In 2011, childhood friends Szelim Man and chef Chuck Tang opened restaurant Cuichine in Antwerp’s Zurenborg district. After nearly 10 years on Draakstraat, they moved in the summer of 2020 to a larger space with a big terrace on the nearby Draakplaats. From Draakstraat to Draakplaats… it was truly written in the (Chinese) stars.
Anyone expecting a traditional Chinese restaurant is in for a surprise… No, very good news, because Cuichine is a contemporary experience created by two young guys with roots in Hong Kong, serving Eastern cuisine in a sleek setting. The midnight blue interior in the new location looks modern with clean Eastern accents. The open kitchen, lucky cats, and beloved spots at the bar give the place a lively atmosphere, resembling an Asian city bistro.
Chef Chuck mainly serves Cantonese cuisine with local ingredients. The menu is one big feast. The standout items include the selection of homemade dim sum (€18) and the vegetarian stir-fry with eggplant and rice wine. Also, the ultra-fresh half lobster with ginger and oyster sauce (€35) or the famous house-roasted Peking duck (€24) are spot-on. The two-course lunch is €32, while the three-course Carte Blanche menu costs €55.
Although he doesn’t call himself a sommelier, Szelim has certainly succeeded in crafting a fantastic, balanced drinks menu. This house offers a glass of honest wine or a fitting beer to accompany your meal… even a rich sake or Madeira are recommended with certain desserts.
Just to confirm… Cuichine is so much more than just a Chinese restaurant!
Pure Asian Bistronomie!
