Tag: Chinese Food

ChaoBella- A perfect amalgamation of Oriental and Italian Cuisines!

Situated in Crowne Plaza, Okhla, ChaoBella as the name also suggests represents unity of two different cuisines under one roof. It serves authentic Oriental and Italian food and I simply loved it. The place has a very warm vibe, and his chic and classy interiors.

As it was my first visit to the place, I didn’t want to miss an opportunity to try both the cuisines and hence ordered a perfect mix of starters in order to have best from both the worlds.

Shredded Crispy Mushroom, Zhang Fei Spicy Chicken, Vegetable Dumplings and Chicken Jaozi made for the Chinese starters and Pizza Con Pollo Affumicato and Margarita Pizza for the Italian appetisers. I loved the mushroom and zhang chicken, both. The dumplings were perfectly done and I loved the way a green dot represented the vegetable dumplings and a red dot on Chicken Jaozi, they both looked as amazing as they tasted. I also tried Chicken Manchow Soup, which was great and loved a tiny miny chicken dumpling that floated in the soup and gave it an added taste.

The Margarita Pizza, Veg Pizza and Smoked Chicken Pizza were amazing, I especially loved the Veg Pizza. The juices of the vegetables, cheese and a nice crust made for a great pizza, I thoroughly enjoyed relishing a big slice of it.

For the main course, we tried Pan Fried River Sole, a stir fried fish served with Sichuan pickled vegetables and pine nuts and it was really nice. The fish was tender and juicy and the pickled vegetables made for a great accompaniment.

Sautéed Chicken Breast served with Charred Asparagus and Porcini Sauce was another amazing preparation. Loved the juicy chicken breasts, it was mildly spiced and I really liked it.

Chicken in Sichuan Sauce, Malak Vegetables, Chilli Garlic Noodles and Vegetable Fried Rice made for a perfect Chinese Meal, I loved each and every item and I can really gorge on these anytime. Its surely been one of the finest Chinese meals I have eaten.

For Desserts I tried the Tiramisu, which was the only thing I found below standards, as I could not taste coffee much and neither the taste of mascarpone cheese was coming across. I loved the presentation though and the macaroon served along was yummy.

ChaoBella - Crowne Plaza Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Yin and Yang Food Festival at Empress of China, Eros Hotel

Yin and Yang theory is based on viewing things in a relation to its whole.The theory is based on two basic components: yin and yang, which combine in a complementary manner and form a method for explaining relationships between objects. Yin and yang are represented by many tangible dualities, such as male and female, light and dark, fire and water. It is believed that everything has both yin and yang aspects, every object, every person has both these attributes of positive and negative, its just that which of the attributes manifests more strongly than the other. Yin is represented as the feminine, passive, dark, cold, while yang is represented as masculine, active, light, warm.

This philosophy plays a very significant role in the Chinese culture and especially in the Chinese Medicine and Food. Chinese people believe that the balance of Yin and Yang food can really help a person’s physical health to remain fit. Most foods are either predominantly Yin or predominantly Yang and sometimes the combination of Yin and Yang also helps creating a balanced food. Foods with higher water content are usually Yin, as they are cooler and those with high energy or fat are Yang. Most Fruits and Vegetables thus are Yin and Duck, Beef, Alcohol and Warm Spices are Yang.

At Empress of China, Chef Nikhil Rastogi brought in this age old theory of Yin and Yang and created a beautiful food festival out of it. Two separate pantries representing and showcasing Yin and Yang foods respectively were created and one had to pick up ingredients of choice and give it to the chef behind the counter to prepare a dish out of it. Basis selection of foods the dish could be only Yin, only Yang or a combination of two.

To begin with we had Asparagus, corn and mushroom salad (YIN), five Spiced marinated asparagus and corn with sweet chilly dressing, this was a very crunchy and refreshing salad.

Crispy Noodle Salad with Spicy Tamarind Dressing was a Yin and Yang combination dish as the presence of spicy tamarind dressing added the Yang attribute to the otherwise Yin noodles. This one was a beautiful preparation indeed, the taste was perfect, I personally loved it the more than the Asparagus salad.

Lohan Dimsum and Chicken Dimsums were the next two dishes that we relished like anything. The cristal veg dumplings were so tasteful and juicy, a Yin preparation and the chicken dimsums were steamed as well a bit roasted and that itself was the highlight of the dish. I simply loved these both.

Vegetables Salt and Pepper on Skewers tossed with fresh greens and peppers was an amazing preparation. I specially liked the idea of vegetables being on skewers rather than served as a whole dish. Sichuan Chicken, going by the name sounds like a common Chinese dish, but trust me you have to try this once at Eros and you will know the difference. Such authentic pepper flavours gave completely new dimension to the dish.

Steamed Prawn brought in as individual servings were great too, I am not too fond of prawns but this one was truly amazing and its taste lingered on in my mouth for a long time.

For main course I settled for Chicken Pot Sticker, which was an amazing Yang preparation, with minced chicken on a bed on pan fried noodles, mild sauces not overly spicy, it was a perfectly balanced dish and I strongly recommend it.

