The Hotel Shanghai-La Toronto may have lost the restaurant Momofuku, but, it has gained another remarkable import: Mott 32 from Hong Kong, one of the world’s most awarded Chinese restaurants. Co-founded and managed by Malcolm Wood, Mott 32 has locations in Hong Kong, Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, Cebu, Vegas, Vancouver, and now Toronto. I had the pleasure of dining at the original Hong Kong “mothership” location in the basement of the Standard Chartered building. I reviewed it favourably, so I was eager to experience their newest addition.
The restaurant occupies three floors, each uniquely designed. The first floor features an inviting lounge and attractive bar with a separate menu offering dim sum and snacks. The second floor housed four exquisite private dining rooms, perfect for an intimate gathering. The third floor, where we dined, is spacious bright, and airy (unlike Hong Kong) with floor-to-ceiling windows and a central gazebo-like area. A quieter, darker, carpeted room off this space offers slightly larger tables and couches, providing a comfortable dining experience. The decor blends traditional and contemporary elements, with marble or wood tabletops, beautifully crafted wood and wicker chairs, Asian art, and custom lamps. The staff, dressed in navy pants or skirts with gold vests, is trained quite well,
Executive chef Lee Man Sing happened to be in town for the opening. Chef Sing formerly of Man Wah at the Mandarin Oriental, where he received a Michelin star, oversees the culinary operations. Mott 32 is renowned for its Peking Duck, sourced from Quebec, aged 42 days, and Applewood roasted. While the duck on opening night was delicious, it didn’t quite match the golden hue I remembered from Hong Kong- a detail that will likely improve over time. The duck either a $180 preparation or $300 is a three-day preparation and must be pre-ordered, and is served tableside in two courses: the crispy skin with brown sugar for dipping, and the meat with pancakes. I highly recommend ordering fried rice made with the leftover duck- it is a must-try- you’ll thank me later.
Another standout dish and my personal favourite was the Iberico pork with yellow mountain honey. It had my taste buds dancing with each delectable bite. I only tried the mushroom dim sum, and I felt it lacked a dipping sauce. Another signature dish is the smokey black cod. The menu overall is diverse and appealing, featuring Cantonese, Szechuan, and Beijing cuisines with various vegetarian and plant-based options. Chef Sing combines traditional Chinese dishes with Western cooking techniques and beautiful presentations.
The drink menu includes innovative bespoke cocktails and mocktails, as well as high-end curated wines from around the globe, and sake. I enjoyed the Forbidden Rose, a tropical drink with passion fruit, lychee purée, pisco, and a hint of chili, reminiscent of my drink in Hong Kong.
Mott 32 is open 7 days a week and will start serving lunch daily from July 26. This is not your typical Chinese restaurant, it offers innovative dishes using techniques like sous vide, wok frying, charcoal, and molecular gastronomy, using seasonal and unique ingredients expertly executed.
Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
09/21/2024
