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:

Ho Ho Ho: Beijing’s Best Christmas Deals

When I first came to Beijing in 2006, Christmas decorations consisted of everything from Christmas trees and lights to Easter bunny decorations and Halloween masks. Like most things in this often confused country, the effort is there, but they don’t quite get it right.

…3 years later, Beijing is swimming in choices this holiday season!

Whether you’re in the mood for something cozy and comfortable or something extravagant and indulgent, here’s a breakdown list of top Christmas Eve/Christmas Day feasts:

Christmas Dinner Break Down: (in alphabetical order)

1. All-Star’s Christmas Buffet Dinner -

Enjoy All-Star’s executive chef’s 10 lb. Smoked Turkey & Honey Glazed Ham. Only RMB 218 per person (Kids under 12 years old are half price).

Available both Christmas Eve & Christmas Day.

RSVP: 5905-6999

2. Blue Frog -

A 3-course set Christmas menu including a special gift.  RMB 298 per person.

Available Christmas Eve & Christmas Day.

RSVP with Santa: 6417 4030

3. Enoterra -

A 12-piece oyster platter +2 bottles of Champagne Gosset Brut for only RMB 998. Each bottle of Champagne Gosset Brut is RMB 498 each.

Available Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) and New Years Eve (Dec. 31).

RSVP: 5208-6076; For More Info: www.enoteca.com.cn

4. Maison Boulud –

A 6-course set Christmas menu + glass of champagne. Indulge in a decadent meal – Celery Chestnut soup with Foie Gras, Slow Poached Egg Yolk, Roasted Lobster, Black Truffle Chicken, Wagyu Beef Rossini and dessert. RMB 688 + 15% service charge per person.

Available Christmas Eve & Christmas Day from 6PM-10PM.

RSVP: 6559 9200

5. SALT –

A 5-course set Christmas Eve menu including a complimentary cocktail on arrival. 5 course highlights include Foie Gras, Salmon Tartare, Scallops and Foie, mains (cod fish, tenderloin steak, or rack of lamb) and either chocolate souffle or chocolate soup dessert.  RMB 358 per person.

For Christmas Day, enjoy either 2 or 3-course brunch (12-4PM) or dinner (6-10PM). Each course has selection of 4-5 choices for appetizer, main and dessert.

Separate Set Menus Available Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

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

…And that’s a wrap!

*Don’t forget to save room for Santa’s Cookies!*

Gobble Gobble: Best Thanksgiving Deals in Town

Considering Beijing is such a internationally diverse city, I was surprised to see how many people get excited about American Thanksgiving! But I guess rather than being celebrated as a religious or historical holiday, Thanksgiving is more of an excuse to gather friends and family over an incredibly good feast.  And who doesn’t enjoy that??

With Thanksgiving holiday quickly approaching, Beijing’s restaurant scene is having a field day.  Everyone and their mom is having a special Thanksgiving buffet or special set menu.  While 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. All-Star‘s Thanksgiving Turkey Buffet Dinner -

Enjoy a Succulent Turkey Feast with Home-Cooked Fixings. Only RMB 199 per person (Kids under 12 years old are half price)

RSVP: 5905-6999

2. Apothecary –

Known for their Fried Chicken Sundays, Chef Max Levy is switching from fried chicken to fried turkey this Thanksgiving!

Enjoy 7 dishes including crawfish & pumpkin soup, fried turkey, sweet potato fries for RMB 150. RSVP: 5208 6040

3.  Blue Frog -

A 3-course set menu including roasted squash and apple soup, Thanksgiving turkey and sides, and a bourbon pumpkin pie + soft drink and glass of wine.  RMB 200 per person (RMB 90 for kids).  RSVP: 6417 4030

4. 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

5. Maison Boulud –

5-course elegant Thanksgiving dinner for RMB 428 + 15% service charge. RSVP: 6559 9200

6. The Orchard –

Includes a roasted turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings with live jazz in the covered courtyard space. RMB 220 (includes tea or coffee). RSVP required: 64336270

7. SALT –

Enjoy a 5-course menu for RMB 298 per person.  Mains include turkey breast, beef tenderloin steak, pecan crusted salmon or wild mushroom risotto. RSVP: 6437-8457.

8. SWITCH!

3-course menu including oven-roasted grain-fed turkey and all the fixings for RMB 188 per person (kids under 8 eat for free).

If you are having Thanksgiving dinner in the comfort of home, you can also order a whole roasted turkey with all the fixings to feed the entire family for 850 RMB.

