A 200-seat restaurant specializing in Asian fusion cuisine is set to open in Richmond this fall.
House of Dawn is the latest “affordable, fine-dining” restaurant to join Richmond’s food scene and will open at Richport Town Centre near No. 3 and Ackroyd roads.
The restaurant is founded by Danny Deng, a chef of almost 13 years, and his business partner Ivan Li.
House of Dawn features five dining sections: a bar, a cocktail lounge, front dining area, a private room and a dedicated events room.
Although the menu is still being finalized, Deng teases dishes such as tacos and pastas infused with Asian flavours.
The name House of Dawn is inspired by the first light of day, symbolizing a “new concept, new generation,” while paying homage to old Shanghai’s “golden era,” according to Deng.
He described the restaurant as a “gong guan,” a Chinese word for a place where people gather to eat and socialize.
“It’s an upscale environment for people to not just have food or dinner, but a place for people to hang out to talk to each other like a social lounge,” said Deng.
Deng told the Richmond News that his vision is to blend together the environment of a comfortable lounge with food inspired by Asian flavours.
“The goal is to bridge Eastern and Western cuisines,” he said.
Deng’s culinary journey began while studying food science at the University of Saskatchewan, during which time he worked at a local Cactus Club for two years before moving to Vancouver.
Although Deng’s culinary resume spans from working in various kitchens including in a burger joint, golf courses, hotels and fine dining restaurants, his passion for cooking began at home.
As an only child growing up in a large extended family with cousins, Deng always enjoyed family meals with his grandmother.
“She used to cook for 20 to 30 people, and I remember always going into the kitchen to help her preparing the food,” said Deng.
“Food brings everyone together and (is) a good way gather everyone to have fun.”
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