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| - When good luck brings great fortunes then feeding that luck feeds the fortune. So explains my Macao poker / gambling bud. Fortune cookie aside, the philosophy makes for incredible meals.
VERY IMPORTANT: The use of fresh, high quality ingredients, expertly prepared, great ambiance and service, and the ever present Chinese fortune building philosophy results in a luxurious meal at high prices. Expect dinner for two to top $500.
Tip: Ask for the Luxury menu (features shark fin, birds nest, and abalone dishes) and the "secret" menu of chef's specialties (extremely authentic and rewarding dishes).
Tip: Try the prefix meal with wine pairing if it's your first visit. Good selection of more familiar dishes. The pairing of Chinese food with Western wines is eye opening.
From the regular menu, do not pass on the foie. Brushed with a black pepper sauce then flashed fried. The powerful black pepper sauce adds a punch that brings out the natural sweetness of the foie while the earthy grip keeps the richness in check. Impressive.
The giant clam (geoduck) is outstanding. OK it's $200 but try it and you'll understand why the Chinese are crazy for this candy of the sea. Prepared two ways, the foot, makes for incredible sashimi. Sweet, toothsome, clean oceanic finish. The mantel is fried with a delicate crispness and aggressive seasoning. Still tender but with a more pronounced oceanic finish and heightened sweetness.
Santa Barbara spot prawns in salted pepper is outstanding. Just cooked through. Incredible texture and sweetness. The head fat, creamy goodness. The same, simply steamed with a sweetened with garlic, outstanding. Pungent yet oh so juicy. The head fat, suckably delicious liquid crack.
The Dungeness and Australian crystal crab (aka Snow Crab) are both excellent. The first benefits from a stronger black bean sauce, while the second's sweetness and delicacy is heightened by the ginger and scallion sauce.
The only faux pas, the Peking duck. Carved table side. Beautifully presented but not true Peking duck. More like carved duck breast served in bun or on lettuce. Juicy and delicious for sure but not the ethereal, crispy skin only that practically melts on the tongue.
Finally, from the special menu, the bird nest soup is incredible. High quality nest, the filaments are nearly white and translucent. The texture and flavor are unique. Not unpleasant but very different. Something that must be experienced.
Service is excellent.
Good wine list but more impressive is the amazing pairing possibilities. Definitely use the sommelier. Pairings with this food far surpass the usual Riesling.
A worthy choice for anyone wanting to experience great Chinese cuisine. Who knows, It may just bring you good luck and great fortune.
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