Celebrity Life

Before you hastily wave goodbye to 2021, celebrate with good friends and a grand feast for a proper sendoff to a wildly underwhelming year.

You know, 2021 was supposed to be the year where everything went Back to Normal. It didn't. How naive we all were. Instead, we sat through a rollercoaster ride of border restrictions — opened up (yay) before quickly shut again (boo) — 14, then 21 days of quarantines at home and hotels, and lots and lots of QR scans and temperature checks.

But what we did discover while anchored in the city is that new restaurants were the one thing that got us through. They never stopped opening! We went beyond the two usual stops on the Island Line to explore new venues and cuisines far and away from home. So with a final goodbye to 2021, and a hopeful look-ahead to 2022 (please, let us go somewhere; anywhere!), celebrate New Year's Eve with a memorable dinner at the many venues that helped sate our appetites this last 12 months.

Where to celebrate New Year's Eve Dinner in Hong Kong

Écriture

To mark an occasion as rare as the welcoming of a new year takes one very special location indeed. New Year's Eve only happens once a year! And that's a location like two-Michelin star Écriture where stunning views are only rivalled by an even more stunning array of dishes prepared by chef Maxime Gilbert and chef Heloïse Fischbach. The seven-course New Year's Eve dinner menu is a complete showcase of the restaurant's refined take on contemporary French cuisine, and includes roasted giant Brittany langoustine, Brittany live sea urchin prepared like an egg cocotte with caviar, Normandy scallop shaved with winter black truffle and a whole roasted rack of beef that's finished off over smoky binchotan.

Écriture, 26/F, H Queens' 80 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2795 5996

Margo

Chef Mario Paecke of Margo prepares an eight-course dinner of decadence in bidding adieu to 2021. The modern European brasserie serves up a classic menu coupled with delightful contemporary twists the likes of a Fukuoka snow crab cocktail concocted with green asparagus and seaweed brioche, roasted pork belly with Brussel sprouts, muscat grapes and violet mustard and an Alexandre Polmard beef tartare topped with cep & white onion purée. To finish, chef ends on a sweet note with a German holiday tradition: bratapfe — baked apples served with vanilla custard.

Margo, Shop 6, G/F, The Galleria, 9 Queens Road Central, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2130 7731

Osteria Marzia

If counting down to the New Year is typically done in a seaside locale of some sort, the lack of travel this holiday season means very inventive alternatives. Osteria Marzia is one such location, evocative of coastal Italy with airy interiors and sea-fresh produce which includes Seppia, cuttlefish prepared with pistachio di Bronte, Fine de Claire oysters and a dedicated Catch of the Day, set to stun and surprise with bright Italian flavours. The meal rounds out with a decadent Foresta Nera Flambé — a fabulous way to see out the end of the year, I'll say.

Osteria Marzia, G/F, The Fleming, 41 Fleming Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong; +852 3607 2253

Rajasthan Rifles

The Peak will be having New Year's excitement of its own, with celebrations at Anglo-Indian mess hall Rajasthan Rifles kicking off at 9pm beginning with a grand feast starring all of the venue's beloved comforts: Tandoor-cooked lamb chops, lobster garlic butter fry and a Calcutta-style Asian sea bass curry, Macher Kalia. Also served around the room, free flow of any of your go-to beverages, with anything from Pimm's Cups to G&Ts and flutes of Champagne. Swing out the evening with tunes from the live band just in time for welcoming 2022 toasts.

Rajasthan Rifles, G/F, The Peak Galleria, Hong Kong, +852 2388 8874‬

Hue Dining

Not only will you be seated with a front-row view of Victoria Harbour (no fireworks this year, sadly), you'll sit with a sweet serenade by way of professional accordionist Nazar Tabachyshyn's stunning live music performance. Dinner comes in either three- or four-course seating with chef Wilson Leung's take on modern Australian cuisine of fresh seafood and quality produce, including saffron risotto with scallop and edamame, Carabinero prawns, Australian Grade 9 Mayura wagyu sirloin, banoffee cheesecake and the entrance of a glorious cheese trolley filled to the brim will all sorts of tasty treats.

Hue, 1/F, Hong Kong Museum of Art, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong;+852 3500 5888

Roji

If you're counting down to 2022 at Roji, fantastic choice. Not only is the Central hideaway izakaya throwing a grand New Year's Eve soirée to farewell 2021, you'll also be dining with some of the venue's latest seasonal serves: Crispy-fried chicken skin with a miso mayo dip, Polmard beef tartare and a personal favourite (which I gushed endlessly about in one edition of our weekly Best Bites), Mentaiko udon, coated in rich, creamy ginger-garlic dressing sprinkled with mentaiko pollack roe. The dinner, available in two seatings, will also come with a welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne but we recommend going for the list of special-made cocktails, including the flavoured Highballs, which I also enthusiastically raved about here.

Roji, G/F, 20A D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong; +852 +852 9884 0704

La Rambla

When it comes to the final minute of 2021, you'll probably think back on the the past 12 months, flipping through all the best memories had. But no need to flip so far — just remember this delicious Catalan meal at La Rambla you had just a few hours ago. Staying true to a memorable feast, the eight-course menu includes a selection of cuisine favourites like fresh tomato on toasted crystal bread with a drizzle of olive oil, a unique Hokkaido uni doughnut served with miso mayonnaise, foie grass mi-cuit and a hearty Boston lobster paella, topped with the classic trio of clams, squid and mussels.

La Rambla, Shop 3071 -3073, Level 3, ifc mall, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2661 1161

Bacchus

The secret to successful New Year's celebration? Good food and lots and lots of wine. A wish that is sure to come true at the newly opened Bacchus on Hollywood Road, which prides itself on its very extensive list of fine wines. Naturally then, the seafood-centric, six-course New Year's Eve dinner comes paired with a thoughtfully curated selection of vinos, set to highlight the exquisite flavours of the venue's Asian-inspired French cuisine. Caviar is, of course, in attendance, but so are some very extravagant serves: Russian Red Merus king crab leg, French Brioche Perdu, Japanese sea urchin and grilled Atlantic turbot in a decadent Champagne-caviar sauce.

Bacchus, 3/F Hollywood Centre, 233 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong; +852 3750 5200

Giacomo

On the flip side of New Year's Eve extravagance, there's comfort. Time spent with nearest and dearest all wrapped and warm as you anticipate an exciting welcoming to another new year. Giacomo's New Year's Eve menu is a six-course dinner celebration that allows you to do both: Southern Italian comforts made with intent for complete indulgence. Foie gras with chestnut emulsion. Royale oysters topped with caviar. Mayura beef tenderloin with winter black truffle. Then the hearty, home-style pastas by executive chef Keith Yam: Brittany blue lobster Sardinian gnocchi, tagliolini with mushroom jus and Alba white truffle. A wonderful end and beginning to the years.

