Special edition 2019 - The Standard

Page created by Wayne Pena
 
CONTINUE READING
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
Special Edition 2019
The Gourmet Guide 2019
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
Editor’s Message

  Create your dream tasting menu with over 60 dishes
from the city’s best restaurants, pop up bars, live music,
           over 50 artisans producers & more

                                                             BY BJÖRN FRANTZÉN                  A culinary hub of the world
                                                                                                    Whilst we have, in Hong Kong, always             buds of local gourmands. From further afield,
                                                                                                prided ourselves on our Cantonese roots,             we now eagerly look forward every year to such
                                                                                                the opening up of the mainland has meant             major epicurean events as Le French GourMay,
                                                                                                that these days, all the eight main strands of       the Made in Italy Festival, and Oktoberfest,
                                                                                                Chinese cooking are represented in Hong Kong         while countries like Australia, Argentina,
                                                                                                in a glorious fashion, resulting in a constant       Chile, Greece, and more, are also making their
                                                                                                renewal and further enrichment of the local          presence felt!
                                                                                                foodie scene.                                           We may not grow our own food here, but
                                                                                                    On top of the convenience of a modern            we enjoy easy access to some of the best
                                                                                                metropolis that is complete with a host of           ingredients from all over the world. Food and
                                                                                                infrastructural facilities, Hong Kong is one of      wine go hand in hand, and local connoisseurs
                                                                                                the easiest places in the world to do business.      have never shied away from even the most
                                                                                                Hence, we have benefited from an incessant           expensive vintages, while the recent whisky
                                                                                                inflow of distinguished overseas chefs who have      comeback has also won many fans, old and
                                                                                                brought with them their inimitable brand of          new.
                                                                                                culinary skills, fresh exotic flavors and Michelin      This new edition of The Gourmet Guide is
                                                                                                stars!                                               jam-packed with a mouth-watering array of
                                                                                                    Traditionally, we have blissfully embraced       some of the best in food and wine offerings.
                                                                                                Taiwanese delicacies, as well as the spicy              Bon appetit!
                                                                                                dishes of Singapore, Malaysia and the Indian
                                                                                                sub-continent. Japan is a perennial favorite,
                                                                                                while Thailand, Vietnam, Korea and others have
                                                                                                all made an indelible impression in the taste
                                                                            Enjoy responsibly                                                                                             Andy Ng
                                                                                                                                                                                    Features Editor

                                                                                                                                                                            2019 • The Gourmet Guide   1
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
Gourmet Guide 2019
                                                                                                            Satisfy Your Cravings for Authentic
                                 Contents                                                                  Malaysia & Singapore Cuisine All Day!

                         4            What's hot
                         14           Chef Interview
                         18           International
                         28           European                                                        Mee Siam
                                                                                                                                            Nasi Lemak

                         40           American
                         46           Asian
                         60           Wine

                                                                                                      Penang Assam Laksa                     Cereal Prawns

               "Gourmet Guide" is published by The Standard in March 2019

                                                                                                      Char Koay Teow                        Durian Pudding
               Display Advertising Department             Features Editor: Andy Ng
               3/F, Sing Tao News Corporation Building,   Reporter: Tina Villareal, Christie Cheung
               7 Chun Cheong Street, Tseung Kwan O        Designer: Raymond Wong
               Industrial Estate, N.T., Hong Kong         Business Director: Irene Chan                           For reservations, call 2213 6613 or
               Advertising Hotline: 3181 3311             Website: www.thestandard.com.hk                        email to cafe.malacca@hoteljen.com
               Fax: 2758 3579                             Email: advertise@thestandard.com.hk
               All rights reserved.
                                                                                                                    Level 2, Hotel Jen Hong Kong (MTR: HKU, Exit B2),
                                                                                                                    508 Queen’s Road West, Western District, Hong Kong
2   The Gourmet Guide • 2019
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
What's Hot

                           Tasty bites                                                               Mouth-watering exclusive dishes
                                                                                                        One thing has been noted for sure about Hongkongers: their love of good food! For this
                                                                                                     reason, Taste of Hong Kong presented by HSBC is featuring a list of premium exhibitors
                      Taste of Hong Kong presented by HSBC is back                                   that cater to even the most picky of foodies. This year, visitors can take their pick from
                           with new creations and visionary chefs                                    the likes of festival newcomers such as Old Bailey, Artemis & Apollo, John Anthony, and
                                                                                                     Francis, as well as a collaborative project from Bibo, Silencio and The Ocean.
                                                      The 2019 edition of Taste of Hong Kong
                                                  has teamed up with renowned Hong Kong
                                                  photographer Tommy Fung, who runs the
                                                  popular Instagram account @surrealhk, to           Old Bailey
                                                  bring the festival’s chef portraits to life in a      An addictive dim sum from the Jiangnan region, the Buddha Jumps
                                                  playful, humorous manner while showcasing          Over the Wall Xiao Long Bao is Old Bailey’s take on this traditional soup
                                                  local culture and attractions in a comedic way.    dumpling. Filled with premium Iberico pork providing rich flavour and
                                                      The current line-up of chefs - from Artemis    natural sweetness, the flavour profile is elevated through the spice-
                                                  & Apollo, Chom Chom, The Flying Elk, Francis,      packed addition of Sichuan peppercorns and a myriad other spices.
                                                  HAKU, Old Bailey, John Anthony, Hoi King
                                                  Heen, Pici, Sausage Commitment and Zuma -
                                                  are photographed in an artistic, surrealist and
                                                                                                                                                   Artemis & Apollo
                                                  never-before-seen approach.
                                                                                                                                                       The Greek restaurant offers Taste of Hong Kong guests Souvlaki:
                                                                                                                                                   marinated pork wrapped in pita bread, brushed in Greek olive oil and
                                                                                                                                                   sprinkled with sea salt. It is heated over a wood fire, creating a smoky
                                                                                                                                                   charred crust on the outside and a soft, fluffy interior.

                                                                                                     John Anthony
                                                                                                          The modern Cantonese restaurant offers Lobster Har Gow, a
                                                                                                     romantic twist on the classic dish, with a light pink skin made by
                                                                                                     adding rosé wine to the dumpling skin dough. The filling comes
                                                                                                     from a traditional recipe, but mixes in lobster meat for an additional
                                                                                                     lavish touch.

                                                                                                                                                      Francis
                                                                                                                                                           Offering guests Middle Eastern fare, Francis presents Horias
                                                                                                                                                      Grilled Pita. Horias is a well-known street food in the Levant region,
                                                                                                                                                      consisting of a meat kebab grilled in pita bread. Francis uses minced
                                                                                                                                                      beef with onion, chilli and baharat spice. Pitas are made in-house
                                                                                                                                                      and served with a Middle Eastern staple, tahini, and fresh tomato.

                                                                                                     Bibo x Silencio x The Ocean
                                                                                                          Six Hands Collaboration Dish shoes off the complement and contrast
                                                                                                     of the flavours and textures that arise from the myriad of culinary
                                                                                                     influences of the three restaurants. The lightly smoked meat of tender
                                                                                                     pigeon atop its perfectly cooked stuffed wild rice is complemented by
                                                                                                     delicate hand-made pork head terrine sliced into a veil-like transparency.
                                                                                                     The dish also incorporates umami inducing components in the form of a
                                                                                                     rich oyster cream made of whole oysters and crispy squid ink nori chip.

                                                                                                                                                                    Taste of Hong Kong presented by HSBC
                                                                                                                                                                        https://hongkong.tastefestivals.com/

4   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                  2019 • The Gourmet Guide         5
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
What's Hot

