home?  If we’re talking about best delivery service, GungHo! pizza wins hands down

• Tairyo Teppanyaki wins Best Place for Celebration?! I get that their “all-you-can-drink-and-eat deal” may draw you in at first, but the food is such low quality and everything tastes the same! Really surprised by this one.

• Blue Frog for Best Burger – they hav e a great two-for-one deal on Mondays, but there is definitely better burgers in Beijing

• Punjabi Indian Restaurant was not even in the running for the Best Indian category, people need to migrate east of Sanlitun!

• Seems like majority of restaurants that won are all located in the Sanlitun area.  Wish some of the more hidden gems got more recognition (ie Ai Mo Town for Best Yunnan)

• Wish Obentos got recognition in some of the categories they were nominated in! They definitely have the best salads in town in my opinion (much better than Annie’s anyway!)

Overall, it’s very exciting to see a small, little authentic American BBQ spot take over the entire awards ceremony!  Beating out big players like Maison Boulud and Hatsune (for Restaurant of the Year) and Temple Restaurant Beijing (for Best New Restaurant), this underdog came out of nowhere and really stole the show!

Congratulations to Home Plate Bar-B-Que!

Home Plate Bar-B-Que Team Wins Big! 

Photo courtesy of theBeijinger

Here is List of the 50 Categories’ Winners & Runner-Ups:

BEST AMERICAN
Readers’ Choice 
Home Plate Bar-B-Que
Outstanding 
Blue Frog
Union Bar & Grille

LDS Vote: Home Plate Bar-B-Que

BEST BEIJING DUCK
Readers’ Choice 
Da Dong
Outstanding 
Duck de Chine
Quanjude

LDS Vote: Made in China (Grand Hyatt)

BEST BRUNCH (STANDALONE)
Readers’ Choice 
Vineyard Café
Outstanding 
Chef Too
Element Fresh

LDS Vote: The Orchard

BEST BURGER
Readers’ Choice 
Blue Frog
Outstanding 
Fatburger
Let’s Burger Plus

LDS Vote: Maison Boulud

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH
Readers’ Choice 
Mosto
Outstanding 
Alameda
Hatsune

LDS Vote: Hatsune

BEST CAFÉ
Readers’ Choice 
The Bookworm
Outstanding 
Comptoirs de France
Vineyard Café

LDS Vote: Cafe Zarah

BEST DÉCOR (CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Lan Club
Outstanding 
Duck De Chine (Jinbao Jie location)
Pure Lotus (Changhong Qiao location)

LDS Vote: Duck de Chine (Jinbao Jie)

BEST DÉCOR (NON-CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Hatsune (Sanlitun location)
Outstanding 
Capital M
Temple Restaurant Beijing

LDS Vote: Capital M

BEST DINNER ENTERTAINMENT
Readers’ Choice 
Haidilao
Outstanding 
1001 Nights
Chocolate

LDS Vote: Chocolate

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT
Readers’ Choice 
Annie’s
Outstanding 
Element Fresh
Grandma’s Kitchen
The Orchard

LDS Vote: The Orchard

BEST FOR A ROMANTIC MEAL
Readers’ Choice 
Maison Boulud
Outstanding 
Capital M
Mosto

LDS Vote: Capital M

BEST FRENCH
Readers’ Choice 
Maison Boulud
Outstanding 
Brasserie Flo
Café de la Poste

LDS Vote: Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB)

BEST IMPRESSING VISITORS (CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Da Dong
Outstanding 
Duck de Chine
Haidilao

LDS Vote: Dali Courtyard

BEST IMPRESSING VISITORS (NON-CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Capital M
Outstanding 
Maison Boulud
Temple Restaurant Beijing

LDS Vote: Temple Restaurant Beijing 

BEST ITALIAN-AFFORDABLE
Readers’ Choice 
Annie’s
Outstanding 
Alio Olio
La Pizza

LDS Vote: Alla Osteria

BEST JAPANESE
Readers’ Choice 
Hatsune
Outstanding 
Matsuko
Tairyo Teppanyaki

LDS Vote: Hatsune

BEST KOREAN
Readers’ Choice 
Saveurs de Coree
Outstanding 
Ai Jiang Shan
Han Na Shan

LDS Vote: Saveurs de Coree

BEST LATE-NIGHT DINING
Readers’ Choice 
Haidilao
Outstanding 
Bellagio
Jin Ding Xuan

LDS Vote: Jin Ding Xuan or my local ch’uar stand

BEST MIDDLE-EASTERN
Readers’ Choice 
Biteapitta
Outstanding 
1001 Nights
Rumi

LDS Vote: Biteapitta

BEST OUTDOOR DINING
Readers’ Choice 
Capital M
Outstanding 
Blue Frog
Dali Courtyard

LDS Vote: Dali Courtyard

BEST PIZZA
Readers’ Choice 
Kro’s Nest
Outstanding 
Gung Ho! Pizza
The Tree

LDS Vote: Gung Ho! Pizza

BEST PLACE FOR A CELEBRATION
Readers’ Choice 
Tairyo Teppanyaki
Outstanding 
Maison Boulud
SALT

LDS Vote: Hatsune

BEST PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT RESTAURANT
Readers’ Choice 
Chuan Ban (Sichuan Provincial Government Restaurant)
Outstanding 
Xinjiang Islam (Xinjiang Provincial Government Restaurant)
Yunteng Shifu (Yunnan Provincial Government Restaurant)

LDS Vote: Chuan Ban

BEST RUSSIAN
Readers’ Choice 
Traktirr Pushkin
Outstanding 
Chocolate
Elephant

LDS Vote: Chocolate (and all my Russian friends agree!)

