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.

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.

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.

Arbor x La Cime Four Hands Menu

When: 7 to 9 November

Price: Nine-course dinner HK$2,988 + 10% (7-9 November); Four-course lunch at HK$988 + 10% (8-9 November)

Chef Eric Räty of Arbor has earned quite the reputation for his inventive menus and love for collaborating with culinary legends. Following the success of his previous collaboration with Osaka's La Cime in October last year, Arbor welcomes back chef Yusuke Takada for another joint degustation menu. In this four hands menu, the spotlight is on the flavourful riches of Fukuoka. Following a personal visit to the local farms, the two chefs carefully selected some of the finest ingredients of the region including Asari clams, Minokotobuki sake, Matsu Kinoko mushrooms, Sazae sea snails and more.

Arbor, 25/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central; +852 3185 8388

Guest Chef David Tamburini of La Scala at Whisk

When: 7 & 8 November

Price: HK$998 + 10%; Wine pairing + HK$388 + 10%

Right on the heels of the 10^th anniversary four hands menu last month, Whisk welcomes fine dining prodigy and Michelin-strared chef David Tamburini of Bangkok’s La Scala for another dining pop-up. Inspired by the colourful expressions of autumn in Italy, each of the six plates are brand new inventions that play on minimalism. Diners can expect classics such as Hokkaido scallops, cured duck breast, Patagonian cod and Kagoshima wagyu beef.

Whisk, 5/F, The Mir Hong Kong, 118 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2315 5999

Locavore x Test Kitchen

When: 7 to 10 November

Price: HK$1,080; Wine pairing + HK$480

Bali-based chef Eelke Plasmeijer of Asia’s 50 Best Locavore pays a visit to Hong Kong for a special four-day pop-up at the culinary laboratory – Test Kitchen. Cooking up contemporary Balinese cuisine with European influences, founder and chef Plasmeijer presents a nine-course menu featuring some of the most unusual and inventive dishes, while introducing Indonesia’s most celebrated flavours with a twist. Topping our list of most anticipated dishes includes Salt baked jicama and Pigeon with cacao citrus sauce and White coffee liquorice gelato.

Test Kitchen, Shop 3, Kwan Yick Building Phase 3, 158A Connaught Road West, Sai Ying Pun; +852 9032 7628

Roganic Mushroom Menu

When: 12 & 13 November

Price: HK$980 + 10%

Roganic has made quite a name for itself in the industry when it comes to the farm-to-table concept. Plucking fresh ingredients straight from the farms of Hong Kong and adapting British flavours for the local palate has been a gift of chef Simon Rogan’s. In light of the cooling temperatures, a special tasting menu of 11-courses showcasing the earthy and versatile mushroom will be available for 2 nights only. Each dish demonstrates how the under-appreciated ingredient can be used to highlight its distinct flavour, aroma and texture. Guest favourites such as the Truffle pudding and homemade Mushroom, and miso parker house bread will make a return on the menu, while exclusive fungi creations like the Aerated cep cake and Hong Kong chicken will be presented for the first time.

Roganic, UG/F 08, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay; +852 2817 8383

Iconic Wine Dinner at Alain Ducasse at Morpheus Macau

When: 16 November

Price: MOP$28,888 + 10%

Wine buffs will be pleased to know that two-Michelin-starred haute cuisine restaurant Alain Ducasse at Morpheus is offering an extremely rare opportunity to sample five of the greatest vintages of all time. The seven course menu prepared by Executive Chef Pierre Marty is carefully crafted to enhance the limited bottles including the 1997 Richebourg, 1995 Grands-Échézeaux, 1990 Romanée-St.-Vivant, 1999 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Cuvée Duvault-Blochet and 2000 La Tâche. Every guest will also get a chance to win a bottle of 1997 Grands-Échézeaux on the evening at the lucky draw.

Alain Ducasse at Morpheus, Level 3, Morpheus, City of Dreams, Estr. Do Istmo, Macau; +853 8868 3432

Gems & Pearl – An Italian Culinary Journey at Tosca di Angelo

When: 21 & 22 November

Price: HK$1,998 + 10%

Starting this November, Tosca di Angelo will debut its Gems & Pearl Italian Culinary Journey, a five-part series inviting international culinary ambassadors to Hong Kong for exclusive one-off menus melding the talents of the East and West. To kick off the campaign, Valeria Piccini from two Michelin-starred Cain restaurant in Montemerano will be the first guest chef to present her native Tuscan cuisine of pasta, mushrooms, prime cuts of meat alongside Angelo’s classics tailored for the local palate.

