Showing posts with label Abalone. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Abalone. Show all posts

Sunday, February 2, 2025

Hai Tien Lo @ Pan Pacific Singapore - A Top-tier Choice For a Luxurious Lunar New Year Celebration

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Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific Singapore ushers in the Year of the Snake with a luxurious Chinese New Year feast curated by Chef Ricky. The feast showcases premium ingredients and masterful execution. The festive menu blends traditional flavours with innovative touches, making it a celebratory dining experience perfect for the season.

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Fortune Yu Sheng with Classic Whole Abalone, Smoked Salmon and Jelly Fish 4.2/5

The feast began with the customary Lo Hei, featuring the Fortune Yu Sheng with Classic Whole Abalone, Smoked Salmon, and Jellyfish. A vibrant mix of flavours and textures, the combination of fresh seafood, crisp vegetables, and tangy sauce set the stage for an auspicious year ahead.

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Double-boiled Buddha Jumps Over the Wall 5/5

A true showstopper, the Double-boiled Buddha Jumps Over the Wall was an absolute delight. Made with premium ingredients such as abalone and matsutake mushrooms, the soup was rich, nourishing, and deeply flavourful. The dish showcases the essence of luxurious Chinese cuisine.

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Braised South African Whole Abalone with Truffles and Crispy Sea Cucumber 4.5/5

For another indulgent treat, the Braised South African Whole Abalone with Truffles and Crispy Sea Cucumber delivered in both flavour and texture. The succulent abalone was beautifully braised in a luscious sauce, while the crispy sea cucumber — coated in a delicate batter — added an exciting contrast of textures.

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Baked Lobster with Butter, Signature Homemade XO Chilli Sauce 4.8/5

One of the most talked-about dishes of the night was the Baked Lobster with Butter and Signature Homemade XO Chilli Sauce. The rich, umami-packed XO sauce elevated the sweet, juicy lobster meat, which had everyone at the table raving. The butter infusion added a layer of indulgence, making this dish a definite highlight of the meal.

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Stewed Inaniwa Udon with Fish Maw, Pan Fried Scallops, Sliced Barbecued Beijing Duck 4.5/5

A unique and unexpected addition to the menu was the Stewed Inaniwa Udon — a departure from the usual rice or noodle dishes found in Chinese restaurants. The silky, delicate udon absorbed the essence of the fish maw, scallops, and barbecued duck, creating a luxurious and well-balanced dish. Though the udon stood well on its own, the addition of premium ingredients elevated the overall experience.

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Double-boiled Imperial Swiftlet's Nest with Red Dates and Rock Sugar 4.2/5

Dessert was a nourishing and refined Double-boiled Imperial Swiftlet’s Nest with Red Dates and Rock Sugar. The light, refreshing sweetness made it a perfect ending to the meal, striking a balance between tradition and indulgence.

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Gold Ingot Cake coated with Finely-ground Nuts and Shredded Yam 5/5

We also had the Gold Ingot Cake coated with Finely Ground Nuts and Shredded Yam. Though simple in appearance, the nian gao was exceptionally delicious, with the nutty crunch and yam shreds adding layers of texture and flavour, making it surprisingly enjoyable.

Hai Tien Lo’s Chinese New Year menu is an extravagant and well-crafted feast, perfect for celebrating with family and loved ones. Standout dishes include the Double-boiled Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, Baked Lobster with XO Sauce, and Braised South African Abalone. With its meticulous execution and premium ingredients, the restaurant continues to be a top-tier choice for a luxurious Lunar New Year celebration.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hai Tien Lo
Pan Pacific Singapore
7 Raffles Boulevard
Level 3
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 68268240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro @ Hilton Orchard Singapore - Celebrates Year of The Snake With a Variety of Festive Set Menus

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Chūka Szechwan Ryori specialist Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro celebrates the upcoming Chinese New Year with a variety of festive set menus, à la carte offerings, as well as festive goodies available for takeaway.

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The renovated space is stunning, with a high ceiling and well-curated art pieces throughout. Befitting its Michelin-starred status, the service here is attentive, gracious and thoughtful, capturing the essence of omotenashi, the quintessentially Japanese spirit of hospitality.

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The Abundance Set Menu ($208++ per guest) is an elegant 8-course experience designed to delight the senses. Other festive set menus, ranging from $168++ to $388++ per guest, are also available for dine-in from 12 January to 12 February 2025.

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Abalone and Madai Yu Sheng 4.5/5

The evening commenced with an Abalone and Madai Yu Sheng presented to the table. This festive favourite features tender slices of abalone and Japanese Madai (Sea Bream). It is accompanied by a vibrant mix of shredded carrots, green and white radishes, pickled ginger, and cucumbers, and the dish is finished with a calamansi plum sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkling of crushed peanuts. We tossed it well and high for good luck and enjoyed this refreshing start to the meal.

