The best restaurant takeaway options in Hong Kong

If dining out was a national sport, Hong Kong would grab a gold! For a city which takes its restaurant business so seriously, social restrictions and the growing pandemic numbers leave us anxious of communal spaces. If you’re craving a gourmet feast or just looking to support your favourite eateries at a difficult time like this, do checkout our list of restaurants for a takeaway meal…

CANTONESE

Ying Jee Club
Nexxus Building, Central

Takeaway menus Ying Jee Club — Stir-fried Lobster with Shallot and Scallion at Ying Jee Club (Photo: Ying Jee Club)

Regulars at the two Michelin-star Ying Jee Club can enjoy their favourites in the safety and comfort of their own home, thanks to the establishment’s takeaway menus — curated by chef Siu Hin Chi. Two set menus are on offer: a 4-course Set Menu (HK$350/person) and a 5-course Set Menu (HK860/person), including a soup, main course and rice or noodles. Other popular dishes include Braised Fried Rice with Fish Maw and Abalone (HK$310), Fried Flat Rice Noodle with Shrimp and Egg (HK$200) and Fried Rice with Shrimp and Yunnan Ham (HK$200). Available daily from 11:30am to 8pm.

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact (852) 2801 6882.

Duddell’s
1 Duddell St, Central

For the first time, contemporary Cantonese fine-dining restaurant Duddell’s makes their signature dishes available for takeaway and deliveries. Featuring their Dim Sum Set (HK$882) which feeds six people eight types of dim sums like Duddell’s Pork and Shrimp Dumpling and Classic Egg Tart; The Peking Duck Set (HK$1,380) which feeds four people, complete with pancakes and traditional condiments. On top of that, customers can also select from their a la carte dishes which includes the Honey Glazed Barbecued Pork (HK$298) and Longevity Bun (HK$18/piece ). Available from 12 noon to 9 pm daily.

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact (852) 2525 9191 / (852) 5723 5668 (Whatsapp)

Yat Tung Heen
Eaton HK, Jordan

Prestigious one Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Yat Tung Heen offers an extensive “Michelin Takeaway” menu. Serving up mouth-watering staples such as its Signature Honey-glazed Barbecued Pork (HK$280), Steamed Mud Crab with Chinese Yellow Wine and Chicken Oil (HK$680), Braised Boston Lobster in Superior Soup with E-fu Noodles (HK$568), Tiger Prawns Two Ways (HK$480) and a wide selection of Claypot Rice for the entire family — pot included (HK$298 and up).

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact +852 2710 1093 / +852 2710 1094

INDIAN

Chaat
Rosewood Hotel, Tsim Sha Tsui

Beetroot Kulfi Kebab at Chaat (Photo: Chaat)

Take a bite of India home with you, courtesy of the iconic Chaat. Located on the 5th floor of the Rosewood hotel, chef Manav Tuli pays a culinary homage to the snacks of India — boasting a menu of refined, upscale classic street eats. The menu features comforting staples and vibrantly rich selections on offer, such as creamy Old Delhi Butter Chicken (HK$248), tantalising Pork Cheek Vindaloo (HK248) and Mint Chutney Lamb Chops (HK$398), to name a few. Finish it off with a sweet creamy treat of Mango and Coconut Lassi (HK$90/each) and rejoice in gastronomic heaven!

See the menu here (1 day advance order required for cross-Harbour deliveries)
For more information, click here or contact +852 5239 9220.

MW Gunpowder (Indian)
18 Ship St, Wan Chai

Located along Wan Chai’s hip and trendy Ship Street, MW Gunpowder adds a refined and creative twist to traditional Indian cuisine. We’re talking about Chicken Truffle Tikka, Nizam’s Salmon Tacos, Peri Peri Scallops, and much more. Curious to stick your fork into one of these unconventional takes on the beloved southeast Asian cuisine? Their takeaway and self pick-up orders are available from 12noon to 8:45pm daily (25% discount available for self pick-up everyday from 6pm).

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact +852 2827 7777.

EUROPEAN

La Paloma
189 Queen’s Rd W, Sai Ying Pun

Lobster Paella at La Paloma (Photo: La Paloma)

Dubbing their offerings as sexy Spanish tapas, La Paloma serves a delectable and vibrant selection of authentic Spanish tapas and a variety of paellas. Inspired by Chef and owner Alex Fargas’ hometown of Barcelona, their takeaway menu offers a variety of specialties from Barcelona as well as different regions of Spain. Available for both delivery, take away and self-pick up daily from 12:30nn to 9pm.

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact +852 2291 6161.

Aria
LKF Tower, Central

Fancy an Italian Omakase for two? Or perhaps a family Italian fare with a twist better fits the bill? Lan Kwai Fong’s uber popular Italian restaurant Aria, extends its services with a takeaway menu fit for the entire family. From mouth-watering Wagyu Meatballs and Paper baked Seabass to crusted Lamb Chops and Spring Chicken, leave it to Chef Angelo Vecchio to deliver a lavish Italian spread which can be relished in the safety of your home. Prices start from HK$698 to HK$2,498.

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact +852 2804 1116.