BEST SALADS
Readers’ Choice 
Element Fresh
Outstanding 
Annie’s
Gung Ho! Pizza

LDS Vote: Obentos

BEST SPANISH
Readers’ Choice 
Agua
Outstanding 
Carmen
Migas

LDS Vote: Niajo

BEST THAI
Readers’ Choice 
Purple Haze
Outstanding 
Serve the People
Very Siam

LDS Vote: Lime Cafe (Central Park)

BEST VEGETARIAN
Readers’ Choice 
Pure Lotus
Outstanding 
Biteapitta
The Veggie Table

LDS Vote: Veggie Table

BEST XINJIANG
Readers’ Choice 
Crescent Moon
Outstanding 
BLCU Muslim Restaurant
Xinjiang Red Rose

LDS Vote: Crescent Moon

BEST YUNNAN
Readers’ Choice 
Middle 8th
Outstanding 
Dali Courtyard
In & Out

LDS Vote: Aimo Town

BEST DIM SUM
Readers’ Choice 
Jin Ding Xuan
Outstanding  
Crystal Jade
Lei Garden

LDS Vote: Heng Shan Hui 衡山汇

BEST DUMPLINGS
Readers’ Choice 
Bao Yuan Jiaozi
Outstanding 
Lao Beijing Jiaozi Guan
Xian Lao Man

LDS Vote: Xian Lao Man

BEST HOTEL BRUNCH
Readers’ Choice  
Bubbalicious, Seasonal Tastes, Westin Beijing Chaoyang
Outstanding 
Aroma, Ritz-Carlton Beijing
Bubbly Sundays, Senses, Westin Beijing Financial Street

LDS Vote: Yi House Brunch in 798

BEST INDIAN/PAKISTANI
Readers’ Choice 
Ganges
Outstanding  
Indian Kitchen
Taj Pavilion

LDS Vote: Punjabi 

BEST BREAD
Readers’ Choice 
Comptoirs de France
Outstanding  
Kempi Deli, Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center
South German Bakery

LDS Vote: South German Bakery

BEST VIETNAMESE
Readers’ Choice 
Susu
Outstanding  
Le Little Saigon
Muse Parisian Vietnamese Brasserie

LDS Vote: Susu

BEST WINE LIST
Readers’ Choice 
Maison Boulud
Outstanding  
Aria, China World Hotel
Enoterra

LDS Vote: Aria, China World Hotel

BEST VALUE FOR MONEY
Readers’ Choice 
Annie’s
Outstanding  
Home Plate Bar-B-Que
SALT

LDS Vote: Home Plate Bar-B-Que

BEST STEAK (STANDALONE)
Readers’ Choice 
Flamme International Grill
Outstanding
Chef Too
SALT

LDS Vote: Mosto

BEST STEAK (HOTEL)
Readers’ Choice 
CRU Steakhouse, JW Marriott Beijing
Outstanding  
Grange Grill, Westin Beijing Chaoyang
The Cut, Fairmont Beijing

LDS Vote: The Cut (Fairmont)

BEST SANDWICHES
Readers’ Choice 
Element Fresh
Outstanding  
Bocata
Comptoirs de France

LDS Vote: Home Plate’s Pulled Pork Sandwich

BEST ITALIAN – HIGH END
Readers’ Choice 
Sureno, Opposite House
Outstanding  
Cepe, Ritz-Carlton Financial Street
Tavola Italian Dining

LDS Vote: Barolo, Ritz Carlton

BEST MEXICAN/TEX-MEX
Readers’ Choice 
Luga’s Villa (tie)
Peter’s Tex-Mex (tie)
Outstanding  
The Saddle Cantina

LDS Vote: None, there is no good Mexican food in Beijing that I know of! But I heard Avocado Tree is good, but it’s in WDK.  I can’t wait for the Hutong Taco Bar to open up soon this summer (see here for details).

RESTAURANT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR
Readers’ Choice 
Seth Grossman, Home Plate Bar-B-Que
Outstanding  
Alan Wong, Hatsune/Kagen
Ignace Lecleir, Temple Restaurant Beijing

LDS Vote: I’m biased, but my vote goes to Alan Wong of the Hatsune Restaurant Group

BEST SERVICE (CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Haidilao
Outstanding  
Da Dong
Din Tai Fung

LDS Vote: Karaiya Spice House

BEST SERVICE (NON-CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Maison Boulud
Outstanding  
Annie’s
SALT

LDS Vote: Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) – anywhere Ignace Lecleir is will be Beijing’s best serviced restaurant

NEW RESTAURANT (NON-CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Home Plate Bar-B-Que
Outstanding  
Susu
Temple Restaurant Beijing

LDS Vote: The Vine Leaf. Of the restaurants that were nominated, I’m a big fan of TRB, Home Plate, Susu and Obentos, but as they are all new restaurants, I think the only one that’s really ironed out its kinked and have the highest performance success is the Vine Leaf. Each and every dish on the menu is made with so much thought and care, Will Yorke has managed to defy the odds and show Beijingers that English food can be phenomenal! 

NEW RESTAURANT (CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Nanjing Impression
Outstanding  
Green Bites To Go Dumpling Bar
IFW, Park Hyatt Beijing

LDS Vote: New Duck de Chine in Jinbao Jie

BEST RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR (CHINESE)
Readers’ Choice 
Da Dong
Outstanding 
Din Tai Fung
Duck de Chine

LDS Vote: Karaiya Spice House

BEST RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR (NON-CHINESE)
Reader’s Choice 
Home Plate Bar-B-Que
Outstanding 
Hatsune
Maison Boulud

LDS Vote: Hatsune

Full List of Winners can be viewed on theBeijinger’s blog page here and here.

See analysis and comparison between theBeijinger’s Annual Reader Restaurant Awards vs. DianPing.com here.

Beijing’s Best F&B Personalities (from L to R):

Alan Wong (Hatsune), Seth Grossman (Home Plate Bar-B-Que), Ignace Lecleir (Temple Restaurant Beijing)

Photo courtesy of theBeijinger 

*You can check out more photos from the awards ceremony on theBeijinger’s Photo Gallery.

CFFC Napa Valley Style: Good Eats, Good Times, Good Cause + Good Wines

The culinary event that’s already made a name for itself as Beijing’s top charity culinary event of the year, Chi Fan for Charity (CFFC) has expanded its wings beyond it’s annual main event in November and is now hosting a one-off, multi-restaurant charity wine dinner in collaboration with 20 Napa Valley vintners to support Children’s Hope Organization, a local orphanage that provides long-term care for disadvantaged youth as well as life-saving medical attention for orphans so that they may be adopted into loving families.

