If you’ve never journeyed to China, a grand opportunity to immerse yourself in its true culinary culture unfolded from the 20th to the 22nd of January 2025 at Long Feng Restaurant, nestled within Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo.
The Chinese New Year came alive in grand style as guests embarked on a gastronomic adventure, savoring the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine and desserts. This exquisite feast was masterfully curated by the renowned Master Chef Lan Minglu, joined by Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo’s Zhang Hui, the Chinese Specialty Chef at Long Feng, and an exceptionally talented culinary team.
The celebration sparkled with elegance and tradition, graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Zhu Yanwei, Deputy Chinese Ambassador and Chargé d’Affaires. The atmosphere was electrifying, with mesmerizing cultural performances weaving tales of Chinese heritage. A traditional dragon dance filled the air with vibrant energy, while a stunning kung fu act left the audience in awe.
For those three enchanting days, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo became a gateway to the heart of China, blending flavors, artistry, and culture in a truly unforgettable celebration.
Appetizers That Left Us Wanting More
Long Feng Restaurant set the tone with an impressive variety of appetizers, featuring Prawn Balls, Spring Rolls, Wontons, and Dumplings. The Prawn Balls were so tender and juicy they practically melted in our mouths, while the Spring Rolls encapsulated the crisp freshness of spring with their vibrant vegetable fillings. The dumpling selection catered to every palate, with fillings ranging from pork and chicken to seafood, beans, and tofu. Truly a dumpling lover’s paradise!
Inclusivity was a standout feature here, with pork items thoughtfully separated to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Another highlight was the cold meat bar, a haven for meat lovers. From succulent beef slices and fresh seafood to lobster and pork belly, this station was a carnivore’s dream come true. Fresh oysters were also on offer—a treat for oyster enthusiasts!
The Salad Station: A Burst of Freshness
The salad station was a visual delight, brimming with fresh lettuce, carrots, cabbage, enoki mushrooms, pickled bell peppers, and more. Diners could create their personalized salads, customizing to their heart’s content.
Adding an unexpected twist, small mugs of a mysterious chicken gravy were served as a side. After some investigation, we discovered it to be a flavorful Chinese delicacy that was spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet—truly the perfect dip for the fresh greens!
Soup for the Soul
Two comforting soups warmed our hearts and palates. The Sweet Corn Soup with Egg struck a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a light and flavorful broth. The Hot & Sour Seafood Soup, on the other hand, offered a bold, tangy kick that some loved and others found an acquired taste.
Main Courses: A Feast Fit for Royalty
The buffet featured an extensive selection of mains, and though we couldn’t sample them all, a few dishes stole the spotlight. Favorites included the classic Egg Fried Rice and the spicy-sweet Dandan Noodles, both of which were bursting with flavor.
The undisputed star of the show was the Roasted Whole Lamb, served on a bed of fragrant garlic fried rice. This dish was so perfectly seasoned and cooked that we couldn’t resist going back for seconds. The Roasted Chicken, with its golden, crispy skin, was another standout, packing a punch of flavor in every bite.
Other highlights included Singaporean Fried Chicken Noodles, Salted Fish and Chicken Fried Rice, pork skewers, prawn skewers, steamed egg, bok choy, and a variety of other authentic Chinese dishes.
A Sweet Finale
Though our appetites were nearly at their limit, the dessert corner was impossible to resist. Lychee lovers were in heaven with options like Lychee Fruit Cake and Lychee Tarts. My personal favorite was the Mung Cake—a delightful combination of earthy and sweet flavors that left a lasting impression. The Fruit Tarts and Mini Pavlovas also delivered a perfect sweet note to end the meal.
Experience the Magic of Chinese Cuisine at Long Feng
Although the Chinese Food Festival has concluded, the Long Feng Restaurant at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo continues to serve a wide range of authentic Chinese dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re a fan of dumplings, noodles, or exotic desserts, Long Feng is a must-visit destination for anyone searching for the best Chinese food in Sri Lanka.
Treat your taste buds to an unforgettable culinary journey—plan your visit to Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo’s Long Feng Restaurant today!
Price Per Head : 7500++ nett (price may be subject to change)
Location : Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, Long Feng Restaurant
Business Hours : 12 PM – 3PM & 7PM – 11PM
Contact Number : 0112 491 949
