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    Executive Chef at Mott 32 on bringing a contemporary approach to Chinese fine dining

    Emirates Man

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Frankie Yang Tao, Executive Chef at Mott 32, talks to Emirates Man about the culinary evolution in Dubai and how important it is to blend traditional cuisine with modern techniques.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    The first thing I do every morning is cook breakfast for my daughter so I can spend quality time with her before the busy day ahead. I like to try different recipes and make a variety of dishes (she is a massive foodie). I then check guests’ feedback based on their experience from the night before and share their comments with my team, so we are constantly improving.
    Talk us through your career.
    Since I was a child, I have been deeply influenced and inspired by my family. I always wanted to explore and experiment with food. My grandparents are experts in cooking. Every Chinese New Year, we prepare a table full of dishes presented with different styles, tastes, and colours, which makes me admire the culinary process and inspires me deeply. I have been working in Dubai for 17 years (since 2006) and have experience cooking in various luxury hotels. My cooking style is not limited to Chinese food, as I am also experienced in Asian and European cuisine. From 2012 to 2016, I participated in the chef cooking and carving competition held at the Emirates Salon in Dubai. Such valuable experiences constantly inspire my process and have expanded my expertise. I am fascinated by the catering industry, and always treat my work with passion to keep the motivation going.
    How do you bring a contemporary approach to fine Chinese dining?
    I use a variety of cooking techniques combined with modern seasoning and take a lot of time sourcing the freshest ingredients from sustainable producers both local and abroad to maintain the quality of the food. However, what makes Mott 32 really stand out as a concept is its ability to marry traditional cuisine with modern culinary innovation.
    As the brand’s eighth global branch, what sets Mott 32 Dubai apart?
    Mott 32 Dubai is committed to providing customers with a unique and fashionable food experience, offering a standard of true Chinese cuisine that does not exist anywhere else in Dubai. The interiors are impressive, and we have an open-air terrace with views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai (it is one of the highest restaurants in the world). Our traditional menu is in line with the brand’s culinary creativity, where we use familiar and bold flavours of Mott 32’s signature gastronomy through adapted versions of its classic dishes. The menu concept is consistent yet wide in its offering but of course, we have adapted iconic and traditional Chinese dishes to fit the local palate of the Dubai market. For example, we do not feature pork on our menu. Some may say this is a challenge being a Chinese restaurant, however I believe it is an opportunity to showcase the versatility of the cuisine and how it can be adapted in a skilful, yet exciting way. By replacing pork with alternative ingredients, it allows us to experiment with new delicacies and flavours, while still respecting the culture.
    Tell us about the concept of Mott32 Dubai.
    Every Mott 32 celebrates the culture and food of modern Hong Kong with a fusion of traditional and culinary innovation. It brings a menu inspired by Cantonese, Szechuan, and Beijing cuisines, and yet also showcases some of the famed restaurant’s own signature dishes. Our food aims to bring the best from the past, with honoured recipes passed down from generations to generations. The location of Mott 32 Dubai adds to its magnificence. Nestled on the 73rd floor of the Address Beach Resort, the Sunset Hospitality Group has made the whole dining experience so unique by incorporating culinary excellence, an energetic ambiance, and impeccable service all into one. Our culinary team has also been hand-selected by me, with most of our team members coming from other Chinese restaurants and 5-star hotels in the region. I truly believe we have introduced a completely new chapter of Chinese dining to Dubai’s restaurant scene.

