Ever since the Manila Prince’s Dragon Court reopened its doors last September, I’ve been wanting a taste of its esteemed menu. After all, this gastronomic destination is on a worthy mission: to preserve the restaurant’s cherished signature flavors while introducing a tantalizing array of new dishes, an endeavor that foodie who’s always on the lookout for delicious adventures fully supports.
Old-World Beijing Charm
The Manila Standard aptly described Dragon Court as emanating “old Beijing feels,” a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree with. Stepping into this restaurant transported me to a realm that seamlessly blended old-world Beijing charm with the excitement of contemporary Chinese cuisine.
Immersed in hues of red and gold, Dragon Court exudes an unmistakable aura of traditional grandeur. Dragon motifs, lanterns, and traditional arches gracefully adorn the restaurant, creating an ambiance that’s both regal and inviting. High-backed chairs encircle round tables equipped with iconic lazy Susans, ensuring an enjoyable, communal dining experience.
Well-Suited for a Myriad of Celebrations
Dragon Court proves to be an ideal venue for a myriad of celebrations. From intimate family dinners to larger get-togethers, this restaurant effortlessly caters to diverse occasions, making it a versatile destination for Chinese food enthusiasts seeking not just a meal but a memorable experience.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, Dragon Court offers private rooms that elevate the dining experience. I discovered that these spaces are not only perfect for intimate gatherings but also serve as splendid venues for Filipino-Chinese engagement ceremonies known as tinghun, adding a cultural and personal touch to special events.
Chinese Culinary Journey
The heart of Dragon Court lies in its culinary offerings, a diverse menu curated by Chef EJ Yap and her team. This tasty collection takes diners on a journey through classic and innovative Chinese delights, some of which I was able to enjoy during a recent visit with a friend.
Dimsum Delights
The dimsum offerings are a testament to the craftsmanship in Dragon Court’s kitchen. From the delicate folds of Xiao Long Bao (Php300/3pcs) to the burst of flavors in the Shrimp and Pork Siu Mai with Crab Roe (Php280/3pcs), each bite is a symphony of taste. The Steamed Shrimp Dumpling (Php240/3pcs), more commonly known as Hakaw, with its generous and succulent filling, further elevated our dimsum experience.
Savoring Soups
I can say that Dragon Court’s soul-warming soup selections certainly started our meal right. The Eight Treasure Wintermelon Soup (Php390), a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, and the Braised Assorted Seafood and Fish Maw Soup (Php320), a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, showcase the culinary prowess behind each creation.
Satisfying Mains
The main courses at Dragon Court are a celebration of the diverse possibilities inherent in Chinese cuisine. I can’t imagine a Chinese meal without Yang Chow Fried Rice (Php280), and this was no exception, as it pairs well with other delicious dishes such as another classic like the Sweet and Sour Pork with Pineapple (Php380).
The Vegetarian Stewed Eggplant in Clay Pot (Php320) offered a hearty and flavorful option, while the Braised Grouper Fillet and Vermicelli in Hotpot (Php420) was quite a sensory delight. On the other hand, the Fried Shrimp Ball with Mozzarella Cheese (Php680) presented a delectable surprise.
Sweet Endings
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet denouement, and Dragon Court delivered it in style with its Hot Almond Cream with Glutinous Rice Ball (Php120), a warm milky embrace for the taste buds, and the Mango Tapioca Pudding (Php220), which provided a refreshing and delightful conclusion to the feast.
Want a similar Chinese feast? Dine in at Dragon Court and take yourself on sumptuous journey through classic and contemporary Chinese cooking.
Dragon Court is located at Manila Prince Hotel, #1000 San Marcelino Street, Ermita, Manila near UN Square, open daily for lunch service from 11am to 3pm and dinner from 6pm to 10pm.
For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 53282222 local 1231 or email fnb@manilaprince.com.
Keep updated on Dragon Court’s menu and offers by visiting Manila Prince’s website or following the hotel on Facebook and Instagram.
Disclosure: Menu items were served at no charge in exchange for honest feedback and to facilitate this feature story.
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