The lovely fall weather calls for a nice meal outside, and for the best outdoor dining experience, look no further than Tsim Sha Tsui East’s Alfresco Lane.
Namo Avant Thai boasts a killer view
A strip by the waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui Centre and Empire Centre, Alfresco Lane is a haven for urbanites wanting to escape the busy city without actually having to skip town. It offers a wide variety of cuisines from around the world, with a magnificent view of Victoria Harbour as the backdrop.
Spaghetti martelli alle “vongole” at Spasso
You can picture yourself in a little Italian town when you get to Spasso(Empire Centre G5-8, 12-17, 2730-8027): This charming eatery serves genuine Italian cuisine in both indoor and outdoor settings. Chef Marco Baja is all about keeping his food authentic, as demonstrated in his craftsmanship of fresh and dry pasta, stone baked pizzas made with top-notch flour, and ingredients flown in from Italy.
Fish and chips at London House
If you prefer to knock back a few pints with your buddies, head down toLondon House (Tsim Sha Tsui Centre G5, 3650-3333) by world-leading chef Gordon Ramsay. This two-story establishment is ideal for casual after-work drinks, an intimate dinner for two, or even a weekend brunch with family. Now, this wouldn’t be a proper British pub without some good ole’ fashioned fish and chips: At London House, the dish is fried to perfection by head chef Vikram Singh. Succulent cod wrapped in a light, golden beer batter, accompanied by thick, crispy chips.
Beer infused Bavarian honey pork ribs at Brotzeit
Beer aficionados will also appreciate a good German bar and restaurant: Brotzeit (Tsim Sha Tsui Centre G6, UG16, 2316-2666) brings the best from Germany to the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui. Helmed by German executive chef Marco Jonas, Brotzeit offers a variety of traditional German delights that match perfectly with their range of imported beers. Try the quintessentially German pork knuckle: Marinated in beer before being steamed and roasted. The knuckle is crispy on the outside but perfectly tender and juicy on the inside.
“XLO” giant Atlantic octopus at Namo Avant Thai
Prefer something Asian but with a twist? Namo Avant Thai (Empire Centre G18, 2739-1133) is the place to go. The restaurant is known for its innovative interpretations of vibrant Thai cuisine. Group executive chef “Amoo” Wijannarongk Kunchit from Thailand has given the menu a “Thai-pas” spin, making it perfect for diners to share, sampling multiple flavors with a few drinks. Signature dishes include the Siam fish mousse cake, and the “XLO” giant Atlantic octopus, chargrilled to tender perfection with a light lemongrass and coconut foam.
Have a pint or two at Brotzeit German Bier Bar & Restaurant
Whether you’re in the neighborhood for a stroll with the family, a jog along the waterfront or an after-work bite with your colleagues, make sure you check out what Alfresco Lane has to offer.
Seafood Room brings opulent dining back to the fore.
Before you burrow down in the next speakeasy-like den in Sai Ying Pun, lucky to have snagged one of the 12 countertop seats while you sip your handcrafted small-batch-liquor cocktail, take a moment to book yourself into Seafood Room—Hong Kong’s latest 8,000 sq.ft. a venue that has snatched the spotlight, and is forcing it back to the extravagant, grandiose dining room.
The first Asia debut from Russia’s Bulldozer Group, Seafood Room is leaving no stone unturned (or should we say crystal unpolished) in its quest to become Hong Kong’s hottest dining destination, and it’s off to a grand old’ start. This is the place to see and be seen—and when we say see, we mean the likes of top affordable studio apartments Hong Kong actors, supermodels and socialites who have been milling about since the restaurant opened a little over a month ago.
Decorated in an oceanic motif with aqua green glass panels and bright turquoise accents, the setting is certainly worth paying a premium for. Bold and beautiful artwork mirrors the bold and beautiful clientele, valued altogether at over US$1 million, including a few pieces from Hollywood actor Adrien Brody (who knew his talents extended beyond the silver screen?).
But let’s get down to the food—Seafood Room is all about showcasing the freshest ocean produce, and you’ll need a hearty appetite (and a pretty hefty wallet) to make a dent in the menu, which features over 50 seafood dishes split into 12 sections: from carpaccios to sashimi and “new-style” sushi, ceviches to tartare, and hot dishes including a Cantonese selection.
Cantonese-style lobster at Seafood room.
Orchestrating the menu is James Cornwall, former executive chef at London’s J Sheekey. According to Cornwall, one of the restaurant’s main tenets is bringing the focus back to sustainable seafood. “Twice a week I get a box from New Zealand with a mix of seafood… there’ll be 20 species or so of fish that are sustainable: Whatever they catch they’ll send it in, and that’s what I’ll have to work with,” says Cornwall.
