Chinese cuisine and its delicacies are very popular among the Georgian gourmands. However, it’s not always easy to choose the right place to head to for authentic traditional Chinese dishes prepared with professionalism and care.
For those looking for original Chinese spirit and the chance to enjoy quality service along with extremely tasty delicacies, Ensemble restaurant, on the second floor of Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi, is a must-visit.
Ensemble Restaurant offers 100 authentic dishes from different regions of China, boasting a unique culinary experience with the presence of 8 Chinese chefs specially brought in, each adding their expertise to create an authentic and exceptional dining journey.
The restaurant offers its guests five private rooms for maximum comfort, seamlessly designed for both meetings and dining, offering an exclusive ambiance for intimate gatherings and exquisite culinary experiences.
Notably, in 2023, Ensemble Restaurant was named the winner of the World Luxury Restaurant Awards in 2 categories: Authentic Cuisine: Country, and Chinese Cuisine: Regional.
This award is yet another recognition of the dedication and professionalism of the Ensemble team, and appreciation of their passion to gift their guests unforgettable moments.
To find out more about the restaurant’s culinary traditions and its exciting offers, GEORGIA TODAY spoke to its manager, Rocky Wang, who revealed many exciting things and novelties about Ensemble restaurant, and Chinese culinary traditions in general.
Please tell us about your professional experience, prior workplaces and why you came to Georgia.
I graduated from Svenska För invandrae skolan in Karlstad, Sweden, in 2017. Following my education, I embarked on a fulfilling career journey. From June 2012 to October 2020, I owned and operated Restaurant Nya Peking in Karlstad, Sweden, renowned as the premier Chinese restaurant in the city.
In November 2020, I transitioned to a new role as the Director of Food & Beverage at Expo Hot Spring Hotel in Beijing, a prestigious 5-star establishment. Overseeing various departments including F&B Sales, Banquet Service, Chinese & Western Restaurants, and more, I contributed to the hotel’s success in catering to both local and international guests.
Now, I’ve found my way to Georgia, attracted by its vibrant culinary scene and welcoming atmosphere. I was appointed as the manager of this restaurant in 2023, and I’ve been proud to call Georgia home since then, bringing my wealth of experience to contribute to the hospitality industry here.
Tell us about some exciting Chinese culinary traditions. What distinguishes it from others worldwide and why does it attract gourmands so much?
Cantonese cuisine stands out among the world’s culinary traditions for its rich heritage and meticulous preparation techniques. As one of the eight major Chinese cuisines, it blends the essence of Guangzhou, Chaozhou, Dongjiang Hakka cuisine, and more.
What distinguishes Cantonese cuisine is its emphasis on knife work, showcasing intricate cutting skills that enhance the visual appeal and texture of the dishes. Moreover, Cantonese cuisine is known for its diverse and abundant ingredients, ranging from seafood delicacies like shark fins, abalone, and sea cucumber to fresh river fish and jellyfish.
A hallmark of Cantonese cooking is its commitment to preserving the original flavors of ingredients, often showcased through slow-cooked soups, braised dishes, and stews.
How different is Chinese cuisine from Georgian? What are some similarities?
From a culinary perspective, Chinese and Georgian cuisines showcase distinct characteristics shaped by their respective cultural backgrounds and regional influences.
Chinese cuisine is renowned for its diversity, incorporating a wide array of ingredients such as rice, noodles, vegetables, meats, and seafood. Bold and varied flavors are achieved through the use of ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and an assortment of spices. Cooking techniques range from stir-frying and steaming to deep-frying and braising, offering a plethora of textures and flavors.
On the other hand, Georgian cuisine is characterized by its rich and aromatic flavors, often accentuated by the use of walnuts, pomegranates, and unique herbs. The emphasis is on hearty dishes featuring meats like lamb and poultry, complemented by flavorful sauces and spices. Cooking methods typically involve grilling meats and baking bread in traditional clay ovens, adding depth and complexity to the dishes.