                     Classic with a twist                                                                                       Festivals of love and gastronomy to
    Nespsresso has teamed up with BASAO
                                                                                                                                arrive at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf!
    Tea to co-brew a special ‘Yin-Yang’ –                                                                                       The amorous spirit of Valentine’s Day is still lingering at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, as
    a quintessential Hong Kong beverage                                                                                         a plethora of romantic festivities has just been announced during its Spring Reception.
    creation.                                                                                                                   Throughout 2019, this hotspot will be brimming with love-related activities topped with
        Tea has long been the dominant beverage in Chinese                                                                      plenty of culinary offerings.
    culture, and credited with the beneficial effects of
    cleansing the system and appeasing the soul. Hong Kong
                                                                                                                                    Just a sneaky peek, Fisherman’s Wharf has invited 3-Michelin star
    has created a hybrid in the form of Yin-Yang – a classic
                                                                                                                                chefs from Hong Kong to create the unique taste of Macau. Stay tuned,
    beverage at Hong Kong cha chaan tengs that is a unique
                                                                                                                                as their identities will be soon unveiled!
    blend of intense coffee, black tea and milk.
        Sharing the same values of innovation and creating                                                                      The 2nd Lights Night Market
    surprising and pleasurable experiences, Nespresso and                                                                           The 2nd Lights Night Market will be returning to the Fisherman’s
    BASAO Tea have come together to redefine the taste of                                                                       Wharf!
    Yin-Yang and blend a harmonious brew that is set to meet                                                                        Last year’s event had proven to be an overwhelming
    connoisseurs’ discerning taste. Through this collaboration,                                                                 success, offering family rides, stage shows, and most
    the new Yin-Yang highlights the beauty of coffee and tea                                                                    importantly, almost 100 food and retail stalls. Highlighted
    culture and the unparalleled craftsmanship that goes into                                                                   items from the previous market include the gooey ‘Cheese
    crafting each cup.                                                                                                          Fondue Tower’, ‘Charcoal Grilled Chicken Burger’,
        Nespresso Master Origin Colombia, the selected coffee                                                                   ‘Portuguese-style White Wine Mussel’ and classic Fujian
    base of the featured Yin-Yang blend, contains Arabica                                                                       dish ‘Buddha’s Temptation’. A refreshing ‘Sakura and Lime
    that adopts a late-harvest technique. In the high forests                                                                   Soda’ and ‘Oolong Tea’ definitely keep one’s spirit up.
    and rolling hills of Colombia, the typical harvest time was    and delicate fruity aftertaste.
    pushed to the limit – each coffee cherry was left to mature        “Tea has always been the traditional drink in Chinese
    on the branch much later, risking fermentation, until it was   culture as well as in many Asian countries. However, over
                                                                                                                                                                                           International Cultural & Food Festival
    exactly the right shade of deep purple to be picked.           the past decade, the coffee culture in Hong Kong and
                                                                                                                                                                                               Also making a come-back, the International Cultural
        To match with this fruity and vivacious cup, BASAO         Asia has blossomed, with local consumers becoming
                                                                                                                                                                                           & Food Festival 2019 will be dazzling gourmets with all
    has carefully selected the Traditional Smoky Bohea Tea         increasingly interested in discovering coffee’s distinct,
                                                                                                                                                                                           kinds of enticing cuisine.
    to create the contemporary blend. An exceptionally rare        flavourful and complex variations,” comments Lai Ching
                                                                                                                                                                                               During last year’s festival, the numerous stalls were
    smoked tea from the highlands of northern Fujian in            Kok, Country Manager of Nespresso Hong Kong & Macau.
                                                                                                                                                                                           divided into 6 sizable zones, each featuring local, fusion,
    China, the Bohea Tea is made using the ancient technique       “Today, Hong Kong coffee drinkers are becoming more
                                                                                                                                                                                           Southeast Asian, and other fares. The daily highlights,
    of withering by fire and smoke. As a result, unlike the        sophisticated in their choices as they seek quality coffee
                                                                                                                                                                                               on the other hand, promoted rarely-seen international
    traditional version, the co-branded Yin-Yang features an       and unique experiences. At Nespresso, we are pleased
                                                                                                                                                                                                   dishes, such as those from South Africa and
    intense pine wood aroma at the first sip, leading on to a      to offer these new coffee moments that pay tribute to the
                                                                                                                                                                                                     Portuguese-speaking countries. As usual, this
    bright and vibrant coffee aroma, and finally a long-lasting    Chinese tradition.”
                                                                                                                                                                                                       will be a rare occasion where you indulge
                                                                                                                                                                                                        in scrumptious international cuisines at an
                                                                                                                                                                                                        irresistible bargain.

6   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                           2019 • The Gourmet Guide          7
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
What's Hot

         A decadent night out
        Founded twenty years ago, Ole Restaurant nestled at the heart of Central has
            become something of an institution whenever one thinks Spanish.

                                                              Over the last two decades, owner
                                                         Carmelo Lopez has won many culinary
                                                         fans with his dedication to delivering
                                                         the modest and authentic flavours of
                                                         Spain. The secret formula boils down to
                                                         a combination of quality ingredients and
                                                         meticulous preparation, on top of his
                                                         mastery of the spirit of Spanish cuisine.
                                                              “Good food does not need excessive
                                                         packaging,” he says. “Neither do we
                                                         necessarily follow dining trends that come
                                                         and go.”
                                                              His many loyal patrons seem to
                                                         see eye to eye with him as they indulge
                                                         in the gastronomic fare in the homey
                                                         comfort and classic Latin ambience of the
                                                         restaurant. Its décor has remained virtually
                                                         unchanged since opening, having drawn
                                                         from the casual style of traditional Spanish
                                                         bistro, with archways dividing the dining
                                                         room, and ornate walls that showcase
                                                         paintings, pottery and artefacts by Spanish
                                                         artists. There is even a wrought iron spiral
                                                         staircase that gives it a 3D dimension.
                                                              On top of its signature dishes like             Another gamey dish is Quail in Chocolate Sauce with       with goodness whilst retaining the smoothness and
                                                         Roast Suckling Pig, or Paella, Ole keeps its     Green Apple Mash. The quail may be small, but that            tenderness of the seafood.
                                                         loyal patrons coming back for its seasonal       doesn’t simplify the preparations. After de-boning and            For desserts, Chef Antonio has come up with a
                                                         specialties. Take the Iberico Lamb               cleaning, it is marinated inside out and slightly sautéed.    delightful duo: homemade cheesecake that is served
                                                         Shoulder with Mortar Potatoes for instance,      The oil from the quail is kept and used to fry vegetables     with an unsweetened fig jam; or Turron Fondant which
                                                                  it’s comfort food par excellence        in a pan, while apple cider vinegar, white wine and           is a marzipan lava cake that oozes a smooth and warm
                                                                  making use of grain-fed Iberico         brandy are then added and fried off. With different parts     fudge of almond marzipan.
                                                                  lamb that is marinated simply with      cooked to perfection, hot chocolate is added to the               From your first sip of the refreshingly cool Sangria
                                                                  salt and pepper. The lamb shoulder      sauce to give it a slight bitterness, while the green apple   to the serenading by a Filipino duet at the end of an
                                                                  is then put in a vacuum bag             mash neutralizes the heavy flavour of game.                   unforgettable dinner, you’re in for a decadent evening at
                                                                  together with garlic and herbs, and         With Ole’s heavy accent on seafood, you shouldn’t         Ole.
                                                                  slow-cooked for 12 hours at 80C.        miss their traditional fishermen-style seafood soup
                                                                  It is then plunged into iced water      Caldeirada Gallega. After cooking first with vegetables,
                                                                                                                                                                           Ole Spanish Restaurant & Wine Bar
                                                                  below 5C, before roasting at 250C.      potatoes, sweet peppers, chilli and saffron, Atlantic cod
                                                                  The resultant meat is tender without                                                                         1/F, Shun Ho Tower,
                                                                                                          is added, followed by clams, octopus and red shrimp
                                                                                                                                                                               24-30 Ice House Street, Central
                                                                  losing its texture and full of aroma.   immediately after the heat is turned off, and are left
                                                                                                                                                                               2523 8624
                                                                                                          with the lid on for five minutes. The soup bubbles

8   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                       2019 • The Gourmet Guide         9
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
What's Hot

                       RAMEN CUBISM                                                                                                                                  Sichuan Lab
                                     A specialty, Japanese culinary artform.                                                                                              An authentic, experimental sensation.

