With French cuisine continuing to dominate the culinary scene in the 852, check out our guide to the top 5 French restaurants in Hong Kong.
Internationally acclaimed as one of the world’s best restaurants and with two Michelin stars, Amber has secured its status under the culinary directorship of Dutch chef Richard Ekkebus. Renowned for his contemporary twist on French cuisine, Ekkebus takes inspiration from his childhood on the Dutch seaside placing an emphasis on seafood from around the world. Receiving a daily shipment of fresh fish straight from the markets in Japan and France, Ekkebus and his team have developed a menu ranging from a power lunch to multi-course banquets and an ever-evolving nine-course degustation menu; all of which change every three months to accommodate the seasons. While the breathtaking chandelier centerpiece and warm natural hues create an elegant ambience, the masterful menu will be the focus of an incredible dining experience.
Amber, 7/F The Landmark Oriental, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, (852) 2132 0066, lmhkg-amber@mohg.com
Opening in 1953, Gaddi was the first restaurant in the East to offer remarkable European cuisine. Since then, it has fiercely guarded its mark as Hong Kong’s original French fine-dining establishment. Led by culinary maestro Xavier Boyer, Boyer brings his self-described “modern-classic” culinary style to Gaddi’s with a less-is-more approach, allowing curated flavours to take the focus in each dish. Following an illustrious Michelin-starred career, Boyer has helmed some of the world’s most renowned gastronomic capitals. The Chef’s recommendations include lobster in jelly with marjoram heirloom tomatoes and pan-seared Brittany langoustines with lemongrass and crab dumplings. Quite naturally, the mouth-watering menu has us reaching for the telephone… “Reservations please!”
Gaddi’s, 1/F The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Kowloon, (852) 2696 6763 diningphk@peninsula.com
Located in The Four Seasons Hong Kong, this two Michelin-starred French restaurant brings a taste of France to the heart of Hong Kong. The Kitchen team helmed by Guillaume Galliot creates innovative dishes that are light and refreshing yet rich in taste and flavour. Sit back and relax as you watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen. Showcasing a menu made from produce flown in daily from France, Caprice also offers an extensive selection of wines from the Bordeaux and Burgundy regions, along with a cellar full of artisanal French cheeses. For a pre- or post-dinner tipple, the sophisticated adjoining bar and lounge area is the ideal spot. Now the only thing left to do is to take a sneak peak at the menu. Go on, you know want to!
Caprice, 6/F Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance St, Central, (852) 3196 8860
Pierre
Situated on the 25th floor at The Mandarin Oriental, Pierre offers diners outstanding modern French cuisine in a stunning environment. Led by Pierre Gagnaire’s protégée Jacky Tauvry, Pierre continues to bring guests contrasting flavours, use of seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes to this popular French restaurant. Although described as ‘modern French’, Gagnaire’s traditional style is deeply rooted in traditional French cooking which results in dishes that are both easy to understand and unpretentious. With an extensive experience working alongside Pierre Gagnaire and inspired by his love of the arts, Chef Jacky has learn to funnel Gagnaire’s artistic design. Featuring extraordinary menus and stunning views over Victoria Harbour, Pierre is definitely one to add to your restaurant bucket list!
Pierre, 25/F Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Rd Central, Central, (852) 2825 4001
For those searching for that extra sparkle, three Michelin-starred restaurant L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon will not fail to disappoint. The contemporary design features lush red velvet seating complemented by dark wood furniture. A circular bar envelopes an open kitchen allowing guests to witness all stages of cooking, from food preparation to the plating of dishes. L’Atelier takes a different approach by offering diners a variety of great French classics in innovative tapas-style portions. Helmed by David Alves, diners can order à la carte, or choose from several set menus, including one for vegetarians. As the only French restaurant in Hong Kong to hold three Michelin-stars since 2014, L’Atelier really is one-of-a-kind!
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Shop 401, 4/F Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, (852) 2166 9000
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if two of Hong Kong’s premier cuisines came together as one? Check out our review of VEA Restaurant and Lounge, offering a contemporary take on fine French-Cantonese dining.
Photo Credits:
Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Facebook
Pierre at Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, Facebook
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Hong Kong, Facebook
The Peninsula Hong Kong, Facebook