by Aude
Let’s be honest for a second ... us expats we are all the same, cravings local food from time to time (Am I the only one to crave cheese and baguette when I am in Hong Kong, and could kill for good dumplings when back in France for holidays?) but always heading off to the same places and ordering the same things. Am I right?
I’ve been in Hong Kong for 3.5 years now and have decided it was time for me to try some new dishes. Let’s take “Bib Gourmand” awarded (by the Hong Kong & Macau Michelin Guide since 2009) Crystal Jade, am pretty sure you all know them and have already been to one of their 13 venues. I’ve been there several times, always ordering the Xia Long Bao. But not last time ... no. Ready to discover some new flavours?
Well, of course I had a round (or maybe 2) of Xiao Long Bao. Love those little things too much and definitely can’t pay a visit to Crystal Jade without at least having a few of them. Then went for things I’ve never ordered before:
Let’s be honest for a second ... us expats we are all the same, cravings local food from time to time (Am I the only one to crave cheese and baguette when I am in Hong Kong, and could kill for good dumplings when back in France for holidays?) but always heading off to the same places and ordering the same things. Am I right?
I’ve been in Hong Kong for 3.5 years now and have decided it was time for me to try some new dishes. Let’s take “Bib Gourmand” awarded (by the Hong Kong & Macau Michelin Guide since 2009) Crystal Jade, am pretty sure you all know them and have already been to one of their 13 venues. I’ve been there several times, always ordering the Xia Long Bao. But not last time ... no. Ready to discover some new flavours?
Well, of course I had a round (or maybe 2) of Xiao Long Bao. Love those little things too much and definitely can’t pay a visit to Crystal Jade without at least having a few of them. Then went for things I’ve never ordered before:
Drunken Chicken(HKD 78): cooked in alcohol. The chicken was tender. Maybe not my fav of the order but still something nice to snack on
Shredded Chicken and Bean Starch Sheets in Sesame Sauce (HKD 58):super yummy!Loved the sesame sauce
Sauteed Shrimp in Chilli Sauce(HKD 138): again very yummy. The chilli sauce isn’t too spicy, nothing my European palate can’t handle. Loving the sweet and sour taste.
La Mian with Paoched Beef in Szechuan Spicy Soup (HKD 78): I had to order a round of La Mian noodles. Not only because I love them but also because Crystal Jade is unveiling a fresh new look featuring open hand-made noodle bars where master chefs are interacting with the guest while preparing their homemade Lanzhou La Mian Noodles,would have been a shame not to give it a go. Right? Careful guys, it’s hot and spicy I’m telling you. Spicy like I’m sniffing and might even have a few tears rolling out my eyes but I cannot stop. God, it’s good!
Hong Kong Madame fav: the La Mian definitely!
The two desserts, Glutinous Dumpling in Ginger Soup(HKD 34) and Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Fermented Rice Wine Soup(HKD 34), I must confess weren’t exactly to my taste but hey at least I’ve tried. Anyway, i was already to full and satisfied with the main dishes to really need a dessert.
Well, seems like it’s a hit. Don’t you think?
Now, I seriously feel like boasting to my French friends living in Hong Kong and be like “guys, let me take you to Crystal Jade and take care of the order. Forget about the Xiao Long Bao, I’m gonna order a few specialties, something you’ve never tried before”. You know what, feel free to use my above tips and feedbacks and do the same!
Crystal Jade
13 venues across town including Harbour City, Times Square and IFC
