MADAM KWONG’S RESTAURANT
155 Blenheim Rd, Riccarton
madamkwong.nz

A huge modernist box venue in an industrial part of town, with a glitzy urban aesthetic, from the light fittings to the 16-screen television wall. Madam Kwong’s is what you would expect to find in many hotel and mall restaurants in Hong Kong and Shanghai, and is quite different from the more homely/intimate or over-the-top gaudy options we’re used to in New Zealand. They’re open for lunch and dinner but the top pick dim sum is a lunchtime-only option and speedily à la carte – you’ll eat and spend more, but between a group (we were a quartet) it’s all very reasonable. The food was excellent, though be cautious if you have peanut allergies. The steamed pork mince and peanut dumplings and the coriander pork and prawn dumplings are to die for. Be brave with the black pepper-flavoured, steamed pig stomach, or opt for the safe but delicious runny custard buns. There are the usual claypot and sizzling plates on the menu too. We are probably going to be regulars from now on. It’s very busy at the weekends so you should book ahead. It’s what you make it, a bit flash or just casual, and a refreshing change from the usual dining experience if you fancy something a bit different.