Chi Fan for Charity just celebrated its third year and over the past few years, they have had tremendous success in uniting the Beijing community together in a joint-effort to raise over RMB 850,000 towards various local charity organizations to date.  That is an incredible accomplishment and thanks to founder Michael Crain, they are once again creating another charity event on April 17, 2012.

But instead of rounding up 40+ restaurants to each sponsor ten seats, Chi Fan for Charity is only offering a choice of 5 participating restaurants and each seat is set at RMB 800 (which is still a bargain considering how much money is going to charity and how high-end these restaurants are). And the newest addition to this winning formula of good eating + good company for a good cause, CFFC has managed to bring over 20 vintners from Napa Valley, California (four vintners per each restaurant).

“Compare tasting notes with 4 vintners at each of the 5 participating restaurants. They will share the secrets of their methods and engage you with stories of life in Napa Valley.” – Michael Crain, Founder of Chi Fan for Charity

Here is the breakdown of participating restaurants and visiting Napa Valley wineries:

 After spending some time in Napa Valley last year, I discovered Swanson Vineyards, which was one of the most impressive wineries I’ve ever been to.  And this is also where I found my favorite bottle of wine to date – their 2010 Viognier is out of this world. So you can imagine how excited I was to see that they will be one of the 20 participating vintners traveling to Beijing all the way from Napa Valley, California!

Seating is very limited considering there are only 5 participating restaurants and each restaurant is only hosting 11 seats!  I have already booked six seats at Temple Restaurant Beijing for my family of foodies, so hurry and book your seats before they’re gone!

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, April 17, 2012
• Time: Dinner begin at 6:30PM 
• Location: At the 5 Participating restaurants
• Website: Click here.
• Questions: Email MDC@chifanforcharity.org

Check out LDS’s previous articles relevant to this topic:

• LumDimSummary: Chi Fan for Charity 2011

• Napa in a Nutshell: Wine and Dine Napa in Just 24 Hours

  

Thanksgiving 2011′s Best Turkey Feast Breakdown

Beijingers are all getting amped up for Thanksgiving dinner this Thursday, November 24.

Whether you’re American or not, everyone can appreciate a massive gathering of friends and family for a full-on feast of turkey and all its fixings! A holiday focused on food and good company, everyone can celebrate Thanksgiving with a home-style meal even if they are so far away from home.

Although I prefer a traditionally home-cooked meal, many who are crammed and just too busy to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen will be happy to know that there is an abundance of amazing venues who would be more than happy to host your friends and loved ones over a massive turkey feast.

Thanksgiving Dinner Break Down: (in alphabetical order)

1. Blue Frog’s 3-course Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner -

Starting early in the afternoon (4PM), you can head to Blue Frog for a 3-course turkey dinner + beverage for RMB 200 per person or RMB 90 per child. 

RSVP: 6417-4030

2. Bread of Life Bakery -

Your savior for traditional holiday pies, cakes and breads including Carrot Cake 180, Pumpkin Roll Cake 180, Chocolate Cake 180, Pumpkin Pie 90, Pecan Pie 140, Apple Crumb Pie 100, Dinner Rolls & Breads, Cookies & Muffins & Cinnamon Rolls.

Minimum order RMB 200, they deliver to your door and deadline for delivery is min. 24 hours in advance. Call 13722622865

3. Chef Too’s Home-Style Thanksgiving Dinner

With their home-style dinner atmosphere and quality comfort food, Chef Too is a very popular destination in Beijing for Thanksgiving.  But with 3-seating times, you can’t hang out all evening and guests are constrained by time limits as the seats will be in high demand! Three seatings: 4.30-6.30pm, 6.30-8.30pm, 8.30-10.30pm. You can look forward to a full-on turkey dinner with giblet gravy, sweet potato and marshmallow casserole and apple and pumpkin pie.

RMB 248 per person, Located Opposite of West gate of Chaoyang Park, Chaoyang District; RSVP: 6591 8676

4. Filling Station’s Thanksgiving Dinner

A bit further away as Filling Station is by WAB school, but they have a nice 3-course dinner inclusive of homemade pumpkin soup, roast turkey with all the trimmings (plus a veggie option) and pecan pie. 160RMB per head, bookings only.

RSVP: 8470 3821

5. Lollipop Bakery’s ‘Turkey’ Cupcakes

Choose delicious flavors including spiced pumpkin, you can order these adorable turkey-decorated cupcakes for RMB 340 per dozen.

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

6. Thanksgiving a la Maison:

An elegant Thanksgiving dinner by Executive Chef Brian Reimer. 6-10pm.

Price: RMB 488+15% per person, Located: Ch’ien Men 23, 23 Qianmen Dongdajie, Dongcheng District

RSVP: 6559 9200

7. The Orchard’s Thanksgiving Buffet:

From 6PM-10PM, the Orchard will be serving their version of a Thanksgiving buffet dinner or as theBeijinger likes to call it “Beijing’s only multicultural Thanksgiving buffet, sans colonial connotations.” RMB 300 (adults), RMB 150 (kids 4-12, kids under 4 eat free).

Located: From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village sign), Hegezhuang Village, Cuigezhuang Township, Shunyi District, Beijing  北京市顺义区崔各庄乡何各庄村

RSVP: 6433 6270

8.  THANKSGIVING AT SALT:

Starting at 6pm, SALT is hosting their annual Thanksgiving dinner, this time it’s 5-courses at RMB 368. Choice of three mains: Roasted Turkey, Salmon or Scallop-Mushroom Risotto.

