The Star Brisbane celebrates Lunar New Year with cultural festivities and exclusive offerings. Brisbane’s newest dining and entertainment precinct will come alive, embracing the energy of the Year of the Snake with exquisite dining experiences, world-class entertainment and cultural richness.
The Star Brisbane’s acclaimed Southeast Asian restaurant, Fat Noodle, will transform into a sea of vibrant colours and flavours as Executive Chef, Luke Nguyen, returns to the Sunshine State, curating a one-of-a-kind Lunar New Year menu, infused with traditional techniques and modern twists. Luke says it is extra special to celebrate Lunar New Year at The Star Brisbane this year.
"I am honoured to carry Fat Noodle’s Lunar New Year traditions to The Star Brisbane. For the last 12 years, we have been celebrating this special occasion at Fat Noodle and each year, the festivities continue to grow. This year, we are proud to present a unique fusion of dishes with new twists that resemble those we cook for our loved ones.”
Until February 12, Fat Noodle will pay homage to Lunar New Year with an exclusive banquet and cocktail offering, inviting guests to taste and revel in the magnetic flavours and traditions.
"The Fat Noodle team and I took inspiration from our own Vietnamese Lunar New Year feasts with our families and the flavours we serve on our tables. Lunar New Year is by far the biggest celebration for not only my family, but many of the Fat Noodle team, and we are so proud to share an elevated family-orientated menu with Vietnamese-inspired flavours,” Luke explains.
Those looking to soak up the atmosphere and culture of the Year of the Snake will delight in the limited-edition banquet, starting with a wok-tossed lemongrass beef salad and vegetarian chà giò (spring rolls), followed by a Lunar New Year staple, turmeric spatchock, symbolising fullness, paired with a refreshing papaya salad and red dipping sauce.
Luke’s most-loved Lunar New Year dish in his family, the Vietnamese braised pork belly, has been recreated for the festivities; slowly grazed and soaked in coconut water with quail eggs and pickled vegetables, symbolic of a peaceful and joyful New Year. A traditional Vietnamese dish, encompassing all the flavours guests would expect are on show, with Luke’s chanh chua - a tamarind soup featuring a luscious combination of seafood, rich vegetables, herbs and spices - a sign of prosperity.
"For someone who has never tasted traditional Vietnamese flavours, I will always go back to the braised pork and tamarind soup. The level of flavour and vibrancy showcases the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.”
To finish, a mango trifle of coconut tapioca, mango chiffon, fresh mango and mint is served, representing fortune. Guests can pair the celebrations with a unique Tom Yum Margarita, inspired by Luke’s family heritage. Throughout the precinct, guests can relish the Lunar New Year festivities with interactive wishing trees and roaming lion dancers and performances.
Those looking for the epitome of luxury celebrations will be treated with exquisite, delicate flavours at signature restaurant, Sokyo, with a limited-edition opulent sashimi platter featuring Tasmanian Southern rock Lobster and more than 12 premium sashimi varieties speckled with gold leaf, available throughout the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Dustin Osuch, The Star Brisbane’s General Manager, Food & Beverage, is excited to celebrate the occasion at The Star Brisbane for the very first time:
"We are thrilled to offer guests a unique experience across the precinct to mark the special occasion. This is a time for family, prosperity and joy and our Lunar New Year offerings have been designed to create an atmosphere where families and friends can come together to celebrate.”
Fat Noodle’s Lunar New Year banquet for two paired with a glass of wine, priced at $168, will be available at lunch and dinner until February 12, 2025. For more information please click here.
