As Chinese New Year approaches, the festive spirit is palpable and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a sumptuous meal with the tantalising aroma of delicacies and the warmth of togetherness. For those looking to combine tradition, heritage, and culinary innovation, Chinese Palace is the place to be. Nestled in the iconic KL Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall in Kampung Attap, this restaurant not only serves exceptional food but also offers a dining experience steeped in history and charm.

The KL Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall, gazetted as the first Chinese Cultural Heritage building in Malaysia, provides the perfect backdrop for the restaurant’s Nanyang-inspired design. With its carefully preserved fixtures and timeless charm, the venue exudes an ambiance that transports you to a different era—where stories of migration and tradition converge over fine dining.

Opened in December 2022, the restaurant is the brainchild of ten passionate friends who envisioned a place that honours their ancestral roots. Drawing inspiration from the early 20th century, when Chinese immigrants gathered at the hall speaking various dialects, the restaurant’s interior echoes the wooden ships that brought them to Kuala Lumpur. 

Under the expert guidance of the legendary Chef Master Frankie Woo, who now serves as Culinary Director, Chinese Palace offers an extensive menu of modern Cantonese cuisine infused with Western and Japanese influences. After a remarkable 11-year retirement, Woo has stepped back into the culinary spotlight, bringing with him decades of expertise and a passion for innovation.

A prodigy in the kitchen, Woo began honing his culinary craft at the age of 13. His illustrious career led him through prestigious five-star hotels and acclaimed restaurants in Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Renowned for his unique ability to harmonise diverse culinary traditions, Woo’s creations consistently push the boundaries of fine dining.

Before retiring, Woo was the visionary behind Gu Yue Tien at Chulan Square. At a time when individually plated course meals were predominantly a Western concept, he pioneered the introduction of Chinese fine dining, reshaping the culinary landscape and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

A New Spin on Tradition
Our meal began with a dish synonymous with Chinese New Year: the Yee Sang. However, Chinese Palace takes this dish to new heights with their Soft-Shell Crab and White Truffle Oil Yee Sang, made almost entirely of fresh fruits and organic vegetables. Vibrant ingredients like jackfruit, pomelo, and rose apple paired beautifully with their signature strawberry sauce, offering a refreshing twist on the typically sweet and tangy original. The crispy soft-shell crab added a satisfying crunch, making this a memorable start to the celebration.

Rich, Comforting Flavours
The Braised Superior Shark’s Fin Soup with Sea Cucumber and Fish Maw followed, a dish that radiated opulence. Each spoonful was a luxurious blend of textures and flavours, from the delicate layers of shark fin to the chewy richness of sea cucumber and fish maw. The crowning touch was the generous sprinkle of flying fish roe, adding bursts of crunch to this velvety broth—a dish that truly warms both the body and soul.

Signature Highlights
One of the most anticipated dishes was the Roasted Crispy Pigeon, a Hong Kong delicacy rarely seen in KL. Its golden, glossy skin glistened under the lights, offering a thin, buttery crunch with every bite. The meat was tender and flavourful, with a rich, gamey profile that struck a perfect balance between roast duck and liver.

Equally impressive were the Oven Baked Iberico Pork Ribs, which demonstrated the art of simplicity. Seasoned with just salt and pepper, the ribs were sinfully tender, allowing the natural flavour of the Iberico pork to shine. Served alongside a light salad of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and mayonnaise, this dish was a testament to the philosophy of letting quality ingredients speak for themselves. Pro tip: For those who enjoy a little kick, the in-house chili dipping sauce is a must-try—it elevates the already stellar ribs to new heights.

Fusion Perfection
Next came the Baked Fresh Water Prawn in Butter Sauce, a dish that epitomises fusion cuisine. The butterflied prawn was succulent and fresh, with a dollop of velvety butter sauce accentuating its sweetness. Beneath it lay a pool of lightly spiced curry sauce, further enhanced by crispy fried curry leaves. Each bite was an explosion of flavours that married tradition and innovation seamlessly.

Honouring the Classics
Chinese New Year wouldn’t be complete without a comforting bowl of Claypot Rice with Chinese Waxed Meat. The fragrant rice was drizzled with a sweetened soy sauce before being stirred to perfection. Accompanied by a separate platter of waxed meats flown in from China, including cured duck, liver sausage, and air-dried pork belly, this dish was a showcase of heritage and craftsmanship. The combination of smoky, sweet, and savoury notes was nothing short of sublime.

Ending on a Sweet Note
Dessert was a delightful affair. The Longan with Lemon Grass Jelly offered a refreshing close to the meal, with its light citrus notes and juicy longan pieces acting as a palate cleanser. Meanwhile, the Deep-Fried “Nian Gao” with Yam and Sweet Potato brought the celebration full circle. Symbolising progress and improvement, this layered dessert featured a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet filling—a perfect balance of textures and flavours.

A Space for Every Occasion
With its seven private rooms and a total capacity of 130 guests, Chinese Palace caters to both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. The largest private room, equipped with a karaoke system, adds an extra layer of fun for festive occasions. For those craving a lighter meal, the restaurant’s dim sum offerings – available daily for lunch – are a must-try.
Whether you’re celebrating the festive season, hosting a special event, or simply indulging in a luxurious meal, Chinese Palace promises an experience like no other.
To make your reservations, visit www.chinesepalace.com.my.