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Crab Roe Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Bird’s Nest 5/5

Next came a dish of Crab Roe Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Bird's Nest, served in its own warmer. This dish was silky and rich, using carefully hand-picked crab that lent it a delicate sweetness. Each spoonful was warm and totally luxurious, especially with the added indulgence of Bird's Nest on top.

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Stir-Fried Prawns with Basil Sauce 4.5/5

Our next dish was Stir-Fried Prawns with Basil Sauce. It featured a plump, juicy prawn coated in a fragrant, aromatic basil sauce. The prawn was slightly crisp and very fresh, with firm yet tender flesh. Eaten with the basil sauce, it was simply delicious!

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Steamed Seasonal Fish Fillet with Pickled Peppers 4.2/5

Following the prawn was the Steamed Seasonal Fish Fillet with Pickled Peppers. We were presented with Kinmedai, prized for its sweet, clean taste and firm texture, which is a bit richer than other white fish. It was served with pickled peppers and topped with a chilli blend for a subtle kick of spice. While the sauce was excellent, I found the fish itself to be slightly overcooked.

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Wok Fried Hokkaido Shirobuta Pork with XO Sauce 4.2/5

The Wok-Fried Hokkaido Shirobuta Pork with XO Sauce was served with a medley of vegetables, such as asparagus, peppers, and mushrooms. Shirobuta is known for its fine, even marbling in the meat, which gives it a juicy, melty mouthfeel. The tasty XO Sauce also enhanced the overall flavour of the pork.

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Braised Australian 4-head Whole Abalone with Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce 4.8/5

I really enjoyed the Braised Australian 4-head Whole Abalone with Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce, which had very comforting flavours. The abalone had a smooth, delicate texture that wasn't rubbery or tough and absorbed the delicious sauce it was sitting in. I also liked that they cooked it with some crisp lettuce for a slight crunch. The sauce was so good. I would have loved to eat it with white rice or stewed noodles if I had not already been so full!

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Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Chinese Sausages topped with Crispy Sakura Shrimps 4.5/5

Despite being so full, I couldn't resist trying the Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Chinese Sausages, topped with Crispy Sakura Shrimps. The rice was fragrant and aromatic, infused with the rich flavour of the Chinese sausages. The rice was nice and sticky, with a slightly chewy texture.

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Double-boiled Hashima with Dried Longan and Crispy Duo-flavour Nian Gao Roll 4/5

For dessert, we were treated to a bowl of Double-boiled Hashima with Dried Longan, as well as a Crispy Duo-flavour Nian Gao Roll. The Hashima, with its soft, gelatinous texture, is believed to be rich in collagen, offering both beauty and health benefits. Cooked with longan and dates, it was light and subtly sweet.

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However, my personal preference was the crispy Nian Gao roll, wrapped in spring roll skin. In addition to the traditional nian gao, it also featured a pandan-flavoured version, adding an interesting twist to the roll.

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As my dining companion doesn't eat Hashima, the staff kindly offered her a bowl of mango sago instead, which was a tangy and very refreshing end to her meal.

Overall, dining at Shisen Hanten is a real treat and a memorable experience from start to finish. With its refined cuisine, sophisticated ambience and impeccable service, it's definitely the kind of place to bring someone you'd like to impress. Wine and tea pairings are also available to complement your dining experience.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 35
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant @ Sheraton Towers Singapore - Ushering in Lunar New Year with Festive Elegance

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Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant at Sheraton Towers Singapore welcomes the Lunar New Year with an opulent lineup of festive dishes and reunion feasts, available from 1 January to 12 February 2023. Known for its refined Cantonese cuisine, Li Bai’s offerings this year are both traditional and creative, featuring premium ingredients presented with flair.

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Crispy Eel, Australian Lobster and Hamachi Yusheng 4/5

Li Bai kicks off the celebration with a visually stunning Crispy Eel, Australian Lobster, and Hamachi Yu Sheng. Designed like a vibrant garden with an intricate snake motif in the centre, this dish pays homage to the Year of the Snake. The medley of crispy eel, succulent lobster, and fresh hamachi adds both texture and flavour, while the festive toss promises a year of abundance and prosperity.

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Sauteed Bird's Nest with Crab Roe 4.2/5

The Sauteed Bird's Nest with Crab Roe is a winner for a nourishing and comforting start. The crab roe infuses the dish with a burst of umami, enriching the already delicate flavours of the bird's nest. This soup strikes a fine balance between indulgence and subtlety, making it a highlight for those who love refined Cantonese soups.

