Swing Sister's Birthday @ Man Mo

Last weekend a whole bunch of us had dinner at Man Mo to celebrate Swing Sister's birthday. Nestled amongst the busy strip of New Quay at Docklands, this Chinese (it's advertised as Malaysian/ Chinese, but I think it's more Chinese) restaurant is packed almost every night of the week. Thankfully I know the owners and the manager of the restaurant and managed to squeeze in a booking for 20 people. It doesnt help either that we are in the midst of the Christmas party period with most restaurants at the Docklands booked out for corporate functions.

The night was warm and balmy, perfect for us to be seated outside. Unfortunately, you still cant smoke at the Docklands even if you sit outside. The food was great. However, I must say that when I was there previously, the food was a lot better. Maybe it was just too busy or maybe they just dont pay attention when preparing mass meals. On my last visit, there were only 6 of us and the food was magnificent, although The Manager prepared us a special banquet for $62 per head. It wasnt bad at all for that price. We had oysters, scallops, lobster dumplings, patagonian tooth fish (a must try), truffle beef (to die for) and a huge dessert platter, which included my favourite creme brulee.

This time around, we ordered the $50 banquet and the food was not as impressive, but nevertheless still tasted great. The Manager had organised the old Sang Choy Bao for entree. What the?? Which Chinese person goes to a Chinese restaurant and orders Sang Choy Bao??? It did taste alright but never something I would order. It's such an Aussie dish! The drinks didnt stop coming for Swing Sister and she didnt stop drinking either, as you do on your birthday. It must be an international tradition for the birthday girl or boy to have atleast 1 Flaming Lamborghini on the night. Swing Sister did a great job too putting the whole thing away, not to mention the countless number of champers and vodka shots. Urrgh!

After dinner was done and dusted, me, Ball Breaker, BBs, VVB and November Cleo hung around with the owners and did what we do best; drink some more! It was awfully nice of them to have the drinks running on free flow all night. I think I drank the entire bottle of Grandfather Port myself! Thinking back now, I kinda feel bad that we made the owners and The Manager hang around with us till 2.30 in the morning and these people had to work the next day!

We tried to get into Allumbra after Man Mo, but no such luck as it was closing at 3am and Ball Breaker was pissed. So home it was and thank God we didnt drive. I dont think anyone was in any condition to operate a motor vehicle. I later found out that Ball Breaker had taken a taxi to her car in the city and drove home from there. Naughty, naughty girl!!!