To welcome the Year of The Wood Dragon with flair, renowned Sydney chef Dan Hong and Crazy Rich Asians actor Remy Hii have teamed up for a modern take on the traditional tile game at the exclusive Johnnie Walker Blue Label Mahjong Club.
On Saturday, February 17th, the iconic duo will transform Merivale’s Bridge Street landmark, Est., into a vibrant space for Sydneysiders to immerse themselves in the festive spirit of Lunar New Year. Guests will have the opportunity to try their hand at mahjong under the guidance of a local master, while indulging in a specially curated menu featuring Hong’s fusion flair and unique Johnnie Walker Blue Label-infused cocktails.
In the beautifully designed blue-washed environment, combining Est.’s classic architecture with contemporary Chinese elements, Hong will delight attendees with six delectable bite-sized dishes. These include king crab and scallop potsticker dumplings, rock lobster bao with ginger and shallot, prawn toast with otoro tuna belly and finger lime, as well as a tantalizing hot and numbing wagyu skewer. Additionally, guests can savor a modern twist on longevity noodles with the chilled truffled noodle topped with caviar, and end the meal with Hong’s rendition of a Hong Kong-style warm egg tart.
To complement the culinary delights and enhance the flavors of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, renowned mixologist Jonathan Liu has crafted three distinct cocktails infused with popular Asian flavors. Highball enthusiasts can enjoy the Hi-Prosperity, featuring notes of ginger, yuzu, and chrysanthemum. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in the Blue Wishes, a cocktail infused with apple and rose honey, topped with champagne. Finally, the Peace and Peaches cocktail combines Scotch with clarified coconut milk, peach, and pandan.
Reflecting on his approach to the menu, Hong shared, “The menu I’ve created for the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Mahjong Club pays homage to cherished memories and traditions, incorporating ingredients that hold cultural symbolism during Lunar New Year. However, each dish presents a fresh new twist, with modern makeovers and extravagant touches.”
Hii added, “For me, Lunar New Year is all about gathering with loved ones, enjoying delicious food and each other’s company. That’s why I’m thrilled to host the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Mahjong Club. Mahjong holds significant importance in Chinese culture, and I’m excited to invite Sydneysiders to an experience where they can connect with their own loved ones and fellow players over a game, a bowl of noodles, or a sip of Scotch.”
The launch of the Mahjong Club coincides with the release of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year, Year of the Dragon, a limited-edition bottle featuring artwork by Asian-American artist James Jean. Inspired by the intricate layers of flavor found in every drop of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Jean’s artwork depicts a mythical dragon interwoven with botanical elements, mirroring the rich sensory experience of this exceptional Scotch.
Kate McGraw, Diageo National Whisky Ambassador, commented, “James Jean’s portrayal of the vibrant dragon and colorful flora and fauna beautifully reflects the complex spice, vanilla, and caramel notes that define Johnnie Walker Blue Label. The fiery haze surrounding the dragon is also a subtle nod to the luxuriously long, smoky finish of this remarkable whisky.”
Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn mahjong, looking for a cultural culinary experience, or simply seeking a sophisticated way to celebrate the Year of The Dragon, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Mahjong Club promises to be the ultimate Lunar New Year celebration. Limited seating is available for this exclusive event, so book your spot now to ensure you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.