Hyatt Regency Kolkata welcomed the Chinese New Year in style last month, with a vibrant feast for the eyes, ears and taste buds. A dragon dance performed by members of the Calcutta chapter of Hong Teck Sport Association greeted guests who later sampled Chinese delicacies from the new year buffet. 

The wide terrace overlooking the Waterside Cafe below was lit up red to match the occasion. The dragon dance was quite a spectacle, as the dancers, led by James Liao, donned fiery red dragon costumes and displayed their acrobatic skills to the musical accompaniment of drums, gongs and cymbals.

The dancers followed the guests down to the cafe for one last ritual, as the dragon danced its way along the corridor and blessed the food. More loud drumming echoed around the marble halls of the restaurant, and a long line of chefs cheered in unison, contributing to the mood of celebration.

The evening’s menu was curated by executive chef Clement D’Cruz. “The theme of this year is prosperity, and that’s what we hope we can bring to our guests with the food here,” he said. 

t2 left the venue feeling very prosperous, with a belly full of Chinese delicacies that were served along with a selection of cocktails to help wash the food down.

Text: Stuart Wood
Pictures: Rashbehari Das