Despite the seeming dissonance in the menu from European-style carpaccios to South American-spiced ceviches, the idea is that all the dishes should “work together and make sense on the plate”—to be shared like the seafood you get on the Sai Kung waterfront, Cornwall adds, which was the original inspiration for the restaurant.
Langoustine tartare at Seafood Room.
From a recent visit, we found the dishes did, in fact, work harmoniously; there was a “new-style” salmon tataki, blushing pink alongside an avocado cream in a tangy jalapeno sauce; a bright red sheet of flattened tuna carpaccio flaked with paper-thin truffle; and a Cantonese-style lobster, served in the shell with a punchy XO sauce. And let’s not forget the miso salmon—one of the best pieces of fish that we’ve had in a while, with its caramelised sweet miso crust and incredibly rich, buttery meat.
In fact, the only complaint we had was not about the food, but the rather confused service—an army of waiters who seem to have been thrown into the field with blinders on. But if they can straighten up their service, we see no obstacle from Seafood Room becoming the top destination for Hong Kong’s elite. And with the recent opening of the stunning 2,000 sq.ft. rooftop lounge which will host weekly caviar nights and live jazz, we’re lapping it all up with star-crossed eyes.
Prices: $150-250 crude and sashimi, $300-500 hot dishes, fish at market price
Open: Daily noon-midnight
Chef’s Fave!
“For the warm octopus salad, we get octopus and slow-cook it for three hours so it’s nice and tender. We add potatoes, smoked paprika, cherry tomatoes, shallots and capers sautéed to make the base of the dish, and top it off with a mixed salad with a couple of crisps. The warm octopus together with the cold salad on top makes for a delicious combination.” — Chef James Cornwall
June 19 is just around the corner. Show dad your appreciation with a macho meal at one of Hong Kong’s meat palaces.
Australian bone-in ribeye at Wooloomooloo Prime.
Wooloomooloo Prime
Sweeping views of the harbour, an extensive wine list and mountains of red meat make Wooloomooloo Prime an ideal choice for a Father’s Day celebration. On June 18-19, this classic steakhouse gives it up for all the dads in the house with a tempting five-course surf ‘n’ turf menu that kicks off with tuna, beef and Hamachi carpaccio, a trio of scallops, bacon-wrapped shrimps, and confit octopus, and lobster bisque. Then it’s time to sharpen up the steak knives for the broiled tenderloin, paired with a perfectly cooked lobster tail. Cap off the raucous merrymaking with a whisky-infused ice cream made just for dads. Jun 18-19. $798 per person.
Say hello to a massive hunk of meat at InterCon.
Steak House Winebar + Grill
Round up the troupe and head to the InterContinental Hong Kong’s Steak House Winebar + Grill for a bit of Father’s Day fun for the fam. It’s all about an epic Sunday roast this year with beautifully prepared chargrilled meats alongside a semi-buffet of salads and starters. For Father’s Day, the weekend lunch gets a special twist with a delicious surf ‘n’ turf combo featuring dad’s choice of chargrilled main course alongside a Boston lobster tail. Round off the meal with the steakhouse’s lush and creamy lobster bisque, black truffle potato gratin and grilled veggies for a hearty Sunday roast. Jun 18-19, noon-2:30pm. $998 (free-flow champagne and red wine), $798 (free-flow soft drinks and juice), $698 for kids aged 3-6.
A beefy platter at Mandarin Grill + Bar.
Mandarin Grill + Bar
Elegant and classic, the Mandarin Grill + Bar remains one of the finest places to treat dad to a special Father’s Day brunch: Start with a selection of fresh oysters, sushi and sashimi, and salads drizzled with infused olive oils. There’ll be French pastries and viennoiseries, cold-cut Spanish hams, dim sum, soup and a roast beef carving station. If meat is what dad craves, he’ll get it with platters of pork, Australian lamb, and US prime sirloin, along with Indian-influenced favourites such as chicken tikka masala and lamb tandoori paired with homemade naan. If that’s not enough, the dessert selection features more than 36 different sweets to choose from. Jun 19, 11am-3pm. $1,398 with free-flow champagne; $648 for kids.
Tira de ancho steak at Gaucho.
Gaucho
Spice up your Father’s Day celebrations at Gaucho, the red-hot Argentinian steakhouse that’s always finger-licking’ good with their combo of spices and flame-grilled meats. In addition to the macho design incorporating cowhide walls and a black-and-white colour palette, the menu is studded with dishes for meat-lovers, from beef empanadas peppered with aji mould do chilli powder to pulled pork with a spiced apple chutney or a sausage platter with Argentine chorizo and morcilla. You could skip all that, however, and go right to the main event: the beautifully marbled “tira de ancho” spiral-cut rib eye with a punchy chimichurri sauce clinging to all the crevices of the meat. Tasting menu available from $788.
