If you frequent Asia, you’re probably already familiar with Crystal Jade restaurants offering traditional Cantonese and Teochew cuisine in 120 restaurants throughout the nine countries within the continent. Having been acquired by luxury brand LVMH, the popular chain opened up their first stateside eatery yesterday at Four Embarcadero Center in San Francisco.
Helping to accelerate the company’s international expansion efforts, L Capital Asia sponsored by LVMH invested in Crystal Jade in May of this year in order to enhance its wine portfolio and adapt its beverage menu to certain markets. Named, Crystal Jade Jiang Nan, the Bay Area spot underwent a $14 million dollar renovation in their new 16,000-square-foot home with 4,000 square feet of outdoor space. This will serve as the company’s United States flagship restaurant.
Inside the 308-seat main dining room, designed by San Francisco-based interior designer Ken Fulk used elements such as ceruse oak and river-washed stone to represent China’s majestic Yangtze River as well as his signature touches like British-Chinese exports, Chinoisserie wallpaper and English Regency furniture.
Jiang Nan will serve authentic regional cuisine from south of the Yangtze River, Cantonese roasted items and dim sum on the weekends (a local favorite). Guests can expect dishes like Xiao Long Bao, Spicy & Sour Seafood Chowder “Sichuan” Style, and Wood Oven Roasted Duck. Said to have been created by 35 culinary professionals, let’s hope the menu doesn’t serve as a “too-many-hands-in-the-kitchen” scenario.
Crystal Jade Jiang Nan is open for lunch in the Jiang Nan Dining Room and Flower Rain Terrace Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; brunch on Saturday & Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; dinner Monday-Saturday 5-11 p.m.; and Sunday from 5-10 p.m.
