Hong Kong’s culinary landscape welcomes diverse new venues in 2024

2 years ago 314

6th January 2024 – (Hong Kong) In the bustling heart of Hong Kong, a novel collection of gastronomic experiences awaits the most discerning diners and night owls as the new year unfolds. From a celebrity butcher’s upscale eatery to a renovated private dining club and a dynamic night spot, the city’s epicurean scene is set to entice and enchant.

Carna by Dario Cecchini

Carna by Dario Cecchini positions itself within the Mondrian Hong Kong in Tsim Sha Tsui, offering a culinary journey helmed by the renowned Tuscan butcher. The restaurant’s dedication to a nose-to-tail philosophy is evident in its diverse selection of premium beef steaks, ranging from global sources to a signature 45-day dry-aged Italian cut.

Address: 39/F, Mondrian Hong Kong, 8A Hart Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui
Opening Hours: Please visit the Mondrian’s website for details
Contact: +852 – 3550 0388

Nocino

Nocino is a delightful Swiss-Italian concept restaurant located in the charming Tai Hang neighborhood. Inspired by the Italian-speaking regions of Southern Switzerland, Nocino is the go-to place for freshly made pasta and traditional Swiss cuisine. The menu is a parade of flavors with dishes like Beef Shin Ragu Casarecce, Brown Crab Cacio e Pepe Spaghettone, and Pumpkin Agnolotti. For those with a penchant for authenticity, Nocino’s Swiss cheeses and cured meats are a rare find in Hong Kong. The Malakoff is a signature dish not to be missed. Nocino’s beverage program complements the menu with a selection of Swiss-Italian wines and cocktails that provide a sip of the regions’ rich terrains.

Address: 92E, Tung Lo Wan Road, Tai Hang, Hong Kong
Contact (Whatsapp): +852- 6012 1098

Galbi Town

Galbi Town, nestled in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, has created a buzz among meat connoisseurs. It stands out by sourcing the finest Hanwoo beef directly from Korea, accompanied by an official certificate confirming its superior quality. Patrons can savour the rich flavour and tenderness that Hanwoo is celebrated for through signature dishes such as the cherry blossom honey beef ribs and a selection of traditional Korean fares like soy sauce crab, cold noodles, and doenjang jjigae.

Address: 1/F, Grand Centre, 8 Humphreys Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 11pm
Contact: +852 – 2750 6001

The Mansion

At the forefront of the Central district’s vibrant nightlife, The Mansion emerges as a unique blend of an art gallery and a gourmet destination, offering a taste of Basque culture with its pintxos-inspired menu. By night, the venue transforms into a cabaret with an array of performances under an LED-lit infinity ceiling, promising an immersive experience for all who enter.

Address: G/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: 6pm – 12am
Contact: +852 – 9592 8005

Gwai Lou

Gwai Lou in Causeway Bay revamps the traditional Teochew (Chiu Chow) dining experience with a modern and upscale twist. The red-hued decor provides a contemporary ambience that contrasts with the typical Teochew establishments. Here, diners can indulge in cold classics such as oyster soup, with the highlight being the signature omelette bursting with plump oysters.

Address: 21/F, The L. Square, 459-461 Lockhart Road, Causeway Bay
Opening Hours: Check Gwai Lou’s official site for precise timings
Contact: +852 – 9180 0021

Avoca

Also residing within the Mondrian, Avoca takes patrons on a creative cocktail journey on its 38th floor. With ingredients that pay homage to Hong Kong’s culinary heritage, such as Lao Gan Ma-infused drinks, Avoca pairs its libations with delectable bites like lobster rolls and chicken waffles.

Address: 38/F, Mondrian Hong Kong, 8A Hart Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui
Contact: +852 – 3550 0388

AOAO

AOAO is Central’s latest addition to the nightlife map, offering guests an experience that transcends the conventional izakaya. With its gemstone-inspired design, the restaurant dazzles with an array of green hues, creating an ambiance that is both luxurious and inviting. Specializing in fresh seafood, AOAO’s rooftop location provides a stunning backdrop for diners to enjoy standout dishes like the Charcoal Grilled Eel and Hairy Crab Butter Udon. The Hutton Jadeite, a sour shochu-based cocktail, is just one example of the innovative drinks menu.