The dessert which looked like the Yin and Yang symbol was a combination of dark and white chocolate mousse which was delicious. The mousse had a mild flavour of jasmine, which enhanced the overall taste.

I simply loved witnessing this festival and learning so much about the Yin and Yang theory of food from the chef. Its always a pleasure dining at Eros, the people are so warm and hospitable that what more can you ask for. Perfect food, company of Chef Nikhil and F&B Manager Umesh and Harpreet who handles the PR at the hotel, is always an added value to the whole foodie experience. I enjoyed myself completely and I am sure you too will enjoy, so don’t miss the festival, its on till 23rd, so still 2 more days to go..!!

 

Asia Central- Excellent Food Delivery Option

Food delivery services always come in handy on lazy weekend evenings or tired weekday nights, and recently on one such occasion I ordered food from Asia Central as I was craving for some authentic oriental food. I ordered the following dishes:

Kung Pao Chicken, a classic Sichuan dish that originated in the Sichuan province of Southern-Western part of China, is prepared with stir fried chicken tossed with peanuts, vegetables and chilli peppers. Full points to Asia Central for preparing this dish in an authentic manner, the flavours, the texture, everything was perfect.

Chicken in Black Bean Sauce was the other main course dish that I ordered and it too was done perfectly. The taste of black bean sauce was perfectly balanced, it was neither too strong nor too mild.

Chicken Hawker Noodles, a perfect combination to go with the chicken gravies, the noodles were awesome. Thankfully had loads of chicken pieces and vegetables too.

Chicken Fried Rice, were another delightful preparation. Perfectly fried rice with chunks of chicken, it served as a perfect companion with my Kung Pao Chicken.

Overall, the food was amazing, the packaging very neat and great effort was taken in packing every thing required along with the food like chopsticks, forks, sauces etc. and now I know that this is gonna be the place I will frequently order food from when craving for Chinese.


Asia Central Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Oriental Pavilion at the Fortune Select Hotel, Sohna Road

Oriental Cuisine is one of my all time favourites and I can literally have it continuously for days without feeling bored and when you get a chance to visit one of your favourite places to explore the same, its a win win situation. It was a pleasure to be back at the Fortune Hotel after a grand Lohri Lunch at the Zodiac Restaurant, this time it was the Oriental Pavilion, their roof top restaurant this time around .
The restaurant claims to be a roof top restaurant but alas there is roof on the top and contrary to expectations is not open air.
A touch disappointed but all the disappointment disappeared once the ever courteous staff served the Starters.

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Wok fried Tofu in Cilli Basil was a superb treat with chilli and basil in just the right proportions.
Spinach and Corn Crystal Dumpling and the Thai Vegetable Spring Roll were a veggies delight both crispy n done to perfection.
The Chicken Sui Mai, Chicken in Hunan Style and The Pan Fried Fish with Kaffir Lime were a gourmet’s delight.
All three dishes with their very own distinct flavours and tastes.
The Mizotaki Soup was simply superb.

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In the Main Course they served Chicken in Oyster Sauce which was simply out of this world and The Sliced Fried Fish in Chilli n Cilantro was another delicious offering. For the veggies Vegetable in Thai Green Curry and Oriental Greens With Golden Garlic and Sesame were absolutely fabulous.

To go along with the mouth watering main dishes were The Chilli Garlic Noodles, Vegetable Fried Rice and Steamed Rice.
The Vegetable Fried Rice and Chicken in Oyster sauce made an awesome combination As did the Noodles and Sliced Fried Fish.

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The complete spread of Starters and Main Course was most appetizing and delicious. One of the best and authentic offering.

For Dessert there was the Tempura Fried Ice Cream which was a bit of a disappointment. But the food served is a worth a visit over n over again. The service and ever courteous smiling staff deserves a special mention. All in all a most wonderful gastronomical delight.

Review Credit: Rani Malhotra

 

The Oriental Pavilion - Fortune Select Excalibur Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Hudson Chopsticks- Food Delivery Review

Often in winters you don’t want to step out late at night for a dinner and on such occasions home deliveries are the best option. Hudson chopsticks – As we call the name, it’s a well known in university area and recently we ordered a hearty meal from them on a cold winter night.

The cuisine is Chinese with a few Thai dishes as well and is definitely going to leave an impression. Currently it’s a takeaway /doorstep delivery restaurant.

We ordered a Soup, Chicken Momos, Hakka Noodles, Veg Spring Rolls and Red Thai Curry. The quantity was good and sufficient enough for 3 people.

One of the must try here is Chicken WHEAT Dimsums, one if its kinds. By giving our desi momos in wheat it leaves you with less guilt.

The other mouth-watering dish was the Thai Red Curry served with Sticky Rice. I simply loved it. Good portion for more than 2 people.

Hakka Noodles too were delectable and the best part of ordering noodles is they provide chopsticks with it, which gives you the feel of enjoying an authentic Chinese food that too at the comfort of your home

Overall, loved the food and suggest you must give this place a try, its totally worth it!


