How DanDan Is Celebrating the Lunar New Year

Originally published in Milwaukee Magazine 1/20/23

The Third Ward’s cozy Chinese-American restaurant, DanDan, is celebrating the Lunar New Year with a commemorative “year of the rabbit” four-course meal. Though the limited-time menu does not feature any rabbit, the four courses reflect some of the things we are welcoming in the new year, including fortune and abundance. 

• Fortune: Duck spring roll with grapefruit sweet and sour sauce Moneybag dumpling with shitaki, sticky rice, and cilantro

• Longevity: Long-noodle soup, with red seaweed and meatball

• Abundance: Salt and pepper fried smelt with green chili and scallion

• Happiness: Kiett mango pudding with white chocolate and basil

DanDan chefs Dan Jacobs and Dan Van Rite approach their recipe development with a “Chinese soul with a Midwestern sensibility.” This weekend’s Chinese New Year festivities celebrate the flavorful and playful ingredients of the season. 

2023’s Lunar New Year starts this Sunday, Jan. 22 and celebrations last for up to 16 days, culminating with traditional Lantern Festivals on Feb. 5. This Sunday we’re transitioning from the Year of the Tiger to the Year of the Rabbit. 

According to NBC reporter Kimmy Yam,  this year we should all be focusing on working smarter, not harder. The rabbit is a symbol of peace and calm, and participants are encouraged to approach this tranquil year with serenity and introspection. 

Guests interested in celebrating the Lunar New Year at DanDan are encouraged to make reservations to hold their spot.