It’s a sausage fest at The Chop House.
The Chop House
If dad is more of a jeans and T-shirt kind of guy, The Chop House presents a less formal dining option with locations on both sides of the harbour. Their newest spot opened not too long ago in TST and serves up the same meat-heavy menu along with a few new specialities. The Father’s Day all-day dining menu is a sight to behold: Think a cold cuts platter piled high with prosciutto, beef salami, pork liver terrine, burrata and ciabatta, followed by a spicy Cajun potato soup with flavorful chunks of chorizo. For the main course, dig into sharing platters of tender Australian beef tenderloin, twice-cooked lamb shank, slow-roasted pork ribs, sausages and cheesy potato gratin. Jun 18-19. $228 per dinner.
Hamburger Helper
Not enough saved in the piggy bank to treat dad to an expensive steak meal? Make the day special by bonding with the big man over a big beefy burger instead.
W Hong Kong
The W has come up with another crazy promotion for Father’s Day to satisfy all our carnivorous cravings: Woobar presents five new country-themed burgers to impress dads ($180-258), including 40 choices of ingredients for you to create your own burger. The “French Kiss” highlights foie gras and truffle mayo, while the “Burger Gangnam Style” is a mouth-puckering K-fusion creation with caramelised kimchi, homemade gochujang ketchup and a fried egg to top it off. Available all summer, daily 10am-1am.
Jamie’s Italian
Family-friendly resto Jamie’s Italian’s “mini me” special should warm the cockles of any meat-loving father and son duo: From June 18-19, any dad who orders the Father’s Day burger (a chargrilled patty stacked with pancetta, balsamic onions and Westcombe cheddar, $180) will receive two complimentary mini-sized sliders for the kids—all paired with a basket of crispy hand-cut fries.
Morton’s
Put on your chef whites and get your hands a little greasy with a Father’s Day cooking class at Morton’s Hong Kong vacation rental, where dads and kids will whip up a hearty four-course meal in the kitchen. Start off with a fresh salad and jumbo crab cakes, then move on to the juicy prime beef burger using Morton’s premium beef. Dessert is a devilish double chocolate mousse that’s perfect for sharing between two. Jun 18, noon-2:30pm. $988 per father and kid pair.
It’s heating up fast. Chill out with these 25 frozen treats that will leave your taste buds tingling.
I scream for ice cream at Emack & Bolio’s.
1. Ice Cream Cone from Emack & Bolio’s
You’ll feel like a kid again every time you walk into this ice cream parlor: From crazy concoctions like “Space Cake” with shortbread cookies and red velvet cake to the cones dipped in marshmallows and stuck with fruit loops and sprinkles, this is one nostalgic treat that you’ll go back for time and again. $63, 26 Cochrane St., Central, 2505-6626.
2.Soft Serve from Eyescream and Churros
What do you do when you’re craving a cool-down and a delicious Mexican churro? Cater to both of these needs at once at this dessert shop that serves the sugary fried dough sticks on top of soft-serve ice cream. $38, Shop B1, G/F, Tak Man Building, 29 Tak Man St., Hung Hom.
3. The Vanishing Christmas Tree from Honey Crème
Dream of snowier times to distract yourself from the sweltering heat as you watch Honey Crème adorn and serve you their “Vanishing Christmas Tree.” It goes like this: Soft serve plus chocolate and cocoa powder, topped with a wintery fluff of candy floss and mint green syrup. $54, 34 Lee Garden Rd., Causeway Bay, 3525-1264.
Nice Pops’ fruity summer flavors.
4. Nice Pops
Ice is nice in the summer. Not only will Nice Pops get you through the Hong Kong heat wave, but their delicious flavors also come with a boozy kick. Stock up on a box and stick them in your freezer for the next time you need to cool down, but don’t quite feel like leaving the house. Or at least not sober, that is. Various locations, nicepops.hk
5. “Improvisation” from Atum Desserant
Want to be blown away by your dessert instead of just faintly amused by it? Snag a spot at Atum Desserant and order their famous “Improvisation” set for two, in which the pastry chef improvises your dish from a wide range of molecular colors, dusts and flavors for a final dessert that’s (almost) too pretty to eat. $328, 16/F, The L. Square, 459-461 Lockhart Rd., Causeway Bay, 2956-1411.
Matcha made in heaven at Little Bao.
