At ‘RED’, Radisson Blu MBD Hotel Noida, the new menu brings the vibrant flavours of authentic Chinese cuisine to life. A perfect mix of traditional and modern dishes, it's a dining experience that’s bound to excite your taste buds, says SAKSHI PRIYA
Step into ‘RED’ at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel Noida and you’re instantly transported to the heart of China, where every dish tells a story. With a fresh new menu that celebrates authentic Chinese flavours, the restaurant brings together traditional recipes and innovative twists, promising a dining experience unlike any other. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat lover, the culinary journey here is one that caters to all tastes, with bold flavours and unforgettable textures that will leave you craving more.
The ambience of ‘RED’ is equally remarkable. With its dark, red-lit interior, the space exudes a cosy, intimate vibe, evoking the feel of an authentic Chinese restaurant. As you settle in, you know you’re in for something special. Ms. Sonica Malhotra Kandhari, Joint Managing Director of MBD Group, shares, “The RED menu has been meticulously crafted with our guests in mind. This menu reengineering underscores our commitment to authentic Chinese flavours.We look forward to welcoming guests to explore this exciting new offering.”
At the heart of this dining experience are the sauces , a crucial part of any authentic Chinese meal. ‘RED’ offers a variety of carefully crafted options, including the classic Chilli Black Bean, the Soya Chilli Coriander and their signature special sauce made with onion, tomato, chilli and garlic. And for those who enjoy a bit of spice and fermentation, the kimchi adds a delightful punch to any dish. The sauces truly elevate the experience and don’t forget to master the art of eating with chopsticks - a fun and authentic way to enjoy the full flavours.
Next up, I moved on to the Dim Sum & Bao section. The Truffle Edamame offered a delightful twist on the classic, with a subtle truffle flavour that complemented the beans beautifully, giving them a soft yet earthy taste. However, the Tofu Bao with Chili Bean Relish turned out to be my absolute favourite. The silken tofu paired with the chilli bean relish was a perfect blend of soft and spicy, all encased in a delicate, fluffy bao bun. This dish encapsulated the balance of textures and flavours that make Chinese cuisine such a treat.
Moving into the Appetisers, the Chilled Mould Tofu with Peanut Sauce was a refreshing change, delicate, smooth tofu dressed in a creamy, slightly tangy peanut sauce. As someone who isn't a big tofu fan, I found it intriguing. It’s a dish that might take some getting used to, but the pairing of tofu with peanut sauce certainly creates a unique, palate-expanding experience. This dish left a lasting impression, as did the Mogu with Dry Red Chili and Sichuan Pepper, a crispy fried button mushroom stir-fry that managed to stay crunchy even as it cooled. This level of attention to texture and flavour is a hallmark of authentic Chinese cooking, blending tradition with a modern twist. The bold, balanced flavours in each appetiser felt like a true celebration of Chinese culinary heritage.
Moving on to the main course, the Mapo Tofu was a definite standout. Known for its bold, spicy flavours, the tofu here was incredibly silky, bathed in a slightly fiery sauce that was rich yet balanced. For those who prefer their spice with a subtle twist, the Braised Style Eggplant with Sichuan Pepper Corn was another highlight. The tender eggplant soaked up the flavours of the sauce beautifully, creating a comforting dish with just the right amount of heat. If you’re after something more filling, the Red Signature Jasmine Bamboo Fried Rice should be your go-to. This fragrant dish, infused with exotic vegetables and bamboo shoots, was packed with flavour and left a lasting impression.
While ‘RED’ offers a delightful selection of vegetarian dishes, the restaurant’s non-vegetarian options are known to truly shine. As a vegetarian, I haven’t tried them personally, but from what I’ve heard, ‘RED’ delivers on authentic Chinese non-vegetarian flavours. Crafting exceptional Chinese cuisine in a vegetarian style is no easy feat, but Chef Sachin Malik and his team have truly excelled in creating vegetarian dishes that rival their meat counterparts. From Shandong Style Seafood Soup to Kung Pao Chicken and Braised Lamb, each dish offers a window into authentic Chinese cuisine. Reflecting on the culinary vision, Chef Sachin Malik, Executive Chef, reflects, “We aim to celebrate the vibrant flavours of China. Our new menu is a tribute to this culinary heritage, blending traditional elements with modern techniques, with Chef Ghanshyam Thapa’s expertise.”
The dessert menu is a lovely, light way to end the meal. The Matcha Baked Cheesecake stands out, with its creamy, indulgent dessert with earthy matcha notes that balance the sweetness. It’s rich, so sharing it with someone is a great idea to end the meal on a satisfying note without it feeling too heavy.
Beyond the food, the drinks at ‘RED’ deserve a special mention. The beverages selection is inspired by China’s rich cultural heritage, with classics like the Lion’s Tail and innovative creations like the Dragon on the Sky and Junshan Island Sundowner. For those preferring non-alcoholic options, the Chinese Tanic, with lychee, star anise and lime juice is refreshingly fragrant. Meanwhile, the Silver Tips, a ginger-infused drink garnished with dragon fruit, is the perfect quencher, ideal for pairing with the rich flavours of RED's menu.
‘RED’ offers a dining experience that celebrates both authenticity and creativity. The vegetarian options are exceptional, proving that creating perfect Chinese dishes without meat is possible. Chef Sachin Malik and his team have truly outdone themselves, making this a must-visit spot for anyone craving a true taste of China. Whether you're a fan of vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes, the menu offers something for everyone, ensuring that your journey through Chinese flavours will be a memorable one.