                                                                                                                                     Bursting onto Hong Kong’s dining scene is Sichuan             Simplistic and stylishly designed, the interior of
                                                                                                                                Lab, helmed by Kenny Chan, an internationally-                 Sichuan Lab is characterised by dark wood, eye-catching
          RAMEN CUBISM introduces famed noodle broths                    Chef Hayashi’s ever-popular, crispy, golden Matsu
                                                                                                                                recognised veteran chef. Through harnessing his 50             glass containers of spices and chilies in different Scoville
     from Japan by ramen noodle champion Hayashi Takao,             Hayashi’s Dumplings with a signature chili sauce dip,
                                                                                                                                years of culinary experience, he has incorporated              Heat Units (SHU) from around the world, and a wall-
     whose flagship restaurant ‘Original Ramen Style Hayashi’       presented with a Hong Kong twist.
                                                                                                                                modern creativity into authentic Sichuan cuisine,              to-ceiling back-lit wine shelf housed behind the bar.
     is renowned for lengthy daily queues of up to 100 patient           Hand-picked craft beer from COEDO, including
                                                                                                                                creating unique flavours that are truly unforgettable.         Besides the main dining area, guests will also be able
     customers at Tsukamoto Station in Osaka.                       rich-tasting Shikkoku Black Lager, is ideal for tempering
                                                                                                                                     A reference to tradition is echoed in the restaurant’s    to enjoy their meal at the private rooms, indulging in an
          His partner Chef Matsumura is equally renowned            spiciness of The Sky Bird – Spicy White Soup; everyday
                                                                                                                                Chinese name, literally bearing the meaning of “River          innovative and exceptional Sichuan culinary experience
     as a ramen master and recipe developer, having                 brew Ruri, for The Earth Bird – Clear Broth Ramen; and
                                                                                                                                Flows Across Sichuan” and symbolising the transmission         found nowhere else.
     established eight playfully-named noodle brands                fruity-flavoured Shiro, perfect for The Sky Bird – White
                                                                                                                                of heritage from generation to generation. In English,
     including Human Beings Everybody Noodles, ranked               Soup.
                                                                                                                                the name Sichuan Lab embodies the innovative and
     among Osaka’s favourite restaurants on Tripadvisor, and
                                                                                                                                meticulous approach of the restaurant - from food
     the newly opened The Most Hopeful Ramen Bar in the
                                                                                                                                preparation to interior design, everything is executed with
     World.
                                                                                                                                vigilant attention to detail while reflecting the concept of
          Complete with slow cooked, melt in your mouth
                                                                                                                                “Connecting East and West, Transcending Generations.”
     pork belly, three chicken ramen signatures include rich-
                                                                                                                                     Guests can savour more than hot and spicy flavours
     flavoured The Earth Bird – Clear Broth; silky The Sky
                                                                                                                                at Sichuan Lab. Chilies, peppers and peppercorns
     Bird – White Soup, simmered with chicken; and vibrant,
                                                                                                                                combined with the three signature ingredients of ginger,
     aromatic options enriched with secret spices –The Sky
                                                                                                                                garlic and scallions will create an incredibly wide variety
     Bird – Spicy White Soup, limited to 200 servings a day.
                                                                                                                                of dishes. Sichuan’s famous “seven tastes” of sweet,
          Chef Matsumura’s The Sea – Soy Soup is also
                                                                                                                                sour, peppery, hot and spicy, bitter, fragrant, and salty
     launched with a RAMAN CUBISM twist for Hong                       RAMEN CUBISM
                                                                                                                                will be mixed together with an array of sophisticated             Sichuan Lab
     Kong, highlighting broth made with shellfish, nine                    Basement, Yuen Yick Building,
                                                                                                                                ‘eight flavours’, resulting in unique dishes that each have          Ground Floor, 28 Tai Wo Street, Wan Chai
     premium Japanese soy sauces and bonito (skipjack) –                   No. 27-29 Wellington Street, Central
                                                                                                                                their own style and leading to the famous expression -               3126 6633
     complemented by a thick 3cm slice of tasty, top quality,              2399 0811
                                                                           ramencubism@gmail.com                                “Hundred tastes in a hundred dishes.”                                lhotelgroup.com/sichuan-lab
     stewed pork.

     Opening hours                            Payment method                                                                    Opening hours
     Sun-Thu, 1100 to 2300                    Cash, Octopus, Alipay and WeChat Pay                                              Mon-Fri, 1200 to 2300
     Fri-Sat, 1100 to 2400                                                                                                      Sat-Sun & public holidays, 1100 to 2330

10   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                              2019 • The Gourmet Guide           11
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
What's Hot

                                                HAKU                                                                                                          Hoi King Heen
                                            Innovative Japanese cuisine.                                                                                                         Traditional Cantonese fare.

                                                                                                                                      Hong Kong’s renowned fine-dining restaurant for                Vegetarian Chicken with Taro and Mushrooms and
                                                                                                                                 traditional Cantonese food has brought back executive               Steamed Winter-Melon with Mushrooms and Bamboo
         Inspired by Chef Hideaki Matsuo of 3-Michelin-              of which will be flown in daily from Japan, based on the
                                                                                                                                 chef Leung Fai Hung’s crowd-pleasing 40th anniversary               Piths.
     starred Osaka restaurant Kashiwaya and led on the               recommendations of Chef Matsuo.
                                                                                                                                 menu.                                                                   Regular menu items include the signature Smoked
     ground by Japanese-trained Argentinian native executive             The Winter dinner menu includes Squid / karasumi,
                                                                                                                                      As part of the celebration of Chef Leung’s 40 strong           Vegetarian Goose Wrapped in Bean Curd Sheet, Double-
     chef Agustin Balbi, HAKU brings forth a bounty of new           Beef / parsnip, Rice / abalone while the lunch menu has
                                                                                                                                 years in Hoi King Heen’s kitchen, he has designed a                 boiled Fish Maw Soup with Chinese mushrooms and
     and exciting flavours.                                          Uni / bread, and Almonds /foie. Both menus include
                                                                                                                                 menu that pays homage to his fruitful career with the               Cabbage and Crispy Roasted Chicken. Round off your
         With sustainability now at the core of its philosophy,      dessert / sweet end, and the dinner menu has the option
                                                                                                                                 restaurant and popular signature creations over the                 meal with Chilled Hawthorn Rolls, Steamed Dumplings
     HAKU has undergone a valuable shift in its menu-                for an additional wine list pairing by the in-house group
                                                                                                                                 years.                                                              with Sesame and Peanut, Deep-fried Milk Rolls or
     creation and sourcing methods. For example, the                 sommelier Wallace Lo.
                                                                                                                                      In response to overwhelming feedback from                      Homemade Almond Cream.
     signature Tuna / Kristal Caviar / Polmard Beef has been
                                                                                                                                 customers to bring back some of his most loved dishes
     extracted from the new menu to be replaced by a new
                                                                                                                                 throughout the years, Chef Leung has made four of
     dish to highlight the importance of restaurants to take
                                                                                                                                 these dishes available once again for guests to enjoy on
     small actions to address larger global issues (in this
                                                                                                                                 the winter menu.
     case, overfishing of endangered species). HAKU is now
                                                                                                                                      Perfect to savour during colder winter months,
     also fermenting its own in-house miso, paying homage to
                                                                                                                                 dishes include soothing Double-boiled Sea Conch Soup
     this ancient and traditional element of Japanese cuisine.
                                                                                                                                 with Tofu Chrysanthemum, Steamed Spotted Garoupa
         “Kappo” literally means “to cut”, “to cook”
                                                                                                                                 with Salty Fish and Preserved Meat, Steamed Chicken
     applying the five primary cooking techniques: grilling,
                                                                                                                                 Fillets with Shrimp Paste (available in either half or whole
     steaming, frying, simmering, and raw preparations in
                                                                       HAKU                                                      bird portions), and Sauteed Fox Nuts with Crab Meat.                     Hoi King Heen
     an open interactive kitchen. Chef Balbi extracts the
                                                                           Shop OT G04B, Ground Floor, Ocean                          Hoi King Heen has also taken strides to bring                         Level B2, InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong
     essence of this age-old cooking style and adds his
                                                                           Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui                 healthier Cantonese dishes with its vegetarian menu,                       Kong, 70 Mody Road, Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon
     own innovative twist to each dish. He will prepare the
                                                                           2115 9965                                             that includes Braised Bean Curd with Eggplant, Braised                     2731 2883
     freshest seasonal and highest quality ingredients, most
                                                                           dine@haku.com.hk                                                                                                                 www.hongkong.intercontinental.com

     Opening hours                            Average price
                                                                                                                                 Opening hours                                       Payment method
     Lunch: 1200 to 1500                      HK$250-$800 per head
                                                                                                                                 Mon-Sat, 1130 to 1430, 1800 to 2230                 Cash, Credit cards
     Dinner: 1800 till late                   Payment method
                                                                                                                                 Sun & public holidays, 1030 to 1430, 1800 to 2230
                                              Cash, Credit cards

12   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                   2019 • The Gourmet Guide     13
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
CHEF interview

                      Pursuing perfection
                         in simplicity
                        With over 17 years of experience under his belt, Moroccan chef Faycal El
                   Moujahid is devoted to the pursuance of gastronomic perfection across the globe.