6. Ice Cream Sandwich from Little Bao
Your sandwich needs in Hong Kong change drastically once summer hits and that’s okay because Little Bao has got you covered. Green tea ice cream and condensed milk sandwiched between a deep-fried bao is the only burger we need. $48, G/F, 66 Staunton St., Central, 2194-0202.
7. Deluxe Melon Parfait from I Cremeria
Been looking for the real matcha deal? Find it just in time for summer at I Cremeria, which combines Japanese soft-serve, matcha and a fruit parfait for an all-in-one dessert. Give it a go with their Deluxe Melon Parfait: matcha and vanilla Hokkaido milk ice cream served in the hollowed-out half of a Japanese melon. $45, G/F, 67 Wellington St., Central, 2897-1118.
Fresh juices sing of summer at Catch Juicery.
8. Forever Young Smoothie from Catch Juicery
For all you “clean eating” Hong Kongers looking for a refresher, Catch Juicery is getting a lot of hurrah for their delicious raw juices and smoothies. Treat yourself to the Forever Young Smoothie with all-natural coconut water, strawberry, pineapple, goji berry and coconut oil. $80, 67 Wellington St., Central, 2567-3677.
9. Hazelnut Fudge Ice Cream from Happy Cow
Who says dairy-free/vegan peeps are doomed in the heat? Happy Cow Ice Cream is a dairy-free favorite—maybe because their handcrafted hazelnut fudge might even be better than the real deal. $35, 1/F, Kar Yau Building, 3644 Queen’s Rd. East, Wan Chai, more locations at happycowhk.com
An old-school diner classic at Burger Circus.
10. Spiked Milkshake from Burger Circus
Need a summer day’s break? Order up a spiked milkshake at Burger Circus. Pick your ice cream flavor and this cold and creamy concoction will make you wonder why you ever wanted to get your alcohol fix the basic way. $68, 22 Hollywood Rd., Central, burgercircus.com.hk
11. Caramel Banana Waffle from Café Charm’s
Crispy waffle, scoop of ice cream, cool whipped cream and sprinkles—a classic Belgian waffle never gets old. Café Charm’s might just be the breakfast spot of the summer, thanks to its take on the waffle. $60, 7/F, Dragon Centre, 37 Yen Chow St., Sham Shui Po, 3480-5383.
Hanbing Korean Dessert serves up a kooky cookie treat.
12. Oreo Snowflake Ice from Hanbing Korean Dessert
This dessert shop has a few snow-themed desserts up their sleeves to keep you in the chilled mentality. Their Oreo Snowflake Ice is exactly what it sounds like: Korean shaved ice with a cookies ‘n’ cream touch thanks to the perfect ratio of Oreo cookie shavings, sweet cream ice cream, and vanilla shaved ice. $85, Shop 4201K-4202K, 4/F, Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, 3-27 Canton Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 3791-2547.
13. Brick Toast from Teawood
Strawberries dot the plate, but they can’t distract you from your true goal: finishing Teawood’s monster Chocolate Strawberry Brick toast—a stack of fluffy and crispy toast cubes topped with rocky road ice cream and chocolate sauce. $72, 10/F, King Wah Centre, 628 Nathan Rd., Mong Kok, 2780-2321.
Swoon over Munchies’ ice cream-donut combos.
14. Donut Ice Cream Sandwich from Munchies
Build your own decadent ice cream sandwich with Munchies’ array of fluffy doughnuts and ice cream flavors. Our favorite combo: classic vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two sugary-sweet lemon strawberry donuts—it’s a calorie bomb that’s worth every bite. $70, 4Shin Hing St., Sheung Wan, munchies.hk
15. Black Sesame Cream Parfait from Via Tokyo
The soft twists of this luscious black sesame soft-serve are enough to draw us in—and luckily, the flavors deliver. Via Tokyo has been a crowd favorite since landing in Hong Kong, with each soft serve flavor garnished with biscuits, mochi and other sweet nibbles. $62, Shop 1A1B, G/F, Leishun Court, 106-126 Leighton Rd., Causeway Bay, 2895-1116.
Hong Kong egg waffles get a western twist at Oddies Foodies.
16. Nightworld from Oddies Foodies
The “Nightwolf” combines classic gelato with traditional Hong Kong egg puffs and a twist of sharp passion fruit—and thankfully, it’s just as delicious as it is #foodstagram-worthy. $52, Shop 1F, GF, 149 Wan Chai Rd., Wan Chai, 9551-7972.
17. Flamed Bacon Soft Serve from Soft Creme
Soft Creme’s Flamed Bacon soft serve combines two of life’s most simple pleasures: ice cream and bacon. The combo itself is a thing to behold, but when coupled with the eerie effect of fog rising from the dry ice under your cup of ice cream it becomes a thing of edible beauty. $42, HMV Pearl City Mansion, 22 Paterson St., Causeway Bay, 2370-3205.
Jump on the coconut craze at Chachawan.
18. Frozen Bowser Colada from Chachawan
Coconut lovers rejoice! Chachawan’s new take on an old favorite combines the quintessential essence of a piña colada with their delicious homemade coconut ice cream, all inside of a real coconut shell. $108, 206 Hollywood Rd., Sheung Wan, 2549-0020.
19. Sweet Potato Party from Small Potato Ice Creamery
Purple sweet potato is all the rage right now… so why not turn it into ice cream? This bright purple signature dish from Small Potato Ice Creamery is a delicious sight to behold. $48, G/F, 28-30 Haven St., Causeway Bay, 2618-9032.
I See I See highlights fresh fruit in their ice pops.
20. Strawberry Hokkaido Milk from I See I See
Roll up to I See I See and pick up a deliciously refreshing Strawberry Hokkaido Milk ice pop, a new flavor that’s already picking up a loyal following. It’s got fruit in it—so it has to be good for you, right? $42, Shop 01, Haven Court, 138 Leighton Rd., Causeway Bay, 2337-3361.
An elegant rose ice cream from Ice Cream Gallery.
21. Organic Rose Chocolate Ice Cream from Ice Cream Gallery
Handmade everyday with top ingredients in small batches, it’s no wonder Ice Cream Gallery’s decadent Rose Chocolate ice cream is one of our favorite treats to beat the summer heat. $50, Shop G16, G/F, 311 Gloucester Rd., Causeway Bay, 2366-5116.
Go crazy for this adult PB&J sandwich from Elephant Grounds.
22. The Peanut Gallery from Elephant Grounds
A PB&J in the form of an ice cream sandwich is the crazy delicious dessert you’ll be handed if you order The Peanut Gallery at Elephant Grounds. Stave off hunger and heat as you scarf down this dreamy concoction from one of Hong Kong’s favorite coffee shops. $68, Shop C, G/F, 42-48 Paterson St., Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay, 2562-8688.
XTC’s gelato-cheesecake innovaton is a worthy summer treat.
23. Gelato Cheesecake Stick from XTC
If you love ice cream and cheesecake, then XTC has the summertime treat for you. Rich and creamy, their newest creation is a simple and tasty way to keep cool on the go. $39, Shop B, 45 Cochrane St., Central, 2541-0500.
Sinmei Tea brings back the brownie.
24. Matcha Sizzling Brownie from Sinmei Tea
Pour a warm matcha mousse onto rich vanilla ice cream perched atop a perfectly baked brownie and you’ve got yourself a recipe for delight. The Matcha Sizzling Brownie is a dish sure to leave you begging for more. $78, 5/F CS Tower, 50 Wing Lok St., Sheung Wan, 3690-8238.
25. Gudetama Creme Brûlée McFlurry from McDonald’s
Hong Kong’s obsession with gudetama has no end in sight, as McD’s has just launched their gudetama series complete with gudetama coffee, gudetama cheese balls, and gudetama desserts. Cool down with the creme brûlée McFlurry topped with caramel and cookie crumbles, with an all-too-adorable image of a skiing gudetama on the McFlurry cup to keep you in a cool mood. $9, various locations, mcdonalds.com.hk
The Café Gray Deluxe and Diane von Furstenberg afternoon tea.
Café Gray Deluxe
Get a taste of legendary fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg’s signature prints, colors, and florals in bite-sized culinary creations presented by Café Gray Deluxe at Hong Kong Serviced Apartments The Upper House. Kicking off the DVF Spring 2016 collection, the “Fortuna” afternoon tea is inspired by the first painting Diane bought for herself, which depicts Fortuna, the Roman goddess of fortune. Like the collection, expect to be inundated with bright colors and pretty pink prints, from the sea buckthorn berry macarons to strawberry-jasmine shortcake and mousse of crème de cassis imbued with DVF’s spring colors. Savory items sing of spring, from the asparagus-ricotta tartlet to the foie gras torchon and rhubarb brioche. Cap off the girly afternoon with a stop at DVF’s Pacific Place store to redeem an exclusive DVF gift. $310 per person, $560 for two, through May 15. Daily 3:30-5:30pm.
Ritz-Carlton’s Collection Anniversaire high tea features eight creations inspired by history.
