According to the Chinese Almanac, tonight at midnight the tiger leaves us and makes way for the Year of the Rabbit. Each year of the 12-year cycle is named after an animal. Each animal has a different personality and different characteristics that are believed to be the traits of a person born in that year, and which determine their success and happiness. The rabbit largely represents tranquility and calm. In Chinese astrology, the rabbit sign is further divided into subcategories: metal, water, wood, fire and earth. The year 2011 falls under the metal category. ChineseZodiac.com says metal “gives Rabbits more strength, resilience and determination.” As a result, the site says, metal rabbits are “more intense in their actions, whether they’re work-related or romantic.”
What that all really means to me is that there are usually some incredible meals served up at our local Asian eateries to celebrate the New Year! So here’s a quick round up of what’s available:
China Dynasty
9142 Dayton Lebanon Pike (Ohio 48), Washington Twp, OH (937) 433-1212
Will host an 11 course meal for $29.95 on Fri, Feb 4th and Sat Feb 5th. Reservations required
Kabuki Korean & Japanese Restaurant
848 S. Main St., Centerville (937) 435-9500
A special dinner-for-two menu for $25.95 and special new-year dishes that incorporate Korean rice cakes, a traditional new-years specialty. Available all day Wed, Feb 2nd – Sat, Feb 5th.
The Nanking Inn
2627 S. Smithville Road, Dayton (937) 256-8555
Offering a special menu that will include soup, appetizer, multiple entrees designed to share, and dessert for $30/ guest on Thurs, Feb 3rd – Sat, Feb 5th.
Pho Mi
8900 Kingsridge Dr, Miami Township 937-438-7388
Will offer the following items in honor of the New Year through Feb 11th:
| Appetizer | |
| Xoi Tau Xanh – Sticky Rice with Yellow Bean | $3.50 |
| Banh Tet Man – Sticky Rice with Pork | $3.50 |
| Main Course | |
| Suon Xao Chua Ngot – Sweet & Sour Pork Rib | $10.50 |
| Ga Xao Chua Ngot – Sweet & Sour Chicken | $9.50 |
| Thit Hap Khoai Mon – Roast Pork with Toro | $9.50 |
| Desert | |
| Banh Tet Ngot – Sticky Rice Cake | $2.50 |
| Sam Bo Luong – Sweet Lotus Seed Drink | $3.00 |
Sima Korean & Japanese Restaurant
1771 Woodman Dr, Kettering (937) 258-7040
Will offer 1/2 off Chef’s Special Rolls from 7-10pm Wed, Feb 2 & Thurs, Feb 3rd
As always, if you know of others restaurants offering up some specials, just let us know in the comments below and may your New Year be prosperous – Kung Hei Fat Choi!
