A restaurant called Chinese Dynasty offering a celebration for what is Thai New Year was highly suspicious in my book – while both might be Asian, they are totally different!

I know this well as I have a long and happy history spanning over 30 years with both Thai and Chinese cultures and cuisines.

However, I am happy and even proud to report that Chinese Dynasty served a Thai culinary feast for Songkran so good, and so properly authentic Thai, that we were magically transported to Thailand for the evening!

But, before we look at the food – which was excellent in all regards – please allow me to showcase just what an adorable restaurant Chinese Dynasty is.

Because Songkran will soon be over (April 17th – hurry!) but Chinese Dynasty will remain, and I sure want to come back and try their regular a la carte food, too!

Check this out – this is not a painting… it’s a window!

In fact, Chinese Dynasty stands tall in one of Dubai’s most prized locations – deep in the historical district Bur Dubai, hosted by the impressive Arabian Courtyard Hotel and Spa.

This is one of Dubai’s heritage 4-star hotels with a historical Arabian theme, located opposite the Dubai Museum and surrounded by points of interest such as the Meena Bazaar, Gold Souk, Spice Market, Al Fahidi historical area (Bastakiya), Al Seef Dubai Creek and within walking distance to the diplomatic enclave – basically, the heart of old original Dubai!

You enter, and it looks like this:

You are reminded of this incredible location on the terrace of Chinese Dynasty as well – here is the view!

And here is the view inside, with a central dining hall and several privacy rooms.

Fully licensed, and delectably decorated, the mood is set for a wonderful dining experience.

It turns out the Chef, in a very fortunate series of events, has worked and was trained by Thai Chefs for many years – and so, on the occasion of Songkran, he humbly threw together a celebration of Thai culinary traditions – incredible!

Please allow me to highlight just how amazing and how respectful was the evening meal dedicated to Thai flavors:

A chicken yellow curry… with creamy coconut, tasty, but not too spicy – delightful.

Spicy minced chicken with basil and chilies

Freshly-made vegetable spring rolls

The world-famous Pad Thai!

A specialty from North-Eastern Thailand: Som Tam, a spicy salad with raw papaya and dried shrimps – superb!

Tom Yam Kung – again spicy, but not over-powering – remember, we’re talking authentic Thai! – a soup with shrimps, galangal and lemongrass

And all served with kind and generous Thai hospitality

And there were more!

All in all, a jewel of an Asian restaurant in old Dubai – very much worth rushing to catch the end of the Songkran Festival celebration, and, if not, certainly a wonderful restaurant destination to keep in mind for a delicious meal at any time of the year!

Tell you the truth – I sure hope these Thai dishes make their way onto the regular menu, alongside their Chinese and other Asian dishes.