Let’s Take It Outside at Alfresco Lane in TST East

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Alfresco Lane, Tsim Sha Tsui East, tsimshatsuicentre.com.hk