Giacomo, G/F, 8 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong; +852 3980 3008

Cornerstone

When the clock strikes 12 on 31 December, all that matters is you, you loved one and the kind of celebration you share to toast a year just had and to be had. An intimate dinner prior is sets the scene, then. Cornerstone, with its sleek interiors and cosy seating, presents a perfect setting along with a delicious menu representative of chef Neal G. Ledesma's sophisticated plates that manage to comfort. For New Year's Eve, the modern bistro prepares a four-course menu topped with smoked ricotta raviolo, pan-seared wagyu rump cap and celeraic risotto, before finishing with a modest yet very indulgent banana cake topped with dulce mousse and a drizzle of caramel.

Cornerstone, G/F, 49 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong

LPM Restaurant & Bar

Now don't be mistaken, LPM Restaurant & Bar might be known for its fresh and bright French-Mediterranean serves but it doesn't mean it's a reason not to dress up. The restaurant encourages you to with the welcoming of 2022, and set the theme of the evening to the glamorous setting of Studio 54. So find the glitziest sequins dress you own and shimmy your way to the restaurant's H Queen's location. The menu itself is a true dedication to LPM's coastal flavours, devised by head chef Maurizio Pace. Except crowd favourites like the scallop tartare and grilled pink sea bream, grilled "Black Onyx" sirloin steak and a comforting sun-dried tomato pesto spaghetti topped with squid. Of course, it not a complete LPM experience without the glamorous cocktails, with a choice of four for the evening. The Criquet de Milly of white cacao, peppermint liqueur and coconut sorbet, in particular, will be a delightful end, with flavour profiles similar to an After Eight mint.

LPM Restaurant & Bar, Shop 1, 1/F, 23-29 Stanley Street, H Queen's Central, Hong Kong; +852 2887 1113

Zuma

When it comes to throwing grand affairs, you can count Zuma high upon the list. The contemporary Japanese izakaya in infamous for its free-flow brunches, which marks yet another return on New Year's Eve with the Yashoku Night Brunch. The premise is same as usual, with free-flow dishes and drinks including sake and beer and addition entry to the countdown party later on in the evening.

Alternatively, Zuma has also put together a less raucous New Year's Eve Dinner for sophisticated celebrators. The menu is a curation of venue highlights from Japanese wagyu tataki with white truffle shavings, grilled Gillardeau oyster, crispy Mazara red prawn and, of course, decadent spoonfuls of Kristal Zuma Caviar.

Zuma, Level 5 & 6, Landmark, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong; +852 3657 6388

NYE Steak Rebellion

Something with a lil difference than your usual glitz and glam New Year’s Eve celebration. Steak Rebellion at The Factory is all about great food and great atmosphere. And with a twist of an immersive dining experience too; this year, dress to theme of "Gangs of New York x Sweeney Todd". 

A five course dinner that begins with caviar and shots of vodka, just before you've fully recovered, the dinner also comes with a complimentary bottle of quality wine to sip alongside fresh oysters and dry-aged steaks. With the pulsating beat of live musicians at the venue, it's the perfect scene for a fantastic welcoming to 2022.

The Factory, 16A Kwai Bo Industrial Building, 40 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong; +852 9085 1817

The post Welcome, 2022! 13 Restaurants for New Year’s Eve Dinner appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is one of the world’s most exciting culinary capitals, where good food is more than abundant. In that light, we’ve put together a few of our tastiest tidbits and most memorable morsels that are worth tracking down to try.

Aulis

To say that the new seasonal dishes at Simon Rogan's development kitchen are stunning is an understatement. The new menus, led by Sous Chef Karl Steele, showcase some fantastic produce from local growers and suppliers in the region, so it's as fresh as you can get it. A 10-course spring menu is available for dinner, and a 9-course menu is offered at lunch on Saturdays. In both menus, you'll find some of Aulis' newest creations including a 42-day aged beef, and dishes like the king oyster and fermented black garlic, New Territories tomatoes with the sweetest king crab, and my new favourite: Stout sourdough and whipped mushroom. Think airy umami-packed mushroom parfait spread liberally on a warm, crunchy and beautifully fragrant slice of sourdough bread. This is the type of bread you do not want to miss to save room for other dishes.

Aulis, UG08, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay; +852 2817 8383

La Rambla by Catalunya

The new Sunday Brunch at La Rambla by Catalunya has been designed to whisk you away to a Spanish mercados gastronómicos (or gourmet food market) without ever having to leave Hong Kong. The main purpose of course, is to provide a safer environment for guests, so that dishes that were previously available at their buffet is instead served directly at your table. This includes all the tapas, salads, cold appetisers and charcuterie. Other elements such as the Butcher's Corner and Seafood Market are there for guests to choose the produce at before the chef grills away. One item definitely worth ordering is the 3XL Butterflied Spanish red prawn, which you can choose to have with salsa verde, chimichurri or other sauces.

La Rambla By Catalunya, 3071-73 Level 3, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central; +852 2661 1161

The Diplomat

If you have yet to discover this speakeasy pub concept by acclaimed mixologist John Nugent, you'll want to keep it in your books for all the fun and flavourful cocktails they have on offer. However, it's not just the drinks that will pull you in, as the pub grub is likely to impress you just as much. The menu of snacks and hot dishes feature some familiar and hearty items including Black truffle mac & cheese, and the already famous Diplomat Burger, but it's the Suckling pig cubano that delighted with its smoky, succulent meat and crispy skin, cut through with mouth-puckering pickles and mustard.

The Diplomat, LG/F, High Block, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central; +852 3619 0302

Duddell's

If you're in the 'eat dim sum any time of the day' camp, then I think we can be friends. And since we're friends now, we can enjoy Duddell's new all-day set menu which features an assortment of their signature dim sum together. Highlights include the classic 12-fold Shrimp dumpling, Pork and shrimp dumpling with conpoy, Truffle fried pork dumpling and of course, my all time favourite, the Crispy barbecued pork bun. So satisfying, I think I'll go with, or without you.

Duddell's, Level 3 Shanghai Tang Mansion, 1 Duddell Street, Central; +852 2525 9191

Castellana

For Easter, Italian fine dining restaurant Castellana is presenting a limited menu to celebrate the occasion. The seven-course menu is scrumptious from start to finish, but the true star of the show is the Slow cooked milk fed lamb leg in Piedmont style. The meat is beautifully cooked to absolute perfection with very minimal gaminess, extreme tenderness (think hot knife cutting through butter) and is artfully paired with crispy artichoke for a balance in flavours and textures. It's best enjoyed with a glass of Piedmont red recommended by their expert sommelier.

