By Tlalane Dlamini
EZULWINI – On the evening of April 12, 2025, culinary enthusiasts were treated to an unforgettable gastronomic experience at Luxy Garden Restaurant, in partnership with Cork & Co Wine Club. Aptly titled “An Asian Affair”, the event showcased a 7-course fusion tasting menu that artfully blended traditional Asian flavors with contemporary flair.
Guests gathered from 6:30 PM, dressed in smart, Asian-inspired attire, adding a cultural elegance to the evening’s ambiance. The decor, adorned with cherry blossoms and lanterns, set the tone for an immersive and refined celebration of Asian cuisine.
The experience priced at E500 per person or E700 for those opting for expertly curated wine pairings offered not just a meal, but a sensory journey. Each course was thoughtfully prepared to highlight a variety of textures, spices, and techniques from across Asia, giving diners a unique taste of culinary fusion at its finest.
An Asian Affair Menu
Korean Kimchi Cucumber Salad
California Rolls: Veg or Salmon
Trio of Dim Sum: Veg or Pork
Choice of Soup: Asian Vegetable Soup or Tom Yung Kong Soup with Prawns
Choice of Mains: Teppanyaki Style Black Pepper Beef Cubes, Sticky Honey Chicken on a Bed of Crunchy Asian Vegetables, Tender Fish Fillet with Ginger, or Tofu Steak on Asian Vegetables
Choice of Rice/Noodles: Fried Rice with Seaweed and Diced Vegetables or Homemade Noodle Stack
Choice of Dessert: Baked Litchi Cheesecake or Chocolate Brownie Cake with Green Tea Fresh Cream
More than just dinner, the event was a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and collaboration. Cork & Co’s wine selections complemented the menu perfectly, elevating the overall experience and showcasing the power of thoughtful pairings.
Kathy Shu-Kai Liu from Luxy Garden commented, “We wanted to create an experience that went beyond just food. ‘An Asian Affair’ was about bringing people together to explore the rich tapestry of Asian flavors in a sophisticated setting. The overwhelmingly positive response from our guests was truly heartwarming. We’re thrilled to have partnered with Cork & Co to deliver such a memorable night.”
Paula Marques of Cork & Co added, “Partnering with Luxy Garden for ‘An Asian Affair’ was a perfect match. We focused on selecting wines that would not only complement each dish but also enhance the overall dining experience. Seeing the guests enjoy the harmonious pairing of our wines with the exquisite menu was incredibly rewarding.”
With limited seating and high demand, the event quickly sold out, reaffirming the growing appetite for premium, themed dining experiences in Eswatini.
As one of the standout events of the season, An Asian Affair proved that fine dining in Eswatini is evolving—and delightfully so. Those who attended left with satisfied palates, full hearts, and a newfound appreciation for the rich tapestry of Asian cuisine.
