From opulent feasts and dumpling-making to all-you-can-eat Yum Cha.
The festive season is far from over! Lunar New Year is just around the corner and this year the lunisolar calendar lands in the Year of the Dragon, bringing with it good fortune, wisdom and success.
To help you and your family celebrate we’ve rounded up some of our favourite food and festivities across Sydney and soar into the year ahead.
Sheraton Grand Hyde Park, Sydney
Looking to celebrate Lunar New Year in style this year? Look no further than Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park and treat yourself to a luxurious feast. Their extravagant Chinese New Year buffet promises a delightful blend of tradition and vibrant flavours, perfect for ushering in the Year of the Dragon.
For $150 per person, you can indulge in a seafood lover’s paradise with Sydney rock oysters, succulent tiger prawns, and fresh sushi, all presented with a festive twist. The hot buffet takes you through China, featuring classics like steamed barramundi with ginger and garlic, and roasted chicken glazed with a tantalising Kung Pao sauce.
But the celebration doesn’t stop there! Save room for an assortment of sweet treats, from the classic mango pancake to the comforting taro cake and coconut glutinous balls. Each bite symbolises prosperity and happiness for the year ahead.
To truly immerse yourself in the festivities, witness a captivating Lion Dance performance gracing the hotel lobby on February 10th.
Sheraton Grand Hyde Park is generously giving Eat Drink Play readers 25% off per person when booking via dining.sydney@sheraton.com.
Maestria, Rhodes
Looking for a sophisticated way to ring in the Year of the Dragon? Look no further than Maestria’s exquisite Shanghai Tea experience on February 11th. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the holiday with a delightful array of classic Chinese dishes, thoughtfully curated for the occasion.
Indulge in an elegant high tea spread featuring an assortment of delicate dim sum, savoury dumplings, and fluffy bao buns. Each bite promises a delicious blend of textures and flavours, sure to tantalise your taste buds. Elevate your experience with a succulent Morton Bay Bug dish prepared with crispy egg noodles and a touch of XO sauce for a burst of umami.
To top it off, a delightful mango pudding tart awaits, offering a refreshing and sweet conclusion to your festivities. Whether you’re gathering with friends or family, this celebration at Maestria promises an elegant and authentic way to welcome the Lunar New Year in style.
With both morning and afternoon sessions available, you can choose a time that best suits your plans. And at $88 per adult and $28 per child, it offers a celebratory experience without breaking the bank.
Discover the full menu and book your table here.
Luna Lu, The Rocks
Looking for a unique way to celebrate Lunar New Year? Luna Lu offers two enticing options, from a hands-on dumpling masterclass to an exquisite banquet overlooking Sydney’s iconic harbour.
Embrace The Art Of Dumpling Making:
Join Chef Pier Davide Maiuri, renowned for his work in Michelin-starred kitchens, for an immersive dumpling masterclass. Learn the secrets to crafting perfect dough, master traditional shaping techniques, and explore delicious fillings like seafood, duck, and vegetarian options. This engaging experience includes sparkling wine on arrival, personalised guidance from an expert chef, and the chance to savour your creations afterwards.
Indulge In A Lunar New Year Banquet:
For a truly memorable celebration, Luna Lu’s Lunar New Year banquet promises an unforgettable feast. Chef Maiuri has curated a four-course shared menu bursting with Asian fusion flavours. From decadent lobster and prawn rolls to melt-in-your-mouth barramundi, each dish is a symphony of textures and tastes. Enjoy stunning panoramic views, with the option to add a Moet Hennessy cocktail for an extra touch of luxury.
To add to the merriment, Luna Lu is also putting on an electrifying performance of lion dancers on Saturday, February 10th at 8:30 pm and Friday, February 16th at 8 pm! This traditional dance brings good luck and prosperity, making your masterclass or banquet truly unforgettable.
Discover both offerings and book your table here.
Jinja, Macquarie Park
Craving a taste of tradition this Lunar New Year? Jinja offers a delectable four-course banquet for $89 per person, curated by Chef Sebastian Tan and his team. Immerse yourself in an authentic Cantonese experience, perfect for welcoming prosperity and good fortune.
Begin your family feast with a trio of dim sum showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. Bite into an Abalone Sui Mai, savour the luxurious flavours of lobster truffle har gao, and delight in the vibrant colours of a jade dumpling. The Prosperity Ty Sheng salad, featuring salmon, seaweed, and daikon, promises a refreshing start before you head off onto the mains. Of course, no Lunar New Year feast is complete without Yangzhou fried rice, and Jinja’s rendition features prawn and char siu for a satisfying finish.
To elevate your experience further, consider adding Peking duck pancakes with all the classic accompaniments for $18 per person. Or if you’re feeling extra celebratory opt for a live lobster prepared in your preferred style – Singapore imperial chilli sauce or wok-fried with XO sauce – for a minimum of six guests.