VEGAN & Plant-based

Orka Wellness Concept
Wyndham St., Central

takeaway and delivery orka — (Photo: Orka)

Offering a healthy combination of vegan and non-vegan menus for the city’s health conscious gourmands, Orka serves its mindful eaters a “five-dimensional” gourmet experience. Made with only handpicked natural ingredients and created to provide a nutritionally balanced yet flavorful spread of dishes that puts health and wellbeing first, Orka is the new must-hang spot in town. The tempeh, pasta, sauces, marinates and dips are all made in-house bearing the highest quality standards in mind. Veganuary January might be behind us, but we cannot wait to dig into some delish health food here! Prices vary, starting from HK$78 and up.

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact (852) 3489 1217 / (852) 5936 5659

Soil to Soul
K11 Musea, Tsim Sha Tsui

The first-of-its kind to offer Korean temple food with a contemporary fine-dining concept, Soil to Soul redefines meditative dining in Hong Kong. The mastermind behind this unique establishment is celebrated chef Gu Jin Kwang who takes Buddhist philosophy and injects it into organic, plant-based cuisine. This means leaving out taamsic ingredients often used for flavour in most cuisines such as garlic, leeks, onions and chives, yet not one bit taking away from the natural flavours of its ingredients. To comply with dining regulations of the city’s recent Covid-19 social distancing restrictions, they have begun offering takeaway and delivery services. Must order, your gut will thank you!

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact (852) 2389 9588

THERE’S MORE…

The Peninsula’s PenFare at Home
Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Elevate your dining experience at home with Peninsula’s “PenFare at Home” menu. From Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine to delectable Western delicacies, the five-star hotel’s culinary team is bringing to you a sumptuous fine dining experience which can truly be enjoyed at home. Comprised of a Western Menu for Four (HK$2,720), Sushi sets (HK$680 / HK$1,380), The Peninsula Classic Afternoon Tea (HK$380 per person), as well as selections from their a la carte menu (HK$128 up).

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact +852 2696 6700

Fortnum & Mason
K11 Musea, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Brewing the right tea and the luxurious comforts that go along with it in the times of Covid-19, is the iconic Fortnum & Mason. give yourself a well-earned break and soak in the leisurely experience of a fine cuppa with the help of Fortnum’s new enjoy-at-home menu. From now until the social restrictions are lifted in the SAR, you can order a care package for yourself or a friend, and handpick from a variety of teas, jams, handmade chocolates among other selections on the K11 app. Fortnum’s will ensure the logistics of delivery across the city.

For more information, click here or contact +852 6311 3220 (Whatsapp)

BIFTECK
QRE Plaza, Wan Chai

Newly opened BIFTECK — a diner for steak lovers — is offering a selection of dishes from their a la carte menu at 10% discount for self pick-up and takeaway. Serving only the finest beef cuts from Japan, USA, Belgium and Australia with an stunning combination of flavours in their sauces and sides dishes. Helmed by celebrated chef Ken Kwok, his expertise in refined Japanese, French and Italian fine dining delivers on a unique combination of traditional French and Japanese flavours with a contemporary twist.

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact (852) 2246 8805

Mandarin Oriental’s Delivery Sets

Luxurious Five-star hotel The Mandarin Oriental is offering its signature roast dishes for takeaway and delivery. Highlighting its U.S. Prime Tenderloin Beef Wellington Set (HK$3,288), U.S. Prime Beef Rib Eye Set (HK$2,688), New Zealand Lamb Leg Set (HK$2,188) and Wicks Farm Pork Rack Set (HK$2,188). Each roast is packaged complete with a sumptuous selection of sides and dessert — did someone say 1963 Mandarin Cheesecake? And feeds between four to six people each. Delivery and Pick-up service is available daily.

See the menu here.
For more information, click here or contact (852) 2825 4008

COFFEE and TREATS

The Coffee Academics

Espresso truly makes thing less depresso… and in times like this, we all deserve a good cuppa. Popular coffee shop, The Coffee Academics has started their door-to-door delivery service so loyalists don’t miss out on healthy, wholesome meals and must-have brews. What’s more, there a 30% discount on all beverages and food items until 31 March 2022 for both delivery as well as self-pickup, except in the Islands.

See the menu here.
For more contact (852) 55088735 (Whatsapp)

Japanese-Italian flavours come together at Pazzi Isshokenmai

Fusion is a term that has been bandied about in culinary circles for a long time and remains as divisive as its definition is broad. Some deem the entire category as gimmicky and unimaginative, focusing more on style than substance. For its proponents, however, it is a creative reimagining of beloved cuisines that blend two disparate traditions into a synergistic whole.

It is exactly with this spirit in mind that Pazzi Isshokenmei opened its doors in Central’s new lifestyle hub H Queen’s. In particular, the expansive 6,000-square-foot eatery deftly blends Italian ingredients and techniques with the flavours of traditional Japanese izakaya. Even the name reflects its dual roots, with ‘pazzi’ meaning ‘crazy’ in Italian, and ‘Isshokenmei’ being the culturally significant Japanese term for ‘doing something difficult with all one’s might’.

The brainchild of Philip Chow – a 20-year veteran of Hong Kong’s bustling F&B scene – this bold new restaurant is, as its promotional materials aptly claim, “a marriage between boundary-pushing creativity and laser-like precision that manifests in exquisite flavour pairings and fastidious plating”.

