Sometimes only linguini, risotto or a perfectly textured panacotta will cut it when it comes to sating your appetite for fine Italian food and a taste of the dolce vita, and while it might be simple and classic, there’s a world of difference between beautifully sourced and executed Italian food at its best and those middle of the road exemplars from the high street. So, whether it’s a fancy high rise in a swanky hotel or a neighbourhood gem offering homemade Italian comfort, you can be sure there’ll be no disappointments at any of these wonderful Hong Kong Italians.
What: The spectacular views of Hong Kong’s skyline are certainly a big draw but, for many, the food and wine on offer are equal to the stage. Favourites include sea bass carpaccio or grilled octopus, black truffle tagliolini or smoked whole lobster. Super Tuscan or simple glass of rustic sangiovese? The choice is yours.
Where: 29+30F One Peking, Tsim Sha Tsui
What: The Ritz-Carlton’s second Italian restaurant is a useful address for simpler lunches and informal evenings. The food is top-drawer quality without the flourishes, while the room is relaxed and lounge-y with floor-to-ceiling windows alongside precise, smiling service, adding panache.
Where: Level 103, International Commerce Ctr, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon
What: Food from the legendary Umberto Bombana (formerly the Ritz Carlton) is the magnet at this notable address in the heart of Central. Don’t be deceived by the dress code which concentrates on what not to wear, this is full glad rag territory for sumptuous special occasions, and a table here is much prized.
Where: Shop 202, Landmark Alexandra, 18 Chater Road, Central
What: Dive into pasta with white Alba truffle or ossobuco with saffron risotto at this chic, no-frills charmer capped with charming personal service and a nice list of gluggable wines.
Where: 1/F, The Hari Hong Kong, 330 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai
What: Elegant refinement and a comfortable 'sotto voce' ambience are promised and delivered at this genial Causeway Bay Italian serving precise Piedmontese dishes matched by top-drawer service.
Where: 10/F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road, Causeway Bay
What: New York meets Milan at this long-time culinary landmark that mixes contemporary design with stiff white napery, framed by glamorous views across Victoria Harbour. Prepare to sate your hunger on the finest examples of seafood and meat, alongside pasta, risotto and the freshest salads but go easy on the cellar, unless someone else is paying.
Where: 2/F, Grand Hyatt, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai
What: For something slightly different this happening neighbourhood favourite spread generously across two floors – lively bar downstairs, intimate dining room upstairs – consistently nails it for both atmosphere and grub. Pizza is second to none, but expect great risotto or steak too. Warm Italian service and decently-priced cocktails complete the happy picture.
Where: 208 Hollywood Road, Hong Kong
What: From the same stable as Spiga in Central, and boasting splendid views, live the high life at this Peak Galleria restaurant where the homestyle Italian grub, courtesy of Tuscan-born Enrico Bartolini, really packs a comforting punch.
Where: Peak Galleria ,118 Peak Road, The Peak,
What: Arthur Miller’s Eddie Carbone would certainly approve of this Italian import that pays homage to the great Italian restaurants of mid-20th century New York – exceptional food amidst comfortable but unpretentious surrounds. Expect dishes like seafood salad, linguini vongole, Dover sole or ribeye Diana, all executed with precision and love.
Where: 9/f LKF Tower 33, Wyndham Street, Hong Kong
What: An oasis within the bustling streets of Lan Kwai Fong, Bisteca is a welcome antidote to the high-rise madness and a magic touch of Tuscany for off-grid Italophiles. Unerring retainers, never too pompous, keep service warm but professional while sublime executions of top-notch steak have been known to make grown men weap. Go easy on the wine and Bisteca does not have to break the bank.
Where: 2/F, Grand Progress Building, 15-16 Lan Kwai Fong, Central
What: The contemporary setting of clean wooden tables and exposed ducting sets the tone for a delicious Sicilian offering based around the likes of grilled squid, tuna carpaccio and a flavoursome pork chop. The stylish outside terrace adds class.
Where: 3/F, The New Place, 68-70 Electric Road, Tin Hau
What: The signature Ritz Carlton restaurant boasts a Michelin star and a great location for the banking district in Kowloon. Fountains, high ceilings and sweeping views across Hong Kong island skyline delivers a heady backdrop while the likes of beef carpaccio, scallops or pan-seared turbot, served from an open kitchen, keeps at least some of the attention on the plate.
Where: Level 103, International Commerce Ctr, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon
If you’re in the mood for impressing or you're simply looking for the best, check out our guide to the Best restaurants in Hong Kong