Tosca di Angelo, Level 102, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road, West Kowloon; +852 2263 2270

VEA x Florilège Pop-up

When: 22 November

Price: HK$2,880 + 10%; Cocktail or wine pairing +HK$780 +10%

Following the incredible popularity of its four-hand collaborations with Odette and JL Studio, VEA is inviting one of the region’s most prominent chefs for another crossover pop-up. This time, chef Vicky Cheng partners up with chef Hiroyasu Kawate from modern French restaurant Florilège of Tokyo. The one-night-only degustation menu features inventive French cuisine like Kawate’s signature Beef carpaccio with beetroot puree and host chef Vicky’s Fish maw and sea cucumber. The option for wine or cocktail pairing by mixologist Antonio Lai is also available as an addition to complement the nine-course meal.

VEA Restaurant & Lounge, 29& 30/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central; +852 2711 0063

The post The Top 7 Special Menus You Can’t Miss This November 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.

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.

New Seasonal Menu at Aulis

[caption id="attachment_167381" align="alignnone" width="533"] Grille Salad, Aulis.[/caption]

When: Now until October 31
Price: HK$1,480 +10%; Wine pairing +HK$680 +10%

British chef Simon Rogan has steadily won over hearts and stomachs citywide with his private fine dining concept Aulis and its casual contemporary counterpart Roganic. As autumn sets in, Chef Rogan is excited to share his new menu which takes advantage of seasonal ingredients found only at this time of year, both locally and abroad. His signature tartlets get a makeover with local baby Spanish mackerel with carrot purée and pickled apple, while other new dishes include Hokkaido scallop barbecued in its shell and served with smoked pike perch roe; and buttermilk, cherry custard and rosemary caramel served with hibiscus kombucha syrup.

Aulis, UG/F, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay; +852 2817 8383

Furs, Feathers & Iode Wild Game Menu at Écriture

[caption id="attachment_167527" align="alignnone" width="853"] Yari Ika Farci Hare, Écriture.[/caption]

When: Now until October 31
Price: HK$2,288 + 10%

Chef Maxime Gilbert, of two Michelin-starred Écriture, is back at it again with his annual wild game menu just as we roll into the thick of hunting season. And this year, the fresh game from France and England is designed to pair with seasonal Japanese seafood to strike a beautiful balance that brings out the flavours of these seasonal ingredients. The 10-course menu features rare proteins such as grouse, hare, katsuo fish, partridge, spear squid and doe, while seasonal accompaniments including persimmon and white truffles add that extra touch of autumn as we adjust to the colder months. The Furs, Feathers & Iode menu is available a la carte for lunch and as a tasting menu for dinner.

Écriture, 26/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central; +852 2795 5996

New Seasonal Menu at Senti

[caption id="attachment_167383" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Monkfish with leek, foie gras and cep, Senti.[/caption]

When: Now until October 31
Price: HK$880 +10%

Newcomer to the Hong Kong dining scene is Senti, a contemporary European restaurant dedicated to redefining the traditional fine dining experience by offering a more relaxed ambiance and innovative menu. Helmed by Chef Alex Law who previously earned recognition with Ryne, the fine dining, Chef’s Hat-rated restaurant he opened in Melbourne with partner Donovan Cooke. Senti offers seasonal tasting menus using ingredients sourced locally and from France and across Europe. The Hong Kong debut introduces a six-course tasting menu, demonstrating his sophisticated culinary skills with dishes like octopus with chorizo and capsicum, lobster with daikon, grape and cappuccino, and monkfish with leek and foie gras.

Senti, 3/F, Parekh House, 63 Wyndham Street, Central; +852 2668 4088

Pierre

[caption id="attachment_167384" align="alignnone" width="4912"] Chef Pierre Gagnaire, Pierre.[/caption]

When: October 7 to 12
Price: HK$1,988 + 10%

Legendary chef Pierre Gagnaire returns to his two Michelin-starred restaurant Pierre at Mandarin Oriental to present his signature Italian dishes from his Italian restaurant Piero TT to Hong Kong. The seven course degustation menu includes veal and white truffle paste ravioli, Blue lobster risotto, veal chop Milanese-style with artichoke salad, and of course, the most iconic Italian dessert: tiramisu with burrata ice cream. These special dishes are also available à la carte.