 

Hudson Chopsticks Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Feng Shuii- Oriental Dining, Restaurant Review

Feng Shui is a Chinese philosophical system of harmonizing everyone with the surrounding environment. Feng Shuii, a newly opened oriental dining restaurant resonates this meaning in the truest sense. Located at the upcoming Gallery on MG, which would soon host some of the nicest Restaurants, this one is surely gonna be a hit. The moment you enter the place, the ancient art form of Feng Shui, the artefacts, and the harmony greets you and takes you in the Chinese Era. The ambience is beautifully done and one cannot ignore the tastefully placed art pieces that reflect the true essence of Feng Shui. I mean you would really want to get up from your seat, take a stroll inside the restaurant, and just stare at these art pieces, they are so beautiful.

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I somehow always feel that the place that emits positive vibes has to be good overall, and in case of Feng Shuii this stood absolutely true. Not just the ambience and environment is so harmonious and beautiful, but also the food is excellent. I was called here for a bloggers review meet and I am so glad I could make it.

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Drinks:

Their drinks menu consists of fresh juices, some mocktails and aerated drinks. I settled for a coke this time, as I love the fizz with Chinese Food.

Starters:

Chilly Paneer, Chicken Satay and Chilly Fish were served for starters. Chilly Paneer was simply amazing, perfectly done, neither too spicy nor sweet or bland. My son isn’t very fond of oriental cuisine as such but he always enjoys Chilly Paneer when I make it at home. We have tried Chilly Paneer at a lot of places, and most of the times it ends up being too spicy especially from a child’s point of view, but here at Feng Shuii, my son just loved it, in fact so much so that he didn’t have anything else but two servings of Chilly Paneer.

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The Chicken Satay too was delectable and was served with a subtle peanut dip. Chilly Fish is my all time favourite, but again barring a few places I never like the way it is prepared in restaurants. The best that I had was at Drums of Heaven restaurant, but now Feng Shuii is going to be my new favourite for Chilly Fish, it was mind blowing. The fish was tender and yet has a very crisp coating, the spices perfect, and the veggies added to the flavour and crunch. I can back for it anytime, in fact my mouth is watering as I write this review.

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Dimsums:

We tried the Mushroom & Cheese Dimsums and also the Juicy Chicken. Being a hard core non vegetarian, I still preferred the Mushroom & Cheese dimsums, they were just lovely. It was such a mouthful treat, the creaminess of mushrooms and cheese made it so rich in taste. I am praising mushroom dimsums doesn’t mean the chicken ones were not good, they too were delicious, all I wanna say is that even if you are a non vegetarian, please give the mushroom version a try, you won’t be disappointed.

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Main Course:

The main course consisted of both Thai and Chinese dishes. The main course was served like a buffet, but the fun part was that rather than we walking up to the buffet lay out, the buffet came to us in very smart serving trolleys that come equipped with electric heaters and can keep the food warm for upto 8 hours while being unplugged. These small little innovations and changes in food presentation make a lot of difference in ones overall experience.

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The first dish that was served was Massaman Curry with Nasi Goreng. Massaman Curry is a relatively mild Thai Curry that in itself is an interpretation of a Persian Dish. The flavors of the massaman curry paste (nam phrik kaeng matsaman) come from spices that are not frequently used in other Thai curries, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, cumin, bay leaves, nutmeg and mace and this makes it very different. This paste is first fried with coconut cream, and only then are meat, potatoes, onions, fish sauce or salt, tamarind paste, sugar, coconut milk and peanuts added. It is usually eaten with Rice, and in this case it was Nasi Goreng. Nasi goreng, literally meaning “fried rice” in Indonesian and Malay, can refer simply to fried pre-cooked rice, a meal including stir fried rice in small amount of cooking oil or margarine, typically spiced with sweet soy sauce, shallot, garlic, ground shrimp paste, tamarind and chilli and accompanied by other ingredients, particularly, chicken. These came across as one of the best fried rice I have ever had, I just loved it. I can eat them anytime, with or without any gravy.

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Next was the Thai Green Curry served with Steamed Rice. I have never been really fond of Thai food, and here also my perception and taste didn’t change. I did try some of it, but didn’t find it too exciting.

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Fish in Black Bean Sauce was good, I tired it with some Veg Fried Rice, but somehow the gravy was little too salty, so inspite of being good, the salt spoiled the taste.

Hakka Noodles with Chicken in Sweet Chilli Sauce was good too. The Chicken was tender and gravy little sweet, but still it was a good combination with hakka noodles.

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Dessert:

The best part is always reserved for the end I guess, this simple yet amazing dessert Belgium Chocolate, did just that. It was a perfect ending to the delightful meal. It wasn’t over the top, not even had a very fancy presentation, but the taste was just wonderful. Its heaven for chocolate lovers. Must try.

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Service & Hospitality:

The staff was very very hospitable and attentive. The service was a little slow but I am sure they will improve it.

Overall the experience was just amazing and I give a generous 4.5 star rating, do it give it a shot and you will be pleasantly surprised.

Fengshuii. The art of Oriental Dining Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato