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23rd February 2018
01:04pm GMT
Usually when I order Chinese food, it's because I'm suffering from a whopper hangover and too lazy to cook. I don't really care about the quality or taste, as long as it's quick and greasy.
That's why it was such a nice treat to head out to Yang's in Clontarf at the weekend and eat something a bit fancier than a 3-in-1.
As soon as we walked in, we noticed the excitement in the air - it was Chinese New Year, and the place was packed to the rafters.
I was worried service might be slow as a result but the staff were very attentive and friendly, checking on us regularly but not to an annoying extent.
The hostess was dressed in a traditional red dress and was full of smiles.
The menu was HUGE, offering everything from vegetarian dishes to seafood.
Finally, we decided on pan-fried dumplings to share, followed by shredded beef in honey chili sauce for me and roast pork for my boyfriend.
While we were waiting, a pair of cymbals suddenly crashed behind us.
We looked around to see a traditional Chinese band playing in the corner - beside a huge yellow dragon.
The dragon made its way around the whole restaurant, dancing and pounding its feet before spitting bits of cabbage over us all.
It was like nothing we'd ever seen before and the crowd were absolutely loving it.
When our food arrived, we were pleasantly surprised again.
The dumplings were so crispy and delicious we regretted only ordering one portion.
My shredded beef was more batter than meat, but the roast pork was exquisite and the egg-fried rice was cooked to perfection.
The desserts were pre-made but I still enjoyed my Tarta Fantastica - and no-one really goes to a Chinese restaurant for the desserts.
The mains were €17.90 each so not super cheap, but this was a special evening out in a romantic restaurant by the sea - much better than a 3am spice bag.
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