Pierre, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road Centra, Central; +852 2825 4001

Chef Bo Bech for PDT Hong Kong

[caption id="attachment_167385" align="alignnone" width="4480"] Geist Spicy Harissa Hotdog, PDT.[/caption]

When: October 8 to 14
Price: Average spending starts at approximately HK$350

When at PDT, it’s almost customary to treat yourself to a little sinful snacking – and by that we mean the speakeasy’s bar menu of hotdogs. This October, cookbook writer and TV Chef Bo Bech will be joining master mixologist Jim Meehan in Hong Kong for the last series of the bar’s star-studded hotdog series for 2019. New to the menu is Bech’s Geist Spicy Harisssa Hotdog -- a loaded grilled pork dog topped with his own take of harissa using sweet red peppers, red chilli pepper, red onion, garlic, coriander seeds, cumin and piment d’espelette garnished with coriander. The special hotdog series pays tribute to the first PDT in NYC which has a history of innovative culinary collaboration. Meanwhile, mixologist Jim Meehan will also bring exciting and imaginative cocktails to wash down the American staple food.

PDT, Landmark Mandarin Oriental, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central; +852 2132 0033

6 Hands Menu at Casa Lisboa Gastronomia Portuguesa

[gallery ids="167389,167390,167387"]

When: October 9
Price: HK$880 +10%; Wine pairing +HK$480 +10%

Three chefs from three cultures join together for one night only in a very special culinary collaboration. Chef Fábio Pombo of Casa Lisboa will be joined by Angelo Vecchio of Porterhouse and Jesus Pascual of Olé to present a combined effort of Portuguese, Italian and Spanish influences. The six-course, six-hands dinner is composed of the best dishes from each of the chefs and comes together in a curated menu that highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients and each chef’s unique cooking style.

Casa Lisboa, 2/F, Parekh House, 63 Wyndham Street, Central; +852 2905 1168

Guest Chef Bee of Paste at Mandarin Oriental

[caption id="attachment_167391" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Australian trout choo chee curry, Paste.[/caption]

When: The Krug Room October 16 & 17, Man Wah October 18 & 19
Price: The Krug Room HK$2,888 + 10% (includes to glasses of Krug Grande Cuvée 167ème Édition and a glass of Krug Vintage 2004); Man Wah HK$1,888 + 10%

Chef Bongkoch ‘Bee’ Satongun of Paste Bangkok needs no introduction. Ranked 28 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2019 for her innovative Thai cuisine, and Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2018, chef Bee has made her name a prominent one in the culinary world. Having collaborated in Hong Kong previously, this time, she returns as resident chef at the prestigious Krug Room, where she will be presenting a nine-course menu for two nights.

Following her chef takeover at the private dining space, she will be partnering with chef Wing-Keung Wong of Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Man Wah. The pair will be designing a menu with each chef serving five of their own dishes to create a harmonious marriage of flavours from their respective cuisine. Dishes not to be missed include the flower crab with Chumporn roasted shrimp paste by chef Bee and steamed and sautéed egg with lobster, sea urchin and mini goldfish dumpling by chef Wong.

The Krug Room, Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road Central, Central; +852 2825 4014   

Man Wah, Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road Central, Central; +852 2825 4003

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World's 50 Best Rank 1 Chef Colagerco at Grill 58

[caption id="attachment_167392" align="alignnone" width="853"] Chef Mauro Colagreco, Mirazur.[/caption]

When: October 18 to 20
Price: Approximately MOP$2,000 +10%

It’s not often that a chance to enjoy the world’s finest European dining comes by. This October, the legendary Italian-Argentine chef Mauro Colagreco of Mirazur in Menton will pay a visit to MGM Cotai to showcase his dishes driven by quality seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean inspired cuisine. Awarded three Michelin stars and ranked first in World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2019, chef Colagreco’s visit is one of the most anticipated guest chef visits in Macau this year. His menu will include Poultry velouté in green curry with crayfish, Char-grilled carabineros with chicken supreme, beurre blanc sauce and trout eggs, and Aveyron lamb rack with eggplants and anchovies.

Grill 58, MGM Cotai, Avenida da Nave Desportiva, Cotai, Macau; +853 8806 2318

Chef Bruno Oger of La Villa Archange at Gaddi’s

[caption id="attachment_167393" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Iced Fennel with Anise, La Villa Archange.[/caption]

When: October 21 & 22
Price: Lunch ranges from HK$1,288 to HK$2, 688 + 10%; Dinner HK$2,688 + 10%

French chef Bruno Oger, who earned two Michelin stars for La Villa Archange, takes his Mediterranean and Brittany influenced-cuisine to Gaddi’s in a collaboration with chef Albin Goblin. The two will join forces to offer a menu focused on modern interpretations of refined French classic gastronomy with fresh ingredients and delicate flavours. Chef Oger will be in Hong Kong for both lunch and dinner services, and diners can choose from four to seven courses at lunch and a seven-course prix fixe degustation menu in the evening.

