• A one-night-only culinary duet blending Vietnamese and Cantonese flavors.
  • Chef Lily Hoa Nguyen and Chef Min Wei Lai collaborate at XU.
  • Exclusive four-course menu with premium ingredients and bold techniques.
  • Limited seats available—secure your spot for an unforgettable dining experience.

Dubai’s vibrant gastronomic scene is about to witness an extraordinary collaboration as two culinary maestros, Chef Lily Hoa Nguyen of Vietnamese Foodies and Chef Min Wei Lai of XU, come together for a one-night-only Dining Duet on February 20, 2025, at XU Restaurant, Kempinski Hotel, Dubai. This highly anticipated fourth edition of the Dining Duet series promises a symphony of flavors, where authentic Vietnamese traditions meet refined Cantonese mastery in an immersive dining experience hosted by the renowned Samantha Wood of Foodiva.

Born and raised in Ho Chi Minh City, Chef Lily Hoa Nguyen has been a defining force in Dubai’s dining scene, crafting a legacy of fresh, wholesome, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine through her rapidly growing brand, Vietnamese Foodies. Recognized for her innovative approach, she remains deeply rooted in tradition, delivering flavors that speak to both heritage and modern palates.

On the other side of the spectrum, Chef Min Wei Lai, an expert in Cantonese gastronomy, brings a wealth of experience from Michelin-starred kitchens like Hakkasan London and Doha, alongside celebrated UAE hotspots such as Zheng He’s and Demon Duck. His approach to Cantonese cuisine blends precision, tradition, and creative innovation, making him a true visionary in the world of fine dining.

This unique culinary duet is a harmonization of passion and expertise, bridging two distinct yet complementary food cultures for an unforgettable gastronomic performance.

The meticulously curated four-course collaborative menu is a testament to the chefs’ collective craftsmanship, highlighting premium ingredients, expert techniques, and bold flavors.

  • Amuse Bouche: A Pomelo Salad with Seared Scallops by Chef Lily, featuring fresh nuoc cham sauce, chili, and crispy rice paper; and Truffle Wagyu Beef Puff by Chef Lai, a bite-sized indulgence filled with luxurious truffle essence.
  • Appetizers: Chef Lily’s Crab Net Spring Rolls with avocado wasabi and mango salsa meet Chef Lai’s Wok-Fried Black Pepper Mint Scallop with asparagus and sweet peas.
  • Main Course: A one-of-a-kind collaborative dish—Aromatic Roast Duck Pho, infused with duck bone broth, house-made chili oil crisps, and green papaya pickle, seamlessly blending Vietnamese soul food with Cantonese finesse.
  • Dessert: A delicate Mango Pudding with Mekong Delta Pomelo by Chef Lily and an aromatic Lemongrass Crème Brûlée by Chef Lai, each offering a sweet finale that perfectly captures their distinctive styles.

For those looking to elevate their experience, a premium wine pairing featuring selections from Chateau Changyu Moser XV in China’s Helan Mountain Range will be available, perfectly complementing the evening’s flavors.

More than just a meal, this Dining Duet is an immersive experience that celebrates artistry, innovation, and the deep cultural stories behind each dish. With limited seats available, this exclusive event promises to be a sold-out affair, offering an intimate setting where guests can witness two master chefs at work, each dish telling a tale of tradition and reinvention.

Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in this rare, one-night-only gastronomic showcase. Reservations are now open—secure your seat at the table for an evening of unparalleled culinary excellence.

📍 Venue: XU Restaurant, Kempinski Hotel, Al Barsha, Dubai
📅 Date: February 20, 2025
⏰ Time: From 8 PM
💰 Price: AED 290 per person
📞 Bookings: Call +971 4 394 6252 or reserve online here

An unforgettable night of flavors and finesse awaits—are you ready for the ultimate dining duet?