For reservations & orders, call Jenny at 136 9338 6984 or 5978 4918 or email bookings to jenny.zheng@culinarycapers.cn

…And that’s a wrap

Enjoy your Turkey Comas!

*Gobble Gobble*

Beijing’s High-End Restaurants Get Sneaky

I have recently witnessed some serious customer complaints regarding two of Beijing’s finest dining establishments: Maison Boulud and Capital M.

Both restaurants are not only famed in Beijing for serving quality cuisine and having exceptionally beautiful design, both establishments are regularly praised for having the highest standards of service and most capable waitstaff in town. Until recently, I have had nothing but good things to say about the food, atmosphere and service at both restaurant venues.

But as we all know, a strong reputation is not unshakable in this city’s dining scene that seems to run most comparatively to a roller coaster.

Last weekend, two big groups gathered for Sunday Brunch – one at Maison Boulud and one at Capital M and both groups left feeling both dissatisfied and cheated.

The brunch at Maison Boulud started out very promising.  As soon as people arrived, staff started serving champagne and the executive chef even came out to introduce himself and a special tasting brunch menu provided especially for our group. The appetizers were all very tasty, but the portions were small to share between so many people and the mains included a lot of omelette and pasta dishes, which was not exactly up to par with what I would expect Maison Boulud to showcase. But overall, the food was the least of our complaints.

The staff was clumsy, unfriendly, forgetful and not only did it take people an hour to get an orange juice, a cup of coffee, or pot of tea, the bill in the end was a massive mess.

Maison Boulud charged RMB 140 per glass of champagne – the same champagne that they readily brought out and refilled throughout brunch, so no one knew how much they each had consumed. And even those who weren’t drinking at brunch, still paid a hefty price for non-alcoholic drinks. Each orange juice was RMB 55 and a pot of tea came out to be RMB 400 (they charge per cup instead of per pot).

I understand that Maison Boulud is a high-end establishment, but in the case that drink prices add up to more than the price for the meal,  either the group was dying of thirst that day or more likely, they were overcharged. That’s fine if they want to charge RMB 140 per glass of champagne, but then they should not bring it out without anyone first ordering it and refilling without asking.  And if you charge RMB 400 for a pot of tea, then you should first explain the charge rather than leave it all a surprise in the end.

In the end, I threw down RMB 450 for the meal and two glasses of OJ and for those who chose to accept a glass of champagne or two threw down around RMB 900 per person.  It was a rough start to the day, leaving us all feeling quite dissatisfied with the entire brunch experience as a whole and definitely not something I would like to experience again.

On the same day, another group of ten dined at Capital M for their lovely weekend brunch, and in this group, no one was drinking any alcoholic drinks and was shocked to find a charge of RMB 800 just for water.

No one had asked for bottled water or refills, but Capital M’s staff continued to refill all glasses throughout the brunch and in the end, they charged a pretty penny leaving each person to throw down another RMB 80 just for water consumption alone.

Again, at the end of the day, it’s not about the bill, but rather the entire dining experience from start to finish and if the end leaves a sour taste in your mouth, you’re sure to remember that much more than the positive side of things.

So let this be a warning to you all:

Beware of unexpected drink charges the next time you are dining out. Unless the restaurant specifically tells you it’s complimentary, chances are anything you are served (even if it was never ordered to begin with) will most likely be tacked on to your bill.

Chi Fan for Charity Launch Party

With a little more than one week before the big date, Chi Fan for Charity is hosting a Media Launch Party at Touch Bar (Westin Chaoyang) this coming Thursday, October 28.

Come enjoy drinks (courtesy of the Westin) and meet the restaurateurs and celebrity hosts making it happen.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, October 28
• Time: 5:30PM-7:30PM
• Location: Touch Bar, Westin Chaoyang
• Address:  The Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 North Dongsanhuan Road, 金茂北京威斯汀大饭店, 东三环北路7号
• RSVP: tom@bespoke-beijing.com

Background on Chi Fan for Charity:

One of the strongest charity events of the year, Chi Fan for Charity has gathered 33 of the city’s top restaurants to simultaneously host a table of ten people for a minimum three course meal and wine. The restaurants are donating the food and drink for free, so your payment for the meal goes direct to three, genuinely great local charities (Prevention Through Education (HIV/AIDS Awareness), Dandelion School and Rural Women’s Charity, a practical skills training School for Migrant Women). This event is perfect for people who want to enjoy an exceptional meal while contributing to worthwhile causes by “eating for charity”.
Participating restaurants include everyone from Maison Boulud, Capital M, the entire Hatsune Restaurant Group (Hatsune, Kagen, Kagen Teppanyaki and Karaiya Spice House), Bei & Sureno in the Opposite House, Modo, Red Capital Club, The Courtyard, and many many more.  Tickets are available from the website but better hurry as many tables are already sold out and the rest are selling out fast.