RSVP: 6437-8457

See menu below:

Thanksgiving Menu

Ruccula, Clementine Salad, Goat’s Cheese, Pistachios, Beetroot, Champagne Dressing

 Roast Pumpkin-Pine Nut Foam, Smoked Duck Breast Ham, Ginger, Pears, Spiced Bread 

Prawn & Chicken Ballotine, Romaine Salad, Crustacean Vinaigrette, Parmesan Foam 

MAINS

Roast Turkey, Turkey-Fig Terrine, Spiced Apple Puree, Three-Coloured Nutty Rice, Waldorf Salad

or

Salmon, Smoked Leek Emulsion, Braised Seasonal Greens, Fennel, Radish, Grapefruit Salad

or

Scallop-Red Wine-Mushroom Risotto, Truffle Scent, Prosciutto, Young Peas, Ruccula, Parmesan 

DESSERT

Chocolate Cocotte, Smooth Hazelnut Chocolate, Calamansi,

Hazelnut Crumble

or

Roast Apple Tart, Cinnamon Caramel Mou, Walnut Ice Cream

or

Passionfruit Panna Cotta

9. SWITCH! Thanksgiving Roast Turkey Feast:

SWITCH! knows the turkey is as important as the company so they have an option for a whole oven-roasted grain-fed turkey dinner package for 6 people including all sides (rich pan gravy, homemade spiced cranberry chutney, stuffing, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, medley of root vegetables and pumpkin tart) for RMB 1108.  Individual turkey options are set at RMB 198 and RMB 280 per person.  Kids under 8 eat for FREE!  Dinner seating at 6PM or 8:30PM.

RSVP required: Call Jane Tan (by Monday, Nov. 21) – 5978 4918 or email: jane.tan@culinarycapers.cn

*For those with a serious sweet tooth, here’s a nice breakdown of Beijing’s best options to score some delicious Thanksgiving sweets.  

theBeijinger’s Guide: Sweet as Pie

…And that’s a wrap

Enjoy your Turkey Comas!

*Gobble Gobble*

Chi Fan for Charity 2011: Tickets are Now on Sale!

“Good Eats. Good Times. Good Causes.”

Good food, good company and all for good causes – this really is my ideal event. As a proud member of the Chi Fan for Charity team, I am excited to be a part of such an inspiring event that involves such a strong community of individuals to come together and really make a difference with the selected charities we sponsor this year.

The concept for the charity event is simple. Restaurants donate set menus to the charity, which then charge diners for a specially-prepared meal. Each restaurant is offering at least three courses and two wine pairings for a table of 10.

Who can say no to being a part of such an all-around win-win-win situation?!  If you haven’t already booked your seat at one of the 39 fine dining establishments on board, tickets went on sale this week!

Many of the restaurants are already sold out (Agua, Bei, Barolo, Hatsune, Made in China, Mosto, Nobu, Orchid, Maison Boulud), but there are still 24 restaurants to choose from including Capital M, Susu, Sureno, ROOMbeijing, Modo, Karaiya Spice House, Punjabi, The Courtyard and the highly anticipated Temple Restaurant Beijing (TRB) by Maison Boulud’s ex-GM Ignace Lecleir.

“CFFC is happy to report that some of the Capital’s most interesting and influential people will once again host our tables. The evening will be filled with opportunities;talk economics with Forbes’ Gady Epstein, debate which restaurant has the best Kao Ya with restaurateur Alan Wong, gossip about philanthropy with Red Cross’ Ramsey Rayyis or discuss this season’s best reads with Penguin’s Managing director Jo Lusby. 2011′s table hosts are shaping up to be even more intriguing than last year’s stellar group.” – CFFC Newsletter

A dining event that’s won Culinary Event of the Year in Beijing in 2010, Chi Fan for Charity has expanded to Shanghai this year (with the help of organizing sponsor Austen Morris) and has set an ambitious goal to raise RMB 300,000 in this one night to be donated entirely to both the Bethel Foundation and New Hope Foundation and is now bringing its theme to Shanghai.

Visit http://www.chifanforcharity.org/bookings/restaurants/category/beijing-restaurants/ to book your spot at one of Beijing’s top 39 restaurants on November 5 at 7:30 pm.  Just select the restaurant of your choice and then follow instructions to purchase your tickets.  Remember: 100% of proceeds will go to Bethel Foundation and New Hope Foundation.

And if that wasn’t good enough, the legendary after-party at Hatsune Sanlitun Branch will be where all diners unite together for boozin and schmoozin with old skool dance tracks by DJ Patrick Yu and drinks will be flowing courtesy of The Wine Republic, Kis Natural Vodka, El Charro Tequila, Tiger Beer and Hatsune.

In addition to great drinks and company, CFFC will feature some amazing silent auction packages. Although we can’t divulge what we have secured, we can guarantee that one lucky donor will be taken away on a once in a lifetime vacation.

Pictures from Chi Fan for Charity 2010:

Maison Boulud Takes Care of Business: New Set Lunch

How good does this look?!??

Not sure how often people are in the Ch’ien men neighborhood during lunch hours, but if you happen to live or work nearby and have some “business” to take care of, this photo is just a little reminder of just how capable and talented Maison Boulud is in the kitchen. Impressive to say the least.

Enjoy a 3 course business lunch for RMB 188 + 15% service charge.  Not a small price tag, but knowing their reputation for high standards and attention to detail, Maison Boulud is sure to make a lasting impression and prove that what you get is worth every last penny…or in this case, every last fen.

Battle of the Burgers: TheBeijinger’s Burger Cup

theBeijinger knows just how much we Beijingers all love burgers.

Now it’s find to find the King of Beijing’s burgers by pitting off various restaurants in Beijing from the famous Blue Frog, Lush in WuDaoKou, Fatburger, Let’s Burger, fast food joints like Burger King and Hollywood to fine dining restaurants like One East (Hilton) and Maison Boulud.

Sadly, I am ashamed to admit that there are even a few restaurants listed I have not yet tested out!  I will make a conscious effort to change this and try out Burgers & Beer in Shunyi, Lush and La Bamba in WuDaoKou and Lily’s American Diner in Shuangjing.

First Round Burger Match-Ups:

The Box Vs. Grandma’s Kitchen
1F Vs. La Bamba
Scarlett Vs. Hard Rock Cafe
The Den Vs. Luga’s Villa
Blue Frog Vs. One East
Paul’s Steak and Eggs Vs. Let’s Burger
Lush Vs’ Maison Boulud
Home Plate Bar-b-que Vs. Flamme
Peter’s Tex-Mex Vs. Village Cafe
Eudora Station Vs. Chef Too
Union Bar & Grille Vs. Burger King
Kiosk Vs. Rumi
Fatburger Vs. Hollywood
Paddy O’Shea’s Vs. Burgers & Beer
Lily’s Vs. Vineyard Cafe
Stumble Inn Vs. American Cafe

So there you have it Beijingers – now it’s up to you as a burger fan, make your voice heard by voting on theBeijinger’s website link here: The Beijinger Burger Cup: Voting to Decide Beijing’s Best Burger.