Gaddi’s, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2696 6763

Guest Chef Gordon Leung of Shangri-La Group at Shang Palace

[caption id="attachment_167394" align="alignnone" width="2652"] Deep-fried Stuffed Crab Meat in Shell, Shang Palace.[/caption]

When: October 24
Price: HK$1,600 + 10%

With his recent appointment as Corporate Chinese Executive Chef at Shangri-La Group, chef Gordon Leung lends over 30 years of culinary experience to a very special four hands dinner with Chef Daniel Cheung of Shang Palace at Kowloon Shangri-La. The duo will deliver an expertly curated menu of Cantonese and classic Chinese cuisine in the form of their signature dishes. The dishes are prepared and cooked in a way to emphasise the original flavours of the premium seasonal ingredients to bring forth the complex charred aromas known locally as wok hei. The most anticipated dishes include deep-fried stuffed crab meat in shell, oven-boiled cod with egg white and conpoy, and the delectable dessert platter, a signature of Shang Palace.

Shang Place, Kowloon Shangri-La, 64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2733 8483

The post The Top 10 Special Menus You Can’t Miss This October appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Nestled in Progression Building in the thick of Hong Kong's nightlife scene is Italian steakhouse, Bistecca. Since its opening in 2009, it has reinforced its position as one of the go-tos for meaty madness. How it has withstood the city's ever-changing dining scene and the diners’ hunger for newness for ten years now, is pretty simple. It has continued to serve up rustic, feel-good sharing-style plates in a casual setting.

It’s a daunting task to review a restaurant which you already have a soft spot for. But our recent visit to Bistecca has confirmed that they have fared well over the years and if anything, only solidified its status in our books.

 

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So enjoy watching this amazing crew working in their field. No noise. No bullshit. The protocol is just flowing in the air. Everything just hits on the perfect nodes even the silent part. @bisteccaitalianhk fills your mouth with numerous sensations and your lips with rejoicing

A post shared by SONG DUO (@maggie.duo.song) on Jun 11, 2017 at 6:09am PDT

It all started with a glass of champagne (because, why not?) and a quick  visit to the “butcher shop”. Guests are invited to explore the cuts of meat in special fridges, dangling on meat hooks and on carving tables to choose the steak of their choice. Head chef Marc Benkoe and his team man the open kitchen counter to answer any questions you may have regarding flavour, texture, temperature and so on. The starving carnivores we are, we went along with the Australian Wagyu M5 tomahawk.

 

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Bistecca del Capo M5 Wagyu Tomahawk Daily special cut

A post shared by Bistecca Italian Steak House (@bisteccaitalianhk) on May 16, 2018 at 11:31pm PDT

Back at our table, a family-sized spread of cold cuts, soft cheese and antipasti was waiting. Everything was an exact reflection of our expectations and memory. The homemade Stracciatella was the fan favourite. The satisfaction of cutting through the bouncy pouch to leak a luscious creamy goodness never gets old. How quickly it all got mopped up with fresh bread and a drizzle of olive oil proved its popularity at our table.

The enormity of our steak has been overlooked over the counter and brought before us – another case of eyes wider than our stomachs. We get straight to business taking this monster down, but not without all the bells and whistles that come with it. Served on the side are stalks of asparagus bathed in bernaise sauce, balsamic glazed mushrooms, parmesan creamed spinach, and truffle fries.

 

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Did you know it was yesterday (Aug 18th)? But how is one day enough for a wine lover (or alcoholic ) like myself?!?! · Luckily my favorite steakhouse @bisteccaitalianhk has extended it to a ! ♥️ Starting from today till Aug 25th, you can enjoy these gorgeous and juicy steaks paired with some lovely Pinot Noir from all over the world like USA, Germany and New Zealand! #BisteccaHK @diningconceptshk ⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯ #YukiEatsInCentral @discoverhongkong #DiscoverHongKong

A post shared by YUKI LEUNG 梁藹媛 (@yukimaryrosel) on Aug 19, 2019 at 4:44am PDT

The only fear when ordering a such big chunk of meat is always the cook, which was immediately put to rest upon the first cut. It’s clear that this isn’t Chef Benkoe’s first rodeo – the tender, juicy and an exacting bleed was masterfully executed.