The Lounge & Bar
In celebration of Godiva’s 90th birthday this year, The Ritz-Carlton is calling all chocoholics to its stunning lounge on the 102nd floor of ICC for a magical afternoon tea that journeys through Godiva’s nine decades of chocolate-making. The Collection Anniversaire high tea features eight creations inspired by history, from the “Signature Lait” coffee ganache created for “Gone With the Wind” in 1939, to the milk chocolate caramel “Ecusson” with a lion to mark Godiva’s appointment to the Royal Court of Belgium in 1968. The final piece is a brand new flavor for the 2016 anniversary: the “Egérie Noir” with smooth raspberry ganache, rose petals, and Belgian dark chocolate. $428. Apr 18-Jun 19. Mon-Thu 3-6pm; Fri 2:15-6:30pm; Sat-Sun noon-6:30pm.
Instagram away with the Korean afternoon tea at Jinjuu.
Jinjuu
We didn’t know Korean afternoon tea could be a thing until modern Korean resto Jinjuu launched its concept earlier this year. Featuring mini versions of menu hits such as “Sae-woo” prawn cake pops and Yuja cured salmon on gem lettuce, Jinjuu’s afternoon tea puts a new spin on the English tradition. Guests can warm themselves over man do dumplings with a soy dipping sauce or feast on Korean fried chicken sliders, with crispy chicken thighs served with house mayo on a brioche bun. For a sweet ending, go for a chocolate hazelnut brownie spiced with gochugaru chili powder or a mango and passion fruit panna cotta, alongside a range of fine Korean teas. $300 for two. Mon-Sun 2:30-5:30pm.
Park Café serves up a mean mango Mille-feuille.
Park Café
Park Café at the Park Hotel Hong Kong celebrates all things mango with a new afternoon tea buffet and tea set, featuring countless applications of the tropical fruit of the season in both sweet and savory dishes. Dig into the succulent, sweet fruit in dishes such as Japanese seaweed salad with mango and smoked salmon, stir-fried garoupa filet with mango and garlic, or pita bread stuffed with shredded chicken and mango in the “Mango Fever” buffet. For a more refined experience, opt for the “Mango Fiesta” afternoon tea set featuring handcrafted mango pastries and finger foods such as smoked salmon, cucumber and mango sandwiches, mango chocolate mousse cake, mango macarons and mango mille-feuille. Afternoon tea buffets $168 Fri, $188 Sat-Sun; afternoon tea set $208 for two Mon-Thu, $268 Fri-Sun through July.
The special Chinese preserved beencurd cheesecake at Café.
Café
Tired of waiting in the queue to snag a seat at The Peninsula’s lobby lounge? Head to the Hyatt Regency, Sha Tin for a hotel high tea away from the crowds. Surrounded by the mountainous green terrain and serene backdrop of New Territories, guests can nosh on a selection of pastry chef Kelvin Lai’s inventive Chinese desserts. Not your average afternoon tea, the Asian-inspired sweets here include osmanthus flower jelly with wolfberries, chilled almond jelly with silver ear fungus, Jasmine milk tea ice cream, and Chinese wine chocolate ice cream. If you can still manage to move afterward, take a plunge in the pool and work off the calories with the Hyatt’s Swim and Dine package ($390 with $300 dining credit at the Pool Bar). $318, Sat-Sun 3:15-5pm.
Not your average bird’s nest afternon tea at Ammo.
Ammo
They say that bird’s nest has nourishing properties for your skin, helping to boost collagen and maintain a youthful glow. It’s a prominent ingredient in skincare products, and now—it’s in your afternoon tea as well. Fine dining restaurant Ammo has teamed up with skincare brand Glycel for one of Hong Kong most exotic afternoon teas yet, highlighting the qualities of bird’s nest—and its versatility as an ingredient—in dishes such as spicy Vela chorizo on toast with bird’s nest, coconut bird’s nest panna cotta, and green tea cake roll with red beans and bird’s nest. If the thought of ingesting hardened bird saliva doesn’t quite do it for you, there are plenty of other sweet and savory bites to get your appetite going, from raisin scones with fig jam to braised short rib burgers and hamachi carpaccio with ponzu sauce and caviar. $368 for two includes a Glycel Hydro Firm Gift Pack, through Apr 30. Daily 3-5pm.
