 D17 Craig Butcher grew up amidst the sights, sounds and smells of Hong Kong. Here he roots out the best new openings in the bustling city.
Thanks to its central location and historical influx of migrants, predominantly from Southern China, but more recently from across the World, modern Hong Kong has become a culinary Mecca, with some of the finest and most diverse cuisine available in Asia. From Cantonese and Shanghainese, to Modern European and Pacific Rim, from kerbside dai-pai-dongs to gourmet haute cuisine, it has a huge amount to offer the curious gastronomic traveller.
D17
Already a cult favourite, this little restaurant towers high above the teeming shopping streets of Causeway Bay. Dominated by two bulldog paintings, the louche interior features plump cushions, grey wood panelling and an open kitchen which specialises in grilled seafood. French-fusion fare features lots of raw seafood and Asian influences, including fried lotus root with truffle salt, pan-fried Australian barramundi with morel cream sauce and sautéed capellini with shrimps in Tom Yum sauce. 17/F, Continental Diamond Plaza, 525 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay Tel: +852 3907 0090
Island Tang
Lovers of David Tang’s ‘China Tang’ at The Dorchester and his homeware brand Shanghai Tang won’t be surprised to learn how impeccably furnished (Colonial style) and feng shui-ed his new restaurant is in the heart of the Central district. The menu, by Executive Chef Frankie So, formerly of the Island Shangri-la hotel, is unashamedly ambitious – from classic Cantonese to dim sum, birds nest and sharks fin. Prices are heavy, but the Executive Lunch offers excellent value.
The Galleria, 9 Queen’s Road Central
Tel: +852 2526 8798
Lova
The latest addition to Hong Kong’s very own SoHo (South of Hollywood Road) in upscale Lan Kwai Fong, Lova is in the heart of the action. With a large roof terrace ideal for cooler nights Lova's style is a welcome sign of the times. Above decadent den Lava it’s all pared-down minimalism with white walls and an arabesque feel. A western menu changes weekly with a strong seafood offering including Hokkaido scallops and plenty of barbecued meats, including fresh prime rib-eye steak grilled with hickory chips.
4/F, The Plaza, 21 D’Aguilar Street, Central
Tel +852 2522 0043
Ovologue
Forming part of the renaissance of the Wan Chai area is this superbly decorated gallery-cum-restaurant concept in the old Wo Cheong Pawn shop, a historic colonial building absolutely oozing character and charm. The stunning décor is spot-on, with an array of detailing, from orchids and folding screens to high vaulted ceilings and stone archways. The Northern Chinese menu combines peppery Szechuan and warming Shanghainese styles with an exciting contemporary twist. Service flows as smoothly as the alluring range of Asian teas.
66 Johnston Road, Wan Chai
Tel: +852 2527 6088
Kun
Sister restaurant to the original in Happy Valley, the home of Hong Kong horse racing, Kun is a traditional Japanese seafood restaurant located in the vibrant streets around Lan Kwai Fong. Aspiring to ‘omakase’, a form of open chef’s table where the chef showcases his repertoire, Kun specialises in sourcing ultra-fresh seafood. Décor is traditional Japanese with open bar and natural timbers but an easy-going atmosphere pervades.
6/F, Wellington Place, 2-8 Wellington Street, Central
Tel: +852 2868 5657
|