... Dragon City?

The oldest Chinese Restaurant in Liguanea's Northside Plaza, Dragon City, has been providing 100 per cent authentic cuisine since 1989.

Owner Nicholas Lai told Food that last year's Gleaner-sponsored Restaurant Week (the second time for them) was the best so far.

"They should have a Restaurant Month. I'm serious," he said. He cited the number of repeat clients who first dined there during last year's event. Dragon City has recently introduced Malaysian food, giving a more total Asian culinary experience. He promised that there are many new and tantalising recipes, but they will be introduced to the public slowly, as Jamaicans aren't always adventurous when it comes to their food.

Like the offerings, head chef Martin Huang is the real deal. He hails from Guangdong province in China and has been working his kitchen magic in Jamaica for five years. Dragon City got his services through a contact within the cooking circles of China and brought him to local shores. They were looking for a chef with experience and who could do various styles, and Huang fitted the bill. Speaking through an interpreter, we found out a little about the 30-year-old, soft-spoken chef.

Why did you become a chef?

There's always so much to learn about it (cooking) and I've always enjoyed cooking.

How long have you been in the business?

I've been a chef for 13 years.

What's your area of speciality?

Mostly Cantonese, but I also do Thai and Sichuan style meals.

Is this your first time working in Restaurant Week?

No, this is my third year.

And how has it been?

It has been very good, even though it's busier during that week.

Do you cook at home?

Yes, but my friends cook too so we take turns sometimes. I don't have to do it every day.