Though our gorging efforts were maximal, our defeat was inevitable. It was time to surrender. What we were unable to stomach was packed for us to go.

The return to Bistecca left me with the comfortable familiarity I was looking for. This dining concept has held up its reputation to loyally serve the same no-bullshit, big portion family style food that we fell in love with since its opening.

The post Double Take: Revisiting a Prime Example of Great Steak at Bistecca appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Macau has long had a reputation for being slightly over the top, and that's certainly the case when it comes to fabulous food and wine. (Among its restaurants, 30 Michelin stars can be found in Macau.)

Of these, only three restaurants possess the covered three-star accolade; one of them, Jade Dragon, has solidified its position as a destination for traditional Chinese food executed at the highest level.

Helmed by one of the greatest (and youngest chefs) in Asia with such recognition is 39-year-old chef Kelvin Au Yeung, who had some big shoes to fill after his predecessor, chef Tam Kowk Fung, led the restaurant to earn two Michelin stars. Last year, under the culinary direction of  chef Au Yeung, Jade Dragon pulled in its third star.

Borrowing techniques and influences from other cuisines to amplify the flavours while maintaining the authenticity and character of traditional Cantonese fare, Jade Dragon continues its heavy emphasis on making seasonal and premium ingredients the star of the show. This is how the genius chef sets Jade Dragon apart from its competitors in both Macau and Hong Kong.

After a hearty meal in the elaborate private dining room, we caught a moment with chef Au Yeung to discuss his inspirations, his go-to restaurants and what’s next for Jade Dragon.

[caption id="attachment_160544" align="alignnone" width="682"] Chef Kelvin Au Yeung of three-Michelin-starred restaurant Jade Dragon.[/caption]

Every dish we had was so unique, yet so familiar. What on the menu excites you the most?

My favourite is the fish maw soup. The use of different ingredients really brings out the flavours. To complement something as delicate as fish maw, I used spring onions, fish, and also caviar. Caviar is needed because it really gives it a punch and pairs perfectly without being excessive. I also really like the crab shell made with local mud crabs from Zhuhai.

[caption id="attachment_160536" align="alignnone" width="8688"] Baked crab shell with black truffles[/caption]

What's the most underrated dish on your menu?

I personally really love the sea cucumber and pomelo dish. It might not be very apparent to the diners, but a lot of love and dedication goes into this dish. In order to get the texture of the sea cucumber just right [with a crisp exterior and a bouncy and juicy interior], we need to master the preparation perfectly. There are a lot of steps to this dish and sometimes it takes us a whole week to prepare and cook it. If any one of these steps is slightly off, the dish can’t be served.

[caption id="attachment_160546" align="alignnone" width="8683"] Crispy Japanese sea cucumber filled with shrimp paste[/caption]

The Chinese fine-dining landscape has changed a lot in the recent years. What do you think has made the biggest impact in the increasing interest?

The palate of our guests is evolving and customers are becoming more discerning when it comes to taste and appetite. Dining has really become more of an outlet for relaxation and experience instead of just getting fed. Chefs are also getting more involved in the menu creation, bringing forth new and seasonal ideas. For example, when I’m on holiday, I’m still very much “working” as I’m constantly on the lookout for inspiration. Nowadays, Chinese chefs are getting more creative and using new ingredients while still keeping the heritage and history of Chinese cuisine intact.

Aside from the seasonality of ingredients, what is the main inspiration behind your dishes?

I have two -- the use of the most premium and everyday ingredients. I like using ingredients such as fresh seafood and dried seafood like lobster and sea whelk. I also like to challenge myself and the team to come up with something that will showcase our skills and techniques. Things like catfish, pomelo skin and bitter gourd aren’t popular, but we have a way of making these items delicious and luxurious.

Macau being such a fine-dining paradise, how does Jade Dragon come out on top given all the competition it faces?

I credit our success to our teamwork. We’re very much aligned in our goal, which is to maintain our reputation and credentials. Our products and services are really top of the line. We are attentive to each and every guest, we personalise everything in order to provide an unforgettable experience for them. After years of working together, we’re very compatible. I am also extremely lucky to be able to source some of the most amazing ingredients and create dishes that are incredibly special and iconic to Jade Dragon. Macau is a food mecca, and it’s our honour to be a part of that.

Where does a three star Michelin chef like yourself go to for a meal in Macau?

I don’t really eat Chinese food outside of our restaurant. I like trying different cuisines because it gives me inspiration. I am a fan of local Portuguese food and Sichuanese food. I like to go to A Lorcha as it’s really good and simple food with a lot of heritage. The former gentleman’s club Clube Militar de Macau also serves great Portuguese food.