    Having been in Dubai since 2006, how have you seen the culinary industry evolve in the region?
    In recent years the hotel and restaurant scene, as well as the increasing importance of sourcing sustainable produce from local farms and suppliers, have all contributed to the development of Dubai’s ever-expanding F&B industry. Simultaneously, there is an on-going need for fresh cooking exhibitions and large-scale food festivals. Most of the participants are professional chefs and culinary experts, which promotes the multicultural development of global tastes and deepens the depth of local culinary culture. The city’s culinary scene continues to evolve as society’s tastes and interests in food change and diversify. Dubai is definitely one to watch for all chefs around the world and now, we are seeing the rise of prestigious culinary awards, such as the MICHELIN Guide Dubai and Gault & Millau. After only four months of operations, I am delighted that Mott 32Dubai is already the recipient of one toque in the Gault & Millau UAE 2023 Guide.
    It is the world’s first luxury Chinese restaurant to expand from the East to the West, what makes it a pioneer in the Chinese fine dining scene?
    “Mott 32” pays homage to 32 Mott Street in New York, where the city’s first Chinese convenience store opened in 1891. The store served as the nucleus for what is now a vibrant Chinatown in one of the most dynamic cities. It brings the American Tang cuisine style back to Hong Kong in the form of high-end Chinese food and as a result, the menu design is simple and elegant. The unique collection comprises drinks, snacks, appetisers, and dishes from around the world. The name alone is classic. When it comes to Chinese food, few places can compare to Hong Kong. Whether it’s the best char siew or Peking duck, classic Cantonese cuisine or innovative cuisine, these restaurants can always satisfy all needs with outstanding dishes, with the highest quality of hospitality and beautiful surroundings.

    What are the hero dishes?
    We have created an ethical menu which offers Chinese dishes with Western cooking techniques and elegant presentation. Some of the diners’ menu favourites include the Applewood Roasted Peking Duck (which takes 48 hours to prepare), Truffled Mushroom Lettuce Cup Appetisers and Chilled Chicken with Szechuan Pepper and Chilli Sauce. Main courses include the signature Smoke Black Cod, Crispy Triple-Cooked Wagyu Beef Short Rib and Kung Pao Lobster are a must try. Guests also enjoy our selection of dim sum freshly made daily and plant-based signatures for those looking for a more sustainable approach to eating.
    How is Mott 32 Dubai different from its counterparts in other countries?
    We firstly implement the same quality of dishes and service as all Mott 32 restaurants globally. With its expansion to Dubai, we try to evoke the city’s energy and creative passion within our dishes and culinary style and have also curated signature cocktails and mocktails that are reflective of Dubai’s lively ambiance, such as the Fujian Negroni, Hanami, and Forbidden Rose.
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    9 restaurants to celebrate Chinese New Year in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate Chinese New Year with your loved ones.
    The annual event is the first day of a new year on the Lunar calendar, which is more than 5,000 years old, allowing you to indulge in some authentic cuisine with your loved ones at these Dubai-based hotspots.
    Shanghai Me

    Being at the epitome of art deco elegance, inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, the practice of delicate dishes has taken centuries to perfect with the region’s rich heritage that can be seen throughout the menu serving recipes that have been preserved with a playful twist while maintaining Asian tradition with special treats for all diners. Open from Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am and the terrace is open from 12pm to 2am and is located at Gate village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    Indochine

    Featuring exotic French-Vietnamese cuisine, while being perfect for intimate dinners, you can celebrate Chinese New Year’s with your loved ones at this timeless classic features an array of delectable dishes. Located in DIFC, Indochine opens on Sunday to Wednesday from 12pm to 1am and Sat 7pm to 1am, Thursday and Friday is 7pm to 3am.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com
    Hutong

    Celebrating northern Chinese cuisine in a stylish setting with a beautiful setting with amazing dim sums and creative cocktails. This award-winning chic restaurant is not one to miss as you embrace the new year in style. Located at Gate Building 6, DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 2:30pm and 6pm to 12am.
    For more information visit hutong-dubai.com
    Mediterraneo at Armani

    Taking place on Saturday, January 21 and Sunday, January 22 , 2023 this exclusive buffet-style feast is the perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year. Guests can tuck into a range of delectable delicacies from seafood on ice, fresh oysters, dim sum, noodle soup, sauteed vegetables, hot mains, and much more, all served up from live cooking stations. With an abundance of choices available, plus mouthwatering dessert options, there is something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for an unrivalled evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for a memorable evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. Guests can enjoy all this for Dhs349 per person on either night.
    TakaHisa Restaurant