Castellana, 10/F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road, Causeway Bay; +852 3188 5028

Rubia

One of the newest restaurants in town is Spanish restaurant, Rubia. Pioneered by the team behind tapas bar Pica Pica, Rubia is also true to its roots in Spanish cuisine with a key focus on hand-reared beef. The Rubia Gallega boneless ribeye is what a perfect steak should be – flavourful and juicy – and comes with a side of sweet Spanish Piquillo peppers, hand-cut Patatas frites, and house salad in mustard dressing. Apart from the mouthwatering beef that one must order, the Black fideos cooked in lobster stock with Carabinero and aioli is also worth a special mention. The saucy, briny seafood dish if full of flavour, and comes with the final flourish of sweet buttery roe from the prawn head for that extra hit of umami.

Rubia, Wisdom Centre, 35-37 Hollywood Road, Central; +852 2889 1199

The post The Top 6 Dishes We Ate in March 2020 appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Culled from Hong Kong’s always-hot dining scene, here are some of the most exciting menus to try this month. Be prepared for chef takeovers, collaborations melding divergent cuisines and seasonal specials – these one-off opportunities are not to be missed.

Grand Hyatt Steakhouse Burgers

When: now until 29 February
Price: Pompous Burger HK$580; American Dream HK$480 + 10%

[dual-images right-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/American-Dream1MB.jpg" left-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Pompous-burger1MB.jpg" right-caption="American Dream Burger, Grand Hyatt Steakhouse " left-caption="Pompous Burger, Grand Hyatt Steakhouse"]
Chef Fernando Gojan is elevating the humble burger by packing over-the-top indulgent ingredients into two new creations available exclusively until the end of February. The colossal burgers are constructed with 100% Australian M7 wagyu beef composed of brisket, short rib and chuck for the ultimate balance of flavour and texture. The rightfully named Pompous Burger is served with a generous spread of truffle sauce, pan-fried foie gras and melted Comte cheese sandwiched between a lightly toasted truffle bun. For seafood lovers, The American Dream comes with a sustainable butter-poached lobster tail, apple wood smoked bacon, American cheddar, crisp lettuce and tomato slices. All burgers are served with a side of thick cut chips and truffle mayo.
Grand Hyatt Steakhouse, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai; +852 2584 7722

Giando Winter Vegetarian Menu

When: now until mid March
Price: HK$798 +10%

[caption id="attachment_188106" align="alignnone" width="800"] Fusillone con Cime di Rapa e Crusco, Giando Italian Restaurant and Bar[/caption]

Inspired to encourage healthier eating at the start of the year, Chef Gianni Caprioli has introduced his new Vegetarian menu to raise awareness in well-being and sustainability. His six-course menu showcases the season’s finest ingredients from Hong Kong, Italy and beyond. Expect fresh mouth-watering dishes like the Chicory salad with burrata, pear and walnuts; Fusilli with turnip tips and Crusco peppers; Carnaroli risotto with radicchio and braised onions; and Savoy cabbage paired with hazelnuts and black truffles. To further promote eco-conscious eating, the ingredients found in Chef Caprioli’s menu are also available for guests to purchase at his gourmet market, Mercato by Giando located at Fenwick Pier.
Giando Italian Restaurant and Bar, G/F, Tower 1, Starcrest, 9 Star Street, Wan Chai; +852 2511 8912

Nobu Nikkei Peruvian Experience

When: now until 31 March
Price: dishes range from HK$120 to HK$500 +10%

[caption id="attachment_188107" align="alignnone" width="800"] Seafood ceviche roll, Nobu[/caption]

Each season for the year of 2020, Nobu will be presenting 4 separate dining experiences to marry the restaurant’s Japanese roots with Peruvian cuisine to commemorate chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s first adventures outside of Japan. To kick off the campaign, the first experience highlights the Andes Mountain in the Puna region, which is shaped by ingredients such as bitter potatoes, lamb, river fish, broad beans and quinoa. The six dishes from this menu are available a la carte style so guests can pick and choose according to their preference, while also still enjoying the classic Nobu menu as well. Dishes like the King crab empanadas (HK$220), Seafood ceviche roll (HK$165) and Smoked wagyu steak (HK$500) are our recommended dishes.
Nobu, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2313 2323

Roganic x Locavore

When: 12 & 13 February
Price: HK$1,780 + optional HK$680 for wine and non-alcoholic pairing + 10%

[caption id="attachment_188108" align="alignnone" width="800"] Selat Solo, Locavore[/caption]

Sharing the same ingredients-driven and eco-conscious values as Roganic Hong Kong is Bali’s Locavore (winner of Indonesia’s Best Restaurant and Sustainable Restaurant Award by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019). Chefs Olivier Marlow and Ray Adriansyah join forces for two nights only to create a special menu dedicated to both restaurants’ commitment to sustainability and support for the local communities. The 11-course degustation menu is a harmonious fusion of modern flavours found in Indonesia, Hong Kong and Europe.
Roganic, UG/F 08, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay; +852 2817 8383

Chef Pablo Lagrange Pop-up at Test Kitchen

When: 13 to 16 February
Price: HK$1,080 + optional HK$480 for wine pairing

[caption id="attachment_188111" align="alignnone" width="3000"] Ceviche by Pablo Lagrange[/caption]

Test Kitchen may just be one of the coolest places to dine in Hong Kong. The culinary platform is a hub that attracts culinary talents from all across the world to exhibit food expressions and experiences. This month, Test Kitchen will be hosting Chef Pablo Lagrange, alumnus of celebrated restaurants such as NOMA, Mugaritz and Tickets, for four nights to offer Hong Kong some of the most intriguing flavours hailed from South America. Chef Lagrange’s inspiration comes from the cuisine profiles he’s experienced while cooking in Istanbul, Lyon, Barcelona, Argentina, Copenhagen and more. For this four-night pop-up, he will be presenting diners with an innovative Argentinian-inspired menu featuring some of his signature dishes like the Quince and clementine ceviche, Classic empanadas, Slow braised brisket, and Black banana with shrimp sauce.
Test Kitchen, Shop 3, Kwan Yick Building Phase 3, 158A Connaught Road West, Sai Ying Pun; +852 9032 7628 

La Rambla by Catalunya x Estimar Barcelona

When: 15 February
Price: HK$1,480 + 10%

[caption id="attachment_188288" align="alignnone" width="2022"] Lobster avocado roll, La Rambla by Catalunya[/caption]

This one night only menu calls all seafood lovers. Chef Ferran of La Rambla by Catalunya is welcoming friend and fellow chef Rafa Zafra of Estimar Barcelona to Hong Kong to share their love for the sea. Chef Zafra's Hong Kong debut will come with his Andalusian inspired cuisine and cooking techniques to best showcase the freshest seafood found across Asia and Europe in a series of unique dishes that will complement with Chef Ferran's creative and modern creations.

