Welcoming Winter Through Refined Flavours

Hangzhou, 2025 — As the lingering abundance of autumn gradually gives way to the gentle arrival of winter, Kempinski Hotel Hangzhou presents Ying Dong, a seasonal winter luncheon at ZiChen Chinese Restaurant. Centered on seasonal ingredients, the menu creates a refined dialogue between Hangzhou’s local flavours and the craftsmanship of Cantonese cuisine, offering a warm and thoughtful dining experience at the turning point of the seasons.

Chef Mike Liang, Executive Chef of ZiChen Chinese Restaurant, brings over two decades of experience in Cantonese cuisine. A native of Guangdong, Chef Liang remains deeply rooted in the essence of traditional Cantonese cooking while thoughtfully reinterpreting it through Hangzhou’s seasonal produce and culinary culture. His approach highlights both the richness and depth of Cantonese flavours and the clean, subtle elegance associated with Jiangnan cuisine.

This seasonal menu reflects a cross-regional culinary exchange, where fresh ingredients from the Jiangnan region are expressed through classic Cantonese techniques. The result is a harmonious balance between bold umami and delicate freshness, showcasing the seasonal bounty of Hangzhou through refined Cantonese craftsmanship.

Among the signature dishes is the Crispy Young Pigeon, prepared with carefully selected 21-day young pigeon from Zhongshan. Simply seasoned to highlight its natural flavour, the pigeon is marinated and deep-fried at high temperature to achieve a crisp golden skin while retaining tender, juicy meat. The dish exemplifies the Cantonese pursuit of crispness, tenderness and purity of taste.

The Silky Handmade Tofu with Morel Mushrooms and Liyunzi presents layers of umami and texture. Delicate tofu pairs with plump morel mushrooms that absorb the savoury sauce, while Liyunzi enhances the natural freshness of the dish. Each bite reflects a balance of briny sweetness and earthy aroma.

In the Hand-Shredded Snow Crab with Silver Sprouts, only tender crab leg meat is selected and paired with crisp young sprouts. Prepared with minimal seasoning, the dish focuses on highlighting the natural sweetness and texture of the ingredients, delivering a clean yet layered flavour profile.

The Chinese Silver Pomfret, revered in Cantonese culinary tradition, is prepared using the classic Sheng Ju (dry braising) method. Cooked without added water, the fish relies solely on its own juices to develop depth of flavour. Homegrown red and yellow bell peppers, together with freshly harvested Hangzhou chillies from the hotel’s fourth-floor sky garden, are layered over the fish. As it braises slowly, the natural oils of the pomfret release a rich aroma, blending seamlessly with the sweetness of the peppers.

Drawing inspiration from Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, the Soft-Shell Turtle Braised with Premium Seafood features free-range turtle sourced from the outer ponds of Deqing, Huzhou. Combined with dried sea cucumber and fresh abalone, the dish is simmered in a rich broth made from old chicken, pork ribs and chicken feet for eight hours, preserving both the elegance of the classic dish and the natural sweetness of the turtle.

Completing the menu is the Claypot Rice with Eel and Chestnuts, a seasonal comfort dish. Fresh eel is cooked using the Sheng Ju method to retain its firm texture, while chestnuts add a soft, glutinous sweetness. Slow-braised in a sealed claypot, the rice develops a golden crust at the base, releasing a warm aroma that reflects the comforting essence of autumn and winter.

More than a seasonal luncheon, Ying Dong represents Kempinski Hotel Hangzhou’s continued commitment to celebrating seasonality, regional culture and culinary craftsmanship. Through thoughtful cuisine and refined execution, the hotel invites guests to experience a meaningful culinary journey that connects tradition, place and season.

About Kempinski: Created in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. Kempinski’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today the Kempinski Group operates 75 hotels and residences in 33 countries and currently has more than 25 prestigious projects under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each one imbues the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. www.kempinski.com www.ghadiscovery.com

Media contacts:

Burt Wang · MarCom Manager                 

Kempinski Hotel Hangzhou

No. 66 Lishui Road · Gongshu District · 310015 Hangzhou · China

T + 86 571 8809 3333 · M +86 199 0683 0228 · [email protected]