Why: Wine is the principal performer at this balletic foodie emporium that captivates oenophiles with the sheer extent of its range and power of the names. Food is full of soul but plays a supportive role to the lead.
Where: 3/F, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central
Why: Clean lines and simple but nicely designed fixtures and fittings provide a contemporary canvas for some of the best sun-kissed flavours of the Med in Hong Kong, courtesy of an accomplished kitchen team. Think Caesar salads, foie gras and smoked sardines. Yum!
Where: 3/F, Foco, 46-48 Cochrane Street, Central
Why: The tapas-cum-wine-bar formual hits all the right notes with this sleek new confection in Wan Chai, not least on account of its intrinsic style, substance and attentive staff. The Spanish pantheon of dishes here means creamy, crispy croquettes, oysters or tuna tartare, Jamon Iberico, or an ace truffle Manchego cheese. All washed down with zesty Spanish whites or cockle-warming reds.
Where: Shop A, G/F, Pinnacle Building, 9 Ship Street, Wan Chai
Why: Chicken-focused gastro hit in frenetic Queen’s Road, where the front counter is the place to be for signature yakitori, popular “comb to claw” skewers, thighs, wings and charcoal-grilled tori kappo. Beautifully cooked vegetables, seasoned with parmesan, add balance.
Where: Shop 2A, 1/F, Manning House, 38-40 Queen’s Road, Central
Why: This hook-up between Alvin Leung and Cheng Kam Fu offers a range of greatest hits from the two super chefs as well as some reinvented and long-lost traditional dishes. No expense spared on the drama-filled decor help make it a night worth saving for.
Where: South China Building, 1 Wyndham Street, Central
Why: Osaka’s food and drinks culture, informed by life experiences from New York, is celebrated at this exciting new Japanese restaurant which hits the nail on the head with a menu that is both flavoursome and accessible – think sushi and sashimi and other tasty delights. Come the evening it’s a good meeting spot for saké cocktails, bottled beers and crowd-pleasing wine.
Where: 1/F, The Johnston, 74-80 Johnston Road, Wan Chai
Why: Glam Riviera living Stanley style, where a berth on the terrace evokes the Mediterranean like no other. Order a glass of crisp Sancerre, Provence rosé or an Aperol Spritz prior to settling in with a plate of oysters, a Provencale tomato tart or a salad Nicoise. To follow up, there's a great squid ink risotto or chicken tajine. High on easy-going style, so bring your favourite shades and a YSL shirt.
Where: 23 Carmel Road Shop 505, Stanley Plaza, Stanley
Jiangsu Club
Why: Jiangsu cuisine’s bright new star in Sheung Wan is a showcase of traditional techniques of braising, double boiling, stir-frying and steaming, as well as wonderful freshwater fish. Don’t miss their eight treasure duck. Floor to ceiling windows are a break on an otherwise traditional setting.
Where: 2/F, Alliance Building, 130-136 Connaught Road, Sheung Wan
Why: Peerless cocktails dispensed by owner manager Jassi and a range of Spanish plates are the calling cards of this bright new cocktail bar, where sherry, wine and premium beers provide the supports. This is a party place, great for groups who can sign up for three-hour sessions with free-flow drinks.
Where: LG, 37 Cochrane Street (entrance at Gage Street), Central