Similar to the Hatsune 9 year party, there will be a Chi Fan for Charity After Party at Hatsune Sanlitun Village with free flow drinks from 10PM-1AM, DJ Patrick Yu will be spinning tunes and everyone from the various restaurants all coming together!  For those who don’t have the time or the budget to commit to dinner, the after party is a great way to come out to contribute to these worthwhile causes and show your support.  Tickets are RMB 150 in advance (pay here: www.chifanforcharity.org)  or RMB 200 at the door. However, guests who buy a ticket to a table will gain free entry to the afterparty at Hatsune.   And yes, there will be sumo suits.  :)

Book your seat at a table here: www.chifanforcharity.org.

A Cut Above the Rest: Fairmont’s The CUT Grill

Fairmont's Chic Champagne Bar

Between Jianwai SOHO and the LG Twin Towers lies the extravagantly plush Fairmont Hotel – the prominent rose colored building with natural light-filled interiors.

Currently in a phased opening stage, the hotel has 40% of their rooms available (80 out of 222 hotel rooms) and they have recently opened all of their divine dining concepts – Lunar 8 (an Asian fusion restaurant serving everything from Indian to Thai and Japanese sushi to Beijing duck), their swanky Champagne Bar, and their most recent opening – The CUT Grill, an upscale, glamorous steakhouse specializing in a wide selection of prime quality chilled imported beef and market fresh seafood.

As you can probably guess, the Champagne Bar features an extensive champagne list but I was most impressed by their creative cocktails.  My favorite – The Signature Chinese 5-Spice Fizz (RMB 68) – was a surprisingly refreshing and tangy cocktail combining Ginger-infused Cognac, clove, cinnamon, star anise & Sichuan peppercorn. With the star anise & Sichuan peppercorn, I guess I was expecting my tongue to turn numb rather than refreshed.  It was really delicious. Other noteworthy cocktails were the Pomegranate & Cucumber Mojito (RMB 68) – a fruity, minty Mojito served in an elegant tall glass and the Lemongrass Martini (RMB 68) – Lemongrass infused vodka with housemade lemongrass infused syrup.

The CUT Grill literally just opened a week ago and I must say, their steak just jumped to the top of my list for Best Steak in Beijing and their level of professional service is going to give Maison Boulud a run for their money.

Where do I begin?

Let’s Talk Food:

The theme of the night was truffles. A key ingredient in everything from the appetizers to the Morel Truffle Steak Jus to the truffle ice cream dessert, I loved every bit of it.  After the warm bread basket, we received a special treat from Chef Graham – shots of Cucumber & Gazpacho with Truffle Foam.

For appetizers, we started out with the Crab & Coconut Bisque (RMB 80) – a creamy soup with lemongrass, cilantro and red curry, giving it a spicy kick. The Mustard Seed Crusted Beef Carpaccio with potato-celeriac salad, shaved pecorino and Szechuan aïoli (RMB 115) was beautifully presented and the mixture of beef, potatoes and herbs was delectable. The Sweet & Sour Colossal Prawn Salad with Caramelized shallots, market greens, pomegranate seeds, lemon vinaigrette (RMB 135) was my top pick out of the appetizers as the giant prawns were so fresh and juicy and I admit that I particularly like the combination of fresh fruit together with fresh seafood. To top it all off, our appetizers were paired with a glass of Bourgogne Chardonnay from France.

After the appetizers came the main attraction of the meal – I ordered the Australian Stockyard Grain Fed 200 days 12 oz. Prime Rib Eye (RMB 598) and let me tell you, it was the Best. Steak. Ever. My mouth begins to water just at the thought of it and as incredibly tender and flavorful the steak was, I was like a kid in a candy store when they served me all three sauce selections (Morel Truffled Jus, Green Peppercorn Cafe au lait, Bearnaise) and a selection of imported Dijon mustards from France – Plain Dijon, Green Peppercorn, Mustard Grain Dijon, Targon Dijon (spicy like wasabi) and Honey Balsamic Dijon.

