Chinese New Year celebrations are indeed a big deal in Durianburg’s Chinese community. It is the time when Chinese-Filipino families get together to catch up and wish each other good health and prosperity. The most important time for families to get-together is during the eve of New Year’s Day when everyone gets together to share a meal.
This new year, not unlike any other Chinese New Year eve, I spent it at the Lotus Court of the Marco Polo. The festivities started at the hotel’s lobby with the ceremonial dotting of the Lion’s eye. After a quick and energetic romp around the ground floor of Davao’s only 5-star hotel, we quickly made it up to the third floor where the Lotus Court is located.
At the Lotus Court, a sumptuous Chinese buffet greeted us as well as many of the hotel’s guests and diners. The auspicious spread featured some of Lotus Court’s signature items such as Peking Duck, Yin Yang Lapu-Lapu, Chili Crabs and savory seafood items and homemade tofu.
The also featured many new dishes such as Fu Sheng Prosperity Salad, Crispy Roast Pork, and tender Roast Beef Ribs that I am sure, will quickly become Dabawenyo favourites. For dessert there was the Traditional Tikoy or sticky rice cake in classic and Ube flavors.
Marco Polo Davao’s general manager, Dottie Wurgler-Cronin also took the opportunity to share the latest accomplishment of the Lotus Court which was recently recognised as one of the country’s best restaurants by the Philippine Tattler. “We are happy to be recognised by Tattler as one of the best restaurants in the Philippines and one of only five restaurants in Davao City to be given the accolate.” said Dottie. It can also be noted that the Lotus Court is also the only Chinese restaurant of the five.
Aside from the great food and even better company, the evening featured Chinese cultural performances by the students and teachers of Collegio de San Ignacio. The energetic dances and songs truly brought cheers of happiness to everyone who attended the event making it a crowing success!
Happy Year of the Rooster everyone! Gong Xi Fa Cai, Wan Shr Ru Yi!