Voting closes on Thursday, August 11.

The Hunt for Easter Brunch in Beijing

It’s ON – The LumDimSum Easter Hunt…for brunch!

Lucky for you, there’s plenty to choose from in Beijing from family-style brunches to free-flow champagne.

Practically every hotel is hosting their own Easter brunch, but I choose to opt away from hotel-style buffet brunches.  However, if you prefer the hotel setting, I hear the JW Marriott by the Ritz is the choice pick as they are also hosting their own Easter egg hunt.

…and if it’s really the traditional hunt for Easter eggs you’re after, then you can join Comptoirs de France in the biggest family Easter Egg hunt in Beijing.  The hunt begins at East Lake Villas starting 10AM. Prizes include giant Chocolate Eggs, Chocolate Bunnies…and apparently chocolate roosters as well!

Here are some Top-Notch Easter Brunch Deals around Town:

1. Capital M –

More than just a beautiful brunch spread, Capital M is also hosting performances by the Sunshine String Quartet (from the Beijing Sunshine Philharmonic Orchestra) starting just after brunch at about 4PM.

I can’t imagine a better way to digest brunch than listening to a program of Mozart, Handel, Pachelbel Johann and Bach.

For reservations, call: 6702-2727

2. Fennel –

Currently, my favorite brunch in Beijing – Fennel is phenomenal. See previous brunch review for Fennel here.

This Easter brunch, Fennel’s Easter Seafood Brunch (RMB 298 per person) will be adding a carving station with some easter roasts, a big cheese selection and extra desserts.

Don’t go without first making a reservation as they book out fast!  For reservations, call 6436-1818

3. Maison Boulud –

A magnificent choice for a memorable brunch, Maison Boulud is guaranteed to deliver both a quality brunch and 5-star service.

For reservations call 6559 9200

4. Sadler Ristorante –

Every Sunday, Sadler hosts a very sophisticated Italian brunch menu (see previous Sadler brunch post here), but Easter will be bringing on a special deal of just RMB 388 per person.

For reservations, call 6559 – 1399

5. SALT –

“Enjoy a relaxing Easter away from the crowds” on SALT’s open balcony terrace with a choice of 2 to 3-course brunch menu (see menu below).

For reservations, call 6437-8457

6. TERRA -

A champagne Easter brunch offering a 5-course menu, a bottle of champagne to share between two and free flow mojitos and caipirinhas (for RMB 458 each), this is quite an ambitious brunch!  Skip the free flow drinks and just enjoy the 5-course menu for RMB 288.

For reservations, call 6591-9148

Happy Easter Egg Hunting / Brunching!

SOS Charity Dinners: Restaurants Rebuilding Japan

Strategically utilizing the strong network of Chi Fan for Charity‘s charitable stand-out restaurants and generous foodies around town, Time Out has quickly thrown together a quick fundraiser to support relief efforts in Japan with proceeds being donated to the Japanese Red Cross.

“By dining from the delicious SOS set menus at the participating restaurants on this very special evening, you will be supporting relief efforts in the worst hit areas of Japan.” – Time Out Beijing

This “SOS – Restaurants Rebuilding Japan” event will be hosted in over 20 fantastic restaurants all over town for one night only – this coming Sunday, April 24.

Some of the generous participating restaurants include Alameda, Carmen, Green T. House, Maison Boulud, Modo & Mosto (SOLD OUT), Hatsune & Karaiya Spice House, Nola, Terra, Samadhi Vegetarian Teahouse, Little Yunnan, etc.

Alan Wong has graciously offered to donate ALL proceeds to the cause for booked seats on this night – both Hatsune and Karaiya are RMB 300 per person for the set menu.  As seating is limited, for reservations at either Hatsune (Sanlitun Branch only) or Karaiya Spice House, please contact me directly: kristen@lumdimsum.com.

Hatsune SOS Charity Dinner

*10-course Menu*

3 types assorted Japanese appetizer

Sakekawa Salad:  Crispy salmon and snapper skin salad with light oil and vinegar dressing

Assorted Sashimi

Flory Hand Roll: Shiso mint leaf, scorched salmon and raw quail egg with black tobiko

Q Roll:
Fresh shrimp salad and deep-fried gobo age rolled and topped with fresh avocado, unagi, shredded shiso leaves, tobiko and unagi sauce

candy&caviar roll:
deep fried sweet potato, crab salad, avocado and cucumber topped with yellowtail, wasabi mayo and caviar

Steak Butteryaki: Top-grade tenderloin grilled in a light butter sauce

Clear soup with Steamed Clams

Yakiudon: Stir-fry udon with chicken and vegetables

Dessert: Cookie Spoons with Diced Mangos and Grapefruit

RMB 300 per person

Flory Hand Roll

Karaiya Spice House SOS Charity Dinner

*10 Dish Menu*

Trio of Chinese Appetizers:

Soy Marinated Sliced Beef /Tofu Topped with Chili Peppers /Spicy Soy Beans

Signature Mandarin Fish with 2 Hunan Peppers

Spicy Pepper Diced Rib-Eye

Hand-Shredded Chicken and Onions with Crushed Ginger atop Flaming Mini Wok

Hunan Spicy Pork Stir-fry with Pressed Tofu

Sizzling Rice Soup

Duo of Lightly fried Chinese Greens (Pea Sprouts and Towel Gourd)

Pork Fried Rice with Foie Gras

Fruit Platter

RMB 300 per person

Click here for full list of participating restaurants and “to whet your appetites”, you can also find links to the restaurants’ offered set menus for the night.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, April 24
• Location: 20+ restaurants all over Beijing (click here for full list of restaurants)
• Price: Set Menu Prices range per restaurant
• For More Info: email - hannah@timeoutcn.com
• Website: http://www.timeoutbeijing.com/features/Food__Drink/11366/SOS—Rebuilding-Restaurants-in-Japan.html

LumDimSummary: Time Out Food Awards 2011

Just a few days after theBeijinger’s 8th Annual Reader Restaurant Awards, Time Out Beijing hosted its 2011 Food Awards last night – Thursday, March 24 at Xu Xian Lou Hanzhou restaurant.

