Celebrity Life

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 Devon Hou began her culinary career at Amber under the wing of Richard Ekkebus, then as a sous chef to Vicky Lau starting up Tate Dining Room, before moving overseas to London's Goring Hotel. Her journey then led her to a unique F&B opportunity unlike any other. Her role as Head Chef at Test Kitchen is beyond collaborations with the well known culinary celebrities. It's also thematic pop-up dinner series of her own and constant exploration with flavours and cooking techniques. We chat up the chef and find out where she eats when she's away from her kitchen and in someone else's dining room.

For an evening of fine dining…

[caption id="attachment_199406" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Prawns warmed in starfruit juice with herbs, Dewakan[/caption]

I had a very memorable dinner in Dewakan in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The way the chef fuses Malaysian ingredients together impressed me the most, a close second [impressive element] would be the stunning night views.

Dewakan, Level 48, Skyviews Naza Tower, 10 Persiaran KLCC, Platinum Park, Kuala Lumpur; +017 697 8820

For a cheeky cheat meal…

[caption id="attachment_199405" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Honest Burger, Honest Burgers[/caption]

Honest Burgers reminds me of the time I lived and worked in London. After a busy week of way too many hours, I would always enjoy having a burger with a milkshake to fill up my stomach and lighten up my mood.

Honest Burgers, several locations across the United Kingdom

For a romantic date night…

[caption id="attachment_199407" align="alignnone" width="964"] The Red prawn hot dog with Josper grilled prawn head is a must-order at Pica Pica[/caption]

It's no secret that I’m a tapas lover. Pica Pica is a tapas bar in Sheung Wan with an open-kitchen. I love the rich variety of food and sherry wine pairing for a date-night in a relaxing and good atmosphere.

Pica Pica, 317 - 321 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan; +852 2811 9880

For getting friends and family together…

[caption id="attachment_199411" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Fried mantis shrimp with garlic, Dragon King[/caption]

Dragon King is a frequented Chinese dim sum restaurant for family gatherings and dinners for every festivity. At least for my family.

Dragon King, several locations including:

Dragon King Causeway Bay, 12/F, World Trade Centre, 280 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay; +852 2895 2288

For a healthy detox…

[caption id="attachment_199414" align="alignnone" width="960"] The Impossible Burger, Green Common[/caption]

Green Common, several locations including:

Green Common Wan Chai, 2/F, QRE Plaza, 202 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai; +852 3586 1968

For happy hour tipples…

Kozy is a Japanese teppanyaki place in Causeway Bay. The thing I like most about it is, both of the Japanese chefs are always there; maintaining the consistency and high quality of the food at a reasonable price. They open until late so this is absolutely my first choice of restaurant for happy-hour.

Kozy Okonomiyaki Teppanyaki, 9/F, Circle Plaza, 499 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay; +852 2591 1281

The post Where Chefs Eat: Devon Hou of Test Kitchen 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.

Matt Abergel is a name that is frequently brought up when speaking of the food and beverage scene in Hong Kong. Co-owner and Executive Chef of Rōnin and Yardbird Hong Kong, Co-founder of Sunday’s Grocery and Sunday’s Spirits (a bodega/deli style store with an independent brand of Japanese alcoholic beverages), (and author of James Beard Foundation award-winning book, Chicken and Charcoal. He is responsible for shaping the Hong Kong culinary culture and the master of yakitori, earning him recognition locally and globally. We chat up the chef and find out where he dines when he’s not whipping up innovative new culinary ideas.

For an evening of fine dining…

The place to go for refined French food is Belon. Chef Daniel Calvert’s cooking is always well-executed, focused, and delicious and there’s always something new to try on the menu.

Belon, 41 Elgin Street, SoHo, Central; +852 2152 2872 

For a cheeky cheat meal…

Mak Ming Noodles serve classic Hong Kong comfort food. They have the best Soi Gau Wonton Meen -- the broth is incredibly clean and deep, the wontons are expertly made, and the noodles are silky.

Mak Ming Noodles, 309 Queen's Road West, Sai Ying Pun; +852 2633 2368

Mak Ming Noodles, 6 Mercury Street, North Point; +852 2623 9896

For a romantic date night…

Chef Motoyama of Mikasaya is one of my favorite sushi chefs in Hong Kong and the service at Mikasaya is great. He serves extremely high quality fish in a chill and relaxed environment. I always go for the omakase menu. For kaiseki, Kitaohji in Tokyo is a fantastic place for a great meal on a special date or occasion. The food is excellent and the beautifully decorated private rooms are perfect for a memorable date experience.