I am also a huge fan of midnight supper. After service, I will take the team out for a late bite. Sometimes those meals don’t end until 3 or 4am! We like to recap what we’ve gone through that day, hang out and share a good meal.

The post In Conversation with Chef Au Yeung of 3-Michelin-Starred Jade Dragon in Macau appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Annual mooncake mania has once again descended upon us all and as we gear up for Mid-Autumn festival, which falls on 13th September this year; there are quite a few cakes to get through.

From the undefeated classics to more contemporary and creative delights -- indulgence is the name of the game. But fret not friends, as we've done most of the hard work for you (someone has to!) with our top 10 list of Hong Kong mooncakes, to try yourself or gift to others, that are definitely worth the calories.

The post 10 Hong Kong Mooncakes That are Worth the Calories this Mid-Autumn 2019 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.

Sabatini: Seasonal White Asparagus Menu

When: 1–31 May

Price: Starting from HK$368 + 10%

[caption id="attachment_140769" align="alignnone" width="2400"] White Asparagus and Abalone Salad with Caviar, Sabatini.[/caption]

Winter may be for truffles, but spring is the time for white asparagus. Chef de Cuisine Claudio Favero of Sabatini gets creative with top AAA-grade fresh white asparagus from the Black Forest in his new seasonal menu. Using Italian home-cooking techniques, each dish is balanced, simple and showcases the tender, sweet spears. Find dishes like white asparagus and abalone salad with caviar (HK$368), slow cooked veal loin with white asparagus (HK$408), and a returning favourite, the open ravioli with white asparagus and Sicilian red prawns (HK$488). These seasonal specialties are available at both lunch and dinner. 

Sabatini, 3/F, The Royal Garden, 69 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon; +852 2733 2000

VEA x BarChef: Birds of Paradise Four-Hands Cocktail Tasting Menu 

When: 2 & 3 May

Price: HK$780 + 10%

[dual-images right-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Untitled-design-401.jpg" left-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Untitled-design-400.jpg" right-caption="Antonio Lai" left-caption="Frankie Solarik"]

Considered the godfather of contemporary Hong Kong mixology, Antonio Lai has a way of surprising us with his inventive cocktail creations at long bar Quinary, hidden speakeasy Room 309, and tap concept Draft Land. This time, he has a multi-sensory journey up his sleeve, devised by himself and Toronto’s BarChef owner and master mixologist Frankie Solarik. The six-course tasting experience, which is named Birds of Paradise, promises to stimulate the senses with a flight of outlandish new creations and tropical installations and décor. Plus you might get a chance to meet the two pioneering bartenders in person.

VEA, 29/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central; +852 2711 0063

Yi x Tate: Six Hands Collaboration (Michelin Guide Hong Kong Macau Dining Series)

When: 3 & 4 May

Price: MOP$1,888; wine and tea pairing MOP$600 + 10%

[dual-images right-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Untitled-design-403.jpg" left-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Untitled-design-402.jpg" right-caption="Crispy Almond Crab Claw, Yí." left-caption="Ode to Chinese Yam, Tate Dining Room."]

In recent years, Macau has emerged as one of the most exciting culinary destinations in Asia, with a growing number of world-class restaurants, not to mention hosting the prestigious Michelin Guide and Asia's 50 Best awards. The dynamic chef duo of Wilson Fam and Angelo Wong from Morpheus' Yí have taken their contemporary Chinese menu and given it a refreshing twist in its latest collaboration with Hong Kong native chef Vicky Lau, of innovative French-Chinese restaurant Tate Dining Room. The eight-course menu is a display of intriguing flavours and visual delights, featuring a balanced union between the edible stories from Tate and Yí's modern adaptation of classic Chinese dishes. 

Yí, 21/F, Morpheus, City of Dreams, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau; +853 8868 3446

Nobu: Roku–Wareki Satsuki Grain Omakase 

When: May 14–Jun 30

Price: HK$688 for lunch (inclusive of a mocktail); HK$1,488 for dinner + 10%

[caption id="attachment_140776" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Red Snapper Karaage, Nobu.[/caption]

At the start of 2019 Nobu introduced its Roku-Wareki gourmet experience, a culinary journey taking diners through six chapters of the ancient Japanese harvesting calendar, with each chapter focusing on a special seasonal ingredient. For its third instalment, the omakase menu shines a light on Satsuki, the traditional term for the month of May, which refers to the humble grain buds of the Kansai region. The light dishes are influenced by the impending arrival of summer, with complementing ingredients such as kurodai, itoyori and kibinago fish, wild vegetables, and A5 Japanese wagyu. The omakase menu is available for lunch (six courses) and dinner (eight courses).

