China Garden

Critic´s Review

• Food: 4 / 5
• Service: 3.5 / 5
• Decor: 3.5 / 5

-By Rashmi Uday Singh

A seven-feet-tall Laughing Buddha welcomes you at the stylish reception area (waterfall, waterbody, et al.) and when you walk upto the first floor (of whizkid Eddy Wang's recently revamped Khar China Garden) a 14-ft-tall, black-and-gold Buddha adds zen to the sprawling earth-toned restaurant. Celebrities, buzz and Chinese food that offers comfort with variety and adventure here. China Garden remains packed with regulars like Sania Mirza, Shahid Kapoor and Rakesh Roshan. The great news is that the make-it-yourself Steamboat and Korean Barbecue have been introduced here. Do ask for them and add drama to your the table and ensure a leisurely, fun-filled meal. These are still not available in the Kemps Corner branch menu. Mockmeat remains a big seller. I may not be a fan of the okra and cauliflower doing bhangra and dandiya raas with kothmir, red chillies and raw onions. But boy! Do they have their fans. Garlicky Gin Chicken, tongue-tickling Pepper Chicken, Paneer Pepper Chilli and Kung Pao Potatoes impress if you like robust flavours tuned to the Indian palate. Give me the Authentic Gourmet Oriental menu any day. Gourmet Tim Sum (unusual Fish with Black Olives), Spicy Beans with Water Chestnuts, Smoked Chillies with Prawns.... my vote goes to these masterful combinations of flavours and textures! P.S. They've extended their hours until 1.30am, but the last order for food is taken at midnight. Two private dining rooms available following renovation, one that can accommodate 10-12 guests with DVD players, surround sound and a plasma screen (min Rs. 15,000 billing) and another that can be sectioned off from the rest of the restaurant with a sliding door for small parties (30-45 people).