La Rambla by Catalunya, Level 3, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central; +852 2661 1161

VEA x Mingles Four-hands Menu

When: 25 February
Price: HK$2,880 + optional HK$580 for wine or cocktail pairing + 10%

[caption id="attachment_188113" align="alignnone" width="768"] Braised daikon, a classic dish from Chef Cheng of VEA[/caption]

Foodies may remember Chef Kang Ming-goo from his previous four-hands menus in Hong Kong. Now, the celebrated chef of two Michelin starred Mingles in Seoul returns for a one night only collaboration with local celebrity chef Vicky Cheng of one Michelin-starred VEA. Chef Kang will be lending his Japanese, Spanish and French cooking styles intertwined with Korean cuisine to Chef Cheng’s Chinese French innovations to create a harmonious mix of different flavours to the table. The modern cuisine chefs will each be creating dishes that blend together, while also co-creating two new collaborative dishes for the first time.
VEA, 29 & 30/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central; +852 2711 6839

The post The Top 7 Special Menus You Can’t Miss This February appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Culled from Hong Kong’s always-hot dining scene, here are some of the most exciting menus to try this month. Be prepared for chef takeovers, collaborations melding divergent cuisines and seasonal specials – these one-off opportunities are not to be missed.

Arcane’s Veganary Menu

When: 1 to 31 January
Price: HK$888 + 10%

The newly appointed President of Food Made Good Hong Kong (a local campaign driven by the provenance and purpose of food, aiming to influence sustainability in the food service sector), Shane Osborn is bringing the organisation’s initiatives into his Michelin-starred restaurant, Arcane. For the whole of January, Chef Osborn has created a vegan menu which is designed to reduce its carbon footprint, limit food waste and as its name suggests, reduce meat consumption. The five-course menu honours seasonal fruits and vegetables while still utilising the chef’s high calibre cooking techniques and fine dining values. Natural and organic wines are also on offer to pair with the menu.
Arcane, 3/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central; +852 2728 0178

Rech by Alain Ducasse’s Kaviari Caviar Menu

When: 2 January to 29 February
Price: Five-course menu with Baeri Caviar HK$1,388; Five-course menu with Osetra Caviar Prestige HK$1,488; Five-course menu with Kristal Caviar HK$1,688 + optional HK$688 for vodka, Champagne and wine pairing +10%

Renowned for some of the freshest French seafood creations in town, Rech by Alain Ducasse starts the year off with a decadent five-course caviar menu. Partnering with Kaviari Caviar for its supreme quality eco-responsible roe. Guests will be presented with three of Kaviari’s finest to choose from – Baeri caviar from Siberia, Osetra Caviar Prestige from Europe and Kristal Caviar from Thousand Lake in China – to go with Chef Guillaume Katola’s dishes.
Rech by Alain Ducasse, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2313 2323

HAKU x Victor’s Fine Dining

When: 6 to 8 January
Price: HK$2,580 +10%  
HAKU is welcoming the new year with Chef Agustin Balbi’s culinary friend and peer, Christian Bau of three Michelin star Victor’s Fine Dining for a special three-night collaboration. Both chefs shares a love for Japanese culinary traditions and progressive cuisine, making this four-hands meal a unique harmony of European flavours with Asian innovation. Expect to be wowed by Chef Bau’s Kanpachi with oysters and sea herbs and A4 Kumamoto Kuro-gyu with eggplant; and Chef Balbi’s Steamed king crab legs, Hokkaido scallops and signature Abalone rice with chorizo.
HAKU, Shop OT G04B, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2115 9965

La Rambla x Gallery de Chele

When: 7 & 8 January
Price: HK$1,780 + 10%

Chef Chele Gonzalez’s food can be described as Spanish cuisine with a Filipino twist. Pair that with Chef Ferran Tadeo’s modern Catalan flavours and you’ve got one of the most unique combinations of culture packed in one meal. Drawing on the two chefs’ common Spanish heritage and international exposure, the collaboration fuses both chef’s regional experience with their native roots. The 12-course degustation menu sees the finest ingredients sourced both locally and internationally from land and sea to bring guests a taste of Spain and Southeast Asia in perfect harmony.
La Rambla, 3071-73, L3, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central; +852 2661 1161

Gems & Pearl at Tosca di Angelo with Antonia Klugman

When: 14 & 15 January
Price: HK$1,998 + 10%

Episode two of five in the Ritz-Carlton’s Gems & Pearl Italian Culinary Journey vignette continues with legendary chef Antonia Klugman of one Michelin-star L’Argine a Vencò in Dolegna del Collio, Italy. This one-off menu melds the talents and styles of both chefs, led by ingredients-forward approach to cooking with a strong emphasis on sustainability and seasonality.
Tosca di Angelo, Level 102, The Ritz-Carlton, West Kowloon; +852 2263 2270

TATE Dining Room x Hisa Franko

When: 16 & 17 January
Price: HK$2,180 + optional drinks pairing start at HK$580 + 10%

It’s not the first time that Chef Vicky Lau of TATE Dining Room promotes fellow female chefs in unique collaborations. We’ve seen incredible success with her previous partnerships with Natsuko Shoji of Été, Bee Satongun of Paste, and Margarita Fores of Grace Park. Continuing her celebration of powerful female chefs, TATE takes it cross-continent in 2020 with a lineup of world-renowned guest chefs. To start, Chef Ana Ros (who some may recognise from Netflix series Chef’s Table and World’s Best Female Chef of 2017) joins Chef Lau from her restaurant Hisa Franko in Slovenia. The 10-course tasting menu will see both chefs’ innovative creations, and one highly anticipated collaborated course.
TATE Dining Room, 210 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan; +852 2555 2172

WHISK x Restau K Yamauchi

When: 16 & 17 January
Price: HK$1,388 + optional HK$380 for wine pairing + 10%

For quite some time now, WHISK has been inviting some of the world’s most acclaimed chefs to its kitchen for dining collaborations. The first of 2020, The Mira will welcome guest chef Kenichiro Yamamuchi of Restau K Yamamuchi from Nagoya to lend his flavours for a culinary partnership with chef Olivier Li. The eight-course dinner takes on some of the freshest seafood including Kaviari Caviar, Aogani crab, Kurumba shrimp, razor clams, squid. To go with the meal, an optional wine and cocktail pairing is also highly recommended.
WHISK, 5/F, The Mira Hong Kong, Mira Place, 118 – 130 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2315 5999

Mono

When: 22 January

Price: HK$2,880 + optional HK$880 + 10% (+ 3% carbon tax)

Newcomer Mono of JIA Group has had quite the buzz since its opening in December. After just one month, Executive chef Ricardo Chaneton welcomes friends and culinary talents Agustin Balbi of HAKU, Virgilio Martinez of Central Restaurante, and Pia Leon of Kjolle for one night to explore and share gastronomic approaches. The South American roots of the four chefs will be presented in a 12-course menu with optional wine pairing to complement the meal.