Unlike theBeijinger and CityWeekend and other restaurant awards in the city, Time Out’s awards of the city’s “finest eats, best chefs and most delicious dining experiences” are decided by a panel of five experienced foodie journalists:

• Lillian Chou: Time Out Dining Editor
• Adrienne Mong: Beijing-based producer/correspondent for NBC News
• David Pierson: Beijing correspondent for the LA Times
• Keith Richburg: Foreign correspondent for The Washington Post
• Tini Tran: Veteran foreign correspondent with The Associated Press.

The brilliant thing about Time Out is that rather than letting their readers decide the city’s best eats, they are giving credit and recognition to where they believe it is most deserved.  No fussing around with votes and nominations, they tell it how it is…according to Time Out.

List of Time Out Restaurant Award Categories & the Winners:

Read about the winners here.

Review of Time Out’s 2011 Food Awards:

Best Part:

• Xu Xian Lou is a stunning space to host an event
• Karaiya Spice House FINALLY gets recognized for its AMAZING Hunan food
• Many restaurants who seem to have been overlooked by other restaurant awards get recognition deserved – ie Bei (only received nomination in 1 category) and Karaiya was not nominated at all in theBeijinger awards!
• Michael Crain‘s new haircut (and killer outfit) totally made my day
• Awesome to see various people get up on stage and introduce winners – including the lovely Shanti Christensen, Michael Crain, and CCTV personality & reporter James Chau
• Great gift bags – Chocolate crackers, pretty macaroons, packaged Spanish cured meat, Shangrila Farms coffee and Spanish Vinegar
• Packed out house full of F&B industry leaders, great vibe and great times!

Comments:

• Space was stunning, but narrow view so hard to see stage unless you wedged your way to the front
• It was such a classy evening – the space, the guests, the hosts…except main hostess Lillian Chou (Time Out’s dining editor) continuously yelled at guests to (and I quote) “Shut the F*** Up!” – totally unnecessary, scared people (including me!) and killed the vibe of the event
• Surprising to see Aria getting so much recognition (Best International, Best Chef, runner up for Restaurant of the Year) –  I think I need to make a trip there and see what the talk’s about!

LumDimSum Snapshots of Time Out’s 2011 Food Awards:

Karaiya Spice House Wins Best Regional Chinese

Bei Wins Best Restaurant of the Year

theBeijinger’s 8th Annual Reader Restaurant Awards: Hatsune Wins Best Japanese 7 Years Running

On Monday, March 21, Hatsune took home Best Japanese for the 7th year running at theBeijinger’s Reader Restaurant Awards!

Considering this was theBeijinger’s 8th Annual Reader Restaurant Awards, that’s pretty much a perfect record.

Congratulations to Alan Wong, owner of the Hatsune Empire, for holding it strong and staying on top of the game 7 years straight.  That’s gotta be the longest-running record in town!

Get excited because this year Hatsune will be celebrating its 10 year anniversary in August 2011. If you thought Hatsune’s 9 year anniversary party and Chi Fan for Charity After Party was wild last year, you are in store for a treat this coming August.  Stay tuned for details….

Other big winners from the awards ceremony include:

• Maison Boulud – Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese), Best French, Wine List, Most Romantic Meal, Best Service
• Da Dong – Restaurant of the Year (Chinese), Best for Impressing Visitors, Best Beijing Duck, Best for Impressing Visitors
• Capital M – Best high-end brunch, Afternoon Tea, Outdoor Dining,
• Mosto – Best Business Lunch, Best Steak, & MODO got Best New Restaurant

For a complete list of all Beijinger Dining Awards Categories and Winners, click here.

Maison Boulud & Da Dong Collect “Restaurant of the Year”

Dali Courtyard / Capital M

Modo / Agua / Biteapitta

SALT / Gung Ho! Pizza

Michael & Joanna Crain for Culinary Event of the Year: Chi Fan for Charity 2010!

While many of this year’s winners are very deserving of their awards, I was disappointed to see a few of my favorite restaurants without any recognition – Bei (in the Opposite House), Black Sesame Kitchen, Karaiya Spice House, and Madame Zhu’s Kitchen to name a few.  And I am really fed up with repeat winners  - Annie’s winning Best Italian (come on people, it’s not best delivery service), Ganges for Best Indian (really not that great), and Element Fresh for Best American, Best Sandwiches, and Best Affordable Brunch? I only approve of their smoothies and salads and boycott the rest.

theBeijinger’s Restaurant Award Winners vs. LumDimSum’s Votes:

Afternoon Tea

• Beijinger Winner: Capital M

• LumDimSum Vote: Capital M

American

• Beijinger Winner: Element Fresh

• LumDimSum Vote: Chef Too

Beijing Duck

• Beijinger Winner: Da Dong

• LumDimSum Vote: Made in China

Brunch (High-End)

• Beijinger Winner: Capital M

• LumDimSum Vote: Fennel

Brunch (Affordable)

• Beijinger Winner: Element Fresh

• LumDimSum Vote: Vineyard Cafe

Burger

• Beijinger Winner: Let’s Burger

• LumDimSum Vote: Let’s Burger

Business Lunch

• Beijinger Winner: Mosto

• LumDimSum Vote: Alameda

Cantonese (High-End)

• Beijinger Winner: Lei Garden

• LumDimSum Vote:  Zenses, Westin Beijing Chaoyang

Cantonese (Affordable)

• Beijinger Winner: Jin Ding Xuan

• LumDimSum Vote: Heng Shan Hui 衡山汇

Culinary Event of the Year

• Beijinger Winner: Chi Fan for Charity (Nov 6, 2010)

• LumDimSum Vote: Chi Fan for Charity (Nov 6, 2010)

Décor

• Beijinger Winner: LAN

• LumDimSum Vote: Capital M

Dim Sum

• Beijinger Winner: Din Tai Fung

• LumDimSum Vote:  Heng Shan Hui 衡山汇

Family-Friendly Restaurant

• Beijinger Winner: Annie’s

• LumDimSum Vote:  The Orchard

For Impressing Visitors

• Beijinger Winner: Da Dong

• LumDimSum Vote:  Duck de Chine

For a Romantic Meal

• Beijinger Winner: Maison Boulud

• LumDimSum Vote:  Capital M

French (High-End)

