This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Next time you're in the mood for authentic Asian fare, skip the ham fried rice and orange chicken and order something really daring — like Peking duck.
You'll have to plan ahead, as this elaborately prepared Chinese dish usually requires 24 hours notice, says Angel Manfredini, co-owner of the Mandarin.
The Bountiful restaurant has been preparing Peking Duck since it opened 35 years ago and is one of at least three Wasatch Front restaurants that offers this dish. The Hong Kong Tea House and J. Wong's Asian Bistro, both in Salt Lake, also have it on the menu.
While each restaurant has its own secret recipe, preparing Peking duck requires that the bird hang to dry overnight. It is then slow cooked for several hours until the skin is super crispy and golden brown and the meat is tender. Once cooked, the duck is carved off the bone and served with thin pancakes, scallion onions and special sauce.
"Peking Duck is great for a special occasion or to introduce family and friends to a Chinese specialty," said Manfredini.
Here's where to get it. Remember you must call ahead:
Mandarin • 348 E. 900 North, Bountiful; 801-298-2406. Peking Duck costs $29.99 dine-in or take out. Open Monday-Thursday at 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
J. Wong's Asian Bistro • 163 W. 200 South, Salt Lake City 801-350-0888. Peking Duck $45. Open Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Hong Kong Tea House and restaurant • 565 W. 200 South, Salt Lake City 801-531-7010. Peking Duck, $28.99. Open Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.