Our lunchtime tasting began with a visually stunning plate of Pink Prawn Tartare. Laced with edible flowers and healthy dollops of caviar, the tartare proper features fresh pink prawns tossed in yoghurt to enhance its inherent creaminess. Imparting elements of tartness are slivers of green apple and refreshing Japanese cucumber, with the base sauce of ponzu and shiso leaf oil adding a welcome tanginess to the proceedings.

Though small in size, the second appetiser – Vitello Tonnato, a classic Italian starter of veal and sardines – was equally pleasing to the eye. Here, super slim medallions of veal are topped with chunks of tuna and a light mayonnaise, with the accompanying crouton cubes and cucumber slices bequeathing each mouthful with a delightful crunch.

Then the first main of Lobster Spaghetti hoves into view. The freshly made pasta is tossed in a delicious lobster sauce – made all the richer by a long, slow-cooking process – though the jewel in its crown is undoubtedly the succulent cooked lobster that tops the dish. Packed with oceanic accents, this is a surefire hit for any fan of this beloved shellfish.

Next to arrive was another seafood pasta course – Crab Tagliolini. In a nod to the restaurant’s East-meets-West inspiration, the prime Japanese pairing of crab and miso is given an Italian spin here. Thin strands of tagliolini – made fresh daily – are laden with generous helpings of shredded crab meat, while caramelised onions and miso-rich gravy elevate the dish further by adding an umami-packed punch to each mouthful.

Our final course looked beyond the bounds of Italian and Japanese culinary traditions to that of France. Duck Confit is fronted by two perfectly-cooked ‘steaks’ of duck; the meaty morsels are melt-in-your-mouth soft, while the crispy skin bestows a delectable edgy bite. Accompaniments of potato stacks and beetroot salad further enhance this truly soul-satisfying dish.

From start to finish, every plate in our tasting menu was a symphony of stunning flavours and arresting visual appeal. By taking the best of Japanese and Italian culinary traditions, Pazzi creates something far greater than the sum of its parts, tantalising taste buds and eyes in equal measure. In the end, this is truly fusion cuisine at its finest.

Pazzi Isshokenmei. (852) 2555 0666. 2/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central.

(Text: Tenzing Thondup)

Must-try Christmas cocktail recipes for the holidays

Move over champagne, nothing announces festive bonhomie like an on-point glass of Christmas cocktails.

Whether you jazz up a well-loved classic like mulled wine with the finest seasonal embellishments or go all out with a brand-new recipe like a green apple, basil Prosecco smash, Hong Kong’s five top bars share their most popular winter cocktail recipes so you can whip them in the comfort of your home. Make sure your Christmas party is a cut above the lukewarm glass of bubbly, and you are pouring the most impressive drinks this yuletide…

Mulled Gin and Tonic
As winter snaps its heels, gin-and-tonic season loses its fizzy perfection, but Artesian at the Langham Hotel, one of the highest-rated cocktail bars in the world, has a satisfyingly fitting twist on the classic drink to warm your vitals. Full-bodied, remarkably easy, gorgeously warming – infused with apple juices and aromatic spices, the winter tipple is perfect for Christmas parties – outside or in

Ingredients
Mulled Gin & Tonic per glass
120 ml mulled apple juice
30 ml Gin (Normindia gin from Calvados, France is perfect for the recipe, uses apples and cinnamon as botanicals in the making process)
1 teaspoon tonic syrup

Method

First up, infuse apple juice with all the winter spices. Begin by crushing the cinnamon stick, poke cloves into the orange, tap the allspice berries and add gradually heat all ingredients. Turn off the heat when it starts to simmer. Infuse for at least an hour before you strain and decant into a screw top bottle.

Now grab a heatproof glass and mix the hot mulled apple juice with the gin and tonic syrup. Garnish with an orange slice, star anise, and cinnamon stick, best enjoyed with a gingerbread on the side.

Spiced-Up Egg Nog
Rich, silky, delicious – a spiced-up eggnog is a blue chip recipe that never goes out of style. When brimming with booze, the nostalgic concoction of egg-milk-cream-sugar is a hit at festive soirees. Rather than going for a basic recipe, mixologists at Ozone, the highest rooftop bar in the world are encouraging you to try more elevated renditions of the creamy beverage.

Ingredients
45 ml Diplomatico rum sous-vide Tonka Beans
15 ml Oolong Tea Spiced Reduction (Oolong tea, nutmeg, cinnamon, star anise, vanilla pod, cardamom, orange peels)
1 Eggyolk
15ml Crème de cacao
45ml cream

Method

Prepare the Oolong tea spiced reduction on low heat, cooking for 30-minutes in advance. In a large mixing bowl, beat the yolk and sugar until combined. Add rum, Crème de cacao, cream and Oolong tea reduction, and let it cool before storing in the fridge. Ladle into tall glasses, garnish with nutmeg and chocolate powder.

Christmas Kiss
Glamourous skyline and panoramic harbour views can be enjoyed at Hong Kong’s Aqua, one of the most trendy bar and hangout lounges in the city. Located on the top floor of H Zentra, TST, mixologist’s at this hip bar are whipping all kinds of delish cocktails to make your heart grow three sizes! Their Christmas Kiss is a seasonal delight, a relatively simple drink to DIY for your home party will surely make everyone feel festive!

