As Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, approaches, marking one of the most significant occasions in the Asian cultural calendar, London readies itself to welcome the Year of the Dragon. This year, starting on February 10th, the dragon symbolizes good luck, strength, and health. The city’s elite restaurants and bars are set to offer lavish celebrations, embodying the spirit and predictions of prosperity and wellness for the year ahead.
Pan Pacific London, Liverpool Street
At the prestigious Pan Pacific London, experience the Lunar New Year with an exquisite afternoon tea. From February 8 to March 25, 2024, the hotel presents a collaboration between Executive Pastry Chef Francesco Mannino and Bun House’s Co-Founder and Chef Z He. This special afternoon tea showcases a blend of sweet and savoury buns, including the signature lamb and bamboo shoot and a unique mandarin-shaped custard confection symbolising luck. The five-star hotel’s Asian-inspired restaurant, Straits Kitchen, will also host an exclusive celebration on February 10th, featuring a six-course menu with highlights like the Rainbow Yu Sheng Bluefin tuna salad and a decadent dulce cremeux dessert.
MiMi Mei Fair, Mayfair
Renowned restaurateur Samyukta Nair’s MiMi Mei Fair transforms into a floral paradise for the Lunar New Year. Beginning February 1st, guests can dine under a canopy of colours honouring the wood dragon. The restaurant offers a special menu, including a variety of dim sum and exquisite dishes like crispy Norfolk pork and grilled ginger soya silver cod. In addition, a partnership with Courvoisier brings unique cocktails to the table, including The Rising Dragon, a blend of Courvoisier VSOP, apricot liqueur, and other select ingredients.
Hakkasan, Fitzrovia and Mayfair
Hakkasan, with locations in Fitzrovia and Mayfair, celebrates the Lunar New Year with events and a feast menu available from January 30 to February 25, 2024. The menu includes the Wishes of Prosperity dim sum duo, smoked eight treasure duck, and steamed John Dory, among other delicacies. In collaboration with Moët and Chandon champagne and Belvedere vodka, Hakkasan offers exclusive cocktails like the Red Dragon. Guests are also invited to participate in the tradition of attaching a wishing ribbon to the wishing tree installations.
Yauatcha, Soho and The City
Yauatcha embraces the Year of the Dragon with a decor inspired by Hong Kong teahouses and a special seven-course menu from January 30 to February 25. The menu features dishes like the Dragon Phoenix dim sum platter and sanpei rabbit. A limited edition Chinese New Year cocktail, Dragon Tail, is also on offer, mixing Tanqueray gin with dragon fruit and other flavours.
Chop Chop at The Hippodrome, Leicester Square
Chop Chop by Four Seasons at The Hippodrome is the perfect West End venue to celebrate the Lunar New Year. On February 10th, enjoy a selection of buns and dumplings, Cantonese-style roast duck, and desserts in collaboration with Japanese patisserie Sakurado.
Mei Ume at Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square, Tower Hill
From February 5-24, 2024, Mei Ume offers a special menu by Chef Peter Ho. Participate in the Yu Sheng ritual and enjoy dishes like slow-cooked Australian abalone and steamed jumbo king prawns. Dessert features the Tang Hulu, symbolising happiness. Dinner guests on February 10 and 17 will also enjoy live performances, including a Chinese lion dance and traditional Chinese dances.
London’s elite venues are set to provide an unforgettable Lunar New Year experience, blending traditional celebrations with contemporary luxury, perfect for the discerning executive looking to mark the occasion in style.