Restaurant Guide: Chinese New Year

Nobody is entirely sure if it’s the year of the Goat, the Sheep or even the Ram. This guy here???which?translates?to ?yang? in Mandarin Chinese, fails to?translate’directly to?any of the above and has caused a lot of creature confusion. Regardless, Happy Chinese New year, whatever the animal Ewe decide?

Here’s our guide to Asian eats and happenings in Dublin this weekend:

Mak @ D6
Nestled in the heart of Ranelagh, such acutely stylish venues rarely last. But two years since opening its doors, Mak is arguably Dublin’s prime exponent of Dim Sum. They have it nailed with incredible food, an extensive cocktail menu and a laid back but buzzy atmosphere to match.

China Sichuan
On the more upscale side of things in Sandyford Industrial estate you will find this slice of China with its sleek fine dining. The kitchen turns out consummate Sichuan cooking time after time.

M & L
Behold, one of the few?establishments?that prepares an impressive list of authentic dishes that typify?authentic, non-western Chinese restaurants. Ask for the secret menu and be amazed. Frill free, but when you see that the Chinese locals eat here, you know it’s good.

777 (Sunday the 22^nd of February)

One time only Asian menu to celebrate Chinese New Year. What is this? When I think of my favourite Mexican, my mouth begins to salivate, my heart races a little faster, but upon reading this I was confused, unsure of how I felt. Can a leopard change its spots? I’ll definitely be curious enough to have to go find out for myself.

Now in its eighth year running, Dublin Chinese New Year will be running across the course of two weeks with hundreds of activities across the city showcasing Chinese culture and heritage to tickle anyone’s fancy. Ever wanted to build a Chinese kite? Get a Chinese astrology reading? Neither did I, but it does sound like fun. Check out the full events’schedule?here.?Xin nian hao!

Follow Irene Molloy on Twitter @Irenemolloy1