Crystal Dragon at City of Dreams Manila celebrates the annual mid autumn festival with limited time dishes to usher in good luck. This was my second time at the plush Chinese restaurant in Crown Towers. Look out for the intricate details like an expensive crystal dragon centerpiece as well as peacock designs on the walls, together symbolizes the Emperor of China.
First course was a Roasted US Peking Duck (P3,880), done 2 ways. I’m not particularly fond of US duck because they are leaner than the usual ducks from China. I’ve tried a number from Peking Garden when there was a temporary ban on importation from China. This one from Crystal Dragon surprised me, the meat was juicy topped with a layer of crisp skin. There’s also a good amount of smoky flavor from the wood used in the roasting process. I enjoyed it but I’ll still miss the mouthfeel from a fatter duck.
Braised Sea Treasure Broth with Fish Roe (P720/per person). This is a new item on the menu and at first glance looks like the usual shark’s fin soup. Once you delve into the soup, you’ll see that the elements try to mimic the aforementioned soup. There’s a good amount of umami flavor plus a popping sensation from the fish roe to simulate the crispness of shark’s fin. For me, this one is much better as all the ingredients bring their own flavor to the mix.
Wok Fried Boston Lobster Tail with Spices (P2,980). Halved lobster tails with a tantalizing spiciness contained in a faux bird’s nest. Impressive as it arrived and delivers flavors in spades. The Boston lobster tails are a limited time item but the regular menu has lobster tails also.
I missed taking a picture of the Stewed Chicken with Chinese Wine Sauce, Taiwanese Style. That was probably the best 3 cups chicken rendition I’ve ever tried so far. Another in the limited item lineup that I hope they add to the menu permanently.
Steamed Marinated Pork Ribs with Sausage and Mushrooms. This looks like an pumped up dimsum dish that I love with the addition of the sausage and mushrooms. You’ll definitely be looking for some rice to pair with this dish.
Braised Sea Cucumber and Baby Abalone with Bean Curd in Claypot. My favorites from this homey dish are the broccoli florets and the bean curd.
Braised Shredded Duck Meat with Rice Vermicelli. This dish uses noodles that are half way between vermicelli and bihon, which yield a better texture in your mouth. The good amount of duck meat and shredded vegetables give it lots of flavor and crunch. A breath of fresh air after all the usual two way Peking duck dishes.
Dessert was their house made Snow Skin Moon Cakes in 3 flavors. There was a custard with strawberry skin, black sesame with chocolate skin, and lotus paste with pandan skin.
Crystal Dragon is one of the best Chinese restaurants in Manila serving authentic Cantonese cuisine under the helm of Executive Chef Bong Jun Choi.
Crystal Dragon
Upper Ground Floor, Crown TowersCity of Dreams Manila
Aseana Ave. cor. Roxas Blvd.
Entertainment City, Paranaque, Philippines
Contact No. (632) 800-8080
Operating Hours: 12 – 3pm, 6-11pm daily
Facebook Page: Crystal Dragon
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