Ring in the Year of the Dragon at Sumiao Hunan Kitchen

WeChat Version in Chinese:

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is a 15-day festival in China and Chinese communities around the world. Legend has it that thousands of years ago a monster named Nian (“Year”) would attack villagers at the beginning of the year. The villagers would use loud noises, bright lights, and the color red to chase the monster away. It is now tradition to celebrate with these things, along with firecrackers, red clothing and decorations, and lanterns. People are often given money in colorful red envelopes. It is a time for feasting and visiting with family members to honor relatives who have died.

The first day of the New Year begins at midnight and continues after the New Year’s Eve celebration and family reunion dinner. It is a traditional practice to light fireworks, burn bamboo sticks and firecrackers, and to make as much of a din as possible to chase off the evil spirits as encapsulated by nian of which the term Guo Nian (过年) was derived.

Chinese New Year 2024

Year of the Dragon

2024 is the Year of the Dragon, beginning on February 10th, 2024. The Dragon is also associated with the years 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, and 1952. People born in Dragon years usually possess natural courage, tenacity, and intelligence, often displaying enthusiasm and confidence.

In Chinese culture, the Dragon holds a significant place as an auspicious and extraordinary creature, unparalleled in talent and excellence. It symbolizes power, nobility, honor, luck, and success. Consequently, 2024 is forecasted to bring about opportunities, changes, and challenges. If you’re seeking a shift in your current lives, this year might offer a favorable chance.
The act of greeting and blessing during Chinese New Year is called 拜年 (bài nián), which literally means to pay a visit to family and friends for the New Year with gifts. In return, the grandparents and elders will give the younger generation red envelopes (Hong Bao). The money in red envelopes is also known as 压岁钱(yā suì qián). Literally, it is “money to anchor the year.” By giving the children the money, the elders also hope to pass on a year of good fortune and blessings.

It is our tradition at Sumiao to give colorful red envelopes to our guests and we will be doing so during dinner service on Chinese New Year’s Eve for all dine-in guests. Those who place takeout orders will receive something special, too!

Chinese New Year Dishes

Chinese New Year consists of lots of celebrations, and food is one of the best ways to spread cheer and joy. Here are the special dishes we’ll be featuring for Chinese New Year and throughout the month of February.

1. Tiger Skin Pork Belly With Pickled Cabbage
2. Festival Flying Fish
3. Family Reunion Delight
4. Chicken Stew with Dates
5. Velvet Mushroom with Celery
6. Rainbow Tangyuan Pot
7. Yellow Dragon Egg Tofu
8. Kung Hei Fat Choy Ricecake

January Drink Special

We’re so excited to share our new cocktails with you! Celebrate both Chinese New Year and the season of love with these new offerings.

From left:

1. Paloma’s Kiss – Tequila Blanco, Strawberry Puree, Grapefruit Soda, Agave
2. Dragon’s Tail – Baijiu, Honey-Infused Cognac, Cointreau, Lemon
3. Paper Lantern – Baijiu, Amaro Montenegro, Aperol, Lemon, Grenadine
4. A Rose By Any Other Name – Rose Liqueur, Lillet Blanc, Prosecco, Hibiscus Flower

Valentine's Day at Sumiao

As we gear up for a delightful evening on February 14th, we encourage you to secure your reservations in advance for an unforgettable dining experience. To add a sweet touch to your celebration, we’re excited to share that guests joining us for dinner on Valentine’s Day will receive a complimentary Sweetheart Ricecake. Make this romantic evening complete by reserving your table now and indulging in this special treat crafted just for you.

Baijiu and Whiskey Flights

For bigger celebrations, we love sipping on Baijiu. China’s fiery spirit, baijiu, is a clear, potent liquor distilled from sorghum and other grains. Packing a punch with 35-60% ABV, it’s not for the faint of heart. But beyond its kick, baijiu boasts a surprising symphony of flavors, from floral and fruity to intense and savory. Each sip unveils a story, reflecting centuries of tradition and deep cultural significance.

Prefer whiskey? Go on a sipping adventure with our whiskey flight featuring 3 different whiskeys.

Follow us on TikTok

Did you know we’re on TikTok? In addition to Facebook and Instagram, we’re showcasing behind-the-scenes videos of SHK happenings online. Be sure to follow us HERE!

Holiday Gift Card Deal

Save on gift cards, just in time for the holidays. From 11/14/2023 to 02/14/2024, enjoy 10% off all $100+ gift card orders. Use code GCSHK10 to save and please friends and family during this coming festive season!

Live Music at Sumiao

Ready to sing and dance with us at Sumiao? Come join us on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6-9pm for some of the best live music in town. We sure do love our musical guests!

Musician Highlight: Moraine Street Jazz

Moraine Street Jazz, led by bassist Ben Friedland, is a captivating jazz trio with a distinctive style that seamlessly blends various jazz genres. Their incorporation of swing, bebop, traditional, and blues jazz creates a rich and diverse musical experience. The trio, consisting of tenor sax, guitar, and bass, explores both jazz standard arrangements and original compositions, showcasing their versatility and creative ability.