A wave of nostalgia came with the reopening of The Cathay Restaurant on 27^th January, with its history of 67 years. Starting anew on a clean slate, The Cathay Restaurant continues its debut of signature Cantonese cuisine behind its sliding glass doors.

• The Vibe
  Red and black are the dominant themes within the restaurant's interior. Whilst large red ribbon lanterns hanging from the ceilings match the red-panelled walls, its bright colours are softened by classy black walls showcasing portraits of 1960s Chinese actresses. Its link with the Cathay Organization, which is in the cinema business, is reflected the décor, which includes movie synopses hung in private rooms. A touch of modernity peeks out through its aluminium screen panels and silver-coloured pillars, on which traditional bamboo motifs are etched. The Cathay Restaurant weaves the past into present, literally and symbolically.

• The Food
  Specializing in Cantonese dishes, Hong Kong Chef Ho Tsan Kan whips up soup for the soul and authentic Cantonese dishes, as well as recreates signature dishes. Diners may find the menu familiar since The Cathay Restaurant models its repertoire on Peach Garden 's. However, with Chef Kan 's uniquely created dishes establishing their place on the menu, Cathay 's menu will likely see further changes in its range of dishes.

  Dim Sum should never be missed when dining in a Cantonese restaurant. Ha Kao, steamed fresh shrimp dumplings ($3.60 for 4) distinguishes itself through its delicate yet firm transparent skin encasing springy and large shrimps. Dipped in home-made chilli sauce, it kick-starts the gastronomical journey of authentic Chinese dishes.

  Recommended dishes by restaurant manager Simon Chan include a variety of dishes, starting off with Double Boiled Shark's Bone Cartilage with Fish Maw Soup ($16). Simmered for four hours, the thick soup full of goodness hinted of shark's bone cooked finely, leaving a distinctly sweet and revitalizing aftertaste. The top-grade fish maw was smooth and chewy, though its serving of one piece per bowl will hardly satisfy the average diner.

  Stir-fried Local Spinach with Home-Made Beancurd and Crab Meat ($5 per piece) is a personal favourite amongst ladies since it is both healthy and delicious. The smooth and silky tofu glides down the throat, doused with gravy made up of crab meat and egg which further enhances the overall taste of this dish.

  Pa Tin Fish ( $12) served steamed with soya sauce, ginger and salted vegetables spells delight for fish lovers. Its succulent skin and firm flesh hints of utmost freshness, which shows that a simple dish prepared with basic ingredients can shine in presentation and taste.

  Do ask for the chef's recommendations, you might lucky enough to sample his newer creations like Home-made Noodle with Porkneck and XO Sauce ($6 per person/$16 per order). The well-cooked and chewy pork teamed with firm noodles go nicely with the XO sauce, resulting in a tasty blend of salt and spice.

  And of course, no meal is complete without a sweet treat – indulge in Cathay 's unique dessert, Chilled Black Glutinous Rice with Ice Cream ($6) found only in The Cathay Restaurant. A mix of traditional and modern, this dessert is cold and refreshing, and sweetened just enough not to be overwhelming. The substitute of coconut ice cream for the usual coconut milk meant a pleasant and refreshing experience to Chinese-style dessert.

• The Service
  Dressed in Mandarin-collared black and red uniforms, the senior staff kept their guests at ease with professional service. At times, they converse in the Cantonese dialect, a homely gesture to loyal customers. The younger staff were a little cautious in their service, not a surprise since they have high expectations to live up to considering The Cathay Restaurant's long history and established fare.

SD Food Advisor's take on The Cathay Restaurant:
The Cathay Restaurant serves decent Chinese food, although their dishes may be common amongst other Chinese restaurants. The one-month old restaurant will needs more time to take off, and this may be possible once more dishes have been added to the menu. With ala carte dishes priced reasonably and set lunch promotions, Cathay Restaurant can be an option for lunch hour visits and family gatherings.