Ingredients 50ml Hennessy V.S.O.P 1 whole egg 10ml Cardamom syrup Grated nutmeg and cranberries for garnishing		Method Add Hennessy VSOP, cardamom syrup and whole egg to shaking tin and dry shake (i.e. shaking with no ice) – dry shaking ensures that the egg white combines with the other ingredients, resulting in a nice, frothy texture Add ice and shake again Double-strain into glass Grate nutmeg on top to finish and garnish with cranberries

Gingerbread Martini
Warm and fuzzy, this martini is a fragrant blend of winter spices – creamy, spicy, not overtly sweet drink smells like Christmas morning… Mixologists at the Island Shangri La use luxurious seasonal ingredients to bring to life unusual and strong flavours of ginger and ginger bread with the delicate notes of rose, but it works so well together– especially when there’s a kick of Vodka!

Ingredients:
60ml Absolut elyx vodka,
Gingerbread syrup ½ tea spoon ground cinnamon
20ml lemon juice
Ginger to taste

Method:

Slow cook the vodka with fresh ginger and gingerbread syrup for two hours at 65 degrees. Mix all the ingredients together in a cocktail shaker, add some ice cubes, garnish with powdered sugar on top.

Chocolate and Gold Delight
Famous for its mulled gin, caramel, and fermented apple cocktails at this time of the year, The Dispensary , a stylish bar located in the heart of Tai Kwun, celebrates Hong Kong’s colonial past with British-inspire cocktails and pays an ode to the local culture with Chinese-inspired drinks using teas and herbs. It’s Chocolate and Gold delight is a sure-shot winner of a party drink; the decadently brushed gold and salted caramel will elevate your home party by a few notches!

Ingredients:

45ml Tanqueray gin
20ml Chinese five-spices syrup
3 slices caramalized apple
Topped up with Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin champagne
Garnish: Star anise

Method:

Melt the chocolate with gold powder and bring an arty touch by brushing the glass with melted chocolate mixed with

Brush glass with melted chocolate mixed with gold powder
Gently muddle caramelized apple in shaking tin
Add Tanqueray gin, the Chinese five-spice syrup and ice to shaking tin and shake.
Double-strain into glass
Top up with VCP champagne and garnish with star anise.

Also Read: Introducing from Mexico: Corn Whisky

(Text: Nikita Mishra)

Chueca makes Spanish tapas more inventive

To say that Hong Kong has a saturated dining scene would be something of an understatement, so for a restaurant to set itself apart from the crowd is a major challenge indeed. Chueca, a newly opened modern Spanish tapas restaurant tucked at one end of Gough Street in Central, does just that.

Ably helmed by Chef Jordi Vallés, a Spaniard whose impressive CV includes stints as Executive Chef with the Aqua and Pirata dining groups, Chueca offers a deft blend of casually chic ambiance and authentic, flavour-packed dishes that have found favour among even the most discerning of the city’s eager epicureans. “We don’t claim we are a fine-dining establishment,” says Vallés of this winning formula. “Yet, every one of our dishes is a high-quality offering that takes the rustic flavours of Spain and gives it a refined touch. We source many of our ingredients directly from there to ensure our cuisine is truly authentic.”

“In spite of the richness of the ingredients, Chef Vallés’ adroit touch ensures a melt-in-your-mouth lightness”

Named after a bustling district of central Madrid, Chueca has a verandah-like frontage set with a long marble countertop for an al-fresco dining experience. The airiness is also reflected in the interiors, which boast wood and brass accents with a splash of aquamarine for good measure. The overall effect is refreshingly well balanced, providing a welcoming atmosphere from the outset.

Eager to begin our own tasting, we dove right into an appetiser of Gambas Al Ajillo. A quintessential Spanish dish, the fresh tiger prawns were deep fried in delicious garlic-laden olive oil, with a sprinkling of chilli imparting a slight piquancy. Indulgent without being overwhelmingly greasy, it was a worthy opening act.

Next to arrive was Chef’s Canelón, one of Chueca’s signatures. For the uninitiated, a canelón is a pasta roll stuffed with a variety of ingredients that is typically eaten during the festive season. In this instance, though, the traditional recipe has been upscaled to feature a smooth truffle-and-meat stuffing, surrounded by generous shavings of black truffle. Rounding it off is a delectable porcini béchamel sauce that adds a creaminess to proceedings. In spite of the richness of the disparate ingredients, Chef Vallés’ adroit touch ensures a cohesive melt-in-your-mouth lightness.

The cook then offered a sneak peek at the eatery’s upcoming Christmas menu with an appetiser of Foie Gras Royale. Although a deceptively small portion upon first viewing, its size has been specifically chosen to balance the decadence within; atop each thin sliver of bread, hidden beneath shavings of black truffle, is a rich foie gras concoction that will more than satiate any hunger pangs.

Next to arrive was perhaps Chueca’s most popular main, a sharing platter of Lobster Rice. A true labour of love, the crustaceans are delivered fresh each day and the heads simmered for hours to create a delectable broth, which is then used to cook the rice, onions, tomatoes and tiny morsels of squid. The finishing touch is a perfectly cooked whole lobster. Awash in oceanic accents without ever once overwhelming the senses, the shellfish’s flavours permeate throughout. It’s a guaranteed favourite of any seafood-loving gourmand, and perfect for enjoying with loved ones.

