questions about living comfort in dalian

hi there!
i am considering a work assignment in dalian. i have worked and lived in beijing so i have a certain understanding of living in china. dalian is not as advanced as beijing but is fast becoming that way i hear.
what are the options for western grocery shopping? do the hotels have sunday brunches like the do in beijing and shanghi? does the tv offer star world or a selection of english channels?
thank you for your informantion!
dan