MEHOOD LESTIE HOTEL

Chinese

Perforated windows, ceiling fans and chandeliers impart retro Lingnan flair. Chef Feng also bases his recipes on Lingnan traditions and seasonal local produce, but slightly tweaked to the local palate and spruced up with unique creativity. His Shunde minced fish soup perfumed by makrut lime leaves, and roast goose that takes 45 minutes to cook in the oversized grill, tend to sell out fast. End the meal with silky ginger milk curd in Shawan style.

Christened after the dynasty and a nod to the owner's name, this award-winning place has pillars covered with stainless steel bricks and gigantic glass-feathered wings hung from the mirrored ceiling that lend an eerie sense of space. Standouts on the predominantly Sichuanese menu include spicy boiled tiger grouper, jujube wood-roasted 42-day Peking duck, and spicy crab. Try the Sichuan street food, too – such as stuffed pancake, and Zhong's dumplings.

As in other branches of this Singapore-based chain, the kitchen team never fails to deliver quality dishes thanks to inspired insights and honed skills. The must-try black pepper mud crab exudes an intoxicating aroma and seafood flavour, while double-boiled fish maw soup with shark bones warms the heart and soul. Their dim sum lunch is to die for – deftly crafted translucent rice noodle rolls and tofu skin rolls stuffed with shrimps and chives.

In a main dining room and 32 private rooms, all exuding understated glamour, this place champions innovative and refined Cantonese fare. It serves hand-crafted dim sum, a rare thing these days. The menu has an array of double-boiled tonics, such as fish maw and ginseng soup. Pre-order to avoid disappointment. Round off the meal with black sesame sweet soup over milk custard for double indulgence. Other signatures include stir-fried flat rice noodles with beef, and juicy roasted goose.

Since 2018, Fa Sing Garden has been serving home-style Cantonese fare to hotel guests and other foodies. The brightly lit space boasts a tasteful decor, and there are a number of private rooms of various sizes. Along with signature dishes such as double-steamed chicken, lotus root starch pancakes, and soy-marinated chitterlings, the fried pork ribs in Worcestershire sauce are a must – the tangy sauce perfectly complements the tender, juicy meat.

Nestled in a printing plant-turned-cultural park, the two-storey restaurant boasts an airy, high-ceilinged dining room. Faux-industrial elements work well with wood and bamboo accents for a relaxed ambience. The menu features simple dishes with Sichuanese touches, such as the must-try poached fish with peppercorns on the vine – layered flavours contrast nicely with the velvety fish. Friendly service and sensible prices are also reasons to visit.