Lee Hwa Modern Chinese Tapas & Bar offers a vibrant dining experience that redefines traditional Chinese cuisine through a contemporary lens. Situated in a stylish setting, the menu is a celebration of bold flavors and creative presentations, combining the rich culinary heritage of China with innovative tapas-style dishes.
This approach allows guests to savor a diverse array of small plates designed for sharing, encouraging a social and interactive dining atmosphere that caters to both food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and artistic flair is evident throughout the menu, where classic Chinese ingredients meet modern cooking techniques. With an extensive selection of cocktails and beverages complementing the food, Lee Hwa provides a sophisticated yet approachable experience.
Whether indulging in a night out with friends or seeking a unique meal, the menu’s diversity ensures there is something to excite every palate.
From the delicate balance of spices to the thoughtful plating, the Modern Chinese Tapas & Bar menu invites diners to explore a new dimension of Chinese gastronomy with every bite. The following sections delve into the various facets of the menu, highlighting signature dishes, bar offerings, and the culinary philosophy behind Lee Hwa’s success.
Signature Tapas Selection
The heart of Lee Hwa’s menu lies in its signature tapas, which skillfully blend traditional flavors with contemporary presentation. These dishes are crafted for sharing, allowing guests to experience a spectrum of tastes in one sitting.
Each tapa is designed to showcase a unique aspect of Chinese cuisine, from aromatic spices to fresh, local ingredients.
Among the standout items is the Char Siu Pork Belly Buns, a modern take on a beloved classic. The pork is slow-cooked to tender perfection, glazed with a savory-sweet sauce, and nestled in soft, fluffy bao buns.
This dish exemplifies the restaurant’s ability to honor tradition while introducing a playful twist.
Another popular choice is the Chili Garlic Prawns, which feature succulent prawns tossed in a vibrant chili-garlic sauce. The balance of heat and aroma makes this tapa an irresistible starter.
Additionally, the Five-Spice Duck Skewers offer a smoky depth of flavor, enhanced with a subtle hint of star anise and cinnamon.
Popular Signature Tapas
- Char Siu Pork Belly Buns: Slow-cooked pork with sweet glaze in steamed bao.
- Chili Garlic Prawns: Prawns sautéed in a spicy, aromatic sauce.
- Five-Spice Duck Skewers: Tender duck with a blend of traditional spices.
- Vegetarian Mapo Tofu Bites: Silken tofu in a mild, flavorful sauce.
“The tapas format invites diners to explore diverse flavors, making every visit a fresh adventure.” – Lee Hwa Executive Chef
Innovative Bar Menu
Lee Hwa’s bar menu complements the food with a curated selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers that elevate the dining experience. The bar emphasizes creativity, incorporating Asian-inspired ingredients and techniques that reflect the restaurant’s culinary ethos.
The cocktail list features unique creations such as the Lychee Martini, which blends the floral sweetness of lychee with a crisp vodka base. Another highlight is the Szechuan Peppercorn Margarita, where a subtle numbing spice adds an unexpected twist to a classic favorite.
Alongside cocktails, the bar offers an array of premium teas and Asian beers, providing options for all tastes and preferences. These beverages are thoughtfully selected to pair harmoniously with the menu’s bold flavors, ensuring a balanced sensory experience.
Featured Cocktails and Drinks
| Drink | Main Ingredients | Taste Profile |
| Lychee Martini | Vodka, Lychee Juice, Lime | Sweet, Floral, Crisp |
| Szechuan Peppercorn Margarita | Tequila, Lime, Szechuan Peppercorn Syrup | Spicy, Citrusy, Numbing |
| Jasmine Green Tea Cooler | Jasmine Tea, Gin, Mint | Refreshing, Herbal, Light |
“Our bar program aims to surprise and delight, offering drinks that are as inventive as the food.” – Head Bartender
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing the diverse dietary preferences of its clientele, Lee Hwa offers thoughtfully crafted vegetarian and vegan dishes that do not compromise on flavor or creativity. These options provide rich textures and bold tastes, showcasing the versatility of plant-based ingredients within modern Chinese cooking.
One notable dish is the Mapo Tofu Bites, which use silken tofu in a fragrant, mildly spicy sauce, delivering authentic flavors without meat. The Eggplant with Garlic Sauce is another favorite, featuring tender eggplant roasted and glazed with a savory garlic chili sauce.
The menu also includes fresh vegetable spring rolls and stir-fried greens seasoned with traditional Chinese herbs, providing light yet satisfying choices for vegan diners. These dishes demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and culinary excellence.
Popular Plant-Based Dishes
- Mapo Tofu Bites: Silken tofu with spicy bean sauce, vegan-friendly.
- Eggplant with Garlic Sauce: Roasted eggplant glazed in chili and garlic.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with mixed veggies.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly seasoned with garlic and ginger.
“Our vegetarian dishes are designed to be vibrant and flavorful, appealing to all guests regardless of diet.” – Lee Hwa Culinary Team
Seafood Specialties
Seafood plays a prominent role at Lee Hwa, with several dishes showcasing the freshest catches enhanced by distinctive Chinese flavors. The menu carefully balances the natural sweetness of seafood with bold sauces and spices to create memorable tasting experiences.