    Savour the blended flavours of Japan and China this Chinese New Year at TakaHisa in Caesars Palace, Bluewaters Island overlooking Dubai’s most famed beachside resort, elevated by decorative touches. Experience Chinese New Year with a menu of world-class Japanese and Chinese ingredients while sipping on a selection of special-priced premium rice and grape beverages at TakaHisa restaurant. Dazzling dishes made using ingredients from Japan’s famed Toyosu market, formally known as Tsukiji market, include Hand rolled Japanese lobster sushi with premium caviar, Kobe Beef Soba with truffle and not forgetting the restaurant’s most loved and exclusive dish Sea Urchin Nigiri.
    For more information visit caesars.com
    Mott 32

    Looking for somewhere new to dine? Mott 32 is officially welcoming guests at The Address Beach Resort, making it the Middle East’s first destination. Inspired by Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store, the restaurant seamlessly blends the finest flavours of Hong Kong with lofty New York-style interiors. With signature hand-crafted cocktails and freshly prepared dishes such as a selection of dim sums and plat-based signatures, guests are spoiled for choice from the moment they enter. Located on the 73rd floor, it features an impressive indoor area, as well as an open-air terrace with stunning views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai. The restaurant is open daily from dinner from 6pm until 1am
    For more information visit mott32.com
    Akira Back

    To welcome the year of the water rabbit, Akira Back is set to offer a selection of flavourful dishes oozing with an authentic Asian touch. the menu includes an array of must-try Pan-Asian specials featuring whole seabass, Toto Tataki, Wagyu Ramen and more. This specially-curated menu is available from January 22 to February 5, 2023 and promises an unforgettable evening. Dishes start from Dhs180 and is complemented by stunning views of the Dubai Marina.
    For more information visit akiraback.com
    Taiko

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate the Chinese New Year at Taiko, the contemporary Asian fusion concept, where dynamic duo- Chef Schilo and Chef Guido- join forces to create a unique multi-course set menu for one special night only. An explosion of flavours guaranteed to tantalise the taste buds, stand-out dishes on the menu include Gyoza paired with red curry sauce, fresh crab congee topped with black truffle or more. With Far East Asian dishes crafted to perfection, the package is priced at Dhs425 per person on Sunday, January 22, from 7pm to 11:30pm with one Aperitif drink and the two hours beverage package is priced at Dhs188 per person additionally at Sofitel, The Obelisk.
    For more information visit Sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com
    Asia Asia

    The award-winning restaurant and lounge take its inspiration from the ancient spice route with a journey from Asia through to the Far East, as you dine and unwind with gourmet Pan-Asian fusion dishes and creative cocktails, complimented by incredible views of Dubai Marina’s skyline to celebrate this special occasion. Located at Pier 7, Asia Asia is open from Sunday to Wednesday 6pm to 1am and Friday and Saturday 2pm to 1am.
    For more information visit asia-asia.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    10 restaurants to celebrate Chinese New Year in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    6 hours ago

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate Chinese New Year with your loved ones.
    The annual event is the first day of a new year on the Lunar calendar, which is more than 5,000 years old, allowing you to indulge in some authentic cuisine with your loved ones at these Dubai-based hotspots.
    Shanghai Me

    Being at the epitome of art deco elegance, inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, the practice of delicate dishes has taken centuries to perfect with the region’s rich heritage that can be seen throughout the menu serving recipes that have been preserved with a playful twist while maintaining Asian tradition with special treats for all diners. Open from Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am and the terrace is open from 12pm to 2am and is located at Gate village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    LAO

    To mark the Lunar New Year, diners can embark on an authentic journey to with a specially curated menu for the celebrations. With a host of sensory experiences, guests can delight in special festivities and experience a traditional lion dance to immerse in the culture on Saturday, January 21 from 6pm to 6:30pm. This weekend of celebrations takes place between Friday 20, 2023 to Sunday, January 22 to indulge in a special four-course menu featuring delectable dishes such as Pelmeni Chicken Dumpling, salmon, wrapped in lotus and Sum-Sum Klelpon with Lapis with packages priced at Dhs299 and Dhs499 with wine paring at Waldorf Astoria.
    For more information visit Hilton.com
    Indochine

