## CHAR Bar & Grill 2.0: A Culinary Revolution in Greater China
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced a dramatic transformation of its independent Western restaurant brand, CHAR Bar & Grill, across Greater China. This isn’t just a menu update; it’s a complete reimagining of the dining experience, blending the best of Western culinary techniques with a distinctly Chinese sensibility. The result? CHAR Bar & Grill 2.0, a vibrant and innovative restaurant concept designed to captivate the modern urban diner.
A Symphony of the Senses: The New CHAR Experience
The revamped CHAR Bar & Grill embraces the concept of the “new five senses”: relaxation, presence, originality, atmosphere, and social interaction. Every detail, from the redesigned space to the meticulously crafted menu, has been carefully considered to create a truly immersive and multi-sensory dining experience. The focus is on exceptional culinary craftsmanship, showcasing the art of charcoal grilling with a precise balance of heat to bring out the best in each ingredient.
Culinary Collaboration: A Fusion of Flavors
The new menu is the product of a remarkable collaboration between the CHAR Bar & Grill team, the LTH team, and renowned chef consultant Brian Arruda. This team has created a menu that celebrates fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Rejecting the traditional appetizer-main-dessert structure, the menu encourages communal dining and sharing, emphasizing the bold, high-value flavors of authentic charcoal grilling. Meat lovers will find plenty to delight in, but the menu also caters beautifully to vegetarian preferences with lighter and equally exciting options. An innovative grid system allows diners to select dishes that perfectly align with their individual tastes, making each visit a truly personalized culinary journey.
Highlights from the New Menu:
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Liquid Nitrogen Garden Crudités:
A refreshing and inventive approach to vegetables, utilizing flash-freezing with liquid nitrogen to preserve their crunch and natural flavors. Paired with a variety of sauces to enhance their deliciousness.*
Char-grilled Uni Custard with Trio of Fish Roe:
A sophisticated dish that balances the delicate taste of sea urchin with the richness of lobster broth, accented by tomatoes, brandy, and caramelized onions. A unique charcoal-grilled sea urchin and fish roe dipping sauce adds another layer of complexity.*
Sizzling Wagyu Marrow Rice Bowl:
A truly interactive experience. Succulent charcoal-grilled Wagyu tenderloin sits atop seasoned rice infused with the aromatic essence of Wagyu bone marrow, inviting diners to mix the ingredients themselves for a delightful culinary adventure.A Masterclass in Mixology:
The cocktail menu at CHAR Bar & Grill 2.0 is equally impressive, meticulously crafted in collaboration with Lio Yao, a world-renowned mixologist ranked among the world’s top 50 bar partners. Inspired by 20th-century philosophy and literature, and committed to authenticity, creativity, local influence, and sustainability, the menu is divided into four distinct themes: Preface, Homage to the Classics, Own the Moment, and Paint the Future. Each cocktail tells a story, transporting diners through time and flavor.
Examples of Signature Cocktails:
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BOOK (Preface):
A harmonious blend of mezcal, toasted coconut, and plum wine, representing a sense of appreciation for everyday moments and human connection.*
CHAR-GRONI (Past):
A reimagined Negroni featuring aromatic Pu’er tea from Yunnan, a nod to Eastern tea culture.*
PEANUT COLADA (Present):
A refreshing blend of coconut and unique ‘Qi Cai’ (Seven-Colored) peanuts from Yunnan.*
LESS IS MORE (Future):
A minimalist cocktail that celebrates the elegance of simplicity.An Atmosphere of Refined Socialization:
CHAR Bar & Grill 2.0 is more than just a restaurant; it’s a social hub. The ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, designed to encourage conversation and create memorable experiences. Soft lighting, soothing music, and the visual spectacle of live charcoal cooking displays all contribute to a truly immersive and enjoyable dining journey. The eight existing locations across Greater China will be updated, with two additional restaurants planned. Starting January 1st, 2025, this revolutionary menu and experience will be available nationwide.
With its commitment to innovative charcoal grilling, expertly crafted cocktails, and a refined social atmosphere, CHAR Bar & Grill 2.0 is set to redefine the dining landscape in Greater China.
