Our Lunar New Year Picks

Bambudda–Owner Ray Loy of C, Bacchus, and Shangri-La Market fame marries a sophisticated cocktail program with a smart fusion menu. Jan 31-Feb 9, the Gastown room’s CNY menu offers whimsical à la carte creations and matching cocktails to impress: the rum-based Last Dynasty, a fiery Dragon’s Descendant, and the Red Packet, laced with cassia bark-infused tequila.

Chinese New Year Parade–This cavalcade is always a riot of colour and culture. Starting at the Millenium Gate, the parade winds through Chinatown to the beat of the Lion Dance and the fanfare of over 50,000 spectators.

Richmond–Tonight’s countdown at Aberdeen Centre, Aberdeen’s ongoing festivities, and sumptuous 10-12 course Spring Festival feasts at the Jade or Empire Seafood Restaurants all evoke Asia at its most anticipatory.

Shangri-La–The Xi Shi Lounge (January 31 to February 28) delivers a rare high tea. The bill of fare includes savoury and sweet: curried tofu and almond wraps, duck spring rolls, smoked salmon bagels with yuzu mayonnaise, coconut rice cake, black sesame rice balls in ginger soup, green tea opera cake. And icing on top: guests born in any Year of the Horse receive a complimentary high tea. Monday to Wednesday, take your tea to the soothing sway of traditional erhu and flute soloists.