It was the talk of the town, awaited with great anticipation, much expectation, mixed feelings. And then it had its fabulous launch.
Finally, City of Dreams opened its doors and the talk continues.
The massive integrated resort and entertainment complex includes the Crown, Nobu and Hyatt hotels, casinos, multicuisine restaurants, designer shops, etc. Name your pleasure, you will find it there. But take all these one at a time, the better to relish the experience.
Crystal Dragon, a Chinese restaurant, is at the upper ground (actually the second floor) of Crown Towers hotel, Asean Avenue entrance. It’s open for lunch and dinner, offering mainly Cantonese and regional dishes. It’s an ideal first stop in the City of Dreams complex.
Dining area—Almost expecting the sound of a welcome gong, guests are led by a receptionist through a heavy black and gilded door. If lunching in a private room, one is escorted through a black arc and into the spacious but cozy dining area. There is a small ante room with a door that leads to the “little room.”
Service—Excellent, unobtrusive, solicitous. An offer of something to drink would be made while awaiting other guests.
Staff—The young ladies of the wait staff showed no sign of being amateurs, considering none of them came from any other hotel. They have apparently been well-trained. They look like fashion plates in their black long-sleeve tops with a slight dash of silver, worn over slim short skirts. All wear their hair in a tight bun.
Suggested orders— The menu is vast but with a prearranged selection. Start with Prosperity Salmon Fish Yu Sang (salad with thin slices of salmon laced with four sauces, including olive oil, pomelo, mint). This is topped with nuts. The subtly blended flavors herald the arrival of more delights.
The chef, Bong Jun Choi, showed not only a mastery of the dishes but a creativity in their presentation. Of the eight courses this diner had, there were the standouts, even while every dish had its own merit. There was the Deep-fried Oysters with Mandarin and Spicy Plum Sauce, each piece laid individually on endive in half a shell. Though this diner never took a fancy eating oysters, this one makes us a convert.
The Stewed Pork Belly Rolled with Fragrant Yam is plated with the rare sea moss, while the Wok-fried Glutinous Rice and Wild Rice with Barbecue (a pork meat wrapped in lotus leaves) was surely a winner. It was a level over and above the usual machang in some Chinese restaurants.
Our meal was punctuated by Nian Gao Platter consisting of desiccated coconut, Emmental cheese (a novel Chinese ingredient ) and sweet potato. Tea was constantly poured in the course of the meal.
Service and government charges are included in the bill. Senior cards are honored.
Rating – 3 Spoons.