                                                                                   Chef El Moujahid’s love of food
                                                  Chef
                                                                               started at a young age when he would
                                                  Faycal El Moujahid
                                                                               be playing amongst pots and pans.
                                                                               Exposed to the Mediterranean food-
                                                                               loving culture, he has nurtured an
                                                                               unbridled interest in the culinary
                                                                               world.
                                                                                   His career has spanned many
                                                                               Michelin-starred restaurants and
                                                                               luxury hotels across the world,
                                                                               including the luxury Les Jardins De
                                                                               La Medina Hotel in Morocco, the
                                                                               Address Hotel & Resort in Dubai, and
                                                                               The Galaxy Macao Hotel and Casino
                                                                               in Macau. He has been with Hotel                      At AVA Restaurant Slash Bar that
                                                                               Panorama since January 2018 as an                is perched on the 38th floor of Hotel
                                                                               Executive Sous Chef.                             Panorama and commands a stunning
                                                                                   Constantly seeking perfection                270-degree view of the harbor, Chef
                                                                               in every detail, Chef Faycal firmly              Faycal recommends a number of his
                                                                               believes that simplicity is the key.             signature dishes that have patrons
                                                                               “People often link simplicity with a             returning for more, time and time again.
                                                                               lack of effort, when it is, in fact, one              Inspired by his love of seafood, he
                                                                               of hardest things to achieve,” he says.          has brought a new twist to his Sepia Ink
                                                                               “My culinary philosophy is based                 Risotto which innovatively combines
                                                                               on simplicity, complementarity of                Arborio risotto with sea urchin, yuzu
                                                                               ingredients, and balance in flavors.”            caviar, salmon roe and crispy Parmesan
                                                                                   A firm believer that seasonal and            chips.
                                                                               fresh ingredients make the dish, Chef                 Another highlight is their Lamb
                                                                               Faycal is always on the lookout for              Racks, the childhood favourite of Chef
                                                                               what is available in the market. “While          Faycal. By adopting the slow cook
                                                                                    we source fruits and vegetables             method, he preserves the tenderness
                                                                                         from local markets, we                 of the lamb while keeping the skin on,
                                                                                              bring in fresh, authentic         which is not often seen in Western
                                                                                                 ingredients from all           restaurants. This is then served with
                                                                                                   over the world in            sheep curd, grilled eggplant puree, and
                                                                                                    order to come               topped with fava beans and rosemary
                                                                                                     up with the right          jus.
                                                                                                      combination that               “My working experience across the
                                                                                                      produces the              globe has sharpened my palate and
                                                                                                      f l a vo r j u st t h e   sensitivity to distinctive flavors,” he
                                                                                                     way I want it.”            says. “I have an irrepressible passion
                                                                                                                                for good food, and my reward is simple
                                                                                                                                – to see guests returning.”

14   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                              2019 • The Gourmet Guide   15
Special edition 2019 - The Standard
CHEF interview

                                                                                                                                       Global Discovery Tour
                                                                                                                                                             Award-winning chef returns to native Holland in search of inspiration.

      American Express Icon Award                                                                                                 Chef Richard Ekkebus, Culinary
                                                                                                                              Director of The Landmark Mandarin
                                                                                                                                                                               techniques and global culinary
                                                                                                                                                                               t r e n d s . A l o n g t h e w a y, w e ’ l l
                                        Inaugural winner, Japanese chef Seiji Yamamoto.
                                                                                                                              Oriental, Hong Kong, is on a three-              chronicle our journey and use these
         A new addition to the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants          based on specific projects and achievements, or on an      month global tour while Amber,                   discoveries to shape the new Amber
     2019 awards programme, the AE Icon Award celebrates           individual’s overall influence and cumulative success.     the hotel’s two Michelin-starred                 menu.”
     individuals who have made an outstanding contribution         The panel in each region is made up of food writers        restaurant, undergoes an extensive                     The first pop-up was at RIJKS,
     to the restaurant industry worthy of international            and critics, chefs, restaurateurs and highly regarded      renovation.                                      the Michelin-starred restaurant
     recognition, whether over their career to date or in recent   ‘gastronomes’. Members list their choices in order of          P r i o r t o t h e r e s t a u r a n t ’s   at the iconic Rijksmuseum
     years, leading them to reach the status of culinary icons.    preference, based on their best restaurant experiences     reopening late Spring 2019,                      in Amsterdam. The two-day
         The award, voted for by the 300-plus members of           of the previous 18 months.                                 Ekkebus and his team will host a                 collaboration with Executive Chef
     the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019 Academy, can be                Chef Yamamoto is no stranger to success. Already      series of pop-ups across Europe,                 Joris Bijdendijk was especially
                                                                   the recipient of multiple honours – including 3-Michelin   North Africa and Asia, including                 significant for Dutch-born Ekkebus.
                                                                   stars – his restaurant Nihonryori RyuGin also placed       Amsterdam, Marrakech, Aachen,                          “This return to my birthplace will
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Culinary Director
                                                                   No. 41 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2018 list.       Tokyo and Taipei. Ekkebus and his                mark the first time I have cooked
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Richard Ekkebus
                                                                   Extending his culinary influence in Asia, Yamamoto         culinary team hope that the pop-                 in my homeland in 33 years,” said
                                                                   opened Tenku RyuGin in Hong Kong in 2012 at the            ups will allow them to examine                   Ekkebus. “Aside from that, I have
                                                                   International Commerce Centre in Kowloon, which            sustainable practices, exchange                  the unique opportunity of cooking in
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                demonstrate their culinary creativity.
                                                                   debuted on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2014.    ideas with other renowned chefs                  the historic Rijksmuseum, one of the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    “Amber has always prided
                                                                        Accepting the honour, Yamamoto said: “Japanese        and offer them inspiration for                   most culturally significant buildings
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                itself on being a forward-thinking
                                                                   cuisine is a way of celebrating the richness of our        Amber’s reopening.                               in Netherlands.”
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                restaurant and having an
                                                                   culture and the beauty of our natural environment. I           “Our intention is to visit local                   Another highlight was the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                international perspective,” explained
                                                                   am very grateful that the members of the Asia’s 50 Best    markets, discuss best practices                  pop up at Villa Louise in Aachen,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Ekkebus. “This tour will provide
                                                                   Restaurants Academy have recognised my efforts and         and find inspiration in new                      Germany. A historical building dating
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                inspiration for the team as we
                                                                   honoured me with this prestigious award. I will continue   ingredients,” explained Ekkebus.                 back to the 19th century, Villa Louis
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                prepare to reopen Amber with a
                                                                   to innovate and introduce Japanese culture and culinary    “We’ll be travelling to a variety of             has welcomed celebrated chefs --
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                new menu, design and innovative
                                                                   traditions to diners from around the world.”               regions to broaden our exposure                  such as Frédéric Anton, Rasmus
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                approach to fine dining.”
                                                                                                                              to new flavours, innovative cooking              Kofoed and Virgilio Martinez -- to

16   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                         2019 • The Gourmet Guide           17
International
International

                                          J’s Bar Bistro
                                       Yesteryear luxury and classic European style.

                                                                                                                                 C

                                                                                                                                 M

                                                                                                                                 Y

         Offering tapas, yakitori and a selection of specialty         Hazelnut, J’s Salted Egg Macaron and hotel’s signature   CM

     cheeses, J’s Bar Bistro is now also giving guests a               Sesame Butterfly Cookies.                                MY

     chance to enjoy the Nature Wonderland Afternoon Tea                   Nature Wonderland Afternoon Tea Set is available
                                                                                                                                CY
     Set. Partnering with APIVITA, a natural cosmetic brand,           daily from 3pm to 5:30pm, and includes a choice of
     the new tea set will be available until March 31, 2019.           floral tea – Rose Roselle Tea or White Lily Jasmine      CMY

         Guests can get a complimentary gift pack from                 Tea, illy coffee, fine French Monbana hot chocolate or    K

     APIVITA by patronizing one tea set, while stocks last.            Dammann Tea. Diners also have the option to upgrade
     The gift pack includes four pieces of APIVITA’s popular           drink choices to a glass of house champagne at an
     face masks, Foam Cleanser Face & Eye with Olive                   additional cost.
     & Lavender, Caring Lavender Gentle Shower Gel for
     Sensitive Skin, Caring Lavender Moisturizing & Relaxing
     Body Oil as well as 2pcs of $50 cash coupons.
         A delightful combination of colourful savouries and
     sweets, the tea set includes Garlic Shrimp with Pumpkin
     Puree on Vol Au Vent, Black Truffle Egg Salad with Mini
     Burger, Lobster Bisque Favor Crème Brulee, Fresh Tuna
     Tatare Waffle with Cucumber Mousse, Crab Meat and
     Avocado Sandwich ‘Bon-Bon’.
         Of course, afternoon tea isn’t complete without a set
                                                                         J’s Bar Bistro
     of sweet treats. The Nature Wonderland Afternoon Tea
                                                                            2/F The Royal Garden, 69 Mody Road,
     Set includes eye-catching Fresh Pomegranate Cream
                                                                            Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon
     Cake, Natural Honey Cupcake with Lavender Cream,
                                                                            2733 2088
     Baked Alaska, popular Caramel Chocolate Cake with                      www.rghk.com.hk

     Opening hours                                Payment method
     Mon-Fri, 1200 to 0100                        Cash, Credit cards
     Sat, Sun & public holidays, 1500 to 0100
     Happy Hour, daily, 1600 to 2000

20   The Gourmet Guide • 2019
International

                                Tastings Group                                                                                                                                               Aulis
                        A collection of some of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed bars.                                                                                    Intimate interactions in a development kitchen.

