Not sure how I stumbled upon the car park and a number of restaurants, estate agents, and hair salons in Godwin Court, but I am glad I did as we probably wouldn't have tried Jade Garden. We were a bit worried about parking as the last two times that we have attempted parking in the car park, it was been really full, not to mention it is poorly set up so trying to navigate it is a bit of a nightmare when it is busy. This time we managed to find parking (for the evening, rates are 1 quid for up to 2 hours and 2 quid for 2 hours or more).
When we walked in, we were a little worried that there was only one couple dining in, but as I was browsing the menu, I noticed people coming in and collecting orders for takeaway. I also know that on nights later in the week, the place has usually been packed, so maybe Tuesday night isn't a popular night to dine out. The decor is quite modern, but rather minimal. Your eyes will not be assaulted. When we were seated, I did take notice that our table for two seemed quite large, however, it was welcomed because often the tables aren't large enough for just a couple of dishes.
They do offer a few dishes from Thailand, Japan, and India, but it is predominantly Chinese food. They seemed to have the usual selection of Chinese food, but I did notice at the back they had House Specials and the dishes looked a lot more traditional, like the food I had while I was studying in Shanghai. However, we did go with Meal Set B because I could have been there all night selecting all sorts of dishes. You will notice on the table that there are only chopsticks. If you wish to have different utensils, you will need to ask. When they serve the main dishes, you do get the traditional small bowl that you add your food to and eat from. After watching couples in other Chinese restaurants, I feel like I should say: It is ok to lift the bowl. It isn't rude, in fact it is how the Chinese eat as it is much more efficient. So dig in!
We did have Prawn Crackers while we were browsing the menu, they do cost 2 quid. With Meal Set B, there are three courses for 17.50 per person. Our first course was a plate of appetizers: King Dul Spare Ribs, Chicken Satay, Sweet and Sour Won Tons, Seaweed, Seasame Prawns on Toast. The ribs were lovely and so were the chicken satay. The Sweet and Sour Won Tons had a bit of a surprise for me as they were filled with a prawn stuffing. I don't think I have had a prawn stuffed won ton before, but it was quite nice. And I still don't like Seaweed or Sesame Prawns on Toast.
Our next course was Crispy Aromatic Duck. To be honest, I could eat Crispy Aromatic Duck all the time. Their version was good, but not my favourite, although kudos for the crispy, melty pieces of skin! Our final course was: Crispy Shredded Beef Peking Style, Special Fried Rice, Chicken with Oyster Sauce, and Seasonal Vegetables in a garlic sauce. I really thought it was going to be too much food, but everything was really well portioned. We left full, but not sickly full! I have to say, I haven't found very many restaurants with a fried rice that I like here, so it is a breakthrough that I like theirs. It had flavour, but it wasn't overly soy sauced (you know what I mean). We enjoyed all of the dishes and I am convinced that in order to get Mr. Snarky to eat more veggies, I need to cook them in the same fashion as Jade Garden.
We did give dessert a miss, however they do have a selection of ice creams, banana fritters, mousse, etc. if you are still a bit hungry. The service was efficient and friendly as well. They were also very accommodating for a group of 6 that seemed to have a lot of requests/amendments to the orders/dishes. As we were paying and Mr. Snarky was getting a VAT Receipt, I discovered why many may opt for takeaway rather than eating in... there is a 10% discount if you takeaway. Perfect: A discount for the same food and Mr. Snarky could eat with a fork! read more
