The Dali EDITION Presents a Culinary Journey Rooted in the Landscapes of Yunnan

The Dali EDITION introduces four distinctive dining destinations, each offering its own expression of Yunnan’s culinary culture. From seasonal “farm-to-table” flavors, and wood-fired cooking, to creative cocktails inspired by the Tea Horse Road, each space reflects the richness of Yunnan through EDITION’s contemporary aesthetic.

Market at EDITION in the morning light (rendering), KUSHO, and Lobby & Lobby Bar overlooking the magnificent views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake

Four Culinary Expressions Shaped by the Landscapes of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake

Dining is one of the most immediate ways to connect with a destination. From development to operation, The Dali EDITION has consistently placed culinary experiences at its heart, with local ingredients and regional culture integrated into every aspect of the dining journey. Led by General Manager Francine Ong and Director of Food & Beverage and Culinary Raymond Lim, the team travelled across Dali and its surrounding regions in search of local ingredients, tableware, and artisans. From sourcing produce and selecting tea, to crafting tableware and refining recipes, every detail was thoughtfully considered and tested, so that guests could experience an authentic taste of the destination.

“At The Dali EDITION, we see every meal as an invitation to connect with this place,” says Raymond Lim, Director of Food & Beverage and Culinary of The Dali EDITION. “Whether it's the rustic elegance of Jian Shui clay pots shaped by local hands, or the bold, nostalgic flavors of cocktails born from the Tea Horse Road, our tables tell stories beyond the plate - it carries a sense of place. Every dish is a reflection of Dali's landscapes, its time-honored craftsmanship, and the living stories that make this corner of the world so extraordinary.”

At Market at EDITION, the “farm-to-table” philosophy comes to life on the tables everyday. The honey we enjoy is sourced from carefully selected beekeepers. Warm timber finishes complement sweeping views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, while the open kitchen offers guests a close view of the culinary team at work. Breakfast features freshly prepared Yunnan Rice Noodles, crafted by a Bai team member, offering a special way to start the day. At lunch and dinner, Burrata presents another highlight, bringing together Western traditions with a taste of Dali's terroir.

Wrapped in red clay textures and dark timber finishes, KUSHO offers a wood-fired dining experience. Seasonal vegetables and locally selected meats reveal their character and purity through the precise use of fire. Deep red brick walls and ceilings echo the warmth of the flames, while a central black bar introduces a sleek modern contrast. Outside, a 270-degree terrace frames panoramic views of sunset over Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. The menu follows the rhythm of the seasons, allowing carefully selected ingredients to take centre stage, with fire bringing out a balance of intensity and delicacy. The beverage programme continues this surprise with a collection of inventive drinks, including the Okinawa Fashion - crafted with peanut butter fat-washed whisky, Okinawa black sugar flavored syrup, chocolate bitters, and Angostura bitters, the cocktail is presented with its crystal-clear amber appearance, without any thickness of peanut butter.

As the social heart of the hotel, Lobby & Lobby Bar unfolds against the backdrop of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. Local artworks, sculptures, and suspended twin fireplaces create an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting. The afternoon tea is served tableside from a beautiful trolley, where savory bites gradually give way to delicate desserts and seasonal fruits. Bathed in natural light, the experience unfolds at a relaxing pace, with thoughtfully selected tableware complementing the surrounding landscape. Throughout the day, changing light transforms the space — from the reflection of Cangshan Mountain on clear days to the quiet beauty of rain. With its understated openness and warmth, Lobby & Lobby Bar invites guests to pause, linger, and connect, much like a cozy living room.

As evening arrives, Lobby & Lobby Bar takes on a different rhythm. Inspired by ingredients including porcini mushrooms, the cocktail menu draws from rich cultural heritage of the ancient Tea Horse Road, translating the region’s landscapes and flavors into each glass. More than a collection of cocktails, the menu invites guests on a sensory journey through one of China's most storied trade routes. Beyond the regular menu, six hidden cocktails await discovery. If the regular menu offers an impressionistic interpretation of the Tea Horse Road, these off-menu creations capture six distinct moments along the ancient route.

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