    Featuring exotic French-Vietnamese cuisine, while being perfect for intimate dinners, you can celebrate Chinese New Year’s with your loved ones at this timeless classic features an array of delectable dishes. Located in DIFC, Indochine opens on Sunday to Wednesday from 12pm to 1am and Sat 7pm to 1am, Thursday and Friday is 7pm to 3am.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com
    Hutong

    Celebrating northern Chinese cuisine in a stylish setting with a beautiful setting with amazing dim sums and creative cocktails. This award-winning chic restaurant is not one to miss as you embrace the new year in style. Located at Gate Building 6, DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 2:30pm and 6pm to 12am.
    For more information visit hutong-dubai.com
    Mediterraneo at Armani

    Taking place on Saturday, January 21 and Sunday, January 22 , 2023 this exclusive buffet-style feast is the perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year. Guests can tuck into a range of delectable delicacies from seafood on ice, fresh oysters, dim sum, noodle soup, sauteed vegetables, hot mains, and much more, all served up from live cooking stations. With an abundance of choices available, plus mouthwatering dessert options, there is something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for an unrivalled evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. To keep spirits high, a wide variety of entertainment will also be on hand to make for a memorable evening as we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit. Guests can enjoy all this for Dhs349 per person on either night.
    TakaHisa Restaurant

    Savour the blended flavours of Japan and China this Chinese New Year at TakaHisa in Caesars Palace, Bluewaters Island overlooking Dubai’s most famed beachside resort, elevated by decorative touches. Experience Chinese New Year with a menu of world-class Japanese and Chinese ingredients while sipping on a selection of special-priced premium rice and grape beverages at TakaHisa restaurant. Dazzling dishes made using ingredients from Japan’s famed Toyosu market, formally known as Tsukiji market, include Hand rolled Japanese lobster sushi with premium caviar, Kobe Beef Soba with truffle and not forgetting the restaurant’s most loved and exclusive dish Sea Urchin Nigiri.
    For more information visit caesars.com
    Mott 32

    Looking for somewhere new to dine? Mott 32 is officially welcoming guests at The Address Beach Resort, making it the Middle East’s first destination. Inspired by Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store, the restaurant seamlessly blends the finest flavours of Hong Kong with lofty New York-style interiors. With signature hand-crafted cocktails and freshly prepared dishes such as a selection of dim sums and plat-based signatures, guests are spoiled for choice from the moment they enter. Located on the 73rd floor, it features an impressive indoor area, as well as an open-air terrace with stunning views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai. The restaurant is open daily from dinner from 6pm until 1am
    For more information visit mott32.com
    Akira Back

    To welcome the year of the water rabbit, Akira Back is set to offer a selection of flavourful dishes oozing with an authentic Asian touch. the menu includes an array of must-try Pan-Asian specials featuring whole seabass, Toto Tataki, Wagyu Ramen and more. This specially-curated menu is available from January 22 to February 5, 2023 and promises an unforgettable evening. Dishes start from Dhs180 and is complemented by stunning views of the Dubai Marina.
    For more information visit akiraback.com
    Taiko

    Start the year of the Rabbit in style and celebrate the Chinese New Year at Taiko, the contemporary Asian fusion concept, where dynamic duo- Chef Schilo and Chef Guido- join forces to create a unique multi-course set menu for one special night only. An explosion of flavours guaranteed to tantalise the taste buds, stand-out dishes on the menu include Gyoza paired with red curry sauce, fresh crab congee topped with black truffle or more. With Far East Asian dishes crafted to perfection, the package is priced at Dhs425 per person on Sunday, January 22, from 7pm to 11:30pm with one Aperitif drink and the two hours beverage package is priced at Dhs188 per person additionally at Sofitel, The Obelisk.
    For more information visit Sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com
    Asia Asia

    The award-winning restaurant and lounge take its inspiration from the ancient spice route with a journey from Asia through to the Far East, as you dine and unwind with gourmet Pan-Asian fusion dishes and creative cocktails, complimented by incredible views of Dubai Marina’s skyline to celebrate this special occasion. Located at Pier 7, Asia Asia is open from Sunday to Wednesday 6pm to 1am and Friday and Saturday 2pm to 1am.
    For more information visit asia-asia.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More