Alberto News
Chi-chi Chinese restaurant with dumpling station to debut near Uptown Dallas
Prolific Dallas restaurateur Alberto Lombardi is debuting another concept: Called Maison Chinoise, it's a new restaurant focused on Chinese cuisine, set to open at 4152 Cole Ave. #106, in the space that was previously Casa Komali, the Mexican eatery that closed in 2020.
The opening of Maison Chinoise has long been in the works, with a teasing facade hiding construction that's been ongoing for more than a year. According to a release, it'll open in August.
Lombardi has nearly every cuisine covered with his Lombardi Family Concepts including Bistro 31/Lounge 31, Taverna Pizzeria & Risotteria, Toulouse Cafe & Bar, Kai, and Penne Pomodoro. But no Chinese. Not until now.
"The inspiration behind Maison Chinoise was to create a dining destination that honors the rich heritage and flavors of Chinese cuisine while presenting it in a modern and approachable way," Lombardi says.
Perhaps it will fill a Google search for "Chinese restaurants in Uptown" left bereft by the recent closure of Howard Wang's Uptown Grill in May.
The menu at Maison Chinoise will emphasize shared dishes, described in the release as a traditional Chinese way of dining that allows diners to enjoy an array of flavors and textures.
The restaurant will also feature a dumpling station center stage, allowing diners to see dumplings made by hand.
The menu was created by Lombardi Family Concepts' corporate chef Ivan Yuen of Hong Kong, who was previously at the Chicago Peninsula Hotel, Wing Lei Las Vegas, and Encore Resorts and Casinos.
The beverage program will include: an eclectic wine selection; innovative cocktails to complement their Pan Asian cuisine with captivating visual presentations; and tableside tea service, with a range of rare, exotic, and classic tea options.
Design elements include natural woods, warm hues, and an open-air patio.
An adjoining bar called Regines Lounge will open a month later, in September. It's next-door to the restaurant, with its own suite number, but will also be accessible via a hidden door in Maison Chinoise. Speakeasy!