Nobu, 2/F, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2313 2323

Grand Hyatt: Champagne Secrets

When: 16 May–6 June (every Thursday)

Price: HK$1,888 + 10%

[caption id="attachment_140808" align="alignnone" width="5304"] Baby Peter oysters by David Herve served with Champagne jelly and watercress crème, Champagne Bar.[/caption]

The Champagne Bar at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong is where you’d go for an intimate quiet drink. But for four weeks, the romantic, 1920s-style cavern will be transformed into French illusionist Stefan Leyshon’s 360-degree stage. The up-close and personal 90-minute performance is to be enjoyed with five courses of small plates (including Baby Peter oysters with champagne, lobster avocado roll and smoked Oriental spiced pigeon) paired with the bar’s selection of cuvées.

The Champagne Bar, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai; +852 2584 7722

Le 39V: Barons de Rothschild Wine Dinner

When: 28 May

Price: HK$1,480 + 10%

[caption id="attachment_140778" align="alignnone" width="853"] Vendée Pork, Le 39V.[/caption]

May is the month of gastronomy à la français, or simply Le French GourMay, celebrating one of the few UNESCO-listed culinary cultures in the world. From the 1st to 31st, Le 39V is offering a delectable six-course dinner menu paired with Loire Valley wines, showcasing the 'Garden of France' through colourful seasonal ingredients. But for one night only, Michelin-starred chef and founder of the Parisian Le 39V will be in Hong Kong to craft a four-course menu paired with premium Barons de Rothschild vintages, which is a rare opportunity not to be missed.

Le 39V, 101/F, International Commerce Centre West, 1 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2977 5266

Tate Dining Room x Atomix: Four-Hands Collaboration

When: May 28 & 29

Price: HK$1,980; wine or cocktail pairing HK$600 + 10%

[dual-images right-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Untitled-design-405.jpg" left-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Untitled-design-404.jpg" right-caption="Ode to Pigeon, Tate Dining Room." left-caption="Seabream, Atomix. "]

Chef Vicky Lau of Tate Dining Room is arguably one of Hong Kong’s most collaborative creative minds, having partnered with globally renowned culinary masters (Wilson Fam and Angelo Wong of Yi from Morpheus Macau, Natsuko Shoji of Été from Tokyo, and Mathieu Escoffier of Ma Cuisine in Singapore). This time, she joins forces with NYC-based guest chef Junghyun Park of contemporary fine dining establishment Atomix. Both Michelin-starred chefs will bring an eight-course dinner menu featuring Lau’s signature odes of French cuisine with a Chinese touch and Park’s modernist Korean dishes. 

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

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

For the seventh edition of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, the prestigious awards, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, returned to Macau for a second year, bringing together the region’s leading chefs, restauranteurs and culinary elite at Wynn Palace once more. 

[gallery ids="135739,135769,135774,135767,135747,135740,135763"]

Finally knocking chef Gaggan Anand off the top of the list is Singapore's Odette, with Chef Julien Royer at the helm claiming the titles for The Best Restaurant in Asia and The Best Restaurant in Singapore with his Asian-inspired, contemporary French cuisine. Located within the National Gallery of Singapore, Odette is recognised for its artisanal approach -- a reflection of the art housed within the iconic location -- and their impeccably executed cuisine.

Gaggan won Asia's Best Restaurant for four consecutive years from 2015 to 2018 for his eponymous Indian restaurant in Bangkok, and told Prestige how he was “ready to lose” last year. The chef claims second place for the restaurant but is now preparing to close it in 2020. He will be opening a new restaurant called GohGan, a collaboration with chef Takeshi “Goh” Fukuyama, in Fukuoka in 2021.

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Hong Kong claimed nine spots on the list; The Chairman climbed up from No. 22 to No. 11, whilst first-time entrants VEA, helmed by chef Vicky Cheng, and Seventh Son took home No. 34 and No. 44, respectively. Most impressive, however, with this year's Highest Climber award, is popular modern French bistro Belon, jumping an incredible 25 places to No. 15. Meanwhile in Macau, Jade Dragon rose eight places to No. 27, and Wing Lei Palace made its debut at No. 36.

