Lunar New Year celebration at Peninsula Paris 2026: Festive menu and traditional lion dances

The Cantonese restaurant Lili at the Peninsula Paris is celebrating the 2026 Chinese New Year and the Year of the Fire Horse with a special festive menu curated by Chef Tak Lau Yuen. The celebration runs from February 16 to 21, 2026. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather with family or friends in this elegant Parisian palace located in the 16th arrondissement to exchange well-wishes and indulge in authentic Cantonese flavors crafted with finesse.

Steeped in ancient traditions and profound spirituality, Asian culture continues to captivate us. For the upcoming Lunar New Year, Lili Marks the Year of the Horse, a revered symbol of energy, freedom, and success in Chinese culture. Representing grace and perseverance, the Horse also embodies values that resonate deeply with the Parisian palace, making this celebration all the more meaningful.

Chef Tak Lau Yuen and his team have crafted an extraordinary culinary experience to mark the occasion. The exclusive menu highlights the timeless classics of Cantonese cuisine, elevated with rare ingredients that symbolize luck, prosperity, and longevity. For those seeking a sophisticated way to celebrate this traditional festival, this meticulously curated menu is the perfect choice—delightful from every detail.

On Monday, February 16, 2026, the Lili restaurant—normally closed on Mondays—will make a rare exception and open its doors for dinner to serve a special Chinese New Year menu, along with the famous lion dances that traditionally bring good luck and prosperity. This festive evening is set to be a memorable celebration in the elegant setting of the Peninsula.

The dinner will start with a tantalizing appetizer, followed by the Chef’s Signature Dim Sum, a delicate steamed bite featuring scallops, a rich marine broth, and Osciètre caviar. An elegant introduction that sets the tone for the exceptional meal to come.

A showcase of premium flame-grilled meats will follow, featuring truffle-flavored pork shoulder, crispy pork belly, and Cantonese-style duck—finger-licking favorites that pay homage to the festive traditions of the Lunar New Year. These roasted delicacies are an essential part of Chinese celebration menus and symbolize abundance and prosperity.

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The journey continues with a hearty braised quail, seasoned with sharp, tangy notes, served alongside sea cucumber, aged tofu, and bamboo shoots. Next up is a delicate pearl-colored turbot, glazed with ginger and chives, subtly infused with black truffle. In Chinese, the word for fish, "yu," sounds like "abundance," making it an essential dish for New Year celebrations.

A Bresse chicken infused with red dates, marinated mushrooms, and cordyceps will highlight the delicacy and harmony of flavors. Paired with a sticky fried rice layered with scallops, crab, and morels, this dish symbolizes prosperity and unity, in keeping with tradition.

To close out the festivities, a stunning display of Cantonese desserts will be presented, featuring crispy sesame treats, the traditional Nian Gao (New Year’s cake), and delicate glutinous rice balls infused with ginger. It’s the perfect sweet ending, symbolizing good luck and sweetness for the year ahead.

Great news for those unable to attend on February 16th: from Tuesday, February 17th through Saturday, February 21st, 2026, this festive menu will replace the tasting menu, while still being available alongside the regular menu. It’s a perfect chance to extend the celebrations and enjoy the lively spirit of this special week at one of the finest Asian restaurants in the city.

The Lunar New Year menu at Lili is available for €288 per person, excluding drinks. The Lili restaurant is located inside the Peninsula Paris, at 19 Avenue Kléber in the 16th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Arc de Triomphe and Place de l'Étoile.

Happy Year of the Fire Horse!