Nestled within the luxurious confines of Solaire Resort, Red Lantern promises an unparalleled journey through the diverse flavors of China. From the rich culinary traditions to modern takes on iconic dishes, this restaurant stands out as one of the finest purveyors of Chinese cuisine in Metro Manila. Particularly renowned for its exquisite dim sum, Red Lantern offers diners a mesmerizing exploration of taste, texture, and refinement. During our visit, we’ve indulged in a wide selection of their offerings, and each dish left a lasting impression.
Dim Sum Selections: Squid Ink Har Gow (Prawn)
This delicate dumpling features the briny essence of squid ink, enveloping plump, juicy prawns. The squid ink adds a mild, earthy richness, beautifully complementing the sweetness of the prawn. The har gow’s translucent wrapper was thin yet firm, creating a perfect bite-sized delight. A truly memorable twist on a classic dim sum dish. Crystal Vegetable Bun. Steamed to perfection, these buns presented a wonderful balance of texture and flavor. The filling, made from a medley of fresh vegetables, was light, crunchy, and subtly seasoned. It was an ideal palate cleanser, preparing you for the next decadent bite without overpowering the senses. Steamed Scallop with Black Truffle and Bok Choy Dumpling This sophisticated dumpling marries the rich umami of black truffle with the sweetness of scallops. The bok choy adds a refreshing crunch, while the earthy truffle aroma permeates each bite, elevating the dish to a level of fine dining artistry.
Prawn Pumpkin Soup with Abalone, Scallop, Shrimp, and Pumpkin Chips. This hearty and vibrant soup was a delightful combination of land and sea. The creamy pumpkin base was velvety, with a natural sweetness that paired beautifully with the seafood trio. Each spoonful was a symphony of textures, from the tender abalone to the crisp pumpkin chips. It’s an ideal dish for those looking for something luxurious and comforting.
Main Course: Braised USDA Beef Short Ribs with Chinese Herbs and Seasonal Vegetables in Sichuan Spicy Sauce. The short ribs were exceptionally tender, with the Sichuan spicy sauce adding a fiery depth that balanced the richness of the meat. Infused with aromatic Chinese herbs, the dish felt both traditional and indulgent. The seasonal vegetables provided a fresh contrast to the rich flavors, while the hint of spice lingered pleasantly on the palate.
Quinoa & Spinach with Fish Stock. This dish was a lighter offering, with the delicate fish stock infusing the quinoa and spinach with a subtle, savory flavor. It was a perfect counterpoint to the richer beef dish, offering a healthy yet flavorful option that didn’t compromise on taste.
Wok-Fried Noodles with Black Pepper Sauce, USDA Scallop, Sautéed Bok Choy, Chinese Cabbage, and Carrot. The wok-fried noodles were beautifully executed, with a slight smokiness from the wok and a gentle kick from the black pepper sauce. The USDA scallops were tender and perfectly seared, while the bok choy and cabbage added a satisfying crunch. The noodles were coated in just the right amount of sauce, making each bite an explosion of flavor.
Dessert: Chilled Snow Lady. This refreshing dessert was the perfect end to a decadent meal. The chilled snow lady, with its icy texture and subtle sweetness, was light and satisfying without being too rich. It was a wonderful palate cleanser after the main courses. Chinese Red Dates Rolls Glazed Fresh Mango. A unique fusion of sweet and tangy, the red dates rolls were soft and chewy, with the fresh mango providing a zesty contrast. The glaze enhanced the overall sweetness, making it a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth. Baked Honey Cake served with Mango Sauce and Cinnamon Blueberry Sauce. The honey cake was moist and fragrant, with the rich sweetness of honey permeating each bite. The accompanying mango and cinnamon blueberry sauces added layers of flavor, making the dish feel like a dessert from both East and West. The tartness of the blueberry perfectly balanced the richness of the cake.
Dining at Red Lantern was a culinary journey through some of the most refined and authentic Chinese dishes we’ve experienced in Metro Manila. Each dish was masterfully crafted, with a perfect balance of traditional flavors and modern interpretations. The dim sum alone is worth the visit, but the entire menu reflects a commitment to excellence that is sure to impress. Whether you are a fan of bold, spicy flavors or delicate, subtle dishes, Red Lantern offers something for every palate. A must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable Chinese dining experience in a luxurious setting.