• Beijinger Winner: Maison Boulud

• LumDimSum Vote:  Maison Boulud

French (Affordable)

• Beijinger Winner: Brasserie Flo

• LumDimSum Vote: Crepanini

Hot Pot

• Beijinger Winner: Haidiliao

• LumDimSum Vote:  Haidiliao

Hotel Brunch

• Beijinger Winner: Bubbalicious, Westin Beijing Chaoyang

• LumDimSum Vote:  Bubbly Sundays at Senses, Westin Beijing Financial Street

Indian/Pakistani

• Beijinger Winner: Ganges

• LumDimSum Vote:  Punjabi

Italian (High-End)

• Beijinger Winner: Sureño, The Opposite House

• LumDimSum Vote:  Sadler Ristorante

Italian (Affordable)

• Beijinger Winner: Annie’s

• LumDimSum Vote:  LMPLUS (Central Park)

Japanese

• Beijinger Winner: Hatsune

• LumDimSum Vote:  Hatsune and Kagen Teppanyaki

Korean

• Beijinger Winner: Saveurs de Coree

• LumDimSum Vote:  Ai Jiang Shan

Kung Pao Chicken

• Beijinger Winner: Xiao Wang Fu

• LumDimSum Vote:  Black Sesame Kitchen

Late-Night Dining

• Beijinger Winner: Bellagio

• LumDimSum Vote:  Jin Ding Xuan or my local Ch’uar stand

Mexican/Tex-Mex

• Beijinger Winner: Saddle Cantina

• LumDimSum Vote: Casa Latina

Middle Eastern

• Beijinger Winner: Biteapitta

• LumDimSum Vote: Biteapitta

Outdoor Dining

• Beijinger Winner: Capital M

• LumDimSum Vote: Dali Courtyard

Pizza

• Beijinger Winner: The Tree

• LumDimSum Vote: Gung Ho! Pizza

Russian

• Beijinger Winner:  Traktirr Pushkin

• LumDimSum Vote: Traktirr Pushkin

Sandwiches

• Beijinger Winner: Element Fresh

• LumDimSum Vote:  Hercules

Service

• Beijinger Winner: Maison Boulud

• LumDimSum Vote:  Fennel

Sichuan

• Beijinger Winner: South Beauty

• LumDimSum Vote: Madame Zhu’s Kitchen

Spanish

• Beijinger Winner: Agua

• LumDimSum Vote: Agua

Steak

• Beijinger Winner: Mosto

• LumDimSum Vote: The Cut Grill (Fairmont Hotel)

Thai

• Beijinger Winner: Purple Haze

• LumDimSum Vote:  Tuk Tuk

Vegetarian

• Beijinger Winner: Pure Lotus

• LumDimSum Vote:  Samadhi Teahouse

Vietnamese

• Beijinger Winner: Muse

• LumDimSum Vote:  Banh Mi Now!

Wine List

• Beijinger Winner: Maison Boulud

• LumDimSum Vote: Enoterra

Yunnan

• Beijinger Winner: Middle 8th Restaurant

• LumDimSum Vote: Aimo Town

New Restaurant (Chinese)

• Beijinger Winner: Little Yunnan

• LumDimSum Vote: Xu Xian Lou

New Restaurant (Non-Chinese)

• Beijinger Winner: Modo

• LumDimSum Vote: Modo

Restaurant of the Year (Chinese)

• Beijinger Winner: Da Dong

• LumDimSum Vote: Karaiya Spice House

Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese)

• Beijinger Winner: Maison Boulud

• LumDimSum Vote: Hatsune

Forget the Price Tag and Think Priceless: Beijing’s Best Valentine’s Day Dinners

Probably one of the most loved and hated holiday on the annual calendar, Valentine’s Day is either a day to get all lovey-dovey with your sweetheart or it’s hated on…hardcore.

I think one of the best representations I have ever come across is a verse by my dear friend Mr. Ross Goulding in the most recent issue of Time Out magazine:

“Valentine’s Day is nothing more than a deluge of sacharrine filth, like a pool of vomit produced by a plague rat that has eaten nothing but sugar its whole miserable life. It is a day leaden with vulgar expectation, a day of pure emotion expressed via the clumsy mechanics of crass consumerism. There’s no better visual metaphor for Valentine’s Day than a mass-produced, solitary rose, wilting inside its plastic sheath, lying half trampled in a car park puddle on the morning of February 15.”

A little extreme if you ask me, but regardless of whether or not you are single or madly in love with your soul mate, Valentine’s Day is an excuse to indulge in a delicious meal and treat yourself to the divine sin that’s officially allowed on Valentine’s Day: CHOCOLATE.

…or an even more sinfully delicious treat – cupcakes!

*Lollipop Bakery Valentine’s Day Box of Love (RMB 280 for 1 dozen Cupcakes)* – To order: 13552772683

A word of advice to all boyfriends out there – It’s just one day out of the year, so suck it up, be sentimental, and please, Forget the Price Tag and think PRICELESS.

Lucky for you, Beijingers are spoiled for choice this Valentine’s Day.  Many of Beijing’s finest restaurants including Capital M, Ristorante Sadler and Maison Boulud are making your life easy with beautiful, decadent romantic dinners for two just a phone call away.

Valentine’s Day Dinner Break Down: (in alphabetical order)

1. Alameda -

Valentine’s Day couples are spoiled at Alameda with a welcome cocktail upon arrival and appetizers followed by a mouthwatering four-course menu with dishes like steamed lobster with spinach salad, and tiger prawns with emulsion of avocado, as well as dessert choices that include a chocolate fondue for two. The dinner is ¥608 per couple.

For reservations, call: 6417-8084, 6413-1939

2. Blue Frog -

A special Valentine’s day menu for only RMB 298 per person.