         A leader in pioneering the modern cocktail                       Ori-gin
     experience – led by executive mixologist Antonio Lai –                   A quirky take on an old-school classic, My                   Renowned British chef, Simon Rogan, launched                        bread from Ireland not commonly served in Hong Kong
     Tastings Group has some interesting concoctions across               Milkshake… is a fun and whimsical cocktail that uses        Aulis as his first international restaurant venture, bringing            is paired with homemade cultured butter.
     their award-winning venues.                                          milk chocolate re-distilled Tanqueray gin, black sesame     a taste of two-Michelin-starred L’Enclume to Hong Kong.                      This season, dessert includes a refreshing British-
     Quinary                                                              redistilled Tanqueray gin, homemade clove syrup, white           Aulis Hong Kong invites guests to surrender                         inspired homemade Stout Ice Cream with chestnut,
         15th on Asia’s 50 Best Bars and 40th on World’s                  crème de cacao, egg white and Angostura aromatic            their senses to the creativity of the chefs. Expect the                  molasses and burnt milk crisp, with the added touch of
     50 Best Bars, the home of multisensory mixology                      bitters, finished off with chocolate dipped wafer and       unexpected; an evening of fast-paced dynamism,                           a signature Pink Lady Apples Apple Tart to end the Aulis
     takes inspiration from the “Seven Necessities to begin               rainbow sprinkles.                                          entertaining theatrics and intimate interactions, as chefs               Hong Kong experience.
     a day” in Chinese culture -- firewood, grain, oil, salt,             VEA Lounge                                                  utilize the world’s most advanced kitchen equipment
     sauce, vinegar and tea. Foh Maa Yan 火麻仁 features                         A drink as enticing as its name implies, Burnt Butter   to create highly progressive dishes personalized to the
     a Michter’s Rye whiskey infused with torched coffee                  is served in a classic Martini glass, created with burnt    tastes of only 12 guests at a time. The ever-evolving 10
     beans, hemp seed syrup, grated Tonka bean, cream,                    butter fat-washed Chivas whiskey, re-distilled Kahlua,      course creative menu (with up to 15 course servings)
     Thai tea foam and “bubble” biscuits with crushed                     pistachio oil, lemon juice, pear syrup, egg white and       offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in
     hazelnuts – adding a rich and nutty element to the ultra-            dehydrated cucumber skin powder.                            Rogan’s unique culinary vision first-hand.
     smooth cocktail.                                                                                                                      With the goal of maintaining long-term relationships
                                                                                                                                      with farms in the New Territories, Aulis Hong Kong’s
     The Envoy                                                                 Tastings Group                                         current experience highlights seasonal local ingredients
         Must-try libations include Mori-Mori, named after the                     Quinary 56-58 Hollywood Road Central               combined with Rogan’s savoir faire. A dish that reflects                   Aulis
     Japanese phrase for “lots of vitality,” and that is the wish                  The Envoy 3/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong,            his dedication to local ingredients is the Grilled Salad,
     of this refreshingly herbaceous and blooming offering.                                   74 Queen’s Road Central, Central                                                                                        Shop 8, UG/F, Sino Plaza,
                                                                                                                                      which uses vegetables from local farms grilled over                             255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay
     Mori-Mori is an amalgamation of fennel slow-cooked                            Ori-gin G/F, 48 Wyndham Street, Central
                                                                                                                                      cherry-wood embers, resulting in a beautifully charred                          2817 8383
     Beefeater gin, St. Germain, Kyoho Murasaki, grapefruit                        VEA Lounge 29/F, The Wellington,
                                                                                                                                      and smoky flavour. Homemade Soda Bread, a traditional                           www.roganic.com.hk/aulis
     juice, simple syrup, fresh fennel and red grapes.                                           198 Wellington Street, Central

     Contact                Opening hours                                         Payment method                                      Opening hours                                  Average price
     Quinary 2851 3223      Quinary Mon-Sat 1700 to 0100, Sunday closed           Cash, Credit cards                                  Wed-Sun only (Mon-Tue closed)                  Current Soft Opening Food Menu: HK$1480 + 10%
     Ori-gin 2668 5583      Ori-gin Mon-Thu 1700 to 0100, Fri-Sat 1700 to 0200                                                        Dinner Commencement at 1930 (1 serving only)   Current Wine Pairing: HK$680 + 10%
     The Envoy 2850 4022    The Envoy Sun-Thu 1200 to 0100, Fri-Sat 1200 to 0200                                                      Payment method                                 Current Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Pairing: HK$380 + 10%
     VEA Lounge 2711 0063   VEA Lounge Mon-Wed 1700 to 0100, Thu-Sat 1700 to 0200                                                     Cash, Credit cards

22   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                               2019 • The Gourmet Guide      23
International

     The Peninsula Hong Kong                                                                                                                                                         The Place
                               BVLGARI FIOREVER & THE PENINSULA Afternoon Tea.                                                                                                     All-day dining in the heart of Kowloon

          This co-presented Afternoon Tea is the latest chapter                         Completing the set are a pair of zesty citrus
     in a more than 20-year long relationship that stretches                        chocolates and The Peninsula’s famous freshly baked,
     back to BVLGARI’s debut at The Peninsula Arcade. A                             buttery raisin scones served with velvety clotted cream
                                                                                                                                                  Situated inside Cordis, Hong Kong – an upscale,                  The 8,000 square foot space is styled by the award-
     whimsical combination of the Italian word for flower,                          and heavenly organic strawberry jam.
                                                                                                                                              42-story hotel rising above Mong Kok – The Place offers         winning team at Stickman Design of Dubai and Hong
     FIORE and the English word FOREVER, “FIOREVER”                                     Guests at this unique afternoon tea experience may
                                                                                                                                              dining options throughout the day, including a variety          Kong, featuring an interior design and decor in tones
     has now become an inseparable element of the                                   enjoy shopping privilege BVLGARI Boutique in The
                                                                                                                                              of popular buffers, a classic all-day a la carte menu, a        of light oak, herringbone patterns and pops of lime and
     magnificent Roman jeweler.                                                     Peninsula Arcade with a surprise giveaway.
                                                                                                                                              wellness afternoon tea, plus grab and go choices.               white, conveying a bright and inviting atmosphere for
          Translating the lustrous sophistication of the                                The Afternoon Tea is served daily from 2pm to
                                                                                                                                                  Among these is the “Beef Festival” buffet, on offer         diners.
     BVLGARI jewellery collection into edible form, The                             6pm. The Lobby Strings band provides the perfect
                                                                                                                                              until March 31, 2019. The Place serves an array of beef-
     Peninsula’s culinary team have created a three-tiered                          accompaniment, playing classical music from 12pm to
                                                                                                                                              centric dishes designed to bring meat lovers an array of
     tea set that is as tempting as it is indulgent.                                6:30 pm every day, except Mondays.
                                                                                                                                              flavourful beef delicacies around the world.
          The set includes tiramisu tart with espresso jelly,
                                                                                                                                                  Indulge with an array of hearty beef creations at a
     mini pan d’oro with clementine, panna cotta with mango
                                                                                                                                              live station featuring Grilled Beef Chopped Salad with
     and almond biscottini with crema di cioccolato.Guests
                                                                                                                                              Sourdough Bread, and savour the succulent dishes
     will discover a selection of exquisite desserts capturing
                                                                                                                                              using different cuts of beef and cooking styles, including
     the freshness of floral blossom and the Roman passion
                                                                                                                                              Beef Wellington, Robatayaki Wagyu Beef, and Korean
     for life.
                                                                                                                                              Barbecued Beef Short Ribs, alongside global beef
          For lovers of savoury treats, moreish morsels can be
                                                                                                                                              favourites such as Sichuan Beef Tenderloin, Wagyu Beef
     found on the second tier in the form of an egg-shaped
                                                                                                                                              Rendang, Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup, and Thai-style
     Polenta custard with butter-fried sweetcorn and egg-
                                                                                                                                              Oxtail Stew with Lemongrass and Ginger, to satisfy the
     yolk mayonnaise, Smoked salmon with lemon pearls                                   The Peninsula Hong Kong                               taste buds of every beef lover.                                   The Place @ Cordis
     and sour cream, Prosciutto Parma ham with butter
                                                                                            5/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong,                         As a memorable finale, the dessert counter                        555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok, Kowloon
     choux, crispy quinoa and vinegar pearls as well as the                                 Salisbury Road, Kowloon                           showcases delightful milk based desserts such as                      3552 3028
     classic dill-marinated cucumber with ricotta cheese                                    2696 6772                                         Hokkaido Milk Roulade and Assorted Panna Cotta.                       cdhkg.restaurants@cordishotels.com
     sandwiches.                                                                            diningphk@peninsula.com

     Opening hours
                                                                                                                                              Opening hours                             Average price
     Breakfast: Daily 0700 to 1100                      Tea: Daily 1400 to 1800 (First-come, first-served basis)
                                                                                                                                              Lunch buffet, Daily, 1200 to 1430         HK$278-658 per head
     Lunch: Daily 1130 to 1430                              *A minimum charge of $350 applies to each guest
                                                                                                                                              Dinner buffet, Daily, 1830 to 2145        Payment method
     Dinner: Sun-Thu 1830 to 2230, Fri-Sat 1830 to 2330 Drinks: Sun-Thu 2300 to 2330, Fri-Sat 2300 to 2430
                                                                                                                                                                                        Cash, Credit cards
     Payment method Cash, Credit cards