Mikasaya, Unit B, 2/F, Cameron Plaza, 23 - 25A Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2301 3555

For getting friends and family together…

Celebrity Cuisine is a favourite of mine, with with delicious, spot-on Cantonese cooking. Whether you go for dim sum or dinner, make sure to order the crispy paper skinned chicken, fried rice, and sweet and sour pork.

Celebrity Cuisine, 1/F, Lan Kwai Fong Hotel, 3 Kau U Fong, Central; +852 3650 0066

For a healthy detox…

Healthy, simple, and a convenient location to my restaurants, is Be-Juiced + Bar. They have great cold-pressed juices and smoothies that my kids also enjoy.

Be-Juiced + Bar, 45 Peel Street, Central; +852 2668 6231

For happy hour tipples…

When in Tokyo, I like to go to Bloody Angle. This bar is located in Shibuya and is as no frills as you get. It’s one of the best record bars as far as I’m concerned and all of the records they play are available for purchase

Bloody Angle, 4/F, 1 Chrome -- 15-16, Shibuya, Tokyo; +81 3 6427 5178

The post Where Chefs Eat: Matt Abergel of Ronin and Yardbird 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.

Taking over the space formerly occupied by three Michelin-starred Sushi Shikon is Zuicho. Tucked away and easily missed, the kappo cuisine restaurant is where kaiseki formality meets izakaya intimacy. Head Chef Fumio Suzuki is a traditional kappo chef, mastering the “cut and cook” method to prepare an omakase format menu drawing out the flavours of the most seasonal ingredients. We spoke to the Tokyo native to find out where his top spots for wining and dining are in the world.

For an evening of fine dining…

Ginza Kudo is a traditional Japanese restaurant in Tokyo. The chef is special to me as he has been instrumental in my development and inspiration to be a kappo chef. The owner was the long-time chef of a very famous restaurant before he opened this (his own) restaurant in 2017. I think he's a true master of constantly innovating and producing new dishes for his guests, and I learn a lot every time I experience a meal there. It is well worth a visit if you are in Tokyo, but best to book well in advance as it has become one of Ginza's most popular spots.

Ginza Kudo, 3/F, Sunlit Ginza Building III, 5-14-14, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo; +81 03 3545 1091

For a cheeky cheat meal…

[caption id="attachment_190685" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Photo: That Food Cray[/caption]

Kozy Okonomi-yaki Teppan-yaki is my favourite comfort food and I always enjoy this style where you are served directly by the chef from across the counter (like Zuicho!). The quality here is as good as my favourite places back in Japan, and the price is reasonable too.

Kozy Okonomiyaki Teppanyaki, 9/F, Circle Plaza, 499 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay; +852 2591 1281

For a romantic date night…

For kaiseki in Tokyo, Kitaohji is a fantastic place for a great meal on a special date or occasion. The food is excellent and the beautifully decorated private rooms are perfect for a memorable date experience.

Several locations including:

Kitaohji, Second Ulu Eagle Building, 1/F, 8-5-12, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo; +81 03 3575 0707

For getting friends and family together…

I love 298 in Hong Kong to eat with family and friends. Yakinuku is fun and interactive for a group. The meat here is excellent, and the overall dining experience reminds me of my favourite yakiniku spots back home in Japan.

298 Nikuya Room, 2/F, Pearl Oriental House, 60 Stanley Street, Central; +852 3568 9298

For a healthy detox…

Cooking hot pot meals at home! I love experimenting with hot pots and mixing fresh ingredients both from Japan and sourced locally in Hong Kong. Food prepared at home gives the most control over nutrition and healthy eating, too.

For happy hour tipples…

Bar Calma is a personal favourite as I enjoyed drinking there with my brother-in-law in Tokyo. It's got a dark, calm, and chilled out atmosphere with nice cocktails and a good selection of wine and whiskey. I like these kind of places that are popular hang-outs for locals in a residential area.

Bar Calma, 5-14-8 Shirokanedai, Tiny 3F, Minato 108-0071, Tokyo; +81 03 3449 2706

The post Where Chefs Eat: Fumio Suzuki, Kappo Cuisine Master of Zuicho 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.

