Kowloon Shangri-La: Explore Lingnan cuisine at Michelin-starred Shang Palace

Lingnan cuisine, originating from Guangdong province in Southern China, is renowned for its delicate flavours and emphasis on natural ingredients. This culinary tradition not only offers a rich gastronomic experience but also reflects a deep connection with health and wellness. Coming up at Michelin-starred Shang Palace at the Kowloon Shangri-La, a feast awaits

Lingnan cuisine is a culinary tradition that celebrates the rich flavours and delicate techniques of Southern China, more specifically from the Guangdong area. It is characterised by its light, fresh and balanced approach to cooking, often incorporating steaming, stir-frying and braising methods. This style of cooking highlights the natural taste of ingredients, particularly seafood and vegetables, and is known for its harmonious blend of sweet, savoury and sour flavours.

This upcoming season, Shang Palace at the Kowloon Shangri-La is presenting its "Lingnan Menu", and the line-up is simply salivating for those who love their Chinese speciality cuisine. There is no better place to experience this culinary delight than at Shang Palace, which has just been awarded its Michelin for 2025 again. 

One of the key dishes in Lingnan cuisine is the Chilled Steamed Threadfin Fish with Pu Ning Soybean Sauce. This dish showcases the natural sweetness of the fish, complemented by the savoury depth of the soybean sauce. The fish is carefully steamed to retain its delicate texture, making it a refreshing and flavourful experience.

Another notable dish is the Traditional Deep-Fried Crab Patties, a renowned speciality from Shunde. These patties require meticulous craftsmanship, involving precise knife skills and the careful selection of ingredients. The result is a harmonious blend of texture and flavour, with a crispy exterior giving way to a tender and flavourful interior.

Lingnan cuisine has evolved over time, influenced by historical events and cultural exchanges. During periods of turmoil, such as the Opium Wars and the Sino-Japanese War, people adapted their culinary practices to incorporate available medicinal ingredients. This led to the blending of different traditions, enriching Lingnan's cuisine with new ingredients and methods.

In contemporary times, there is a growing interest in Lingnan cuisine, driven by an increasing awareness of health and wellness. Efforts to document traditional recipes and integrate them with modern science are crucial for preserving this cultural heritage while making it relevant to modern society.

Even in its dessert section, the mango and aloe jelly with lemongrass, is a refreshing way to end the meal. A light dessert that offers a balance of sweetness with a hint of citrus is the perfect way to cleanse the palate. 

Lingnan cuisine offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich culinary traditions of Southern China while exploring the intersection of food, health and culture. Whether you are interested in the delicate flavours of steamed fish or the medicinal properties of traditional soups, Lingnan cuisine invites you to discover a world of gastronomic delights and holistic wellness.

Also see: Kowloon Shangri-La: Shang Palace launches new menu of Cantonese classics