The Chili Garlic Prawns stand out as a crowd favorite, featuring plump prawns cooked in a fiery yet balanced chili and garlic sauce. Additionally, the Salt and Pepper Squid offers a crispy texture paired with a savory seasoning that highlights the freshness of the squid.
For those seeking something more delicate, the Steamed Sea Bass with Ginger and Scallions provides a silky, fragrant dish that is both healthy and flavorful. These seafood selections exemplify Lee Hwa’s expertise in marrying traditional techniques with modern tastes.
Seafood Tapas Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Chili Garlic Prawns | Prawns, Chili, Garlic, Soy | Spicy, Aromatic, Umami |
| Salt and Pepper Squid | Squid, Salt, Pepper, Flour | Crispy, Savory, Lightly Spiced |
| Steamed Sea Bass | Sea Bass, Ginger, Scallions, Soy | Delicate, Fragrant, Clean |
“Our seafood dishes highlight the natural flavors enhanced by traditional Chinese seasonings.” – Seafood Specialist
Meat and Poultry Delicacies
Lee Hwa’s meat and poultry offerings are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to rich flavors and expert cooking methods. Each dish is carefully prepared to maximize tenderness and depth of taste, often incorporating signature Chinese spices and sauces.
Among the highlights is the Five-Spice Duck Skewers, marinated overnight in a fragrant blend of spices that infuses the meat with warmth and complexity. The Char Siu Pork Belly is another star, featuring succulent pork belly glazed with a sweet and savory sauce that caramelizes beautifully under the heat.
The menu also includes Ginger Soy Chicken Wings, which are crispy on the outside and tender inside, offering a perfect balance of sweet and salty. These dishes demonstrate Lee Hwa’s ability to elevate traditional Chinese meat plates to elegant tapas.
Signature Meat Plates
- Five-Spice Duck Skewers: Marinated duck with aromatic Chinese spices.
- Char Siu Pork Belly: Tender pork belly with sweet-savory glaze.
- Ginger Soy Chicken Wings: Crispy wings with ginger and soy marinade.
- Beef and Black Bean Stir Fry: Tender beef in a rich black bean sauce.
“Our meat dishes blend traditional flavors with modern techniques to create bold, memorable bites.” – Head Chef
Desserts and Sweet Endings
To conclude the meal, Lee Hwa offers a selection of desserts that are both satisfying and reflective of the restaurant’s innovative spirit. These sweet treats combine classic Chinese ingredients with contemporary culinary artistry.
The Matcha Tiramisu is a standout dessert, melding the earthy bitterness of matcha with the creamy richness of traditional tiramisu layers. Another favorite is the Black Sesame Ice Cream, which provides a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the meal’s spicier elements.
For something lighter, the Lychee and Mango Pudding offers a refreshing, fruity finale. Each dessert is thoughtfully crafted to provide a harmonious balance of textures and tastes, making for a memorable end to a flavorful journey.
Sweet Menu Highlights
- Matcha Tiramisu: Green tea layered dessert with creamy mascarpone.
- Black Sesame Ice Cream: Nutty and smooth frozen treat.
- Lychee and Mango Pudding: Light, fruity, and refreshing.
- Ginger Honey Cake: Moist cake with subtle warmth from ginger.
“Our desserts are designed to balance the meal, offering subtle sweetness and unique flavors.” – Pastry Chef
Philosophy Behind the Menu
The essence of Lee Hwa’s Modern Chinese Tapas & Bar menu lies in its philosophy of blending tradition with innovation. The culinary team is passionate about preserving the integrity of Chinese flavors while reinterpreting them through modern techniques and presentation styles.
This philosophy extends beyond just the food to include the overall dining experience, encouraging sharing, exploration, and discovery. The tapas format itself reflects this mindset, promoting a communal atmosphere and allowing guests to customize their meals according to their preferences.
Ingredient sourcing is another pillar of the philosophy, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal, and high-quality components. This attention to detail ensures that each dish is vibrant and authentic while pushing the boundaries of what modern Chinese cuisine can be.
“Our goal is to honor tradition while inspiring new culinary experiences that resonate with today’s diners.” – Lee Hwa Culinary Director
| Philosophical Element | Implementation |
| Tradition | Use of classic Chinese spices and techniques |
| Innovation | Modern plating and tapas-style sharing |
| Quality | Fresh, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients |
| Experience | Social and interactive dining atmosphere |
Conclusion
Lee Hwa Modern Chinese Tapas & Bar offers a dynamic culinary journey that reimagines Chinese cuisine with elegance and creativity. The thoughtfully curated menu balances authentic flavors with contemporary influences, providing guests with a diverse range of dishes that are both familiar and exciting.
From the meticulously prepared tapas to the inventive bar menu, every element is crafted to delight the senses and encourage sharing.
The restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients, innovative techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a standout destination for those seeking a fresh take on Chinese dining. Whether enjoying the bold spices of meat and seafood dishes or savoring the delicate notes in vegetarian and dessert selections, diners are invited to explore a rich tapestry of flavors in small, shareable portions.
Ultimately, Lee Hwa’s Modern Chinese Tapas & Bar is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that blends tradition with modernity, inviting guests to discover the vibrant possibilities of Chinese cuisine in a relaxed, sophisticated setting.
For those looking to indulge in exceptional food paired with creative drinks, Lee Hwa sets the standard for modern Chinese dining in a tapas format.