Despite these differences, there are some potential similarities between the two cuisines. Both Chinese and Georgian cuisines feature variations of dumplings, such as dim sum in China and Khinkali in Georgia, showcasing a shared love for stuffed dough. Additionally, both culinary traditions prioritize the use of fresh, seasonal produce and exhibit regional variation, with different provinces in China and regions in Georgia boasting their own specialties and cooking styles. Furthermore, rice and grains serve as staple foods in both cuisines, albeit with variations in types and preparation methods.
Chinese cuisine is very popular in Georgia. Which dish (dishes) offered at Ensemble restaurant are among visitor favorites?
Chinese cuisine enjoys popularity in Georgia, with several dishes at Ensemble restaurant standing out as visitor favorites. Among the offerings, the roasted duck with sweet and chili sauce tends to be a top choice for many patrons. The succulent duck, roasted to perfection and served with a delectable sweet and spicy sauce, captivates diners with its irresistible flavors.
Additionally, the shrimps with garlic on an iron skillet garner significant attention from visitors. This dish features plump and juicy shrimps cooked to perfection on a sizzling iron plate, infused with aromatic garlic flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
Another popular option is the fried beef with green and jade sauce. Tender beef slices are stir-fried with vibrant green vegetables and a savory jade sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that delights diners.
Lastly, the roasted Cantonese egg tart is a favorite dessert choice among patrons. With its flaky pastry crust and rich, creamy custard filling, this traditional Cantonese delicacy offers a delightful conclusion to a satisfying meal at Ensemble restaurant.
Tell us more about the menu and your signature dishes.
Our menu at Ensemble restaurant features an array of signature dishes that highlight the diverse flavors and culinary excellence of Chinese cuisine. Among these standout offerings are the Xinjiang spicy chicken, renowned for its bold and aromatic spices that create a tantalizing flavor experience.
Additionally, our selection of stir-fried noodles encompasses a variety of options, each crafted with precision and attention to detail. From classic favorites to innovative creations, our stir-fried noodles showcase the versatility and richness of Chinese culinary traditions, satisfying the cravings of discerning diners.
These signature dishes exemplify our commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences, with flavors that leave a lasting impression on every palate.
What about the chefs preparing those delicacies and their experience? Are all of them from China?
Yes, our chefs at Ensemble restaurant are all from Guangdong, China, bringing years of experience in Cantonese cuisine from esteemed hotels across China. Their expertise ensures that every delicacy prepared at our restaurant maintains an authentic and high-quality taste that delights our customers.
Along with delicious dishes, the general environment is also important. Tell us about the interior and decorations of the restaurant.
Our restaurant boasts a traditional Chinese architectural design, creating an ambiance that immerses diners in an authentic cultural experience. With seating for up to 120 guests, including five separate private rooms, each named after a major city in China, we offer a comfortable and intimate setting for patrons to enjoy their dining experience.
The restaurant has five private rooms, seamlessly designed for both meetings and dining. Tell us more about them.
Our five private rooms are meticulously designed to provide an ideal setting for various occasions, blending functionality with elegance. Each room offers excellent privacy, making them perfect for intimate gatherings, whether it’s a cozy get-together with friends and family or a formal business banquet. The seamless design ensures that guests can enjoy their dining experience in a comfortable and exclusive environment, enhancing the overall enjoyment of their visit to our restaurant.
To conclude, what makes Ensemble restaurant distinguished from other Chinese restaurants in Tbilisi?
Ensemble restaurant stands out among other Chinese restaurants in Tbilisi for several reasons. Firstly, our restaurant boasts superb upscale decor, creating an ambiance that exudes elegance and sophistication. Secondly, we pride ourselves on serving authentic traditional Chinese cuisine, prepared by experienced chefs from Guangdong, China, ensuring that every dish captures the true essence of Chinese culinary traditions. Lastly, as the largest Chinese restaurant in Tbilisi, we offer ample seating and spacious dining areas, providing our guests with a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. These distinctive features combine to make Ensemble restaurant a premier destination for those seeking an unparalleled Chinese dining experience in the heart of Tbilisi.
It blends Xinjiang delicacies with the exquisite flavors of Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine, creating a diverse tapestry of tastes to indulge every palate.
BY ANA DUMBADZE