Rosewood continues to roll out culinary concepts. One of their latest being Henry, the “unapologetically American steak and smokehouse, paying tribute to southern traditions” as Chef de Cuisine Nathan Green would describe. You might be familiar with his unpretentious home-style cooking at his former restaurants like Rhoda and Jason Atherton’s 22 Ships and Ham & Sherry in Hong Kong. More recently, Nate has taken on the title of grill master at the Victoria Dockside luxury hotel where you can sample some of the best cuts of meat in the world. But where does @chef_smokeybandit hang out when he’s not behind the grill or in Henry’s Butcher Shop? We find out.

For an evening of fine dining…

[caption id="attachment_185273" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Tate Dining Room[/caption]

I really enjoy Tate Dining Room. Vicky Lau’s fusion of French technique and Chinese ingredients always really impresses me and when I leave after dining there, I would have learnt about new ingredients and flavours.

Tate Dining Room, 210 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan; +852 2555 2172

For a cheeky cheat meal…

[caption id="attachment_185275" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Cali-Mex[/caption]

Cali-Mex. What’s not to love about a meal that is reasonably priced, uses fresh ingredients, tastes good and is relatively healthy? The extra bonus is being able to have it delivered.

Cali-Mex, Various locations; +852 2904 7698

For a casual date night…

[caption id="attachment_185274" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Samsen[/caption]

Samsen is our go-to date night spot. We put our name on the wait list, put the kids to bed and go and chow down on some delicious Thai Food. I’ve been a huge fan of Adam’s food ever since Cha Cha Wan. I love the energy of the place and we can be in and out of there within an hour.

Samsen, 68 Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai; +852 2234 0001

For getting friends and family together…

[caption id="attachment_185277" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Motorino Hong Kong[/caption]

Motorino. For me, they serve one of the best pizzas in Hong Kong. The Wan Chai branch has a fantastic young team looking after you with amazing levels of hospitality. It's easy with the kids and you can always get an early table. The menu is great and offers something for every one.

Motorino, 15 Ship Street, Wan Chai; +852 2520 0690

For a healthy detox…

[caption id="attachment_185276" align="alignnone" width="960"] Yardbird Hong Kong[/caption]

I follow a Keto diet, so Yardbird Hong Kong is perfect for me. I believe protein to be very healthy for you, so I like to order the light vegetable-based dishes and grilled chicken. Combine that with one of the best floor teams in Hong Kong and a great atmosphere, and you're set.

Yardbird Hong Kong, 154 - 158 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan; +852 2547 9273

The post Where Chefs Eat: Nathan Green of American Grill and Smokehouse Henry 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.

Not many chefs can boast a reputation comparable to that of Fabrice Vulin. Before being appointed to his current position as Executive Chef of two Michelin-starred restaurant, The Tasting Room, Chef Fabrice spent a lifetime honing his skills in some of the world’s most acclaimed kitchens – from France, Switzerland and Morocco to Hong Kong and now Macau. Celebrated for his contemporary twist on classic French fine dining using the rarest ingredients (some of which are exclusively available in Asia), the culinary superstar highlights his top spots in the world for wining and dining.

For an evening of fine dining…

When it comes to fine dining, I like the contemporary approach at Christophe Bacquie’s Restaurant in L’Hotel du Castellet in Provence, France. They serve Mediterranean-influenced dishes that shine a light on seasonal produce and fresh seafood.

Christophe Bacquie’s Restaurant, L’Hotel du Castellet, 3001 Route des Hauts du Camp, Le Castellet, Provence; +33 4 94 98 37 77

For a cheeky cheat meal…

Fernando’s in Macau is a classic. It’s also a perfect place for family dinners in a casual and relaxed environment.

Restaurante Fernando, 9 Praia de Hac Sa, Coloane, Macau; +853 88 2264

For a romantic date night…

Le Château de la Chèvre d’Or. The restaurant is situated in the heart of Eze, near Monaco. With your meal comes the most spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Restaurant La Chèvre d’Or, Relais & Châteaux, Rue du Barri, 06360 Eze; +33 4 92 10 66 66

For getting friends and family together…

When in Paris, the perfect little place to gather people together is at Les Cocottes helmed by Chef Christian Constant. I always have a great time and love the simple yet delicious food they serve.

Les Cocottes, 135 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris; +33 1 45 50 10 28

For a healthy detox…

Chef Emmanuel Renaud who heads up Le Flocon de Sel in Megeve focuses on beautiful vegetables and local produce from the area. It’s also near where I spent most of my childhood so there’s a hint of nostalgia when it comes to dining here.