Finally, with our waistlines getting uncomfortably tight, a dessert of Flan de Nata – a Spanish take on crème caramel – hovered into view. Sweet without being cloying, the flan is a creamy, custardy plate of mouth-watering goodness, with the accompanying medley of diced fruits injecting a welcome tartness and an extra textural element to the dessert. Simple yet delectably delicious, it was the perfect note to end our flavour-packed tasting.

Chueca. G/F, 8-10 Gough Street, Central. (852) 2703 0810. www.chueca.hk

(Text: Tenzing Thondup)

Giovani Pina presents a merry Italian Christmas

Surely no Celebration is complete without the mouth-watering offering of a sweet confectionery to end the festive feasting. Bringing to Hong Kong the joy of Italian traditions and artisan baking, Master pastry chef Giovani Pina has created and curated a scrumptious selection of authentic Italian Christmas pastries this season. With the yuletide celebrations just days away, it might be high time to delight in the delectable spirit Christmas feasting with Giovani Pina’s festive themed desserts and Christmas cakes.

Authentic Italian Panettone

First on the list is the pasticceria’s Italian Panettone. Originating from Milan, it is a tradtional festive bread made from dried fruits, candied orange peel, butter and honey. A fluffy and light delight that will take you through a warm and homely flight of flavours through an authetic Italian Christmas.

Price: HK$130 per 1kg / HK$280 per 500g
Order here.

Snowing Romance

Bringing to the table an inspiring white Christmas celebration, Snowing Romance is a scrumptiously crispy and deliciously creamy cake layered with Mascarpone cream and sweet strawberry compote, then topped with an Italian meringue crumble surface.

Price: HK$230 per 14cm / HK$320 per 18cm / HK$420 per 22cm
Order here.

Italian Log Cake

A selection of Christmas cakes and desserts cannot be without a traditional log cake. Featuring rich chocolate ganache, sweet apricot jam, rhum, plum wine and airy chocolate sponge cake, the rich cocoa flavour paired with a heavenly light and creamy texture leaves a lasting memory of Christmas in the mouth.

Price: HK$230 per 14cm / HK$320 per 18cm / HK$420 per 22cm
Order here.

Christmas Theme Single Cakes

Inspired by classic Christmas figures and motifs such as snowmen, bells and elks, the Christmas Theme Single Cakes is a flight of four beautifully decorated miniature cakes to complete a heart-warming celebration. Including Snowman Yuzu Cheese Mousse Cake, Cranberry Lemon Tart, Elk Sacher and Christmas Bell Caramel Mousse Cake.

Price: HK$52 per piece
Order here.

Christmas Theme Mini Tarts

A list of Chef Pina’s finest creations cannot be without his famed mini tarts. Featuring a festive selection of 12 pieces of Christmas Theme Mini Tarts that complete a range of flavours from pistachio to lemon meringue and pine nut to a variety of fruits and custard cream options. These adorable and irresistibly scrumptious tartlets are the perfect for yuletide offerings to share among close friends and family.

Price: HK$128 per 12 pieces
Order here.

Other festive offerings include:

Giovani Pina presents a Merry Italian Christmas gingebread cookie gafencu

Giovani Pina presents a Merry Italian Christmas meringue kiss in colors gafencu

Giovani Pina presents a Merry Italian Christmas white christmas chocolate ladyfingers gafencu

Gingerbread Cookies (HK$88 per 180g), Meringue Kiss in Colors (HK$58 per 65g), White Christmas Chocolate Lady Fingers (HK$88 per 120g).

SHOP LOCATIONS:

G/F, Two Chinachem Plaza, 135 Des Voeux Road, Central

Level 2, K11 Musea, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Level One, Nina Mall I, 8 Yeung Uk Road, Tsuen Wan

Top restaurants for Christmas dinner in Hong Kong

Season’s feasting!

Holiday season is officially here which means it’s time for over-the-top parties, Christmas decors, checking out the festive displays and chalet’s around town, taking part in a bevvy of December activities. With so much to do and so much to celebrate around Hong Kong, if planning a Christmas spread sounds like a daunting affair (we get you!) then book a table at one of the city’s incredible restaurants for an upscale extravaganza.

Most of our picks below evoke Yuletide nostalgia – atmospheric, cozy with lots of holly and poinsettias… Christmas cheer, here we come…

Bostonian Seafood & Grill
The Langham, Tsim Sha Tsui

festive dining 2021 christmas menu gafencu bostonian seafood & grill langham — (Photo courtesy: Langham Hotel)

Seafood lovers are spoiled for choice at Langham’s Bostonian Seafood & Grill this holiday season. Crustacean lovers can enjoy an indulgent premium seafood dining experience (HK$1,388 per person), starting off with a sumptuous sample of signature Lobster Bisque, Scallops, Oysters and Pan-fried Foie Gras, before moving on the main event: the Roasted Turkey or Char-grilled U.S Tenderloin Steak. For dessert, a selection of sweetened baked goods and desserts delight patrons with a truly festive Christmas eve dinner with loved ones.

For more information: langhamhotels.com

The Tai Pan
The Murray, Central

festive dining 2021 christmas menu gafencu hong kong the tai pan murray — (Photo courtesy: The Muray)

For a traditional Christmas turkey dinner, The Tai Pan at The Murray serves up a decadent four-course Christmas eve dinner (HK$1,088) alongside deliciously seasonal and organic ingredients that elevate each dish with a kick. From the Duck Foie Gras Terrine with Sake glazed pineapple, crispy rice and micro leaves to a chestnut-sage stuffed Turkey or the umami-packed Sake-Marinated Cod Fish, and a Wine Pear with Chocolate ginger bread gateau for a strong festive finish, its Christmas eve spread is sure to leave diners satisfied with a lasting impression on their palate. The vibe is relaxed, the food, service and ambiance are all truly outstanding – one that is sure to make the festive experience ‘tai pan’, literally meaning ‘top class’.

For more information: niccolohotels.com

LPM Restaurant & Bar
Stanley Street, Central

Taking up the prime spot on the busy Stanley Street, the 104-seater French Riviera inspired-menu at the elegant yet timeless, LPM Restaurant & Bar, short for La Petite Maison, will dazzle your Christmas one flavourful serving at a time. Launching a Christmas and a New Year’s menu, the highlight here is the ingredient-driven meals best enjoyed in a bright and cheerful by day, sultry and atmospheric by night ambiance. With locations in London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong, a star feature here is the exact menu and same taste in all the signature dishes across the globe. Festive specials include Celeriac, Pears and Capers Remoulade Salad (HK$148); Burrata a la Truffle Blanche (HK$1,198); Rigatoni Maison a la Truffle Blanche (HK$1,198); and Grilled “Black Onyx” Sirloin Steak with mini Grillé mushrooms (HK$598).

The chefs are experts at what they do – the meal here has the drama, tenderness, buttery sweetness which a Christmas feast deserves – the mains are dazzling but will be outdone by the desserts and cocktails. The wine list is exquisite as its expansive, trust the well-read sommeliers to match one with each course and it will be rude to call it a night before tucking into the decadent divineness of their French toast. Blame us not if the meal leaves you craving for a sun-soaked French holiday!

For more information: LPM Restaurant & Bar

Giacomo
Crowne Plaza, Causeway Bay

festive dining 2021 christmas menu gafencu hong kong resized — (Photo courtesy: Crowne Plaza Hotel)

The new Causeway Bay-set Giacomo offers the city’s eager epicureans with an Italian Christmas fare a 6-course Christmas Eve Degustation Menu (HK$2,480 per person). Its southern Italian flavours are even further highlighted in its signature Homemade Tagliolini with Piedmont Alba white truffle. For mains, the menu features a melt-in-your-mouth Mayura Beef Tenderloin from Australian chocolate-fed Wagyu, served with braised celery root and winter black truffle. To complete the experience, a fine wine pairing (HK$980) is highly recommended.

For more information: cphongkong.com

Also Read: Christmas Weight Gain: Enjoy the food without the guilt!

Landmark Mandarin Oriental
The Landmark, Central

festive dining 2021 christmas menu gafencu hong kong landmark oriental hotel — (Photo courtesy: Landmark Mandarin Oriental)

Delighting true epicureans to a more modern take on the classic turkey and mash Christmas offerings, two-Michelin-starred contemporary French restaurant Amber serves up a succulent 8-course dinner menu (HK$2,498) that includes a decadent offering of meticulously prepared and deliciously created dishes that shine a clear light on why this sought after restaurant hits top spots in many Hong Kong gourmands’ list. Featuring an ensemble of flavours in dishes such as Bone Marrow with sweet peas, shallots and black winter truffles ensemble of flavours, alongside the use of aka amadai with celeriac, wakame, dulse and yuzu for a true act of balancing flavours.

For more information: mandarinoriental.com

Buenos Aires Club
LKF Tower, Central

festive dining 2021 christmas menu gafencu buenos aires club — (Photo courtesy: Buenos Aries Club)

Meat-lovers rejoice to an authentic Argentinian Christmas feast at the lavish Buenos Aries Club. Offering a family-style Christmas spread, its Festín de Navidad sharing menu (HK$898 per person) starts its flight of mouth-watering entradas, while holding nothing back on the mains, featuring an 18oz chateaubriand General Pico Black Angus Prime Rib, served alongside a varied selection of classic side dishes such as mashed potatoes, creamed corn, provoleta mac ‘n’ cheese, golf salad and and an optional Boston Lobster (HK$388) with chimichurri and lemon before finally rounding up the feast with a Spiced-baked Apple with vanilla ice cream for a truly winter holiday note.

For more information: Buenos Aires Polo Club

181 Fortnum & Mason
K11 Atelier, Tsim Sha Tsui

festive dining 2021 christmas menu gafencu hong kong 181 fornum and mason — (Photo courtesy: 181 Fortnum & Mason)

For a quintessentially British affair this Christmas eve, 181 Fortnum & Mason offers its patrons a sophisticated festive menu to indulge in with your loved ones. Eschewing the Christmas set menus for an a la carte option, its Christmas eve menu features a glazed Norfolk Bronze turkey that will sit as the main attraction, and served with all the classic trimmings. Included on the menu is a chicken liver parfait with onion brioche and a Côte de Boeuf and a heartwarming Christmas Pudding and Apple and Blueberry Crumble to complete.

