As temperatures rise and evening breezes grow softer, the summer ritual for Hangzhou locals officially begins with a feast of crayfish. And for the first crayfish meal of this summer, I chose Kitchen@K All-Day Dining Restaurant at Kempinski Hotel Hangzhou. Nine flavours in one sitting — unlocking the freshness and comfort of the entire summer. As Kempinski’s summer highlight, this Crayfish Food Festival is a true paradise for crayfish lovers. Prepared fresh daily, hygienic and safe, you can indulge with total peace of mind.
The classic Garlic Crayfish is a foolproof choice. The golden garlic paste is simmered until creamy, its aroma fully penetrating the tender crayfish meat. Rich but not pungent, the meat soaks up the savoury broth, where sweetness and garlic intertwine beautifully. The Thirteen‑Spice Crayfish is the soul of the festival. Dozens of spices are slowly cooked to create a flavour that is spicy without being harsh, numbing without being overpowering. The layers of taste grow more addictive with each bite — an indispensable summer‑night delight.
If you prefer a lighter, fresher taste, you must try the Thai‑Style Crayfish. The bright notes of lime and lemongrass infuse the meat with a sour‑spicy kick that awakens the palate and cuts through richness. One bite transports you to Southeast Asia — refreshing, not heavy, and guilt‑free even after a dozen. Beyond these, there are also Salted Egg Yolk, Iced, Poached, and Green Curry crayfish, each with its own distinctive touch. From mild and pure to bold and intense, the menu unlocks endless crayfish joy. On top of that, the chefs regularly send out specially prepared signature crayfish table‑side, adding a delightful element of surprise and hiding summer happiness in every meal.
Beyond the crayfish feast, the restaurant’s Chinese and Western specialities are not to be missed. Hangzhou cuisine lovers must try the Braised Pork Belly. Premium five‑layer pork belly is slowly braised until it turns a glossy red — rich but not greasy, melting on the tongue. The thick, sweet‑savoury sauce clings to the meat, releasing a deep, aromatic fragrance. The Fried River Shrimp is another authentic Hangzhou classic. Fresh river shrimp are flash‑fried to lock in their natural sweetness. The shells turn crisp, the meat remains juicy and bouncy — you won’t be able to stop popping one after another, capturing the delicate freshness of Jiangnan.
German‑food lovers should definitely try the classic German Roast Pork Knuckle. The skin is roasted until golden and crackling, while the meat inside stays tender, juicy, and succulent. Served with house‑made sauerkraut that cuts through the richness, the sheer satisfaction of tearing into a large piece of meat is second to none. And to round off the feast, a wide array of delicate desserts awaits. Cheesecake, French mousse, handmade ice cream — each is as beautiful as it is delicious. Creamy, delicate, and never too sweet, they cleanse the palate and bring this summer banquet to a perfect, sweet close.