Le Flocon de Sel, 1775 Route du Leutaz, 74120 Megève; +33 4 50 21 49 99

What’s happening at The Tasting Room?

Every day, we get our dose of genuine happiness from our guests’ feedback. It motivates us to always do better. Because interactive experiences make for good photo opportunities and add great excitement to a meal, we have added table-side service dishes that are finished in front of our guests. People love our Bresse chicken “en vessie” — opened and carved table side, served with Albufera sauce, girolle mushrooms and potato gnocchi. Another popular dish is the Sea bass cooked atop hot stones right in the dining room. Apart from food, our new V60 technique coffee is also a must-order – the beans are freshly roasted in Macau and filtered right before our guests.

The post Where Chefs Eat: Fabrice Vulin of The Tasting Room 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.

For an evening of fine dining…

[caption id="attachment_179082" align="alignnone" width="900"] Le Gavroche[/caption]

One of the best experiences I had was at Le Gavroche, an exquisite two Michelin star restaurant in London, featuring traditional classic French cuisine in a very classy and sophisticated cooking style.

Le Gavroche, 43 Upper Brook Street, Mayfair, London; +44 20 7408 0881

For a cheeky cheat meal…

[caption id="attachment_179084" align="alignnone" width="2606"] Pici[/caption]

Since I am new in Hong Kong, I love to explore every neighbourhood with its specialty eats and hidden gems. And on my culinary discovery tour through the streets of Hong Kong, I discovered Pici in Wan Chai – that is now my place to go, when I want to get a carbs charge and satisfy my cravings.

Pici, 16 Francis Yard, Wan Chai; +852 2755 5523 

Pici, 24 - 26 Aberdeen Street, Central; +852 2755 5233

Pici, 29 - 31 Chatham Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2771 2231

For a romantic date night…

For the perfect date night, I would definitely pick the Armani / Ristorante in Dubai, inside the world-class Burj Khalifa. During the time I was working there, I witnessed so many proposals – all of them with a happy end, of course. The trick is, it is all about the sleek combination of an incomparably captivating atmosphere with a breath-taking view of the Dubai fountain show that perfectly add to the star-acclaimed food.

Armani / Ristorante, Burj Khalifa, Armani Hotel Dobai, Sheikh Mohammaed bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai; +971 4 888 3366

For getting friends and family together…

[caption id="attachment_179090" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Duck & Waffle[/caption]

Duck & Waffle is my favourite place to go if I want to enjoy a fun and casual time with my friends. I like the sharing style of food, and the relaxing yet modern atmosphere paired with the cheerful attentive service makes it one of my top picks.

Duck & Waffle, Shop 1081, Podium Level 1, ifc mall, Central; +852 2267 6338

For a healthy detox…

Actually, the best healthy food is the food that I prepare for my loved ones at home. I believe it is always best to source the ingredients myself, so I know they come from somewhere I trust. Then I can decide myself how I wish to prepare them.

For happy hour tipples…

[caption id="attachment_179092" align="alignnone" width="1080"] MO Bar[/caption]

For happy hour, I always head to MO Bar at Landmark Mandarin Oriental. You always get superb drinks prepared by very skilful bartenders!

MO Bar, Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central; +852 2132 0077

What’s happening at SPIGA?

SPIGA has been known to introduce new menus based on season and unique chef collaborations. For one of the most exciting times of the year, chef Paolo Olivieri and Michelin starred chef Enrico Bartolini create an enticing to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s. A five-course Chef Tasting Menu will showcase the finest land and sea ingredients from Milan, Rome, Piedmont and SIciliy. Each course is expertly paired with specialty wines to bring out the best flavours of each dish.

The post Where Chefs Eat: Paolo Olivieri of SPIGA 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.

Having been in Hong Kong for 10 years now, Culinary Director Olivier Elzer of French restaurant L’Envol at The St. Regis Hong Kong is more than familiar with the culture and food preferences of the locals here. With a buzzing food scene and competitive options for fine dining in the city, chef Elzer gets creative when it comes to putting forth fresh ideas on a plate. When out of the kitchen and into the dining room, here’s where the French native likes to unwind and indulge in Hong Kong.

For an evening of fine dining…

[caption id="attachment_171324" align="alignnone" width="3317"] Haku[/caption]

I have three favourite fine dining restaurants I like to visit in Hong Kong:

Caprice at The Four Seasons is one of my favourite fine dining restaurants. The whole experience is very elegant and exactly what you can expect from a 3 Michelin-starred French fine dining experience. The chef is great at creating well-balanced dishes with amazing flavours and they also have a beautiful wine list that always excites me.