Mono, 5/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central

The post The Top Special Menus You Can’t Miss This January appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

With the decade coming to an end, you'll want to ring in 2020 in style. If you're still looking for places to countdown, we've got you covered and picked out some of the best New Year’s Eve parties in Hong Kong to make sure 2020 starts on a high.

Carbone

Carbone’s NYE party is for those who are looking to enjoy Motown music as well as their well-known meatballs. The Italian restaurant is offering two packages; the Classico (HK$1,988) includes food and drink as well as free-flow prosecco. For a little bit more, the Superior (HK$2,388) package includes food and drink, and free-flow Champagne. The party starts at 9PM and goes until 1:30AM.

Tickets here. 

Carbone, 9/F, LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham Street, Central; +852 2593 2593

ALTO

Located on the 31st floor of the V Point Tower in Causeway Bay, ALTO is a great option if you’re looking for a spot with great views. Their Black & Gold New Year’s Eve Gala Fireworks Dinner is HK$788 per person and offers a four-course meal. The theme of the event is, you guessed it, black and gold. So be sure to dress for the occasion.

Tickets here. 

ALTO, 31/F, V Point, 18 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay; +852 2603 7181

Zuma

Zuma has become sort of a constitution when it comes to counting down in Hong Kong. With a masquerade theme in place, guests will be able to enjoy free-flow Veuve Clicquot Champagne, specialty cocktails, red and white wine, beer, and soft drinks. DJ Emmanuel Diaz will be playing tunes all night accompanied by live performances. 

Tickets here. 

Zuma, Level 5&6 Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central; +852 2657 6388

La Rambla by Catalunya 

Walk the red-carpet at La Rambla’s NYE event. The ‘A Red Carpet Affair’ theme will have you feeling like a celebrity while you enjoy the free-flow bar and a special New Year’s Eve curated tasting menu all the while enjoying unrivalled views of the iconic Victoria Harbour. Packages start at HK$700 for general entry (includes three hours of free-flow drinks and two food tickets); $750 for a walk-in ticket; $2,020 for dinner and party package (includes tasting menu and free-flow drinks). If you’re not going out for NYE, La Rambla is also offering a New Year’s Day brunch menu (HK$650). 

Tickets here.

La Rambla by Catalunya, 3071-73 Level 3, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central; 2661 1161

Popinjays 

If you’re looking to countdown at Popinjays, you have various options to choose from. A general ticket is HK$1,488 and includes free-flow drinks (from 9:30PM to 3AM and Champagne from 11:30PM to 12:30AM), while an early bird ticket is HK$1,288. If you’re a party of four, a table package will set you back HK$7,880 and includes free-flow drinks. A New Year’s Day brunch is also on offer for HK$698 (from 12:15 pm to 2:15 pm, and 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm), so plan ahead.

Tickets here.  

Popinjays, 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central; +852 3141 8888

Potato Head

Dance the night away at Potato Head. The multi-concept space will have an array of DJs and artists playing music all night long, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. For HK$600, you’ll be able to enjoy free-flow from 10PM to midnight. For HK$1,100, you’ll be able to enjoy their dinner menu and free-flow drinks.

Tickets here.

Potato Head,  100 Third Street, Sai Ying Pun; +852 2858 6066

Soho House

Soho House is hosting a 'Midnight in Monte Carlo' themed party. Wear your finest black-tie attire to ring in the new year with the grandeur of Monte Carlo. Try your hand at blackjack or roulette, or slip into the high roller’s room as you sip on Grey Goose cocktails. If you're in the gambling spirit, there will be high roller game rooms with prizes including a complimentary stay for two at Upper House Hong Kong. To cap it all off, a Möet Champagne vending machine will be available.

Soho House, 33 Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan; +852 5803 8888

DarkSide

Countdown to 2020 at one of Hong Kong's newest bars, DarkSide. On New Year’s Eve, guests can look forward to caviar and Krug Champagne packages, VIP table bookings and live entertainment to truly define merrymaking from 8PM until 2AM. You will also be able to enjoy jazz music with their new performer Deborah Davis. Email hongkong.darkside@rosewoodhotels.com or ring them up to secure your reservation.

DarkSide, Rosewood Hong Kong Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rord, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 3891 8732

Ophelia

Escape to Le Grand Hotel Ophelia NYE 2019 party. Ophelia will be back for another immersive celebration for New Year’s Eve, bringing a fashionable ode of old vintage glamour, luxury diamonds, and pearls, Champagne and more. Expect appearances from international performers behind the doors of Le Grande Hotel Ophelia, and live music. Did we mention that entry is free? All you have to do is RSVP and adhere to their 'Vintage Glam' dress code.

Tickets here.

Ophelia, Shop F39A & F41A, 1/F, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai; +852 2520 1117

G.H Mumm Party

To celebrate the beginning of the new decade, G.H. Mumm has partnered with The Rooms in Tai Kwun to host their Countdown Dinner & Party. Guests are invited to enjoy a gastronomic 3-course dining experience with free-flow Mumm Grand Cordon Champagne, RSRV & Spirit at 9PM for HK$1,800. For those who would like to go straight to the countdown party, a ticket costs HK$800 and includes free-flow Mumm Grand Cordon Champagne and Spirit until midnight. For tickets, email info@therooms.hk.

The Rooms, 10 Hollywood Road, Central

The post Top 10 New Year’s Eve Parties in Hong Kong appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Whether it’s an extravagant fine dining restaurant or a humble street side hawker stall, we are perpetually on the quest for delectable foods -- whatever the occasion. So, for the ultimate insider scoop, who better to personally recommend the best eats around the world than top chefs who’ve seen and tasted it all. We go right to the source as international culinary legends reveal where they eat and what they order when the aprons come off.

