Golden Dragon Marks 50 Years In The UAE
DUBAI, UAE: Fifty years after opening in Bur Dubai, Golden Dragon has brought together its founder’s family, former colleagues and longtime patrons for a celebration tracing the relationships behind one of the UAE’s early Chinese restaurants.
Founded on 14 October 1976 by the late K. M. Bhatia under KM Brothers, Golden Dragon began serving diners before the Dubai World Trade Centre opened its doors and became a familiar dining destination for generations of residents.
Mirza Hussain Al Sayegh, the UAE’s first Ambassador to India, attended the golden jubilee as chief guest. He joined the founder’s family and other guests for the ceremonial cutting of the 50th anniversary cake.
The gathering included Bhatia’s wife, Kamla Bhatia; his son, Kamlesh Bhatia, and family; and his daughter, Pinky. Sunder Mans, former General Manager of KM Brothers, also attended alongside former colleagues, friends and patrons.
Mans played a central role in establishing the restaurant, spending more than a month in China selecting furniture, equipment and traditional artefacts for its original interiors. Mumbai-based architect Lalitha Sakthi designed the interiors, with fit-out work undertaken by Chandrasekhar.
The reunion held particular significance for K. Muraleedharan, Chairman and Managing Director of SFC Group, who began his professional career at KM Brothers before establishing SFC Group.
“Golden Dragon’s 50th anniversary is deeply personal to me. My professional journey began with KM Brothers, and I still remember with gratitude Mr. Sunder Mans signing my appointment letter,” Muraleedharan said.
“Today, we fondly remember the late K. M. Bhatia, who founded this wonderful restaurant.”
Muraleedharan said becoming involved with Golden Dragon in 2013 had brought a sense of responsibility to preserve its legacy.
“To celebrate this occasion with his family, Sunder Mans, former colleagues and longtime friends is truly special. When we became involved with Golden Dragon in 2013, we felt a responsibility to preserve the legacy they had created. It is heartwarming to see that legacy continuing across generations.”
He also thanked Al Sayegh for attending the anniversary celebration.