Haku, is another of my favourite. Chef Agustin Balbi is very talented – as a western chef, he’s very knowledgeable when it comes to Japanese cuisine. He’s also really innovative, which surprises me every time as I’m always trying new dishes when I’m there. My favourite dish that I always order is the abalone dish.

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L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is also definitely a favourite of mine. As you know, Joël Robuchon was my mentor and one of the most celebrated French chefs of his era. The Robuchon family is still very close to my heart – it’s always great to go to the restaurant and sample some new dishes and signature dishes by a Robuchon – every visit is like returning home.

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

HAKU, OT G04B, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 21115 9965

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Shop 401, Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central; +852 2166 9000

For a cheeky cheat meal…

Belon in SoHo is my go to for a cheat meal if I want to eat out. Every time I’m there, I order their foie gras, scallops, and ravioli with cepes mushroom.

But when it comes to my all-time favourite Chinese cheat meal, nothing beats a whole roast goose which I can usually finish entirely on my own.

Belon, 41 Elgin Street, Central; +852 2152 2872

For a romantic date night…

To eat in, I usually opt for something simple like Champagne and caviar.

[caption id="attachment_171311" align="alignnone" width="800"] Le Pan[/caption]

But for a special occasion, we like to eat at Le Pan. The restaurant is located in Kowloon Bay, and what makes it unique is the whole experience – the chef is very talented, the kitchen team does some very interesting and unique work and the whole set up is very beautiful. The team surprises us every time with the menu and it’s a great experience overall.

Le Pan, Goldin Financial Global Centre, 17 Kai Cheung Road, Kowloon Bay; +852 3188 2355

For getting friends and family together…

Locanda dell’ Angelo is a great restaurant for large family or friends gatherings. The atmosphere is great as they have an open kitchen, and they serve great Sicilian dishes. The chef is Angelo Aglianó who mentored under Joël Robuchon, too. I recommend trying their red prawn pasta, as it’s very fresh and flavoursome and something I always order.

Locanda dell’ Angelo, 10 – 12 Yuen Yuen Street, Happy Valley; +852 3709 2788

For a healthy detox…

To eat out, I like to go to Daigo by Mori Tomoaki located in Sheung Wan. It’s a Japanese restaurant serving some of the best sushi and sashimi. The one thing I love most about this place is that you get to sit at the bar and admire the knife skills and attention to detail in the plating – there’s something really exciting about seeing the food prepared right in front of you.

The chef decides on the whole menu for you, so you know it’s always fresh and seasonal. This place is usually very packed as it’s a small shop with limited seats, so be sure you make reservations if you’re planning a visit.

Daigo by Mori Tomoaki, 29 Bridges Street, Tai Ping Shan, Sheung Wan; +852 2979 5977

For happy hour tipples…

Avize in Causeway Bay. This place is actually a shop! They have an impressive list of wine and champagnes from their cellar. It’s always a great time when a large group of us go there. You can sample different kinds of wine and discover some new wineries. And of course, you can also buy your favourite ones to enjoy back at home as well.

Avize, 17 Moreton Terrace, Causeway Bay; +852 2567 0883

What’s happening at L’Envol?

[caption id="attachment_171313" align="alignnone" width="6720"] L'Envol[/caption]

In order to keep our customers on their toes, it’s really important to bring fresh ideas to the restaurant. That’s why we change our lunch menus weekly and update our Prestige, Signature and Decouverte menus seasonally. Recently, we launched our Prestige seasonal menu which is focused on caviar and each of the eight dishes is paired with distinct, hand-selected species to complement the ingredients on the plate. Not to mention our extensive wine and Champagne list (we have over 800 Champagne labels!) that will pair beautifully with our dishes. We invite our guests to return time and time again, but for a new experience each time.

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The post Where Chefs Eat: Olivier Elzer of L’Envol at The St. Regis 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.

Five food- and drink-related apps that the tech-savvy gourmet needs to have.

The post Food Apps appeared first on The Peak Magazine.

Five food- and drink-related apps that the tech-savvy gourmet needs to have.

For more stories like this, visit www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg.

Five food- and drink-related apps that the tech-savvy gourmet needs to have.

The post Food Apps appeared first on The Peak Magazine.

Five food- and drink-related apps that the tech-savvy gourmet needs to have.

For more stories like this, visit www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg.