Landmark Plaza, Mainland China Restaurant open in Ocho Rios
MAINLAND CHINA Restaurant and Bar, located at the new Landmark Plaza in Ocho Rios, is an absolute gem. So it was a double celebration last Thursday when owner Danny Galani welcomed guests to the opening of the plaza and the restaurant and bar, which boasts a fusion of Chinese, Indian, and Jamaican cuisine as its offering.
Member of Parliament for North East St Ann and Minister of Social Security Shahine Robinson, who assisted in cutting the ribbon, thanked owner Danny Galani for the investment, saying it was a show of confidence in Ocho Rios and in Jamaica.
President of the St Ann Chamber of Commerce, Pixley Irons, also hailed the opening of the plaza, saying it means more employment for person in the parish.
Not only were samplings of the food mouth-wateringly delicious, invited guests were left in awe at the beauty of the restaurant, which had several features that left Vana Taylor, vice-president, Jamaica Hotel and Tourism Association, remarking that “it’s more than a restaurant, it’s an attraction.
“It has blown me away! It’s simply fabulous! It’s a wonderful addition to our area, especially, Ocho Rios,” Taylor told Hospitality Jamaica.
“And it has so much to offer, Chinese infused with Indian; and it’s such a romantic place.”
Her comments complimented those of Janice Allen, Jamaica Tourist Board’s (JTB) regional director, who described the plaza as “fantastic”.
“It’s wonderful to see this addition to Ocho Rios, to see that there are more options available to locals and visitors who come to the town. It certainly is a welcome addition,” Allen pointed out.
“The development continues with the addition of a gift shop for visitors, also an in-bond store; and it’s so perfectly placed without being intrusive. I think it’s fantastic.”
The design of the building was also a talking point with architect Jeremy Millingen, coming in for much commendation for the beautifully designed structure.
“Mainland China is the newest dining experience in Jamaica and the most unique, offering hundreds of menu items, a full bar and a variety of dining options. It is the place where you can find something for everyone, modern Chinese cuisine, authentic Indian kebabs and local Jamaican dishes, all at a price that anyone can afford,” Mark, the manager, explained.
Among those who were in attendance were Custos Norma Walters and Custos Emeritus Radcliffe Walters; Mayor Desmond Gilmore; Janice Carr, JPS parish manager; Supt Wayne Cameron, commandant for St Ann; Bobby Chatani; Lorna Escoffery; Marilyn Burrowes and family; representatives of the Indian High Commission and Lachu Ramchandani of Blue Diamond.