For more information: fortnumandmason.com

Also Read: Christmas Bling: Luxurious decor to make your Christmas extra special

Season’s Feasting: Christmas dining in the heart of TST

‘Tis the party, mulled wine and turkey season… If you’re still on the fence of where to gather with your friends and family for a mega Christmas feast or even planning ahead for a New Year’s Eve dinner – the hassle-free, spectacular spread at Savvy, a modern, social dining destination in Harbour City Mall, is a well-priced sumptuous option to book. This 240-seater restaurant offers a vibrant, hearty menu with plenty of instagrammable moments. Scroll below for all the details.

Season’s Feasting

It’s not just classic turkey and trimmings here, an alternative festive meal at Savvy starts with a smorgasbord of sumptuous seafood and appetizers from the cold table. We’re talking snow crab, lobster brown, cray fish and black mussel followed by a Thai, Indian, Chinese, Western and wait for it… Indonesian main course. If you can still manage appetite for desserts (and you must, its Christmas after all!), the chestnut cake, earl grey tea and black currant cakes are a winter wonderland – sweet as the taste of holidays and indulgent as they should be…
Price: HK$ 888/person

Also Read: Best 2021 Christmas Menus in Hong Kong

Ring in the New Year

It’s never too early to plan how and where you’re going to roll into 2022. So, whilst you’re shopping for the latest decor items and still scurrying about to fix your last minute Christmas tree, let’s get your end-of-year plans more organised. Chef de Cuisine Derek Ng has designed a spectacularly heart-warming menu for your last dinner of the year! Warm up to the night with burrata, a 36-month Iberico, a zesty Tom Yum Kung. Mains include a huge variety of ayam goring kunyit, nasi kuning, turmeric chicken, yellow rice, north Indian chicken, baked naan, Australian Wagyu beef steak, served along with a Rose Champagne and lemon sorbet… This is not even the whole menu, the mains itself are a buffet feast to remember.
Price: HK$ 888/person

Savvy Bar and Lounge Restaurant, 3209A, Level, Harbour City, GW, 3 Gateway Boulevard, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

(The post is in partnership with Savvy Bar and Lounge Restaurant)

Also Read: Christmas Bling: Luxurious decor to make your Christmas extra special

Festive Christmas staycation at East Hong Kong

It’s starting to look a lot like Christmas in Hong Kong. With most of us staying in the city for the holidays and looking for some festive cheer, it’s never a better time to book a staycation or a suitecation for an unforgettable extravaganza. Sweeping city-views, luxurious accommodation, romantic vibes, an array of food and drink deals – whatever your priority a mini holiday at East Hong Kong will not disappoint.

Sweeping Vistas

The ecologically sensitive hotel has used recycled materials in its lobby decor. Smurfs-themed embellishments in the ‘Christmas Village’ are sure to attract the young ones and their families – not only is it a fun IG photo-opportunity – it also serves a lesson (or two) about sustainability and responsibility.

Grab your wetsuits and the sunnies to the staycation because guests get access to the beautiful swimming pool and a direct booking gives a chance for a free upgrade to Harbour View room – daily breakfast and a bottle of Prosecco on the house.

Chat and Chow at FEAST

The bright, open and spacious restaurant on the second floor has prepared an array of delectable Christmas delights – ‘boned and rolled’ turkey at brunch buffet, spiced honey and orange glazed gammon ham exclusive at semi-buffet lunch among other mouth-watering feasts. Christmas at the hotel comes with an all-you-can-eat pass and their dinner buffet featuring ranch reared boned turkey roll, spiced honey glazed Australian shoulder ham, antipasti, delicious desserts, among other delicacies is testament to that.
FEAST (Food by EAST), feastreservations@east-hongkong.com, (852) 3968 3777

Bubble Up at Sugar

All cravings for a bit of al fresco glamour will be met at Sugar, the relaxed lounge bar on the hotel’s 32nd floor. Dazzling views, delicious drinks – there’s no better place to watch the sun go down on yet another Christmas. Guests can treat themselves to aromatic mulled wine, and two new warm cocktail creations – Silk Road and Sweet Encounter, the former inspired by the traditional Chinese dessert Osmanthus Jiuniang Dumplings and recreated with enhancement of plum wine.

Sugar’s themed night ‘Wanderlust’ includes music by live DJ on 31 December, with four cocktails and one shooter set inspired by countries around the world. The outdoor deck with harbour views is the perfect place for countdown with your beloved ones.

There is a 2-hours free flow of red, white wine and bubbles (HK$288) from 3:00pm to 6:00pm for early partygoers, along with a snack platter on 31 December. For the party from 9pm – 2am, guests can enjoy drinks packages starting from HK$1,400 – a minimum spend of HK$860 per person will be required.
Sugar, reservations@sugar-hongkong.com, (852) 3968 3738

(The post is in partnership with East Hong Kong)

Oriental Watch Company X Madame Fù Presents: Take Your Time – Savour the Moment

Hong Kong’s very own home-grown watch retailer, Oriental Watch Company, celebrates its 60th anniversary as a prominent and highly respected influence in the watchmaking industry for the last six decades.