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Steamed Alaskan King Crab with Egg White 4.5/5

A standout dish, the Steamed Alaskan King Crab with Egg White, combines the meaty Alaskan King Crab's sweetness with the steamed egg white's silkiness. Enhanced with a drizzle of superior soya sauce, this dish is luxurious yet comforting, showcasing Li Bai's ability to highlight the natural flavours of premium ingredients.

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Braised 27-head South African Dried Abalone with Dried Oyster 4.5/5

The Braised 27-Head South African Dried Abalone with Dried Oyster is a true delicacy. The abalone is perfectly braised to tender perfection, paired with a flavourful sauce and complemented by the richness of dried oysters. The addition of greens adds a touch of freshness to balance the dish's richness. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a taste of indulgence this festive season.

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Grilled Eel Claypot Rice with Chinese Sausage and Dried Shrimp 4.2/5

Paying tribute to the Year of the Snake, Li Bai presents Grilled Eel Claypot Rice. The eel's snake-like appearance makes it a symbolic addition to the menu. The eel is grilled to perfection over fluffy, fragrant rice and enhanced with savoury Chinese sausage and dried shrimp flavours. The crispy edges of the claypot rice add a delightful textural contrast, making this dish a comforting favourite.

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Double-boiled Snow Fungus, Dried Apricot and Basil Seed 4.2/5

Refreshing and light, the Double-Boiled Snow Fungus with Dried Apricot and Basil Seed is an ideal dessert to cleanse the palate after a rich meal. The dried apricot's fruity sweetness complements the delicate snow fungus, while the basil seeds add a unique texture.

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Nian Gao, Water Chestnut Cake 4/5

Rounding off the meal, the Nian Gao and Water Chestnut Cake are delightful treats. The Nian Gao is chewy and subtly sweet, symbolising progress and growth, while the Water Chestnut Cake is light and refreshing, providing a satisfying conclusion to the festive feast.

Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant delivers a stellar Lunar New Year dining experience with its thoughtfully curated menu of traditional and innovative dishes. Highlights like the Steamed Alaskan King Crab, Braised 27-Head South African Dried Abalone, and Grilled Eel Claypot Rice showcase the restaurant's finesse in elevating classic Cantonese flavours. Whether dining in or celebrating with takeaway, Li Bai is an excellent choice for ushering in a prosperous Year of the Snake.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant
Sheraton Towers Singapore
39 Scotts Road
Singapore 228230
Tel: +65 67376888
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm
Sun: 1030am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel - Bringing Joy and Prosperity with a Curated Festive Menus

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For this Chinese New Year, The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, a Wyndham Hotel, has curated festive lunch and dinner menu sets available from 8 January to 12 February 2025. The selection features signature dishes crafted to bring joy and prosperity to your table.

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"Everlasting Prosperity" Yu Sheng 4/5

We began with the "Everlasting Prosperity" Yu Sheng with Smoked Salmon and Crispy Fish Skin, a refreshing dish enhanced by subtle kaffir lime leaves and a delightful crunch from the crispy fish skin.

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Fish Maw Soup 4/5

The next course, Fish Maw Soup with Crab Meat and Conpoy was flavorful and well-balanced, boasting just the right consistency.

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Steamed Ginseng Chicken 5/5

One of the standout dishes was the Steamed Ginseng Chicken. The chicken was incredibly tender, and the nourishing ginseng broth was both comforting and aromatic.

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Baked Prawns with Buttermilk & Pumpkin Purée 4/5

The Baked Prawns with Buttermilk & Pumpkin Purée are allured by their vibrant colours and garlicky aroma. While the prawns were slightly overcooked, the creamy and tangy buttermilk-pumpkin sauce elevated their texture, making them finger-licking good.

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Steamed Marble Goby with Superior Soya Sauce 4.5/5

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Braised Abalone with Chinese Mushroom & Broccoli 4/5

Two classic dishes followed: Steamed Marble Goby with Superior Soya Sauce and Braised Abalone with Chinese Mushrooms and Broccoli. The fish had a pleasingly firm texture, its natural sweetness beautifully complemented by the savoury soya sauce. The abalone dish was also well-executed, providing a rich and elegant touch.

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Fried Fragrant Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf 5/5

My favourite was the Fried Fragrant Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf — arguably the most memorable lotus leaf rice I've had. The umami-packed sausages appeared to have their casing removed, making them easy to chew and mix seamlessly with the rice. Each bite delivered a symphony of savoury, smoky, and umami flavours.

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Chilled Mango Cream 4/5

Dessert was a refreshing Chilled Mango Cream with Aloe Vera, Strawberry, and Pearl Sago. Its sweet and tangy profile rounded off the meal perfectly.