3. Capital M -

Already a winning choice with its romantic roaring fireplaces and breathtaking views of Beijing, M has gone the extra mile and created two romantic menus just for you-

Our Classic Valentine’s menu (RMB 888 per couple) begins with a romantic Royal Red Kir, and a Pate en croute d’amour of Lovebirds and Foie Gras, and features Two Soups of Passion (Chestnuts & Consomme); a choice of Romantic Classics ~ Salmon Coulibiac or Beef Wellington and finish up with a passionate Pavlova and Souffle.

A Very M Romance (RMB 1,488 per couple) begins with a sexy sip of pink bubbles and caviar, then meanders through an aphrodisiacal feast … a seductive Valentine’s Platter (foie gras, crab soufflé, scallops and prawns, house gravlax); Two Soups of Passion (Chestnuts & Consomme); Luscious Lobsters Thermidor; Beef & Yorkshire Pudding; M’s Truly Grand Dessert Platter for two.

4. The Cut Grill (Fairmont Hotel)-

What’s more romantic than sharing a perfect slice of premium steak? Meat lovers should seriously consider The Cut – Beijing’s finest steak house is offering a 7 course menu inclusive of a rose and glass of dom upon arrival.  RMB 1800 +15% service fee per couple.

5. Grill 79 -

Wine and dine with your sweetheart on top of Beijing’s tallest building.  With views of the city skyline, enjoy a specially prepared set champagne rose pairing dinner featuring a special six-course menu for RMB 1,988 +15% service charge per person.

For reservations, call: 8571 6459

6. Maison Boulud -

Maison Boulud is offering a choice of three of the most luxuriously romantic set dinner menus available in Beijing.  Choose from the following three: J’Adore Menu for RMB 1778 per couple, Passion Menu for RMB 5288 per couple or Folie Menu for RMB 13,288.

For Reservations, call 6559-9200 or e-mail: nicolas.socquet@maisonboulud.com.   www.maisonboulud.com

7.  Migas -

Migas reveals its romantic side over dinner with a 5-course menu at RMB 680 for 2 and specials on Mumm Champagne at 80RMB/glass.

For reservations, call: 5208 6061

8. Ristorante Sadler -

With the holiday named after a martyred saint of ancient Rome, what better way to celebrate than at Beijing’s finest Italian restaurant?  Ristorante Sadler offers a decadent 5 course menu for RMB 688 per person including a welcome drink, canapes and a surprise gift…

For reservations, call: 6559-1399

9.  SALT –

A Valentine’s Day ‘Indulgence‘ Menu, you begin your night with a complimentary bubbly or Valentine´s Cocktail on arrival and enjoy Chef Paulo De Souza´s touch of romance.

“Strawberries with Ruccula and Walnuts, Butter Poached Oysters, Beef Tenderloin with Truffle Sauce, Toblerone Fondue with Seasonal Fruit, Chocolate Molten Soufflé or Strawberries with  Brown Sugar Cream are some of the delights set to entice.”

RSVP: 6437 8457; contact: info@saltrestaurantbeijing.com

10. Terra -

Sharing is caring.  Terra’s “Taste, Share, Pair” Vday dinner starts you off with a complimentary glass of bubbly or Valentine´s cocktail and your own first course before moving on to romantically-crafted tasting plates to enjoy together before indulging in a decadent dessert selection.  Menu below.

For reservations, call: 6591 9148

11.  Scarlett -

For anyone feeling Anti-Valentine’s Day, you can drink your sorrows away at Scarlett Wine Bar (Hotel G) with their cheap drink specials at RMB 30 for standard drinks and RMB 50 for signature cocktails.  And who knows?  Cupid just might be waiting for you there.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Sadler’s Sophisticated Sunday Brunch

Every Sunday, Ristorante Sadler offers an authentic Italian brunch featuring a buffet table of beautiful salads, smoked salmon, cured meats, an assortment of fresh breads, cheeses, fresh jam, and mini pizzas. And let’s not forget to mention a separate dessert table with Sadler’s delicious tiramisu served in tall Martini glasses, passionfruit and raspberry panna cotta, fresh fruit and warm apple crumble tarts.

Sadler’s Sunday Buffet Table:

Sadler’s Dessert Table:

Highlights were definitely the mini pizzas, cheesey bread, fresh salad ingredients, smoked salmon, passionfruit panna cotta and tiramisu.

For those with looking for something more, there is also the option of ordering one main course from the kitchen in addition to the buffet tables – choice of soup, pastas, meat or fish.  Out of the main courses we sampled, the Spaghetti Ink Pasta was the big winner.

Sadler’s Sunday Brunch Menu:

Main Course Selections:

Spagetti with Black Ink, chili pepper and sea urchin sauce/Sea Salted Salmon, braised endive and capers

Cannelloni Ricotta, spinach and tomato sauce

For just the buffet selection, the price per person was RMB 248.

To add one main course, price bumps up to RMB 338 and add an additional RMB 85 for free-flow prosecco.

Review of Ristorante Sadler‘s Italian Sunday Brunch: Located within Ch’ien Men 23, neighboring Maison Boulud, Ch’ienmen 23, 23 Qianmen Dong Da Jie, 前门东大街23 Tel: 6559-1399

Best Part:

• A bright and contemporary venue for a classy, elegant Sunday brunch
• With menus created by Claudio Sadler, a celebrity two-Michelin star chef from Milan, you can expect nothing less of very refined and quality Italian cuisine.
• The Spagetti with Black Ink, chili pepper and sea urchin sauce is fantastic
• GM Gian Luca Fusetto is both professional and hospitable
• Nice VIP private dining room and chef’s table room available

Comments:

• After recent negative brunch experiences at some of Beijing’s finest restaurants including Maison Boulud and Capital M (see article here), it was refreshing to dine at Sadler.  To sum it up, it’s fine dining that’s very straight forward, professional and done right. (no funny business).
• I was a fan of the Italian brunch buffet (especially bread and dessert selection), but to offer a main courses like Pumpkin Soup for an additional RMB 90 is a bit steep.  Other dishes like the pasta dishes and fish dishes were excellent, but also all a bit skimpy for the price.

Rating: (on a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being best)

• Food: 8
• Atmosphere: 9
• Service: 9
• Overall Experience: 8

LumDimSum Snapshots of Sadler’s Brunch: