Our story
The Peony Pavilion is perhaps the most famous opera in China, a timeless love story written in the 16th century, set in and staged in a peony and rose-filled garden. It is the story of Du Liniang, who falls asleep in her family garden dreaming of falling in love with Liu Mengmei, a handsome young scholar. Captivated by the dream’s imagery, she pines away for her lover until she dies of a broken heart. Seeing theheroine’s portrait in the garden, Liu is visited by Du Liniang’sghost. The two unite in a romantic encounter and she persuades him that she can be freed if he removes her from her garden resting place. He does and Du Liniang miraculously comes back to life. Owner, Li Shao, along with Master Sushi Chef, Yoshi of New York's Sakura, and Chef Zhe, formerly of Tokyo Boat, Nobu, and Dao, have collaborated to create a menu featuring the flavors of Asian cuisine in their many forms. In the garden-like setting of their own Peony Pavilion in Princeton, they present their own “love story” bringing their vision of the Chinese kunqu opera – detailed and dramatic, to life. Visually lavish, The Peony Pavilion windows glow with color; the space punctuated by eye-popping touches of red, the color of the silk robes worn to demonstrate the rebirth of the operatic heroine. The peony itself, the king of flowers, is a Chinese symbol of peace, distinction, and prosperity, and is highlighted in the Delicate, precisely stylized, etched glass peonies form the elegant chandelier at the entry and stunning wood, red lacquered peonies are displayed throughout. A panel of copper peonies creates the backdrop for framed kimonos and photos take from the opera. The setting, complimented by soft jazz, is seductively romantic, yet comfortable for larger groups and families. A private dining room with video conferencing capabilities is available for banquets, conferences, parties, and meetings. The Peony Pavilion provides the opportunity to experience foods with a rich history. Flavors of Korea, Thailand, China, and Japan are showcased in an Asian dim sum, small plates that can be chosen from offerings on carts. Sushi platters can be chosen from the menu or individually customized. Sea bass, black cod, and steak can be prepared with a variety of sauces. Tea smoked and Beijing duck round out the entree selections. All are artfully presented, and designed to capture the best of locally sourced ingredients including meats, herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers. The food can be accompanied by a variety of teas, a signature cocktail, or wines carefully chosen by the chefs in collaboration with the Alba Winery.
The Peony Pavilion is perhaps the most famous opera in China, a timeless love story written in the 16th century, set in and staged in a peony and rose-filled garden. It is the story of Du Liniang, who falls asleep in her family garden dreaming of falling in love with Liu Mengmei, a handsome young scholar. Captivated by the dream’s imagery, she pines away for her lover until she dies of a broken heart. Seeing theheroine’s portrait in the garden, Liu is visited by Du Liniang’sghost. The two unite in a romantic encounter and she persuades him that she can be freed if he removes her from her garden resting place. He does and Du Liniang miraculously comes back to life. Owner, Li Shao, along with Master Sushi Chef, Yoshi of New York's Sakura, and Chef Zhe, formerly of Tokyo Boat, Nobu, and Dao, have collaborated to create a menu featuring the flavors of Asian cuisine in their many forms. In the garden-like setting of their own Peony Pavilion in Princeton, they present their own “love story” bringing their vision of the Chinese kunqu opera – detailed and dramatic, to life. Visually lavish, The Peony Pavilion windows glow with color; the space punctuated by eye-popping touches of red, the color of the silk robes worn to demonstrate the rebirth of the operatic heroine. The peony itself, the king of flowers, is a Chinese symbol of peace, distinction, and prosperity, and is highlighted in the Delicate, precisely stylized, etched glass peonies form the elegant chandelier at the entry and stunning wood, red lacquered peonies are displayed throughout. A panel of copper peonies creates the backdrop for framed kimonos and photos take from the opera. The setting, complimented by soft jazz, is seductively romantic, yet comfortable for larger groups and families. A private dining room with video conferencing capabilities is available for banquets, conferences, parties, and meetings. The Peony Pavilion provides the opportunity to experience foods with a rich history. Flavors of Korea, Thailand, China, and Japan are showcased in an Asian dim sum, small plates that can be chosen from offerings on carts. Sushi platters can be chosen from the menu or individually customized. Sea bass, black cod, and steak can be prepared with a variety of sauces. Tea smoked and Beijing duck round out the entree selections. All are artfully presented, and designed to capture the best of locally sourced ingredients including meats, herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers. The food can be accompanied by a variety of teas, a signature cocktail, or wines carefully chosen by the chefs in collaboration with the Alba Winery.