Available from February 8th to 24th, Jinja’s Lunar New Year banquet is available during lunch or dinner service on weekdays, and dinner service only on Saturdays.
Discover the full menu and book your table here.
Legends & Lanterns, Chatswood
Looking for a unique way to celebrate Lunar New Year beyond the feast? Immerse yourself in a captivating musical experience at Legends & Lanterns, a concert series blending Eastern and Western traditions. Featuring acclaimed violinist Harmonnia Junus, renowned cellist Li-Wei Qin, and the Odyssey Symphony Orchestra, this event promises an evening of cultural richness and artistic excellence.
Held at The Concourse, Chatswood on February 11th and Sydney Town Hall on February 14th, the program showcases beloved pieces from the classical Chinese repertoire alongside Western masterpieces. Enjoy the lively energy of “Spring Festival Overture” and “Galloping Horses” and the evocative melodies of a special abridged version of Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto for Violin and Erhu.
Experience the virtuosity of Li-Wei Qin, lauded by The New York Times for his “beautiful tone” and “iron technique,” as he performs Saint Saëns’ Cello Concerto and captivating works by Brahms and Strauss.
Whether you’re a seasoned music aficionado or simply seeking a heartwarming cultural experience, Legends & Lanterns offers a unique opportunity to celebrate Lunar New Year with music that transcends borders.
Find the full details and book your tickets here.
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Sydney
Head to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo for their popular Lunar New Year event, returning after a three-year hiatus! This special experience combines everyone’s favourite furry friends with delicious dumplings, creating a memorable celebration for the whole family.
From February 9th to 13th and 15th, enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the zoo, where you can encounter iconic Australian animals like Princess the Cassowary, Ringo the Wombat, and adorable kangaroos and wallabies alongside a 30-minute all-you-can-eat dumpling feast! Indulge in classic flavours like chicken and celery, pork and chive, or vegetarian tofu and mushroom, as well as the signature xiao long bao, and crispy vegetarian spring rolls. To complete the festive experience, enjoy unlimited drinks including sparkling wine, red and white wine, beer, soft drinks, and juice.
With three dining sessions offered each evening, choose the time that best suits your plans. Tickets are $95 per adult and $75 per child, making this a fun and affordable way to celebrate Lunar New Year with family and friends.
Discover all the details and book your table here.
Sydney Place, Circular Quay
Circular Quay’s newest cultural hub, Sydney Place, invites you to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a vibrant program of events and exclusive retail offers from February 5th to 18th.
Revel in authentic traditions and witness the captivating energy of lion dances, a highlight of Lunar New Year celebrations that bring good luck and prosperity.
Several restaurants will also be offering enticing deals with free treats, discounted specialty dishes, and festive cocktails inspired by the Year of the Dragon. Sample juicy dumplings at BoBo Dumpling Bar, fire up with a spicy karaage donburi at Dopa by Devon, or quench your thirst with a complimentary yuzu drink at Sushi Yuzen.
Attendees also have a chance to win a truly unforgettable dinner. MATKIM, the brand new 8-seat restaurant, offers a unique Korean take on omakase, where the chef curates a bespoke dining experience based on your preferences. This exclusive prize is a must-have for any Sydney foodie.
Find all the details on the event and how to enter here.
Din Tai Fung, Various Locations
Din Tai Fung returns with their irresistible Lunar New Year offerings, combining tradition with playful innovation. From February 3rd to 24th, you can appreciate a selection of auspicious dishes designed to bring good fortune and joy.
The pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the limited-edition Dragon Bun. This adorable, steamy bun, shaped like a mythical dragon, is filled with rich chocolate lava and a touch of sea salt for a sweet and salty surprise. It’s a playful nod to the zodiac year’s symbol of power and prosperity, and a must-try for any fan of Din Tai Fung’s signature buns.
Of course, no Lunar New Year celebration is complete without a Prosperity Toss Salad (Yusheng). Gather your loved ones and participate in this age-old tradition. As you toss the sky-high salad of smoked salmon and 15 lucky ingredients, fueled by Din Tai Fung’s special plum sauce, share your hopes and wishes for the year ahead. Remember, the higher the toss, the better the fortune!
Beyond the iconic meals, Din Tai Fung presents a selection of additional dishes inspired by Lunar New Year traditions. Taste Black Sesame Mochi Balls that symbolise abundance, satiate your stomach with Dumplings & Wagyu Beef Spring Rolls representing good fortune, and relish the longevity-promising XO Prawn Stir Fried Noodles. For those seeking a touch of heat, explore the vibrant flavours of Mala Chilli Fried Chicken.
Discover the full menu and book your table here.
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