Debra Li
ALL in all, traditional Berlin cuisine tends to be rustic and hearty, based on pork, goose, different types of fish, peas, beans and potatoes. Until Wednesday, curious diners can enjoy a "schnitzel" and a lager beer at the Seasons Restaurant, Kempinski Shenzhen, where a German food festival is being held.
Diners can try "Currywurst," a grilled pork sausage cut into slices and seasoned with ketchup or tomato paste blended with generous amounts of curry powder. Or, they can have a taste of "Eisbein mit Sauerkraut," pork knuckle, which is heavily marbled meat covered with a thick layer of crispy fat. The meat is tender and aromatic, braised for a long time and served on sauerkraut.
There are also the "Brezels" and of course unforgettable desserts like black forest gateau and mixed fruit tarts at the buffet bar. All the courses are prepared to perfection by the Kempinski culinary team led by German executive chef Martin Schaumburg.
Then, you cannot miss the taste of Paulaner.
For over a thousand years, German brew masters have perfected the craft and art of making beer. Its name stems from the Paulaner monks who first brewed the beer in 1627. During Lent (the abstinence period 40 days before Easter), which only allowed bread and water, the monks reasoned that beer could be drunk as "liquid bread" without violating their fasting promise. Their innovation soon spread outside the monastery permitting enjoyment for ordinary people.
For young Shenzheners, whose culture is always "go-go-go", Paulaner can bring a little "Gemütlichkeit" (coziness) into everyday hectic life. You would not want to consume it on the run, but rather invite family and friends for a pleasant get-together to enjoy Paulaner's rich and full taste.
The buffet also offers a wide variety of other popular choices like fruit and vegetables, salmon sashimi, fresh mussels, seafood barbecue, Thai style lobster soup, and Swiss ice-cream.
Prices: 228 yuan
Service charge: 15 percent
Hours: 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Dates: Oct. 10-24
Venue: Seasons Restaurant, Kempinski Shenzhen