As night falls, AOAO transforms from a sophisticated dining area into a vibrant bar and nightclub. The space is alive with an impressive seven-metre visual art wall projection that pulsates to the rhythm of the music, ensuring an unforgettable night of dining and dancing. With a bar area for casual drinks, a main dining room for indulgent meals, and a rooftop terrace for late-night celebrations, AOAO is a versatile venue that caters to all moods and occasions.

Address: 14/F, Manning House, 38 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
Contact: +852 – 5506 5521

Croque

At Croque, a nod to the beloved Croque Monsieur, sandwich lovers can find a slice of France in Hong Kong. This eatery is dedicated to crafting high-quality, yet affordable sandwiches featuring artisanal French ingredients. From the traditional namesake to the innovative Captain Hook filled with smoked salmon, each sandwich is priced for everyday enjoyment. Combo meals that pair these delights with sides like Truffle Fries or Cucumber with Sesame offer a complete gastronomic experience. To end on a sweet note, the French Toast Creme Brûlée and a Hokkaido Milk Sundae are must-tries.

Address: 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, 78 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong

2 Sup

The successor to Central’s beloved Sup 1, 2 Sup makes a comeback in Sai Ying Pun. The name cleverly plays on its location at 20 High Street, echoing the address in Cantonese. The fusion bistro has retained fan favourites like the duck confit claypot rice and introduced novel creations such as goose liver crème brûlée and pan-seared quail eggs, melding French culinary finesse with local flair.

Address: 20 High Street, Sai Ying Pun
Opening Hours: Visit 2 Sup’s social media for the latest schedule
Contact: +852 – 90957173

Trattoria Felino

Replacing the former Rosita, Trattoria Felino brings the expertise of Marcello Scognamiglio, previously of Grissini, to Wan Chai. The establishment promises an intimate menu focusing on Neapolitan and Mediterranean classics, including innovative takes on pizzas and an array of traditional pasta dishes.

Address: 1-7 Ship Street, Wan Chai
Opening Hours: Sun-Thur 6pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 6pm-11.30pm
Contact: Advanced booking is recommended due to limited seating.

Baker by Lubuds

For those with a penchant for pastries, Baker by Lubuds in Taikoo Shing is a must-visit. Chef Stephen So’s Japanese precision meets European tradition in pastries that boast indulgent butter content and a variety of classic offerings.

Address: Shop 307, 3/F Cityplaza, 18 Taikoo Shing Road, Taikoo Shing
Opening Hours: Open daily; hours may vary
Contact: +852 – 23268832

Inebi

Inebi spices up the culinary scene in Causeway Bay’s Hysan Place with its focus on Japan’s “Special A Grade” rice. Its menu, which features everything from Wagyu beef Kamameshi to a unique Wagyu sushi rice ball, reinvents the way diners think about rice dishes.

Address: Shop B202, B2/F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay
Opening Hours: Please consult Hysan Place’s directory for specifics
Contact: +852 – 28651112

Sips;;Iban

For a touch of Korean sweetness, Sips;;Iban in Harbour City offers a delightful array of shaved ice desserts and cakes, featuring unique ingredients that are sure to tantalize the taste buds.

Address: Shop OT G61, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, 3-27 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Opening Hours: Daily service hours available online
Contact: +852 – 23602181

Sabatini Ristorante Italiano

Sabatini Ristorante Italiano brings its storied Roman legacy to the IFC Mall, complete with a design that features marble and evokes Ancient Rome. With breath-taking views of Victoria Harbour, diners can revel in dishes like the New Zealand Scampi Carpaccio with Oscietra Caviar. The menu, curated by Chef Li Voti, remains faithful to Italian authenticity with pastas like the Linguine alla Sabatini, which includes fresh seafood in a “Sabatini” original red sauce. Accompanied by live performances, Sabatini offers a dining experience that is a true Roman holiday for the senses.

Address: Shop 4008, L4, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong

Contact: +852 – 2610 0080

Tango

Having established its reputation over a decade, Tango reopens its doors in Lan Kwai Fong, offering a slice of Buenos Aires with its rustic charm. The steakhouse prides itself on serving the finest seafood and meat, sourced from the hormone-free, quality-assured pampas of Buenos Aires. First-timers and regulars alike will be excited by the new dry-aged beef cuts. Tango also features a variety of seafood options, a value lunch menu, and a selection of iconic empanadas, ensuring a full Argentinian dining experience.

Address: 2/F, Grand Progress Building, 15-16 Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong
Contact: +852 – 2525 5808