Explore Hainan House: Islington’s Ultimate Chinese New Year 2026 Food Guide
Hainan House in Islington is ready to welcome guests for Chinese New Year 2026 with a unique menu inspired by Southern Chinese home cooking. This special offering will be available from February 13 to March 3, 2026, concluding with the Lantern Festival.
Chinese New Year Celebration
The lunar calendar indicates that Chinese New Year falls on February 17, 2026. This date marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse, known for its themes of energy, momentum, and resilience. Hainan House’s menu will reflect these qualities through warming and balanced dishes.
About Hainan House
Located on Upper Street in Islington, Hainan House is a female-owned, independent restaurant. It emphasizes Southern Chinese cuisine, focusing on home-style dishes that prioritize clarity and balance. The menu is a blend of influences from various southern and central Chinese regions, crafted with careful technique.
Culinary Philosophy
- Comfort Food: The menu features everyday dishes prepared with restraint.
- Cooking Methods: Techniques such as steaming, braising, poaching, and wok-frying ensure that flavors are clean and vibrant.
- Seasonal Offerings: The cuisine adapts to seasonal changes, with a few signature items available year-round.
Exclusive Menu for Chinese New Year 2026
This year’s festive menu includes a carefully curated selection of shared dishes, each symbolizing various aspects of the New Year.
- King Prawns, Two Preparations: The prawns are offered steamed with garlic or in a claypot with Chinese rice wine and herbs, celebrating purity and warmth.
- Fried Golden Pomfret with Spicy Sour Sauce: A symbol of abundance, this dish features crispy pomfret accompanied by a lively sauce that adds brightness to the meal.
- Pickled Mustard Duck Soup: This soup balances rich flavors with light spice, reflecting traditions often seen in Southern Chinese homes.
- Festive Dessert – Red Bua: This sweet treat features glutinous rice skin colored red for good fortune, filled with coconut, brown sugar, peanut, and sesame.
Dining Experience
Hainan House accommodates 36 guests over two floors, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The interior showcases natural materials and earthy tones, drawing inspiration from coastal southern landscapes.
Practical Travel Guide for Visitors
Islington is well-connected to central London through public transportation, easily accessible via the Angel Underground Station on the Northern line. Due to high demand during the Chinese New Year period, reservations at Hainan House are recommended.
Balanced Evening Suggestions
Combining a meal at Hainan House with a stroll along Regent’s Canal or visits to nearby cultural venues enhances the overall experience.
Why Choose Hainan House?
Unlike bustling parades and crowded tourist spots, Hainan House offers a thoughtful way to celebrate Chinese New Year. The focus on comfort and symbolism provides an intimate dining experience steeped in cultural richness, making it a perfect choice for a festive meal during the holiday.
Key Dates at a Glance
- Chinese New Year: February 17, 2026
- Special Menu Availability: February 13 to March 3, 2026
- Lantern Festival Finale: March 3, 2026
For those visiting London, Hainan House presents a meaningful way to experience the flavors and traditions of Chinese New Year, nestled in a calming neighborhood setting.
