As Lunar New Year approaches, festive dining once again takes centre stage, and Summer Palace at Putrajaya Marriott Hotel sets the tone for 2026 with its thoughtfully curated celebration, “Ride into Prosperity – 骏启鸿韵”. Inspired by the symbolism of the horse, the menu reflects momentum, success, and auspicious beginnings — values deeply embedded in Chinese New Year traditions.
Under the guidance of newly appointed Executive Chinese Chef Linus Mak, the festive offerings showcase a refined interpretation of Cantonese cuisine. Chef Mak balances authenticity with modern finesse, presenting dishes that honour tradition while embracing contemporary elegance.
The meal traditionally begins with Prosperity Health Yee Sang(七彩金丝鸿运齐捞生), an essential ritual of the season. Summer Palace’s version is visually striking, layered with fresh vegetables and crispy golden strands, and elevated by a house-made pineapple sauce that lends a refreshing acidity. The lightness of the dressing allows the ingredients to shine, offering a cleaner and more balanced palate than conventional interpretations.
From the opening courses, the menu moves confidently into heartier fare. The Double-Boiled Free-Range Chicken Consommé is clear and nourishing, infused with premium Chinese herbs that provide warmth and depth — a comforting introduction amid festive indulgence.
One of the standout dishes is the Signature Roasted “Pei Pa” Chicken, a Summer Palace classic. The chicken is expertly roasted to achieve crisp skin while retaining succulent meat, complemented by fragrant garlic crisps that enhance both texture and aroma.
Seafood selections carry symbolic meaning, particularly in the Lunar New Year context. Guests may choose between a tangy Nyonya-style red snapper or a fragrant lemongrass-infused crispy barramundi, both prepared with finesse and representing abundance and prosperity for the year ahead.
Equally impressive are the Wok-Fried Tiger Prawns, offered in either curry butter milk sauce or black truffle oatmeal. The prawns remain plump and sweet, with each preparation delivering bold yet balanced flavours.
The meal concludes on a traditional note with House-Made Glutinous Rice Cake (Nian Gao), symbolising progress and upward growth. Soft, chewy, and gently sweet, it offers a comforting sense of nostalgia to end the feast.
Available from 2 January to 3 March 2026, Summer Palace’s Lunar New Year menu is offered through two festive set menus — Prosperity Set and Fortune Set — both designed for communal dining. With its emphasis on symbolism, craftsmanship, and refined execution, the experience delivers not only a celebratory meal, but a meaningful way to welcome the new year.