And even though the steak was beyond good on its own, our steak sides also exceeded my expectations, especially with the Celeriac Black Truffle Mash Potatoes & the Sautéed Forest Mushrooms. I must admit that as beautiful as my steak was when it arrived, by the end, each bite of steak was topped with an assortment of sauces, mushrooms & mashed potatoes. The collective flavors together was to die for and I’m not exaggerating when I say that I savored every single piece as if it were my last bite. My only disappointment was the Tsingtao® Battered Golden Fried Onion & Potato Crisps, which were flavored well, but not up to par with the rest of the meal.  A bit too thin and not as crunchy as they should be.

Other mains we ordered were the Tea Smoked Seared Yellow Tail (RMB 275) and Pumpkin & Fine Herb Ravioli (RMB 175) topped with Seasonal farmed vegetables, rocket pesto, and toasted macadamia beurre noisette.  I have a weakness for smoked fish and their yellowtail was smoked to perfection.  While the ravioli was a nice compliment to the fish and steak, the pumpkin ravioli was too sweet for my taste.  I much prefer savory fillings in my pasta dishes.

Last but not least, their desserts are exceptional. Not at all standard steakhouse desserts, The CUT offers a very unique and original dessert menu.  Top two picks: Iced Green Apple “Pu-Erh” Chinese Tea (RMB 58) – Freshly spun green apple sorbet with famous Chinese Pu-Erh tea anglaise and “The Cut” Apple Tart with Homemade White Truffle Ice Cream (RMB 58).  I’ve never tried any desserts like either of these – the Pu-Erh tea pudding and fresh green apple surrounded by a ring of maple syrup composed of vanilla & cilantro seeds and of course the white truffle ice cream was something I could definitely get used to having on a regular basis. While those desserts were absolutely perfect, I would not recommend ordering the Chocolate Nage, Lychee Granite (RMB 78) – Spiced chocolate soup with lychee ice and candied ginger julienne, serve with truffle almond mignardie.  It was a strange combination to mix Lychee sorbet in liquid chocolate and the chocolate was more of a chocolate foam than a soup.  I guess I was expecting sort sort of thick, rich chocolate soup. However, the minardies that accompanied the dessert (diced fresh fruit & an almond cookie) were adorable.

By the end of my meal, I had completely stuffed myself into a Happy Humpty Dumpty and was most impressed with their standards of service from the moment I walked in to when I left.  The wait staff were all personable and friendly while maintaining a respectful distance and I was dumbfounded by the thoroughness of their responses to any questions I had about a particular dish or ingredient.  Mad respect for the very professional Fairmont team for training THE most exceptional waitstaff I have encountered in China.

Review of Fairmont’s The CUT Grill: 8 Yong An Dong Li, Jian Guo Men Wai, 朝阳区建国门外大街永安东里 8 号, Tel: +8610 8507 3617; Opening Hours: From Tuesday to Saturday, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m (Dinner ONLY)

Best Part:

• The service was up to par with Maison Boulud, if not better.  Never have I encountered local waitstaff in Beijing who speak great English and have such a deep understanding of the menu’s items.  When asked to describe the dessert, the staff knew exactly every part of the dish from the raw ingredients to how it was prepared. Extremely impressive.
• The chef is incredibly talented with a wealth of experience. All the dishes were perfectly prepared with premium ingredients and original recipes. The creative use of Truffle throughout the menu is most notable.
• Restaurant Manager Faisal Majeeth is an expert sommelier and I would highly recommend asking him to pair wines with your meal.
• It’s pretty unbelievable that in the restaurant’s first week, they executed with flawless service & dishes.
• Highlights of the meal: the Sweet & Sour Colossal Prawn Salad, Steaks & “The Cut” Apple Tart with Homemade White Truffle Ice Cream

Comments:

• Although the decor of the venue is beautiful and lavish, I still felt like I was in a hotel. Hotels are great, but they can also be pretty generic.  I much prefer a steakhouse to have a darker ambiance with a more cozy, relaxed and original design.
• Prices are definitely in the fine dining category.  Food and service is top-notch, but expect to pay an arm & a leg for it. If you happen to have the extra cash lying around, then you won’t be disappointed.
• For a better selection of the menu and a great deal, I’d highly recommend the 3-Course Wine & Dinner Menu:

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

• Food: 9
• Atmosphere: 7
• Service: 10
• Overall Experience: 9