As Chinese New Year draws near, a vibrant celebration is taking shape at Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu. Families can expect more than a festive meal. This year’s offerings blend heritage, flavor and meaningful rituals that honor the season. From symbolic dishes to elegant gift sets, the resort sets the tone for a memorable reunion. Read on to discover how tradition meets indulgence by the shore.
Family at the Heart of the Celebration
For Executive Chinese Chef Liu Zhijun, Chinese New Year begins and ends with family. He shares that the season is about reunion, bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming spring with joy. Each dish served carries a deeper meaning rooted in Chinese culture. Fish represents surplus, noodles symbolize long life, dumplings signify wealth and rice cakes reflect growth and progress in the year ahead.
Symbolism on Every Plate
At Tea of Spring, the celebration opens with Yee Sang, a colorful prosperity toss that symbolizes unity, abundance and career success. Prepared with fresh salmon, tuna and crisp snow pear, it is meant to be shared at the table. The Hong Kong Style Deluxe Poon Choi follows as a centerpiece dish linked to wealth and abundance. It features abalone, prawns, sea cucumber, shiitake mushrooms, sea moss and a rich house sauce that brings the ingredients together.
Refined Flavors with a Modern Touch
Beyond traditional favorites, the menu includes Charred Australian white lamb loin finished with aromatic Szechuan crumbs. The dish is paired with asparagus, crispy rice and coriander for balance in texture and taste. Chef Liu highlights the importance of using the freshest seafood and vegetables to achieve authentic flavors. The result is a spread that honors tradition while appealing to today’s diners.
A Grand Reunion at Tea of Spring and Tides
Guests may choose between an intimate Cantonese dining experience at Tea of Spring or a lively family gathering at Tides. Tea of Spring offers Feast of Fortune set menus and curated a la carte selections crafted by Chef Liu. Tides presents a Chinese New Year Reunion Feast on February 16 and 17, featuring festive Chinese specialties alongside an international buffet spread. Both venues provide distinct ways to celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse in style.
Nian Gao: A Gift of Prosperity
No Chinese New Year is complete without Nian Gao, a sweet rice cake linked to unity and good fortune. Shangri-La Mactan offers two variants available from February 1 to 28, 2026. The Prosperous Nian Gao comes in a classic fish shape presented in an elegant box and is priced at P1,388 net. The premium Fortune in Motion Nian Gao features a round cake housed in a softly lit rotating lantern and is priced at P4,388 net, making it a standout gift for family and friends.
Celebrate and Reset by the Beach
Beyond the feast, families can turn the occasion into a relaxing escape. The resort’s beachfront setting provides space to unwind after the festivities. Guests may enjoy a Chi of Harmony Massage at Chi, The Spa, or browse festive pieces at the Tranquility Salon and Lobby Shop. With culture, cuisine and coastal calm in one address, Chinese New Year at Shangri-La Mactan becomes more than a gathering. It becomes a complete holiday experience rooted in tradition and shared joy.
