It’s easy to forget you’re living in Dubai when you visit the Summer Place. Such is the authenticity of the newly launched Chinese restaurant at the Habtoor Grand Hotel that all thoughts of other countries are sure to be forgotten.
In fact it’s about as close as you’ll get to a genuine Chinese experience here in Dubai. An experience – not only because the majority of the staff (including the head chef ) are Chinese, but also because the décor, with its subtle black and red colour scheme, Asian panelle walls and soft glowing lights combine to create an atmosphere reminiscent of that great Asian nation. On top of this, the food is amongst the best quality Chinese cuisine this side of the Arabian Gulf.
For starters we recommend the mixed platter which contains a selection of tasty bite-sized hors d’oeuvres. Such Chinese stalwarts as spring rolls, deep-fried prawns, mashed prawns on sesame seed toast, chicken dumplings and small stuffed pancakes, accompanied by sweet and sour or chili sauce, are guaranteed to make your mouth water. This shared starter is just enough to wet your palette without ruining your appetite.
In typical Chinese style you can then choose from a number of traditional soups – Wan Tong, seafood, vegetable, crab meat and sweetcorn to name but a few. We opted for the popular chicken and sweetcorn. Not overly sweet, it’s just the right consistency and extremely satisfying.
There is a wide selection of traditional Chinese mains including a variety of beef, pork, chicken and seafood dishes, as well the usual noodles and rice selection and variety of vegetable options.
Do however leave room for the ‘Aromatic Crispy Duck’ – one of the signature meals of the establishment. Rather than dripping in oil, these ducks are steam cooked and then deep fried, with the result that the meat is succulent without being greasy. At Summer Place, it is carved in front of your table by one of the staff who, in two seconds flat will whip it into a delicate pancake.
And to finish off a truly satisfying meal, we recommend the deep-fried ice cream – a deliciously extravagant experience combing the crispy texture and warmth of batter with the cool smoothness of ice cream.
The Summer Place restaurant also offers stunning views of the ocean from its expansive open air balcony.
It’s already become popular with many of the Chinese people living in the city, which is always a good sign. It truly is a little taste of China in Dubai.
For more information on Summer Place or to make a reservation: tel: +971 4399 5000 Ext 4257, or email: hgrs.fbreservation@habtoorhotels.com.