Other movements in Hong Kong to note: 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana rose one spot to No. 12, Richard Ekkebus’ Amber (which is currently closed for renovation) slipped from No. 7 to No. 21, Ta Vie from No. 16 to No. 50, fine-dining Cantonese restaurant Lung King Heen from No. 24 to No. 38, and David Lai's Neighborhood fell slightly from No.32 to No.37. Ronin and Caprice, unfortunately, dropped off the list altogether.

Ahead of the ceremony, three awards outside of the ‘50 Best’ list were announced including Miele One to Watch, which was presented to Singaporean chef Jimmy Lim of JL Studio in Taiwan. Only two years after opening, Lim has become one of Asia’s rising stars and continues to wow diners with his mod-Sin (or modern Singaporean) fare. Garima Arora of Gaa in Bangkok, one of Gaggan’s pupils, took the Highest New Entry at No.16 and won the elit™ Vodka Asia’s Best Female Chef award. Japanese chef Seiji Yamamoto of Nihonryori RyuGin in Tokyo was awarded the American Express Icon Award for his vision in progressive Japanese kaiseki cuisine.

Other winners included the Valrhona award for Asia's Best Pastry Chef, which went to Fabrizio Fiorani from Il Ristorante Luca Fantin in Tokyo. The Most Sustainable Restaurant Award in Asia was presented to Locavore in Bali, Indonesia, and the Art of Hospitality Award crowned Hong Kong's 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana the leader in the industry.

To create the list, a poll is collected from a group of 318 experts (made up of highly regarded food writers, critics, chefs and restaurateurs) across Asia who cast ten votes, in order of preference, for the restaurants they have had their best dining experience at in the last 18 months. At least four of those votes must be for restaurants outside of their home country.

Here's the full list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2019:

1. Odette - Singapore (The Best Restaurant in Singapore and Asia)
2. Gaggan - Bangkok, Thailand (The Best Restaurant in Thailand)
3. Den - Tokyo, Japan (The Best Restaurant in Japan)
4. Sühring - Bangkok, Thailand
5. Florilège - Tokyo, Japan
6. Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet - Shanghai, China (The Best Restaurant in China)
7. Mume - Taipei, Taiwan (The Best Restaurant in Taiwan)
8. Narisawa - Tokyo, Japan
9. Nihonryori RyuGin - Tokyo, Japan
10. Burnt Ends - Singapore
11. The Chairman - Hong Kong
12. 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana - Hong Kong
13. Mingles - Seoul, Korea (The Best Restaurant in Korea)
14. La Cime - Osaka, Japan
15. Belon - Hong Kong (Highest Climber)
16. Gaa - Bangkok, Thailand (Highest New Entry)
17. Indian Accent - New Delhi, India (The Best Restaurant in India)
18. Il Ristorante Luca Fantin - Tokyo, Japan
19. Bo.Lan - Bangkok, Thailand
20. Le Du - Bangkok, Thailand
21. Amber - Hong Kong
22. Nahm - Bangkok, Thailand
23. Sazenka - Tokyo, Japan (New Entry)
24. La Maison de la Nature Goh - Fukuoka, Japan
25. Sushi Saito - Tokyo, Japan
26. L'Effervescence - Tokyo, Japan
27. Jade Dragon - Macau
28. Paste - Bangkok, Thailand
29. Fu He Hui - Shanghai, China
30. Raw - Taipei, Taiwan
31. Shoun RyuGin - Taipei, Taiwan
32. Jaan - Singapore
33. Les Amis - Singapore
34. VEA - Hong Kong (New Entry)
35. Ministry of Crab - Colombo, Sri Lanka (The Best Restaurant in Sri Lanka)
36. Wing Lei Palace - Macau, China (New Entry)
37. Neighborhood - Hong Kong
38. Lung King Heen - Hong Kong
39. Nouri - Singapore (New Entry)
40. Waku Gin - Singapore
41. TocToc - Seoul, Korea
42. Locavore - Bali, Indonesia (The Best Restaurant in Indonesia)
43. Toyo Eatery - Manila, Philippines (The Best Restaurant in Philippines/New Entry)
44. Seventh Son - Hong Kong
45. Quintessence - Tokyo, Japan
46. Dewakan - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (The Best Restaurant in Malaysia/New Entry)
47. Sugalabo - Tokyo, Japan (New Entry)
48. Sorn - Bangkok, Thailand (New Entry)
49. Corner House - Singapore
50. Ta Vie - Hong Kong

For more information, visit Asia's 50 Best Restaurants.

The post Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019: Singapore’s Odette Takes the Top Spot appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.