Tomsk Study Diary 92 | DAO Chinese Kitchen 🇨🇳🍽️
📍 Why It Stands Out? DAO is Novosibirsk’s most refined Chinese restaurant, blending elegant ambiance with bold flavors. From Peking duck to Sichuan classics, it’s a luxe escape for homesick students and foodies—though not all dishes hit the mark. 🍽️ Dish Breakdown (Ranked!) 1️⃣ Peking Duck 🌟🌟🌟🌟✨ (₽4500) ✔ Star Attraction: Crispy skin, tender meat, mandarin pancakes + hoisin sauce. ✔ Note: Pricey but shareable (feeds 2–3). 2️⃣ Couple’s Sliced Beef 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (₽1200) ✔ Sichuan Soul: Red chili oil (aromatic, not fiery), 80% authentic. 3️⃣ Wok-Fried Tripe 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (₽1300) ✔ Texture Win: Crunchy yet tender, sweet-savory glaze. 4️⃣ Three Earthly Delights 🌟🌟🌟✨ (₽900) ✔ Comfort Food: Eggplant, potato, bell pepper—needs crispier fry. 5️⃣ Seafood Sizzle Plate 🌟🌟🌟 (₽1800) ✔ Decent Wok Hei: Squid, shrimp, scallops—let down by frozen seafood. 6️⃣ Spicy Blood & Tofu Stew 🌟🌟 (₽1500) ✔ Misfire: No blood curd, just fatty pork slabs—skip it. 7️⃣ Savory Soup 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (₽600) ✔ Unexpected Gem: Tofu, wood ear, balanced umami-saltiness. 🏮 Ambiance & Quirks ✔ Design: Moody lighting, bird-song bathroom soundtrack (yes, really). ✔ Oddity: Chopsticks wrapped in Japanese paper (🤔 why not Chinese motifs?). ✔ Service: Coat-check auntie, attentive staff. 💡 Verdict ✔ Worth It For: Duck + appetizers, date nights, group dinners. ✔ Budget: ₽3000–5000/person (go big or share wisely). ✔ Tip: Pre-order duck (takes 45 mins). #NovosibirskLuxuryEats #ChineseFoodAbroad #DuckWorthDrivingFor