It’s
no secret that I love Chinese food and five minutes from where I work, there’s
a beautiful Chinese restaurant that everyone always raves about. Honestly, I
don’t think a day goes by in the office without someone mentioning Banquet. I
had been once with work and it was good: amazing food and a really lovely
setting. After a busy week, Fran and myself decided we’d treat ourselves
(thank you pay day!) and go for dinner on Friday after work.
One
of the things I like most about Banquet is the menu – there are so many unusual
dishes you can’t get from your standard takeaway. Who knew you could have
lobster so many ways? Of course there are all the typical dishes, you’d come to
expect, but those bonus ones are the ones you need to try! On my last visit, we were just sharing one of the set
menus so I missed out on finding out what else was in store. I recommend
checking out the website though, for a little insight!
Our
table was booked at 6pm, which gave us enough time after finishing work. At
this point, the restaurant wasn’t exactly busy, but it soon filled up as the
evening went on. We sat in one of the corners, in a booth, which was so much
more comfortable than sitting at a table. The plush leather seats were so comfortable;
I didn’t actually want to leave. And our spot was ideal for people watching –
and getting food envy! The service throughout was good, even as it got busier.
Our food came out quickly, but to the extent of us being rushed, the staff were
efficient and very attentive. I don’t think anything could be faulted.
To
start, we shared the dim sum platter. There’s actually a dim sum menu, with
steamed, baked and fried options, which will be well worth a go another time.
Fran had never had dim sum before and I’m constantly talking about the Ping
Pong chain at work, so needless to say we were both excited! We ordered the chef’s
selection, which were eight steamed options. Each was so flavoursome, even though
I think the majority of them were prawn. Looking at the menu, I think we tried
the prawn chive dumplings, the prawn dumpling with diced bamboo shoots and
possibly, the pork siu mai.
To
follow, we both selected some dishes to share and of course, I chose one of my
favourite dishes ever – fillet steak Cantonese style. This was honestly the
best version of the dish I’ve ever had – overtaking one of my favourite little
restaurants (Tim’s Palace in Ingatestone). The steak was poured onto the hot
plate at the table, immediately spitting away and sizzled for ages. The sauce
was sweet and sticky in equal measure and the pieces of fillet were plentiful
and so chunky. I accompanied the dish with egg fried rice, which soaked up the
sauce nicely. Fran
selected chicken with green pepper and black bean sauce, which was also very
tasty. You can’t really go wrong with black bean, but this wasn’t too saucy and
instead, was packed with veg.
We
also shared a portion of the mixed seafood crispy noodles, which are another of
my favourites. Whenever I’m at a restaurant, I’m always inclined to go with any
other noodle than chow mein, whether it’s crispy, rice or udon – and Tim’s no
longer serve crispy seafood noodles, so this was a no brainer. They were packed
with prawns, scallops and squid, as well as pak choy, carrots and mushrooms.
The noodles stayed crisp, despite being covered in oyster sauce and were a meal
in itself. I’d definitely go back just to have a plate of noodles. Banquet certainly
don’t scrimp on the portion sizes. I hadn’t even had lunch and we struggled to
eat everything!
Despite
being totally full, we did have a quick look at the dessert menu and it was
interesting to see things other than fritters or coconut ice cream listed! The ‘Hedgehog
Surprise’ intrigued and I’ll have to find out more next time. The golden bean
sponge and water chestnut cake also sounded very nice.
Booking
is recommended, especially on a Friday or Saturday – and children aren’t
permitted after 7:30pm, no matter what day it is. That said, it’s a great
restaurant for families, friends, or even for business. It’s definitely my new
favourite Chinese and I’m already planning my return.
Love,
Lucy xx
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Love, Lucy xx