24   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                           2019 • The Gourmet Guide         25
International

                                                                                                                                                                                                     The Peninsula Hong Kong
                                                                    J’s Bar Bistro
                                                                                                                                                                                                        5/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Kowloon
                                                                       2/F The Royal Garden, 69 Mody Road,                                                                                              2696 6772
                                                                       Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon
                                                                                                                                                                                                        diningphk@peninsula.com
                                                                       2733 2088
                                                                                                                                                                                                    Opening hours         Breakfast: Daily 0700 to 1100
                                                                       www.rghk.com.hk                                                                                                                                    Lunch: Daily 1130 to 1430
                                                                   Opening hours        Mon-Fri, 1200 to 0100                                                                                                             Tea: Daily 1400 to 1800 (First-come, first-served basis)
                                                                   			                  Sat, Sun & public holidays, 1500 to 0100                                                                                              *A minimum charge of $350 applies to each guest
                                                                   			                  Happy Hour, daily, 1600 to 2000                                                                                                   Dinner: Sun-Thu 1830 to 2230, Fri-Sat 1830 to 2330
                                                                   Payment method       Cash, Credit cards                                                                                                                Drinks: Sun-Thu 2300 to 2330, Fri-Sat 2300 to 2430
                                                                                                                                                                                                    Payment method        Cash, Credit cards

     Tastings Group                                                                                                                   The Place @ Cordis
                                                                                                                                         555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok, Kowloon
     Quinary            56-58 Hollywood Road Central                                                                                     3552 3028
                        2851 3223                                                                                                        cdhkg.restaurants@cordishotels.com
                                                                                                                                      Opening hours       Lunch buffet, Daily, 1200 to 1430
     The Envoy          3/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong,
                                                                                                                                      			                 Dinner buffet, Daily, 1830 to 2145
                        74 Queen’s Road Central, Central                                                                              Average price       HK$278-658 per head
                        2850 4022                                                                                                     Payment method      Cash, Credit cards

     Ori-gin            G/F, 48 Wyndham Street, Central
                        2668 5583

     VEA Lounge         29/F, The Wellington,
                        198 Wellington Street, Central
                        2711 0063
                                                                                                                                                                                      CAFÉ KOOL
     Opening hours                                                                                                                                                                          Mezzanine Level, Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong, 64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
     Quinary Mon-Sat 1700 to 0100, Sunday closed                                                                                                                                            2733 8753
     Ori-gin Mon-Thu 1700 to 0100, Fri-Sat 1700 to 0200                                                                                                                                     www.shangri-la.com/hongkong/kowloonshangrila/dining/restaurants/cafe-kool
     The Envoy Sun-Thu 1200 to 0100, Fri-Sat 1200 to 0200                                                                                                                                   cafekool.ksl@shangri-la.com
     VEA Lounge Mon-Wed 1700 to 0100, Thu-Sat 1700 to 0200                                                                                                                           Opening hours  Mon-Sun, 0630 to 1000 (last order at 2130)
                                                                                                                                                                                                    Lunch Buffet, Mon-Thu 1200 to 1430, Fri-Sun & public holidays 1200 to 1500
                                                                                                                                                                                                    Dinner Buffet, Mon-Thu 1830 to 2130, Fri-Sun & public holidays 1800 to 2130
                                                                                                                                                                                     Average price  HK$400 up per head
                                                                                                                                                                                     Payment method Cash, Visa, Master, AE, UnionPay

                                                             Aulis                                                                    AVA Restaurant Slash Bar
                                                                Shop 8, UG/F, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay              38/F, Hotel Panorama, 8A Hart Avenue,
                                                                2817 8383                                                                Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
                                                                www.roganic.com.hk/aulis                                                 3550 0262
                                                             Opening hours     Wed-Sun only (Mon-Tue closed)                             www.hotelpanorama.com.hk
                                                                               Dinner Commencement at 1930 (1 serving only)              ava@hotelpanorama.com.hk
                                                             Average price     Current Soft Opening Food Menu: HK$1480 + 10%
                                                                               Current Wine Pairing: HK$680 + 10%                     Opening hours      Mon-Thurs & Sun, 0630 to 2400
                                                                               Current Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Pairing: HK$380 + 10%                      Fri-Sat, 0630 to 0100
                                                             Payment method    Cash, Credit cards                                     Payment method     Cash, Visa, Master, AE, UnionPay

26   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                            2019 • The Gourmet Guide                    27
European
European

     Bread Street Kitchen & Bar
                              Gordon Ramsay scales new heights in Hong Kong.

                                                                                                                                      C

                                                                                                                                      M

                                                                                                                                      Y

          Bringing a whole new definition to destination dining       or the Buffalo Chicken Burger that presents a pleasant
                                                                                                                                     CM

     at one of Hong Kong’s most popular landmarks – Victoria          challenge to the taste buds.
     Peak, Gordon Ramsay’s world-renowned Bread Street                    Complete the meal with a selection of British cheese,      MY

     Kitchen & Bar scales new heights as it opens at The              or opt for the Strawberry Eton Mess, and you’re on cloud       CY

     Peak Galleria.                                                   nine!                                                          CMY

          Helmed by Head Chef Gareth Packham who has                      With a relaxed atmosphere and décor that
                                                                                                                                      K
     honed his culinary skills at the Gordon Ramsay Group’s           incorporates a mix of vintage and modern touches, the
     Savoy Grill in London, this stylish yet casual restaurant        family-friendly restaurant flows seamlessly outdoors
     and bar plates up honest, contemporary British dishes            where you can dine al fresco to your heart’s content and
     that embrace seasonal local produce and European                 soak in the fresh mountain air at the same time.
     influences.
          Knowing the maestro’s inimitable style, diners can
     expect unpretentiously simple yet meticulously prepared
     British comfort fare with European influences in a
     casual, welcoming hang-out.
          Standout dishes include the signature Beef
     Wellington and Shepherd’s Pie. While the Honey Glazed
     Short Ribs is finger-lickingly yummy, the Fish & Chips
     is a cut above the rest, and will change your perception                                                                                       Enjoy our spectacular views and savour our
     of this ever-popular dish. Carnivores will have a field             BREAD STREET KITCHEN & BAR                                                           all-new lunch selection
     day with the fine selection at the grill, prepared to your              Shop G02, The Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road, Hong Kong
     specification.
          New favourites include a mouth-watering range of
                                                                             2350 3888
                                                                             reservations.bsk@diningconcepts.com
                                                                                                                                              Tempt your taste buds with the best of British flavours
     flat breads for those looking for a lighter lunch option,               www.diningconcepts.com
                                                                                                                                                       Lunch from 12.00 noon, dinner from 6.00 pm
     Opening hours                            Signature dish
     Breakfast, 0800 to 1100                  Beef Wellington/Shepherd’s Pie/
     Lunch, 1130 to 1700                      Fish & Chips/Honey Glazed Short Ribs
     Dinner, 1730 to 2200                     Payment method                                                                               Shop OTE401, Level 4, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
     Average price HK$300 up per head         Cash, AE, Visa, Mastercard
                                                                                                                                                        T +852 2765 0890 mazegrill@diningconcepts.com
30   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                               www.diningconcepts.com       mazegrillhk
European

                                                        La Parole
                                                        Astonishingly affordable luxury.                                                               LA PAROLE 2014-2018
                                                                                                                                                             EatSmart Restaurant
                                                                                                                                                         by the Department of Health

         Based in the elegant old neighborhood of Sheung                                  Australia and United Kingdom. Seafood of premium
     Wan, La Parole has been awarded as the ‘EatSmart                                     quality is flown in daily from Toyosu Market in Japan.
     Restaurant’ by the Department of Health in the past                                      La Parole is highly acclaimed for its incredible array
     4 consecutive years. The restaurant will bring you an                                of signature dishes, including Pan Fried French Foie
     unprecedented and exceptional dining experience by                                   Gras with Fresh Fig ; Pan Fried Hokkaido Scallop and
     merging the concept of high-end French cuisine and                                   Maine Lobster, with Snow Bean Leek Sauce; French
     Social Enterprise.                                                                   Charolais Tenderloin ; Premium Grade of American
         Indulge in opulent and extravagant gastronomic                                   Black Angus Rib Eye ; Grilled Black Cod with Saikyo
     wonders prepared by Mr. Benoit Gesrdorff, the                                        Miso ; and Fresh Sea Fishes from Market.
     consultant chef at La Parole. As one of the top chefs in
     Europe, Chef Gesrdorff is the only 5-starred chef that
     has been cooking for the King of Belgium by special
     appointment for the King’s travel and catering for
     banquets over the years. The Executive Chef and Head
     Chef of La Parole has been trained in Benoit’s Michelin-
     starred restaurants, L’ Essentiel and La Plage d’Amee.
         Strictly pursuing culinary perfection, all dishes at La
     Parole are prepared with top fresh & healthy ingredients.
     While no MSG is used in the process of cooking, all fresh
     ingredients are carefully selected. All meat is cautiously                                La Parole
     selected by top butchers while beautifully marbled,                                            3 Floor, The Pemberton, 22-26 Bonham Strand,
     tender steak and the entrecote meat in superior quality                                        Sheung Wan                                         3 Floor, The Pemberton,
     are provided by few reliable suppliers in America,                                             2436 4099
                                                                                                    www.laparole.com.hk
                                                                                                                                                       22-26 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan

     Opening hours                                      Signature dish
                                                                                                                                                       2436 4099
     Mon-Sat, 1200 to 1500, 1800 to 2300                Pan Fried French Foie Gras with Fresh Fig / Pan Fried Hokkaido Scallop
     Average price                                      and Maine Lobster, with Snow Bean Leek Sauce / French Charolais                                www.laparole.com.hk
     Lunch, HK$200-260; Dinner, HK$360-450              Tenderloin / Premium Grade of American Black Angus Rib Eye / Grilled
     Payment method Visa, Master, AE, Union pay, Cash   Black Cod with Saikyo Miso / Fresh Sea Fishes from Market

32   The Gourmet Guide • 2019
European

                                             Écriture                                                                                                                       Cucina
                                           French-Japanese fine dining.                                                                                                   Harbour-side Italian dining.

                                                                                                                                      For authentic Italian fare with stunning views of the           As if that’s not enticing enough, Cucina also
         This 2-Michelin-star fine dining restaurant by Le         Game pie, Common Teal, Persimmon and Cocoa dishes.            Victoria Harbour, visit Cucina, led by Chef de Cuisine           offers a Weekend Brunch with highlights including
     Comptoir is named after a series of groundbreaking            There is an additional Library of Flavours that has Caviar,   Andrea Delzanno.                                                 complimentary seafood tower with oysters, lobsters,
     paintings by celebrated Korean artist Park Seo Bo.            Scallop, Akamutsu (very fine white meat fish), White               Located at Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel in the heart           crab legs, prawns, whelks and mussels; authentic Italian
     Led by executive chef Maxime Gilbert, Écriture aims to        Truffle, Ammo Strawberry and Chestnut dishes as well.         of busy shopping district Tsim Sha Tsui, Cucina offers           antipasti, cooked-to-order pastas and freshly-made
     emulate Park’s bold expressionist style from the food             Round off the gastronomic adventure with Écriture’s       chef Andrea’s signature dishes from the a la carte menu,         Crêpe Suzette. Promotional menus featuring seasonal
     to the striking interior design, treating guests and food     cake catalogue: Chocolate hazelnut, Écriture ‘Signature’,     such as the Linguine with Sicilian Red Prawns with               ingredients throughout the year – white truffle, white
     lovers to spectacular views of the Hong Kong skyline          Chiffon, Cheesecake and Millefeuille, available at 500g       Fresh Cherry Tomatoes and Grilled Australian Wagyu               asparagus, black truffle, porcini, artichokes – are also
     coupled with exquisite French culinary art.                   or 1kg.                                                       Beef Tomahawk with Seasonal Vegetables, suitable for             available.
         Écriture is a space in which French cuisine is                                                                          sharing.
     elevated to new heights by uniting it with exceptional                                                                           Cucina also offers a Be Fabulous Afternoon Tea
     Japanese produce to explore the endless possibilities                                                                       set that includes Marinated Gold Salmon with Caviar,
     that occur when Western craftsmanship meets Eastern                                                                         Duck Liver Macaron, Pink Tiramisu and surprise edible
     philosophies. The East and the West have long held a                                                                        ‘cosmetics’ like chocolate lipstick, black truffle powder
     mutual fascination and respect for one another, and at                                                                      and rose water perfume.
     Écriture this comes together not only on the plate, but                                                                          Italian style ‘Aperitivo’ is also served at Cucina’s
     also in the effortlessly understated interiors.                                                                             stylish bar and terrace between 5:30pm and 8:00pm
         The a la carte menu is seasonal and guests are                                                                          from Mondays to Fridays. Chef Andrea offers a selection
     advised to call in ahead of time to ensure they have the                                                                    of Italian charcuterie, excellent cheeses and desserts
     best possible experience at Écriture. For lunch, there                                                                      accompanied by a free-flow of fine wines, beer, spirits
                                                                      Écriture                                                                                                                        Cucina
     is the Calligraphy 3-course as well as the Calligraphy                                                                      and cocktails, making Cucina an ideal place to chill out
     5-course menu that allows for choices between Amaebi                26/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central                                                                                Level 6, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel,
                                                                         2795 5996                                               with friends and colleagues after a busy work day.                       Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui
     (spot prawn), Shiitake mushrooms, Uni, John Dory,
                                                                         www.ecriture.hk                                                                                                                  2113 0808

                                                                                                                                 Opening hours                            Payment method
     Opening hours                            Payment method
                                                                                                                                 Mon-Sun, 1200 to 0100                    Cash, Credit cards, Alipay, WeChat Pay
     Mon-Sat, 1200 to 1430, 1830 to 2230      Cash, Credit cards
                                                                                                                                 Average price
     Closed on Sunday
                                                                                                                                 HK$500 up per head

34   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                2019 • The Gourmet Guide        35
European

                                           CE LA VI                                                                                                                           Le Blanc
                  A new collection of signature dishes catered to Hong Kong tastebuds.                                                           Dine in Le Blanc for an authentic French indulgence in a private and
                                                                                                                                                                          romantic ambience.

         Group executive chef, Joey Sergentakis, presents             is famed for its perfectly marbled beef and the premium
     eight new a la carte creations available for lunch and           bone-in steak is slow roasted for four hours, before              Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a            alternative. To seal the juice within the meat, Le Blanc
     dinner at CE LA VI’s stylish restaurant on the 25th floor        adding a secret Asian-style, aromatic, garlic glaze, which   relaxing night out, the candlelight at Le Blanc instantly       chooses expensive aseptic pork to make medium-well
     of California Tower.                                             enhances the natural beef flavours. The dish is served       puts you in the right mood for some outstanding culinary        pork dish possible and hygienic enough to savor.
         Ideal for sharing, the new appetizers are a mix of           with a pop of colour - rosemary, roasted tomatoes, garlic    delights.                                                           Finish with 9 choices of home-made desserts, such
     rich and light dishes, bursting with distinctive tastes. The     and shallots, the Instagrammable winner of the menu.              The thoughtfully curated dinner menu starts with           as Earl Grey Crème brulee, platter of 5 mixed cheeses
     Black Truffle Marinated Tuna with Foie Gras Mousse is                                                                         a selection of ten appetizers, enough to make you play          with dried fruits, for a fulfilling evening.
     compiled of three sizeable stacks of tuna tartare served                                                                      Hamlet in terms of making a decision. Each with its
     on crispy rice cakes with a layer of foie gras mousse. The                                                                    own irresistible appeal, there is the Jambon Iberian,
     tuna is marinated in black truffle vinegar to add a tart -                                                                    which has gone through 36 months of drying, served
     yet sweet - richness to the fish, perfectly accentuated by                                                                    with melon, cheese, olives and gherkin ($178); smoked
     the foie gras finish.                                                                                                         scallop roll with crab mousse and orange caviar ($178);
         On to the mains is the Steamed Garoupa in Tom                                                                             or the signature Sauté Foie Gras with apples and grapes
     Kloong Broth, influenced by Thai cooking. Topped with                                                                         for that superb feel of the soft crumbly fat melting in your
     shredded Thai basil, a large portion of fish sits in the                                                                      mouth.
     warm Thai broth of coconut milk and tomato. Vegetables                                                                             After a fruit sorbet to cleanse your taste buds, the
     within the dish include Thai eggplant, pea eggplant,                                                                          sumptuous feast resumes with an array of tempting
     mushroom, cherry tomato, okra and a subtle pineapple               CE LA VI                                                   offers. For beef-lovers, munch on the Languedoc
                                                                            25/F California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar Street,                                                                           Le Blanc
     kaffir lime dressing.                                                                                                         braised Beef Angus ($338) or the US Prime milk-fed
         The Slow Roasted Rangers Valley Beef Tomahawk is                   Lan Kwai Fong, Central                                 rib eye ($388). Berkshire rack of Pork with truffle and               6th Floor, 83 Wanchai Road, Wanchai
                                                                            3700 2300                                              grilled pineapple and port sauce is another succulent                 3428 5824
     recommended for tables of three or four. Rangers Valley
                                                                            reservation-hk@celavi.com                                                                                                    www.facebook.com/ALeBlancLtd

