A guide to Chinese New Year in Abu Dhabi
The Year of the Rabbit starts here…
The Chinese calendar follows the lunar cycles and that means that this year the Chinese New Year falls on Sunday, January 22. This year also marks the Year of the Rabbit which is considered one of the luckiest animals of the 12. And it checks out because you lucky old things can ring in the Chinese New Year at these lush venues in Abu Dhabi.
Dai Pai Dong
This Michelin Guide restaurant will be hosting an authentic and unforgettable Chinese New Year Festival. On Saturday, January 21 they will be uniting friends and families for what is traditionally one of the most important events in the Chinese cultural calendar, New Year’s Eve. Dai Pai Dong will be hosting a special eight-course menu for the traditional Reunion Dinner. The celebration will take part from 7pm to 11pm and will cost Dhs298, with a welcome drink.
Dai Pai Dong, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Saturday January 21 from 7pm to 11pm, Dhs 298 for welcome drink and an eight-course meal. Tel: (0)2 813 5588 rosewoodhotels.com @rosewoodabudhabi
Hakkasan
A limited edition menu awaits you at the Michelin-star awarded restaurant. From January 21 until February 5 you can experience the Year of The Rabbit through the eyes of Hakkasan. Expect a selection of festive Cantonese dishes, delicious desserts, and cocktails specially curated for the occasion of the Chinese New Year.
Hakkasan, Emirates Palace, Corniche road, from Sat Jan 21 to Sun Feb 5, Dhs598 per person. Tel: (0)2 690 7739 hakkasan.com
Shangri-La Hotel
There are a whole host of fun festivities to hop into at the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri. On Sunday, January 22, the hotel’s main entrance will transform with a traditional Lion Dance ceremony at 11am. The practice dates back many centuries and begins with the dotting of the eyes of the lion, bringing it to life. The lion will sway his way through the venue. Next, a Yee sang toss will bring prosperity to guests and team at the hotel, signifying the beginning of The Year of the Rabbit.
From Sunday, January 22 to Thursday, February 9 there will be celebratory dinners, Yum Cha lunches at the hotel too. The celebratory dinners take place daily from 6pm to 11pm and have three different packages to choose from. While the Yum Cha lunch takes place Monday to Friday from midday to 3pm and are Dhs168 inclusive of non-alcoholic drinks.
Shangri-La Hotel, Khor Al Maqta, Qaryat Al Beri, Lion Dance, Sun Jan 22 from 11am. Celebratory dinners, daily from 6pm to 11pm from Jan 22 to Feb 9, Dhs198 Flavors of China, Dhs268 Far East Feast, Dhs368 Seafood fare. Yum Cha lunch Mon to Fri 12pm to 3pm, Dhs168 soft. Tel: (0)2 509 8555 shangri-la.com
Stratos
A three-hour-long Chinese-inspired supper club awaits you at this lofty restaurant. At the only revolving restaurant and lounge in Abu Dhabi, guests can expect delightful dishes accompanied by a panoramic view of the capital as well as fireworks on the Al Maryah Island promenade.
Stratos, Le Royal Meridien, Al Danah, Sun Jan 22 from 6pm to 8pm, last order 10.30pm, Dhs395 per person with house drinks. @leroyalmeridienabudhabi
Teatro
You are invited to enjoy a specially handcrafted menu of traditional dishes. From dumpling baskets to noodle bowls, king prawns, roasted spring chicken and beyond, there are so many delightful options to choose from. Round out your meal with an authentic sesame seed ball with a purple yam filling. The set menu is three courses with a complimentary pairing of house drinks, wine or Chinese cocktails. There is even a raffle draw with great prizes to be won.
Teatro, Park Rotana, Al Salam Street Eastern Ring Road, from Sat Jan 21 to Fri Jan 27. Tel: (0)2 657 3317 rotanatimes.com
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