For the Chinese, food must not only taste good, but there is great symbolism in the character and meaning of the dishes. Nothing symbolizes this more than in the unique ‘Lo Hei’ tradition which is kept very much alive in Singapore.
Literally meaning ‘Mix High’ in Cantonese, it is actually a raw fish salad called ‘Yu Sheng’ eaten with a ceremony which is supposed to improve the luck and financial fortunes of all those who partake in the ritual.
The contents of the dish are specially chosen for their auspicious sounds and alternate meanings in Chinese. ‘Yu Sheng’ means ‘raw fish’ in Cantonese, but also sounds like ‘surplus and vitality’. When the sauces and spices are added to the ingredients, a poetic limerick of auspicious incantations is uttered to magically enhance the potency of the dish.
Every diner is then invited to mix all the ingredients of the salad together so that wealth is shared by all. The salad is ‘tossed’ high into the air so that greater heights of prosperity can be achieved and if the ingredients fall outside the dish, so much the better, as it is taken as a portent of future ‘overflowing of abundance’ for everyone on the table. 
This culinary praxis is completed with diners often adorned with Chinese cheongsams and embroidered silk or satin jackets rather than the usual Western suits and evening wear. Entertainment consisted of a dragon dance to bring luck and to invite the diners into the dining hall, followed by a selection of Chinese dances.
It was certainly a special night to savour for the 100 members, especially since it was held in the hotel of one of our members: the 5-star Grand Park City Hall. The wonderful Chinese menu was suitably lubricated by the best of French wines. Perhaps one day it will be wine made in China, when the Middle Kingdom has sufficiently internationalised their viticulture and vinification.
David S W Jen, Chargé de Presse
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Here is a gallery of selected images from the event . . .
