Recently, Executive Chinese Chef Anthony Ho presented his new tasting menu at Four Seasons Hotel Macao’s award-winning Chinese restaurant Zi Yat Heen. Savoir-faire in handling traditional cooking methods while featuring a modern approach to visual presentation is reflected upon subtlety in taste and minimalistic elegance. Chef Ho wows gourmets through simplicity that unveils his vast and profound interpretation of Cantonese cuisine, of which he is most passionate.
The memorable gastronomic experience commences with Zi Yat Heen Deluxe Appetizers. Dalian Sea Cucumber is marinated to perfection while Sichuan Peppercorn Chilled Foie Gras Cube with Fragrant Red Wine delightfully surprises with a light, sumptuous acidity that unfolds into a creamy finish with a hint of spiciness. Finger Lime Roasted Suckling Pig with Kristal Caviar and Gold Leaf woes the palate with its crispy texture and rich flavors combined with umami, spherical wonders.
Chef Ho’s mastery in using the wok as a tool to work his magic is revealed in his next dish, Sautéed Kagoshima A5 Wagyu Beef Cubes with Boletus Mushroom and Black Pepper Sauce. Each cube of beef still radiates a delicate amount of heat on the palate as the opulence of mushroom complements with sprinkles of peppery wonders.
Roasted Crystal Shi-Qi Baby Pigeon demonstrates Chef Ho’s awe-inspiring skills in temperature control as well as innovative ability to produce a recipe of Chinese spices for the purpose of marination, which precisely enhances the taste of the pigeon without covering its original flavor.
Another highlight of the meal, Inaniwa Noodles and Scallop in Lobster Bisque, delights with utmost simplicity. Elements of the sea are layered on a bed of noodles soaked in a decadent bisque created with four types of shrimp and lobster. The result is a match made in heaven, unveiling a spectrum of tastes that woo the senses while exhibiting understated elegance in a most nuanced manner.
A seasonal sweet conclusion to the spectacular gastronomic journey, Baked Egg Tartlet and Milk Jelly with Bird’s Nest and Chilled Passion Fruit is the choice for the summer. The jelly slowly melts in the mouth as the acidity of passion fruit enchants through complexities, sweet and sour, refreshing yet satisfying. The egg tartlet is the epitome of refinement, blending layers of textures in one bite.
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