Peking duck is more show than substance at Jiang Nan - Review - Seattle - The Infatuation

"This upscale, New York-based Chinese restaurant chain has a massive location at The Bravern (aka the Beverly Hills of Bellevue). But the grandiose setting with chandeliers, red velvet curtains, and walls lined with prop books straight out of a scene from Clue doesn’t match the disappointing food. Their signature peking duck is dry with limp greasy skin that flops over like a deflated balloon. The salt and pepper shrimp trends rubbery, and the complimentary cabbage appetizer is probably the highlight of the meal. Nothing here is tragic, but considering the elegant atmosphere, it should be much better. For great Chinese food in Bellevue, look elsewhere. Food Rundown Complimentary Pickled Cabbage This just shows up at your table shortly after you sit down. It’s refreshing, crunchy, a little spicy, heavy on the vinegar (in a good way), and also easy to snack on all night. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Peking Duck All the fixings, including impressively matchstick-thin cucumbers, arrive on a beautiful wood tray. But the duck itself is gamey and dry—not even the most artfully arranged accompaniments can save it. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Cumin Lamb There’s a whole show involved when the server lights the lamb on fire and lets it sizzle at the table. Unfortunately, the blaze ends up being more exciting than the food itself, since powdery cumin dominates the dish. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Salt And Pepper Shrimp The shrimp is dry, with a thick, rubbery breading that overwhelms the delicate seafood. However, the seasoning strikes a nice balance of salty and tangy. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Mapo Tofu Even with all the oil and the lack of mouth-numbing Sichuan punch, this saucy tofu dish is relatively satisfying. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley" - Kayla Sager-Riley