Chef Agustin Balbi is no newcomer to the dining scene. His road into the culinary arts began when he was 15 years old, inspired by the cooking and hospitality of his Spanish grandmother. Since then, he has garnered experience from kitchens all around the world, including Argentina, United States and Japan. Currently, Agustin Balbi is the executive chef of innovative Japanese restaurant, HAKU. Today, the award-winning chef lets us in on his favourite places to wine and dine in Hong Kong and abroad.

For an evening of fine dining…

I really have a passion for kaiseki [Japanese haute] cuisine and Kitcho in Kyoto for me is a very special place. Of course, the food is refined but also the environment – with the tatami rooms and servers in their traditional kimonos – makes the whole experience something unique. It is truly a place where the word fine is best described and applied in all the senses.

[caption id="attachment_169417" align="alignnone" width="6720"] L’Armur Beluga No.7 W3, seared wagyu tenderloin served alongside blinis topped with beef marrow and Beluga caviar at L'Envol[/caption]

I also really love Olivier Elzer’s new place, L'Envol. There is a very spacious and beautiful dining room with an open kitchen. The cuisine is super tasty and refined – it’s hands down one of my favourites in Hong Kong. The service is top notch and the quality of everything is really another level. Food, service, hospitality are at its best here, and I always leave this place not only full but with a sense of true happiness.

Kitcho, 5-8 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto; +81 75 881 1101

L’Envol, The St Regis Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong; +852 2138 6818 

For a cheeky cheat meal…

Yakitori Hachibei in Japan is a super fun and elegant place. It’s a perfect place for friends to get together and enjoy amazing yakitori and highballs counter-style and share a conversation. It’s also great to watch the chefs cooking all that delicious skewers right before you.

Yakitori Hachibei, various locations across Japan

For a romantic date night…

[caption id="attachment_169418" align="alignnone" width="930"] Laska with king crab, confit egg and Sudachi lime at Caprice[/caption]

The perfect place for this is Caprice at Four Seasons in Hong Kong. It is elegant and classy and of course serves excellent food with impeccable service. You can’t beat the view here and the wine list is out of this world! I love going there with my wife on date nights as Caprice just ticks all the boxes.

Caprice, Four Seasons Hong Kong, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 3196 8888

For getting friends and family together…

I love going to La Paloma for a fun night out with friends. Ricky and Alex who work there are amazing and they know how to treat people and offer that homey feeling. The food is delicious and great to share, and the sangrias are super fun too.

La Paloma, 189 Queen's Road West, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong; +852 2291 6161

For a healthy detox…

Nectar is quite a special place in terms of its whole philosophy and the way they are very serious about executing their vision. It’s very challenging to do what they do. The food is really exquisite and surprising – the cheese cart is made from nuts and other delicious bites are stimulating for both the mind and the body.

Nectar, Centrestage, 108 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong; +852 2873 3353

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For happy hour tipples…

[caption id="attachment_169415" align="alignnone" width="5899"] The view on the terrace at La Rambla by Catalunya[/caption]

La Rambla by Catalunya is amazing – the view, the terrace and the people make a perfect combo for happy hour and dinner. The food and drinks are great! I imagine if I worked in an office, I will be there a lot after work for a drink and a bite which will probably lead to a full on dinner.

La Rambla by Catalunya, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central; +852 2661 1161

What's happening at HAKU?

We are very excited for this coming year-end and we will soon be launching our new autumn menu with the best produce from Japan and Spain. This truly is my favourite season of the year to cook. We are also very much looking forward to 2020 as we prepare for exciting new collaborations with amazing chefs from all over the world.

The post Where Chefs Eat: Agustin Balbi of HAKU appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is one of the world’s most exciting culinary capitals, where good food is more than abundant. In that light, we’ve put together a few of our tastiest tidbits and most memorable morsels that are worth tracking down to try.

Sushi Zo

This LA-born Japanese restaurant is another of Tai Kwun's recent openings to hit Hong Kong's lively dining scene. Having found success in Tokyo and Bangkok, along with some coveted Michelin stars in Los Angeles and New York, Sushi Zo is another Japanese omakase concept to join a plethora of others. But is it a welcome addition? Well, try the otoro and we think you'll find the answer. Caught fresh from the seas off Nagasaki, this nigiri uses unctuous fatty tuna which is seared, ever so slightly, and topped with Australian winter truffle. The layer of nutty earthiness it adds is one thing, but the way it finishes clean in your mouth is another. It's an excellent, and really rather clever, piece of sushi.

Sushi Zo, LG1/F, Block 01, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2884 0114

The Legacy House

If you read our Rosewood Hong Kong hotel review, then you'll know that we loved most of the food at their Chinese restaurant The Legacy House. In fact, we've been meaning to return as we can't stop thinking about one particular dish: stewed water bamboo shoots with conpoy, dried shrimp and Chinese celery. Seemingly simple, the dish plays with the textures of finely shredded bamboo shoots, firm and meaty dried shrimps, and crunchy slices of celtuce. But it's the fish broth itself that will stun you: Rich, flavourful and almost creamy, you won't want to miss one drop of this beauty.

The Legacy House, 5/F Rosewood Hong Kong Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong; +852 3891 8732

La Rambla by Catalunya

There are many reasons to visit sleek Spanish restaurant La Rambla by Catalunya in ifc mall -- weekend brunch and the new terrace for alfresco cocktails, amongst them -- but there's also one more reason: the eel & foie dish. Here, soft and meaty smoked eel is enveloped in thin and perfectly al dente pillows of homemade ravioli before being served with creamy carbonara and pan-fried foie gras. It's part of the Chef’s Table degustation experience in which the menu evolves from season to season. My advice? Go now before it's taken off the menu!

La Rambla by Catalunya, 3071-73 Level 3, ifc mall, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2661 1161

Nectar

Chef Peggy Chan's newest venture, Nectar, has officially opened its doors (it's in the same space that Grassroots Pantry was in) and offers progressive plant-based cuisine to Hong Kong's discerning diners. And with dishes such as a vegan cheese course and purslane (a type of succulent) fettuccine, it's no wonder we're all a little intrigued. One particular dish I would recommend to try is the 'faux gras', that's right -- faux not foie -- gras cream combined with local organic figs, crunchy water bamboo and tangy sorrel leaves. Made from raw cashews, tahini, raw cacao butter, miso and a little bit of brandy and truffle oil for fragrance, the faux gras is just as luscious and buttery as the real deal. Plus, no ducks were harmed in the making of this dish.

