Da Dining, located on the 26th floor of Centec Tower in TP HCM, offers a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends modern Chinese cuisine with performance art. The restaurant aims for cuisine and art to tell a shared story, rather than existing as two separate experiences.

The ambiance of Da Dining draws inspiration from Wong Kar-wai's film "In the Mood for Love" and 1960s Hong Kong (China) cinema. Lighting, music, and interior design are carefully chosen to guide emotions throughout the experience, creating an immersive atmosphere.

Instead of separating performances from the meal, elements such as music, lighting, artists' movements, and the precise timing of food service are arranged to create a continuous narrative. This integrated model is ideal for gatherings, dates, or celebrations, allowing diners to enjoy dishes while immersing themselves in the performance space.

Head chef Michael Luong oversees the culinary program, which focuses on modern Chinese cuisine built upon traditional techniques. Chef Michael blends Western culinary philosophy with local ingredients to craft contemporary dishes that are both innovative and rooted in heritage.

"The Duck" – a 14-day dry-aged truffle roasted duck, stands as a signature dish. The aging process ensures the skin achieves distinct crispiness, while controlled temperature roasting keeps the meat tender and juicy. This dish also serves as a highlight of the dinner; served under a distinctive lighting system, it draws diners' attention to the table, creating a moment of connection between cuisine and the stage.

Fanglanx leads the creative direction for the art program, which embraces a contemporary spirit while evoking Chinese performance art. On friday evenings, Da Glamour recreates the atmosphere of early 20th-century Shanghai (China) with qipao, jazz music, and a cinematic performance style.

On saturday evenings, Da Imperial draws inspiration from Chinese imperial aesthetics. Costumes, music, and stage language are updated with a modern flair, creating a distinct weekend experience for guests.

By Thy An

Photos: Da Dining