To photographers, food bloggers and foodies - this is not a place where you want to professionally snap food photos. For context, each of the tables in my zone had a bright overhead lamp which shines onto the middle of the table, and the restaurant (not fine dining by any means) was generally very well-lit all round. At the start of the meal, I used an external LED light (not flash - it’s just a light source) directly below the overhead lamp to take better photos of my Chongqing Chicken Wings. My external LED light had light diffuser flaps such that the light source was very focused on one spot as opposed to scattering everywhere. This photo process took all of 3 seconds, and I was seated at a corner table. The table directly next to us was an acquaintance, and they had zero issues. However, I was abruptly told off and prevented from using my non-flash external LED light any further. The staff member insisted I was using "flash" and it was disruptive to other guests despite me reasoning that the space and my table was very, very bright and that there was no flash element or likely discernible disturbance to any guests. (To my knowledge, he did not base his actions on any actual customer complaint.)

I would gladly understand a restaurant with dim lighting, a fine-dining space or a generally more refined and austere food setting may have concerns with additional light sources like mine, but I simply did not understand the rationale behind why he (or this specific restaurant which had bright lights, loud music and lively buzz, on Christmas Eve no less) would have a problem with my actions. Even if there was a customer complaint, he should have spoken to me and tried to understand what I was doing (i.e. ascertain whether it was flash photography) and perhaps try to resolve the issue amicably that left me in a better place (e.g. lower the light intensity, sit in a manner that blocks the light from being seen, be quick with the shots etc). Regrettably, it was a hard line policy being applied in a no-nonsense manner, and try as I might, the night was absolutely ruined.

In terms of the food, the Kurobuta Pork Char Siu was a tragically dry, tough and joyless affair, despite the meat platter being the most expensive dish of the night. However, it was paired on the same platter with a lovely Roast Goose that I have no fault with. The Chongqing Chicken Wings which started the drama was daringly numbing and well-seasoned, and I would also recommend the Steamed Clams with Chinese Egg Custard. The food is generally decent - just don’t do food photography there beyond discreet mobile phone snaps.