Nectar, G/F, Centrestage, 108 Hollywood Rd, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong; +852 2873 3353

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Sichuan Lab

Yes, some of the dishes at Sichuan Lab are indeed fiery, but others focus more on region's variety of flavour -- be it peppery, salty, bitter, sweet or sour. One such dish is the pan-fried pork dumplings filled with pepper. With this dish, chef Chan Kai Tak uses the Cambodian 'king of pepper', otherwise known as the Kampot pepper, which is extremely rare thanks to the difficulty in harvesting mature peppercorns and ia often exorbitantly priced. It's combined with juicy cuts of Sichuan cured pork, wrapped in pastry and topped with sesame seeds -- a refreshing and less mouth-numbing way to enjoy Sichuan cuisine.

Sichuan Lab, G/F, Lodgewood by L’hotel Wan Chai Hong Kong, 28 Tai Wo Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong; +852 3126 6633

Old Bailey

Not that we needed another excuse to order a bowl of noodles at Jiangnan restaurant Old Bailey, but here it is -- the clams hand-pulled noodles with chilli. This comforting and traditional serving of noodles is dressed in a slightly sweet and savoury chilli sauce which adds a good spice kick to the delicate strands of noodles. It's then topped with the sweet and briny morsels of seafood to add flavour and bite to the whole dish. If you like seafood and noodles, then there is no doubt that this is the dish for you.

Old Bailey, 2/F JC Contemporary, Tai Kwun, Old Bailey Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2877 8711

Meats

If you haven't been yet, then you might like to know that Meats is a restaurant that offers, you guessed it, meats. But it's not just any old meat. From rotisserie chicken to grilled hanger steak, pork ribs to lamb shoulder, Meats promises juicy, tender meat across the board. In fact, they also introduce special cuts on the restaurant’s board daily, which is a great opportunity to taste a range of different kinds. We opted for the Iberian porchetta, which was cooked to perfection and sliced to serve with crunchy pork cracking and a delightfully herbaceous green salsa that perfectly cut through all the rich meat.

Meats, G/F 28 – 30, Staunton Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2711 1812

Avobar

Avocados are the golden fruit of global trade thanks to a Millennial obsession with avocado toast, so it's no wonder that avocado-themed restaurants like Avobar (originally from London) have hit our food capital, too. Another new concept in the cultural-retail destination K11 Musea, Avobar's menu is full of toasts, buns, pancakes, salads and even cocktails that feature the nutrient-dense superfood. During the soft opening, we enjoyed a dish that is exclusive to Hong Kong -- the pasilla chilli and mushroom risotto with miso zuke cod -- which combines into a creamy and umami-rich dish that, amazingly, still feels healthy to eat.

Avobar, Shop B201-4, K11 MUSEA, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

The post The Top 8 Dishes We Ate in September 2019 appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is one of the world’s most exciting culinary capitals, where good food is more than abundant. In that light, we’ve put together a few of our tastiest tidbits and most memorable morsels that are worth tracking down to try.

Bedu

[caption id="attachment_156361" align="alignnone" width="5760"] Crispy salmon pita[/caption]

A lunchtime favourite of ours, Bedu is a charming little spot tucked away in the quieter corner of Central on Gough Street. A light summery meal that fills you up without bringing you down is the grilled salmon with salad. Slightly charred cubes of medium-cooked fish lie on top of zesty, vinaigrette-coated greens drizzled with yoghurt dressing. In between bites, you’ll find surprising flavours and textures like the pomegranate seeds and walnut bits. Alternatively, you can also enjoy this over a bed of rice or tucked into a warm pita pocket. Wash all that down with an ice-cold spiced pineapple and ginger beer and you’re set to tackle the rest of the day.

Bedu, 40 Gough Street, Central; +852 2320 4450

Cé La Vi

[caption id="attachment_155978" align="alignnone" width="1308"] Beef rendang[/caption]

American chef Conor Beach worked at several Hong Kong restaurants, including Repulse Bay's Balinese restaurant TRi (now closed), before arriving at modern Asian restaurant Cé La Vi. Lucky for us, it means he brings some of the most vivid Indonesian flavours to the forefront of their menu. Our favourite was the incredibly tender and slightly charred beef rendang, made with prime Wagyu meat slow-cooked in spicy coconut sauce, pickled vegetables, lemongrass and fried shallots.

Cé La Vi, 24/F California Tower, 30-32 D'Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 3700 2300

Cornerstone

[caption id="attachment_155996" align="alignnone" width="1245"] Tagliatelle with mushrooms, smoked sausage and fresh green peas[/caption]

If you haven't checked out the new restaurant Cornerstone, by Netflix's favourite Australian chef, Shane Osborn, they you need to do it soon. The casual dining spot isn't all that spacious and fills up quickly in the evenings. But if you do manage to grab yourself a table (lunchtime is less crowded), make sure you order yourself the impeccably executed al dente tagliatelle with mushrooms, smoked sausage and fresh green peas. It's the comfort food of dreams: hearty, creamy and dusted in cheese -- you can thank us later.

Cornerstone, G/F Hilltop Plaza, 49 Hollywood Road, Soho, Central, Hong Kong

Fumi

[caption id="attachment_156004" align="alignnone" width="1377"] Brunch at Fumi[/caption]

So, Fumi's bigger and better sushi brunch isn't exactly one dish, but if it's high-quality fresh fish and meats from Japan you're after -- then you'll be more than happy here. Think Kuroge Wagyu tartare, charcoal-grilled Kagoshima Kurobuta Pork, Nangoku Genki chicken, sea prawn tempura, seasonal sashimi and as many sweet and meaty Hokkaido red king crab legs as you can crack into. Plus, more premium main course dishes to choose from and a shared Japanese dessert platter that will surely mean you need to be rolled home.

Fumi, 6/F, California Tower, Lan Kwai Fong, 30 - 36 D'Aguilar Street, Central Hong Kong; +852 2328 3302

Kashiwaya

[caption id="attachment_155991" align="alignnone" width="1340"] Shrimp and vegetable jelly with stewed octopus and sea urchin[/caption]

As the only overseas branch of the Michelin three-starred restaurant Kashiwaya in Osaka, Kashiwaya Hong Kong is something of a gem. They, too, have received two stars from the Michelin Guide since 2017 and continue to offer Japan's haute cuisine -- otherwise known as kaiseki -- to its guests. In a recent tasting, we were lucky enough to try a seasonal tasting menu that featured a beautiful sakizuke (or appetiser) of shrimp and vegetable jelly with stewed octopus topped with sea urchin, Japanese gourd and okura.