Ozone
Located on the 118th floor of the tallest hotel in the world, Ozone takes the title of highest bar in Hong Kong. On a good day, you will be able to enjoy a spectacular view of the Hong Kong skyline. The outdoor terrace is the perfect place to take in the view and chill with friends. While you spot Victoria Harbor and Hong Kong Island, enjoy some Asian-style tapas, Hong Kong Cheap Service Apartments and a cocktail. Bar manager Pietro Didio carefully mixes European and Asian tastes adding an exotic drinking experience to their extensive drinks menu. 118/F, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Rd. West, West Kowloon, 2263-2270, www.ritzcarlton.com
Café Gray Deluxe
Decorated to perfection with an aura of sophistication and understated glam, Café Gray Deluxe is the epitome of elegance on the 49th floor of the Upper House. A glamorous 46-foot long bar takes center stage serving delectable appetizers and colorfully named cocktails. Try the Earl Gray martini, Hong Kong Highball or Grapefruit Julep. Their extensive variety of wines makes this the perfect spot for drinks. And of course, the harbor view is breathtaking. 49/F, The Upper House Hotel, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 3968-1106, www.cafegrayhk.com
Épure
Inspired by the French royalty, Épure’s elegant furnish complements its French flavors that emphasize both authenticity and simplicity. Fortunately, they are an outdoor terrace and café area that provides a taste of French afternoon with the backdrop to the glamorous Victoria Harbor. Spend the afternoon sipping a glass of sparkling rosé and choose from its delectable selection of nibbles. The hand cut comes fries with black truffle sauce and mustard sauce is highly recommended, so is the cheese platter which features a delicious selection of refined cheeses by Xavier From Toulouse. Shop 403, Harbour City, Ocean Centre, 3-27 Canton Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 3185-8338
Sugar
The stunning skyline and harbor view makes the perfect setting for a relaxing weekend with friends. Located on the 32nd floor of the EAST Hotel, Sugar has a stunningly spacious outdoor deck. The view dominates every corner of the bar with electrifying panoramas showcasing a different side to Hong Kong’s skyline featuring North Point, Quarry Bay, and Tai Tam. Apart from your standard drinks, Sugar provides a signature drinks menu conveniently divided into four sections: Sparkling (Prosecco-based), Up(martinis and margarita), Mocktail(fruity and refreshing) and Bar(special concoctions invented by and named after resident bartenders). At 300 feet above sea level, you can also book Sugar for private functions during the day. 32/F, East Hotel, 29 Tai Koo Shing Rd., Tai Koo, 3968-3738, www.sugar-hongkong.com
Eyebar
On the 30th floor of iSquare, Eyebar follows the nautical theme of its adjoining restaurant, Nanhai No. 1 and offers uninterrupted views of the skyline from its gorgeous outdoor alfresco deck. While you enjoy a drink from Eyebar’s exotic cocktail menu, you can munch on complimentary spicy nuts and Sichuan peppered lotus root chips. If you’re feeling extra peckish, you can order barbecued seafood snacks from the open kitchen. A cool feature on the outdoor terrace is a telescope that allows you to spot major landmarks. Heads up: If you would like a seat with a view, there’s a minimum charge of $500 per head. 30/F, iSquare, 63 Nathan Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2487-3988
Wooloomooloo Prime
Wooloomooloo Prime is a slightly high-end branch of the steakhouse featuring their signature steaks and seafood with an excellent view of Hong Kong’s skyline. The 10,000 square foot restaurant’s main feature is an outdoor terrace with a towering 270-degree view of Tsim Sha Tsui, Victoria Harbor, and Hong Kong Island. High up on the 21st floor of The One shopping mall in TST, the restaurants interior displays a simple but modern design with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and windows showing off the unobstructed panoramic city view. Whether you pop by for after-work drinks or dinner, every seat has an amazing view. 21st Floor, The One, 100 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2870-0087, www.wooloo-mooloo.com
Felix
Everyone knows about Felix at The Peninsula in Tsim Sha Tsui. Noted for its impeccably designed avant-garde interior, the mostly white and chic décor create the perfect spotlight for the spectacular views of the harbor. Felix is not your ordinary dining experience, providing a menu combining the best of the East and West and an excellent selection of wines, the Felix is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Whether you choose to stay for dinner or just stop by for drinks, you are guaranteed a classy evening at the Felix. 28/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2696-6778 www.peninsula.com/felix
Ava
Ava Restaurant Slash Bar is located on the 38th floor of the swanky Hotel Panorama in Tsim Sha Tsui. A sibling venue to Azure, Ava’s spectacular 270-degree view of the Hong Kong skyline should not be missed. This location is a perfect alternative to the same old Hong Kong Island nightlife spots. The bar serves up a variety of colorful cocktails including AVAtini and kiwi mojito. If you’re in the mood for a more quiet evening, you can grab a drink and head to Ava’s serene Sky Garden, located just two floors above. 38/F, Hotel Panorama by Rhombus, 8A Hart Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui, 3550-0262
*Editor’s Picks*
Mamoz
Offering great city views of Hong Kong Island, Mamoz is a cool cocktail bar in Causeway Bay. Stylishly decorated with large windows and subdued lighting, it’s no surprise that Mamoz is a popular spot every night of the week also Hong Kong Studio Service Apartments are established near to Mamoz. Check out the drinks from their innovative cocktail menu or use their entertaining tasting graph which helps you pick your drinks based on your preferences of sweet, sour, rich or fresh. For those with acrophobia (a fear of heights), beware of the glass floors that give you a very literal bird’s eye view. Notes to girls: It’s ladies night every Thursday and they provide a free flow of mojitos and cosmopolitan. 27/F-28/F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road, Causeway Bay, 2890-3182
Aqua Spirit
The ever popular ‘Aqua Bar’ as the locals call it, is still one of the best places in Kowloon side to sit back and enjoy the view. Aqua Spirit has been located at the top of One Peking in Tsim Sha Tsui for several years now and is popular not only for the striking panoramic skyline but also for its Italian or Japanese dining options. The funky drinks menu has a number of signature cocktails, try Anxiety or Aqua Queen. 30/F, Penthouse, 1 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 3427-2288
Looking to try something different in Hong Kong? Give this place a try:
Source: http://www.timeout.com.hk/restaurants-bars/features/75095/picnic-on-forbes.html
Residents of Tane Hollywood, did you know that one of the best Farm-to-table dining spots is right in your own backyard? Check out the below article from HK Magazine to learn more about SohoFama and a host of other Farm-To-Table restaurants.