                                                                                                                                   Opening hours                              Average price
     Opening hours                              Average price
                                                                                                                                   Mon-Sat, 1200 to 1500, 1830 to 0000        HK$500 up per head
     Lunch, Daily, 1200 to 1500                 HK$800-996 per head
                                                                                                                                   Sun, 1830-0000                             Payment method
     Dinner, Daily, 1800 to 2300                Payment method
                                                                                                                                   Signature dish                             Cash, Credit cards
                                                Cash, Credit cards
                                                                                                                                   Rack of Pork / Foie Gras / Seafood Plate

36   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                2019 • The Gourmet Guide         37
European

                                                                                      BREAD STREET KITCHEN & BAR
                                                                                           Shop G02, The Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road, Hong Kong
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      CE LA VI
                                                                                           2350 3888                                                                                                                                     25/F California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar Street,
                                                                                           reservations.bsk@diningconcepts.com                                                                                                           Lan Kwai Fong, Central
                                                                                           www.diningconcepts.com                                                                                                                        3700 2300
                                                                                     Opening hours           Breakfast, 0800 to 1100 (Sat, Sun & public holidays)                                                                        reservation-hk@celavi.com
                                                                                                             Lunch, 1130 to 1700; Dinner, 1730 to 2200                                                                                Opening hours        Lunch, Daily, 1200 to 1500
                                                                                     Average price           HK$300 up per head                                                                                                       			                  Dinner, Daily, 1800 to 2300
                                                                                     Signature dish          Beef Wellington/Shepherd’s Pie/                                                                                          Average price        HK$800-996 per head
                                                                                                             Fish & Chips/Honey Glazed Short Ribs                                                                                     Payment method       Cash, Credit cards
                                                                                     Payment method          Cash, AE, Visa, Mastercard

     La Parole
        3 Floor, The Pemberton, 22-26 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan
                                                                                                                                                                    Le Blanc
        2436 4099                                                                                                                                                      6th Floor, 83 Wanchai Road, Wanchai
        www.laparole.com.hk                                                                                                                                            3428 5824
     Opening hours    Mon-Sat, 1200 to 1500, 1800 to 2300                                                                                                              www.facebook.com/ALeBlancLtd
     Average price    Lunch, HK$200-260; Dinner, HK$360-450                                                                                                         Opening hours       Mon-Sat, 1200 to 1500, 1830 to 0000
     Payment method   Visa, Master, AE, Union pay, Cash                                                                                                             			                 Sun, 1830-0000
     Signature dish   Pan Fried French Foie Gras with Fresh Fig / Pan Fried Hokkaido Scallop                                                                        Signature dish      Rack of Pork / Foie Gras / Seafood Plate
                      and Maine Lobster, with Snow Bean Leek Sauce / French Charolais                                                                               Average price       HK$500 up per head
                      Tenderloin / Premium Grade of American Black Angus Rib Eye / Grilled                                                                          Payment method      Cash, Credit cards`
                      Black Cod with Saikyo Miso / Fresh Sea Fishes from Market

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Pici
                                                                                      Écriture                                                                                                                                           G/F, No. 16 St. Francis Yard, Wanchai
                                                                                               26/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central                                                                                         2755 5523
                                                                                               2795 5996                                                                                                                                 pici.hk
                                                                                               www.ecriture.hk                                                                                                                           info@pici.hk
                                                                                      Opening hours              Mon-Sat, 1200 to 1430, 1830 to 2230                                                                                  Opening hours         Mon-Thurs, 1200 to 2230
                                                                                      			                        Closed on Sunday                                                                                                     			                   Fri, 1200 to 2300
                                                                                      Payment method             Cash, Credit cards                                                                                                   			                   Sat - Sun, 1130 to 2300
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Average price         HK$200 up per head
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Payment method        Cash, Visa, Master, AE

                                                                                                                                                                    Scarlett Cafe & Wine Bar
     Cucina                                                                                                                                                            Residence G Hong Kong, 2 Austin Avenue, TST, Kowloon
        Level 6, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, Harbour City,                                                                                                              3565 6513
        Tsim Sha Tsui                                                                                                                                                  www.randblab.com/scarlett-hk
        2113 0808                                                                                                                                                      mkg@gcphospitality.com
     Opening hours        Mon-Sun, 1200 to 0100                                                                                                                     Opening hours       Mon-Fri, 1500 to 0100
     Average price        HK$500 up per head                                                                                                                        			                 Sat-Sun, 1100 to 0100
     Payment method       Cash, Credit cards, Alipay, WeChat Pay                                                                                                    Signature dish      Jos Mahrouse / Chicken Elmina / Samke Harra
                                                                                                                                                                    Average price       HK$200 up per head
                                                                                                                                                                    Payment method      Cash, Visa, Master, AE, UnionPay

38   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                                                           2019 • The Gourmet Guide          39
American
American

                                       Bistro East                                                                                                               Draft Land
                   Enliven your palate and savour tastes of Latin America and France.                                                                   Hong Kong’s first “cocktails on tap” bar concept.

         Located in the heart of Soho East in Sai Wan Ho,          Dirty Banana and Confit Combo that are sure to whet            Draft Land – first established in Taiwan – is a concept        In keeping with the core values of convenience and
     Bistro East has reopened under new ownership with a           your appetite.                                             by innovative beverage research and development                sustainability, all snacks at Draft Land are designed for
     brand new menu that brings modern French and Latin                 Bistro East is also big on celebrating occasions --   company Drinks Lab, and carries out the brand spirit           easy consumption and do not require the use of cutlery.
     American flavors to the table.                                over the Christmas, Chinese New Year seasons and even      of “to be free” through the offering of everyday, fuss-        Delicious and fuss-free bites include Parmesan Tornado
         The new menu offers classic French bistro fare            on Valentine’s Day, they have come up with specially-      free cocktails. The Hong Kong branch is a collaboration        Fries with the choice of Masala Spice or Seaweed
     such as French Burgundy Snails, Confit Duck Leg and           curated set menus designed to maximise your culinary       between Taiwanese drink maestro Angus Zou and Hong             Togarashi flavours, “Veget-a-Bowl” for a vegetarian bowl
     Salad Nicoise, as well as Latin American favourites Beef      enjoyment on these special events.                         Kong’s Antonio Lai of Tastings Group, as they seek to          of okra, Thai eggplant, pickled onion and crispy potato
     Tostadas, and a wide selection of classic steaks, which            Look out for new menus soon to be available for       simplify the bar-going experience down to the essentials,      sprinkles, and Char-Siu Pork Neck tossed with “typhoon
     come from grass-fed Black Angus cattle bred in farms in       all the upcoming special events, public holidays and       starting with serving everything on tap.                       shelter” garlic, chilli and pea shoots.
     La Pampa, Argentina. The choice of steaks range from          occasions!                                                     With the ability to pour and sample different flavours
     Premium Rib Eye, Tenderloin to Outskirt. Other meant                                                                     before picking a favourite drink, and the replacement of
     available are the Roasted Pero-Pero Chicken (Half) and                                                                   bartenders with engineering and consistency-focused
     Baby Back Ribs.                                                                                                          “Draftenders”, an innovative new drinking experience
         “Diners in Hong Kong these days are becoming                                                                         awaits guests at Draft Land Hong Kong.
     more health conscious, and this is the reason why we                                                                         Signature flavours include Angus Zou’s Silver Fizz,
     serve grass-fed free range beef to our customers,” said                                                                  which is a simple infusion of gin, dill and citrus. Made
     Raaj Gurung, Executive Chef of Bistro East.                                                                              to imitate the flavours of egg yolk and genever, the
         Under Chef Raaj’s direction, guests need look no                                                                     bright, refreshing aroma of orange translates in to the
     further than the brand new tea set menu for a flavourful                                                                 palate with a creamy pandan finish. Refreshing spirit-
                                                                     Bistro East                                                                                                                Draft Land
     afternoon bite. The menu features savoury French                                                                         free options include Hibiscus Fizz with honey, hibiscus,
                                                                         Shop A, G/F, 55 Tai Hong Street, Site A, 		                                                                               63 Wyndham Street, Central
     galettes, including Grilled Chicken and Bistro East                                                                      pineapple and soda, and Ginger Lemonade made with
                                                                         Soho East, Lei King Wan, Sai Wan Ho                                                                                       2711 8809
     Signature Galette, and sweet French crepes including                                                                     ginger, lime and soda.
                                                                         2699 9300                                                                                                                 info@draftland.hk

     Opening hours                           Average price                                                                    Opening hours                             Average price
     Mon-Fri, 1200 to 2300                   HK$200-400 per head                                                              Mon-Thu, 1700 to 0100                     HK$70-180 per head
     Sat-Sun, 1200 to 2400                   Payment method                                                                   Fri-Sat, 1700 to 0200                     Payment method
                                             Cash, Credit cards                                                               Closed on Sundays                         Cash, Credit cards

42   The Gourmet Guide • 2019                                                                                                                                                                                          2019 • The Gourmet Guide          43
You can also read