Kashiwaya, 8/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2520 5218

La Petite Maison

[caption id="attachment_155970" align="alignnone" width="2362"] Warm prawns with olive oil[/caption]

La Petite Maison has been open for almost a year in Hong Kong, but there's one classic dish we keep going back for: warm prawns with olive oil. One bite of this simple dish instantly transports you to summery Niçe, basking in the sun and dining alfresco with these fresh prawns, halved and dressed in lemon, basil, sea salt and of course quality olive oil -- the ultimate representation of Niçoise cuisine in summer, if ever there was one.

La Petite Maison, 1/F H Queen's, 23-29 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2887 1113

La Rambla

[caption id="attachment_156317" align="alignnone" width="533"] Carabineros & jamon[/caption]

With sweeping views of the harbour, La Rambla serves up modern interpretations of Spanish dishes. Recently, executive chef Ferran Tadeo has introduced a new dining concept where guests can get up close and personal with the rare premium ingredients and watch as each dish is prepared before their eyes at the chef's table. The star of the show from the seven-course menu is the carabineros & jamon. Freshly flown in are the Josper-grilled 3XL carabineros with Iberico fat roasted in garlic purée and parsley oil; the supersize crustacean boasts the sweet flavours of the sea, and the juicy prawn head tomalley is a true umami treat.

La Rambla, Level 3, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central; +852 2661 1161

Ramen Cubism

[caption id="attachment_156328" align="alignnone" width="6101"] Twin Shio ramen[/caption]

What’s better than a bowl of ramen? Two bowls. That’s why Ramen Cubism’s Twin Shio limited ramen bowl is sold out daily in Hong Kong and Osaka. The figure-8 bowl holds its famous hot noodles on one side and a cold version on the other. The broth is blended from shellfish, scallops, clams, Hokkaido squid and scallops, and is topped with a 10cm-thick slab of roast pork belly. Single hot or cold servings are also available, but of course, two bowls are better than one.

Ramen Cubism, 27 Wellington Street, Central; +852 2399 0811

Somm

[caption id="attachment_156331" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Grilled Japanese pork BBQ sauce with Hakata cabbage salad[/caption]

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental’s new French neo-bistro is good for any time of day, be it breakfast or dinner, and it's best enjoyed with a tipple on the side. Led by the hotel’s team of sommeliers, the menu lends itself to complement the wine-driven dining experience with over 1,000 bottles to choose from and 100 wines and sake available by glass. It's hard to single out one favourite dish here as all are equally tasty. For meat lovers, we recommend the grilled Japanese pork with BBQ sauce and Hakata cabbage salad, which is lusciously rich in flavour with just the right amount of acidity in the greens and sauce to balance out the fat.

Somm, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central; +852 2132 0055

Zuma

[caption id="attachment_156330" align="alignnone" width="2720"] Tomato salad with roasted eggplant and ginger dressing[/caption]

When it comes to brunch, contemporary izakaya Zuma is almost an institution, but there’s more to just unlimited food and free-flow booze here. We tried their new summer menu and found that their à la carte dishes are just as impressive as the buffet they’re known for. The simple tomato salad with roasted eggplant and ginger dressing is a refreshing start to the meal to whet your appetite for what’s to come. The tangy dressing gives way to really showcase the sweetness of the slightly char-grilled fruit.

Zuma, Level 5 & 6, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central; +852 3657 6388

The post The Top 10 Dishes We Ate in July 2019 appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

With the culinary synergy between the Chinese and the Spanish, it comes as no surprise that so many of us love Spanish food in Hong Kong. Perhaps it’s the similar style of sharing dishes, the rice in paella or our collective love of pork. Either way, the city is hungry for a food fiesta, and if you can enjoy a stellar view overlooking Victoria Harbour at the same time, then all the more reason to visit La Rambla by Catalunya.
Located in the heart of luxury retail, La Rambla spans over 5,000 square feet of space in ifc mall -- including an outdoor terrace bar -- while serving up Catalan-inspired cuisine created by Executive Chef Ferran Tadeo, an elBulli alum. Driven by the season’s best ingredients, Chef Tadeo has developed a new à la carte menu in time for spring that features classic Catalonian flavours in modern-style tapas.

[gallery ids="141454,141455,141456"]

New menu highlights include a reimagined version of the iconic pulpo gallego, in which Galician octopus is grilled, instead of the traditional stewed version, in the grill-oven hybrid Josper. Here, migas (or crumbs in Spanish), papada joselito (cured pork jowl) and paprika is sprinkled on an indulgent cured egg yolk atop truffle mashed potato and burnt celeriac cream. A new take on the much-loved Spanish potato salad, or ensaladilla rusa, is given a distinct Asian twist with soy-marinated bluefin tuna from Toyosu fish market in Japan and nori mustard mayo. Pickled chillies from the Basque Country of Spain, otherwise known as Piparras peppers, add a mouth-puckering heat that makes this an ideal dish to kickstart any meal.

Other new dishes to try include the 12-day dry-aged pigeon from France’s Racan de Verry, which is given a spicy rub in Chef Tadeo’s secret recipe. It’s served pink and tender on the bone, making it the must-order meat on the menu. Catalan butifarra sausage with parmesan rice is another one to treat yourself to: Smoky slices of Iberico sausage from La Prudencia in Spain sit on a bed of rich, cheesy parmesan rice, which is adorned with fresh Hokkaido uni.

[gallery ids="141457,141461"]

Meanwhile, much-loved favourites including a creamy avocado and lobster roll dressed in salmon roe and caviar in light zesty ponzu, and butterflied Spanish red prawn remain. For the latter, you will be pleasantly surprised by a rather large -- 3XL to be exact -- carabinero, grilled to perfection and oozing with roe. It’s served with toasty rustic bread to mop all the juices while you spoon out the meaty prawn. The ever-popular bikini has also been given an update: The mini sandwiches now feature Spanish-style suckling pig paired with a spiced mango chutney to cut through the richness of the pork.

And what’s a Spanish dessert without cinnamon sugar churros? At La Rambla, it’s served in an ice-cream-sandwich style with vanilla ice cream and silky caramel sauce. The pastel de chocolate also satisfies sweet cravings with a mirror glazed chocolate mousse cake accented with passion fruit to bring the fragrances of fresh spring into play.

La Rambla by Catalunya, 3071-73 level 3, ifc mall, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2661 1161

The post La Rambla Reinvents the Classics with New Spring Dishes appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

While celebrating our bodies, we take a look back on our favorite dishes from the past couple months.

The post What We’re Celebrating: International No Diet Day! appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

We got front-row seats at La Rambla to watch the fragrant scallop paella being made.

The post How To: Chef Ferran Tadeo’s Scallop Paella appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.