Taj reopens Golden Dragon; Wasabi, Harbor Bar slated for Dec 1

MUMBAI: Last evening, when the iconic Taj Palace threw open the doors of the `Golden Dragon', its Sichuan restaurant, the new guests and old patrons alike were in for a pleasant surprise.

Without much fuss, the Ratan Tata-owned hotel reopened the restaurant in a contemporary new look on the eve of the 26/11 terror attacks.

A noble and royal Golden Dragon with a soothing water feature welcomed guests into the restaurant. The decor sported traditional symbols that clung to the oriental trend which is key to the menu and services of the restaurant.

Bookings were full on the opening night as guests walked in as a gesture of solidarity with victims of the tragic events of last year, when gunmen burned down parts of the heritage hotel including the restaurant.

Dragon-patterned panels adorn the walls, while rice paper and etched glass work are spread over the restaurant space. White porcelain on ivory lacquer furniture pieces sit in the 36-year-old eatery, India's first which caters to the authentic Sichuan palate.

The focal point of the Golden Dragon was and is its live kitchen, which enhances the dining experience as patrons watch the chefs in action.

Golden Dragon is understood to have introduced over 50 new dishes on the reopening.