Gong Xi Fa Cai! Get ready to rumble with the rhythm of prosperity! When Chinese New Year rolls around, the streets come alive with the vibrant beats of drums and the energetic melodies of traditional music. It's not just a feast for the eyes but a full-on sensory extravaganza! (Note: Please find the video below, located near the end of the article or on YouTube ).

As the Year of the Wood Dragon roared in, we found ourselves amidst the opulence and excitement of the Grand Hyatt Manila, a beacon of 5-star luxury nestled in the heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), the Philippines' pulsating social and business hub. This wasn't just any celebration; it was a vibrant welcome to 2024, a year we all hoped would be brimming with luck and prosperity.

The performance was not just a feast for the eyes but also a cultural immersion, as the lion and dragon dancers weaved through the onlookers, bringing with them centuries-old traditions believed to usher in good luck, fortune, and prosperity. As the dance came to a close, we were showered with gifts: money coins, oranges for abundance, and gold chocolate coins for a sweet taste of prosperity, each a symbol of wealth and good luck, handed out by the lion dancers with playful grace. It was a moment of pure joy, liveliness, laughter, and camaraderie, and a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that makes celebrations like these truly memorable. These aren't your average backyard boogies; they're high-octane performances designed to kick bad vibes to the curb and roll out the red carpet for Lady Luck.

As the last echoes of the drumbeats faded away and the vibrant lion and dragon dancers took their graceful bows, we knew the celebration was far from over. With our spirits high and our appetites awakened by the morning's excitement, we ascended to the upper floor of the Grand Hyatt Manila, where the Grand Kitchen awaited us. Here, we were about to indulge in a buffet lunch priced at PHP 3,400 per person—a promise of a Lunar New Year / Chinese New Year culinary journey that would tantalize our taste buds.

 

Stepping into the Grand Kitchen is like entering a time capsule where contemporary chic meets vintage charm. The decor is a tasteful blend of modern lines and nostalgic touches, creating an ambiance that's both elegant and welcoming. And let's talk about the buffet strategy here – it's all about quality over quantity. Dishes are served in modest portions, ensuring every bite is as fresh as the first, and replenished with a frequency that rivals the beat of the lion dance drums.

The array of culinary selections at the buffet is both diverse and curated, featuring a limited yet exquisite range of dishes. Patrons can indulge in the succulent porchetta and the tender, slow-roasted beef brisket, each dish masterfully prepared to highlight its unique flavors.

Wander over to the kimchi bar, where a symphony of shallots, corn, radish, and cabbage awaits to add a kick of fermented finesse to your plate. Each variant is a testament to the rich tradition of Korean fermentation.

The dessert station is a visual spectacle, with an array of confections that are as pleasing to the eye as they are challenging to the sweet tooth. While the desserts may lean towards the sweeter side, they are nonetheless a celebration of indulgence.

Amidst these varied options, for me, the true standout is the ramen. Offered with two richly flavored broths—pork and miso—each bowl is a comforting embrace of noodles and savory depth. Accompanying this is the refreshing guava juice, a sweet and tangy beverage that cleanses the palate and refreshes the senses.

And for those who have a special fondness for potatoes, this place has got you covered.