“Six” is said to be a lucky number in Chinese culture, so might as well keep it lucky with these six Chinese dishes you can enjoy this week in the lead-up to Chinese New Year this Friday, January 31.
Buddha’s Veggie Candied Pepper Veggie “Steak”
You won’t miss the meat with this sweet, slightly spicy vegetarian dish, served hot and sizzling. If you’re ringing in the Chinese New Year with some herbivores, then Buddha’s is your go-to for an array of meat-free Chinese-style dishes.
(5802 Macleod Tr. S.W., 403-252-8830, buddhasveggie.com)
Happy Hill Peking Duck
Considered a national dish of China, it’s pretty much a no-brainer when it comes to ordering this big family-style dish this week. Rich, salty with warm pancakes and extra sauce on the side, you just can’t go wrong. Duck also represents fidelity, so you can toast another year of committment to your partner.
(806 Centre St. N., 403-276-3288)
King’s Wonton Wonton Soup
Noodles represent longevity in Chinese culture, so why not have a bowl full of them? Couple that with big, juicy wontons, vegetables and a comforting broth and you have the perfect lunch this week.
(104 Meridian Rd. N.E., 403-272-2332, kingsrestaurant.net)
Peking Dragon Spiced Eight Precious Jewels
Every Chinese restaurant does its own take on this dish. Here, you’ll find vegetables, chicken and shrimp in a thick bean sauce. The number eight is believed to be auspicious because it sounds similar to the word for “to prosper” in Cantonese.
(1904 4 St. S.W., 403-228-1205, pekingdragon.ca)
Szechuan Restaurant Beef and Celery in Hot Sauce
This Chinese eatery on 16th Avenue N.W. is a chef and food lover’s hot spot. Speaking of hot (this place is known for being extra spicy), try this trio of beef, tripe and tendon in a sauce that will likely clear your sinuses as well as satisfy your appetite.
(320 16 Ave. N.W., 403-276-8876, szechuanrestaurant.ca)
U & Me Steamed Barbecue Pork Buns
Whether you’re here in the morning for some dim sum or later on in the evening after a few cocktails, U & Me satisfies any Chinese cravings almost 24 hours a day. Sweet, tender pork inside soft, doughy goodness always hits the spot here.
(201, 233 Centre St. S., 403-264-5989, uandmerestaurant.ca)
Raw Bar‘s Chinese New Year Dinner
If you’re looking for a refined take on a Chinese New Year dinner, then look no further than Raw Bar. Roy Oh of Anju is set to join forces with Chef Duncan Ly on January 31 for a multi-course dinner bursting with robust Asian flavours. Full menu and ticket information here.
(119 12 Ave. S.W., 403-206-9565, hotelarts.com, @rawbaryyc)
This story was part of Avenue’s free weekly Food & Drink Newsletter. Sign up now and get fresh dining news in your inbox every Tuesday.