G.O.D. makes a foray into the foodie sphere with Sohofama in PMQ and takes the term “farm to table” pretty literally. A collaboration with the guys behind Locofama, the restaurant is all about chemical-free Chinese cuisine, using locally sourced premium ingredients—many of which come from its own mini farm and outdoor garden, as well as its farm in the New Territories. The dishes here are filling and flavorful, with highlights including chili sauce clams and a succulent slab of free range Bellota pork. Come to think of it, everything is pretty darn good—even the service.
Unit SG09-SG14, G/F, Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen St., Central, 2858-8238, sohofama.com.
Wildgrass
With an emphasis on environmental sustainability, Wildgrass takes pride in serving OBE beef and organic cattle from Australia with a nose-to-tail approach–look for everything from oxtail dumplings to stewed kidney. Aside from quality cuts of meat, you can also dig into sustainably caught seafood and organic vegetarian options that bring to mind home-style French dining. The environment is as homey and rustic as the food, and the furniture is made from recycled wood.
As the name suggests, you’ll find your favorite surf and turf at Fish & Meat—all with a rustic, farm-fresh approach. Most of the dishes here are meant to be shared, and you can count on honestly sourced and fresh ingredients. In addition to making pasta fresh in its kitchen every day, Fish & Meat also shakes up refreshing cocktails, like the Farm House Jam, made with homemade blueberry jam, Ice Fox vodka and prosecco.
IPC Food Lab takes healthy eating and food safety to a whole new level, by researching, growing and cooking the vegetables it sells. The two ambitious founders bought an industrial building in Fan Ling in order to set up indoor farms, a research center, a restaurant and more. Its highly specialized farm nurtures the notoriously difficult-to-grow almond mushrooms and black garlic, which are just some of the unique, top-quality ingredients you can find on IPC Food Lab’s affordable menu. Check out the new restaurant in Central (38A Caine Rd.), but visit the headquarters to get the full experience.
Chef Nurdin Topham gives his dishes a healthy spin at Nur, a Privé group restaurant on Lyndhurst Terrace. There is only one option here: a nine-course tasting menu ($1,188), which includes lots of veggie-based plates that beautifully balance flavors, textures and nutrition. Inspired by French Chef Raymond Blanc and “New Nordic” cuisine, the restaurant is devoted to seasonally driven menus and a locavore mentality—the chef even plucks fresh herbs from the restaurant’s terrace garden.
Todd Darling is a restaurateur who puts fresh, organic produce at the heart of all of his restaurants—a lineup which includes Stone Nullah Tavern and Posto Pubblico. Recently relocated to SoHo, Linguini Fini is one of the best bets for pasta in Hong Kong, and is still very much about the nose-to-tail and farm-to-table ethos, using all of its produce from local organic farms sourced by Darling’s other venture, Homegrown Foods. Executive Chef Vinny Lauria cooks up homemade Italian food that’s been commanding lots of fanfare—think homemade pasta, spicy sausage and nose-to-tail Bolognese pork.
Shelter Italian serves upscale Italian fare in a refreshingly green setting, with a big terrace and a 45-square-meter organic farm. The restaurant harvests what it can—like lemongrass and organic tomatoes—from its own garden and sources the rest from local and regional farmers. The contemporary Italian menu will transport you to Tuscany: dig into lobster cream soup, hand-rolled spaghetti, hormone-free tenderloin and vegan-friendly cheesecake.
7/F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Rd., Causeway Bay, 2778-8398, www.shelterhk.com.