Prosperity Menus (Available from 8th January to 12th February 2025):
From $688++ per table (For 6 persons) to S$1,188++ per table (For 10 persons)
Reunion Dinner Menu (Available only on 28th January 2025) only three signature sets from the Prosperity Menu will be available to celebrate the traditional Reunion Dinner.
Reservations are open from 6th January to 12th February 2025. Please contact 6416 1231

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel
Peninsula Shopping Complex Singapore
5 Coleman Street
Singapore 179805
Tel: 6337 2200
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk down North Bridge Road. Walk to traffic junction of North Bridge Road and Coleman Street. Cross the road and turn right onto Coleman Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, January 19, 2025

Crystal Jade CNY 2025 - A Treasury of Lunar New Year Specialties to Savour at Crystal Jade Group of Restaurants

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Crystal Jade ushers in the Year of the Snake with an exceptional array of festive dishes and set menus across its 17 outlets. Featuring both classic favourites and innovative creations, the offerings showcase the restaurant's hallmark artistry and dedication to authentic flavours. I had the privilege of sampling some highlights, and here's a rundown of the delectable experience.

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Premium Prosperity Yu Sheng 5/5

The Premium Prosperity Yu Sheng ($128/$198) is an absolute standout. Showcasing Fresh South African Abalone, Great Amberjack Fish, and Australian Scallop, this dish is elevated by a medley of fresh and dried fruits, candied walnuts, and crispy Hsin Chu bee hoon. Deep-fried yam strips further enhance its textural appeal. With its refreshing taste and harmonious interplay of flavours, this Yu Sheng is hands down one of the best I’ve had this year.

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Braised Superior Bird's Nest in Pumpkin Thick Soup 5/5

A bowl of comfort and indulgence, the Braised Superior Bird's Nest in Pumpkin Thick Soup ($68/pax) is a luxurious treat. Enriched with an assortment of seafood and Hokkaido Sea Urchin, the velvety pumpkin base imparts a natural sweetness that complements the nourishing bird's nest. It is a truly delightful and memorable dish.

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Air-flown French Turbot Fish Prepared Two-ways 4.2/5

Crystal Jade's Air-Flown French Turbot ($24/100g) celebrates this delicate flatfish in two renditions: sautéed and deep-fried. Served with asparagus and black fungus, the preparation highlights the fish's natural sweetness while offering a delightful contrast of textures.

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Shanghainese Style Treasure Pot 4.8/5

The Shanghainese Style Treasure Pot ($128), designed for 3-4 diners, is a refreshing take on the traditional pen cai. Brimming with ingredients such as homemade egg dumplings, mushrooms, prawns, oysters, and fish maw, this rustic one-pot dish is enveloped in a luscious yet lighter sauce — perfect for those seeking a healthier and less heavy alternative.

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Salt-Baked Kampung Chicken with Hairy Fig 4.8/5

A crowd favourite, the Salt-Baked Kampung Chicken with Hairy Fig ($68.80) delivers exceptional flavour. The natural sweetness of the hairy fig complements the savoury, tender kampung chicken, making this dish a true celebration of balanced flavours.

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Golden Vegetarian Yam Ring with Assorted Vegetable Medley 4.2/5

Vegetarian diners (and even non-vegetarians!) will enjoy the Golden Vegetarian Yam Ring with Assorted Vegetable Medley ($38). Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, the fragrant yam ring pairs wonderfully with the vibrant vegetable medley, offering a delightful textural contrast.

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Apple-shaped Mochi with Apple Cinnamon Puree 4.2/5

Crystal Jade showcases its creative flair with the Apple-Shaped Mochi with Apple Cinnamon Purée($8.80 for 3pc). This delicate dessert combines mochi's soft, chewy texture with a warmly spiced apple cinnamon filling, making it a unique and satisfying end to the meal.

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Mango Pomelo & Sago Jelly 4.2/5

A playful twist on the classic dessert, the Mango Pomelo & Sago Jelly ($32.80) reimagines the traditional flavours in a visually stunning and refreshing jelly form. It’s a light and delightful finale to any festive feast.

Crystal Jade's Lunar New Year dining runs from 8 January to 12 February 2025 across all outlets, with set menus catering to up to 10 persons. Takeaway delicacies can be pre-ordered online at estore.crystaljade.com from 20 November 2024 to 8 January 2025 and at outlets starting from 11 November 2024. Collections will be available from 8 January to 12 February 2025 at select outlets. With its expertly curated menu and a wide range of festive delights, Crystal Jade ensures a prosperous and memorable Lunar New Year celebration for all.

Note: This is an invited tasting.