As any timekeeper would dictate, 60 is a number that symbolises both the end, as well as beginning of time. With that, the company pays homage to its Diamond Jubilees, a memorable milestone for the brand.

“We are delighted to explore and rethink the meaning of time with our partners, our friends and the public while celebrating our Diamond Jubilee”, says Managing Director of Oriental Watch Company Dennis Yeung.

Priding itself as a company that excels in every aspect of expertise, services and business, the brand honours its roots to the city through the thematic collaboration with chic contemporary Cantonese dining space Madame Fù and award-winning local artist Sim Chan; set right in the heart of the heritage complex of Tai Kwun, Central.

From 22 November to 10 December, diners will be treated to a multi-sensory gourmet experience that combines a delectable feast, an opulent venue and an artistic installation, The Discovery of Time ~ 1961.

This collaboration serves as the perfect partnership to reflect the brand’s philosophy of merging tradition with the new to deliver the best of the West and the East together. Presenting a 6-course menu, meticulously designed by Kit Liao, Head Chef of Madame Fù: (1) Golden Years; (2) Diamond Jubilee; (3) Precious Memories; (4) Green Celebration; (5) Blessed Longevity; and (6) Sweet Moments, each dish embodies the essence of the theme, Take Your Time – Savour the Moment, while showcasing the painstaking unity of art and time.

Showcased in the background, artist Sim Chan presents creatively illustrates his reflection of the essence of time by painting the grids of 365 squares that represent each day of the 12-months, Chan has painted a swatch of colour on each grid, one day at a time, over the span of 30 days, producing a 12 canvases of unique gradients as the metaphor for the passing of time.

Each guest will receive the Art Canvas Tote Bag presented with a printed pattern of squares, representing the month of November 2021, as a commemorative gift for their own keepsake.

Reserve a table at Madame Fù, 3rd Floor,Tai Kwun, No. 10 Hollywood Road, Central; (852) 2114 2118 / reservations@madamefu.com.hk

Your guide to hairy crab season in Hong Kong

Autumn does not mean pumpkin-spiced lattes for Hong Kongers (unlike the West) but calls for digging into copious portions of the steamed and meticulously prepared Chinese mitten crabs, Shanghai crabs or simply the hairy crabs. A delicacy in the Shanghainese cuisine, September to December is the peak time for this seasonal delicacy… Whether you’re a seasoned eater or new to the craze, we get all the lowdown on the these famed furry little fellows:

Easily recognisable by its fuzzy claws, most shops offer the roes between 4 and 7 taels. Priced between HK$400 to HK$900 per piece, a crab between 5.2 and 6.8 taels (about 200g to 260g) is enough for an indulgent portion.

Also read: Canton Fare – Top 30 Cantonese restaurants in Hong Kong

Yangcheng, Jingsu, Thaihu or Hokkaido crabs?
The most famed and sought-after breed originates from the Yangtze River around Shanghai, usually in Yangcheng Lake and Jiangsu province. However, with the rising local demand for premium golden roes within China, supplies for neighbouring Hong Kong have dropped and prices have shot up.

To add to the troubles of dining aficionados, the issue of counterfeit hairy crabs from Yangcheng province is also big challenge, leading many to look to other countries such as Japan, for alternatives.

Gafencu's guide to buying hairy Crabs in hong kong_1 — Image from Nam Sam Yung Market

Japanese Hokkaido hairy crabs from the fresh waters of Ishikari River are safe and quality choice in place of Yangtze crabs. Unlike the richness of its Chinese counterpart, Hokkaido hairy crabs are lighter and more fragrant. Taihu Lake crabs from China, too, serves as a great alternative to the Yangcheng Lake breed, similar in quality and mouth-watering fragrant roes.

But if you do wish to go for the famed Yangcheng Shanghainese crab, be sure to look out for the anti-counterfeiting barcode attached to the crabs to verify its authentication. Hairy crab sellers are given something called the Shell Fish (Hairy Crab) Permit from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, do look out for the stamp before you crack open a feast.

Gafencu's guide to buying hairy Crabs in hong kong_2 — Image from Nam Sam Yung Market

Where to get hairy crabs

Old San Yang
4 Pak Sha Road, Causeway Bay
For all things Shanghainese, this four-decade strong grocer has made a name for itself as one of the city’s go-to places for authentic Yangcheng and Taihu hairy crabs. Starting from 4 taels (HK$300 Up) and bigger, it is very popular among locals, especially during hairy crab season.

New Sam Yung Market
Hau Wong Road, Kowloon City
In Kowloon, Hau Wong Road is a popular for crab aficionados. Come autumn, the street is crowded with locals scurrying to grab the freshest batch available – offering Hokkaido as well as Jiangshu Shanghainese crabs – for at least HK$400 per 4.4 taels (166g).

Benson Crab & Wine
2 Min Fat Street, Happy Valley / info@benson.com.hk
An established wholesaler of hairy crabs since more than two decades, customers can enjoy wholesale price upon purchasing half or full baskets. It comes inclusive of 3 or 6 bottles of vinegar, ginger, sugar and perilla leaf to cook your own stress-free feast at home. Offering 58 pieces per bucket of 5 teals at $6,000 and 24 pcs of 6 teals at $3,900. Online orders are also available here.