Category: Hong Kong

Part 2: Top Tips at Taste of Hong Kong

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date March 6, 2017
No Comments on Part 2: Top Tips at Taste of Hong Kong

In Part 1 of our series, we focused on the top restaurant tips for Taste of Hong Kong. If you missed that, catch it here! But what’s better than a line-up of Michelin-starred restaurants? A crazy line-up of the best celebrity chefs around! Here are two top chefs to keep an eye out for at Taste!

Antoine Audran

With a career spanning for more than 30 years, Chef Antoine Audran brings the best of French delights to Hong Kong. He has worked in the French embassy in London, and under renowned master chefs Andrew Guillot and Jean Delaveyene. Chef Audran imparts serendipitous flavours of his globetrotting exploits back home – be sure to check him out for a global melange of what’s popping.

Max Levy

Max is special. His rich and balanced menu encourages diners to rethink conventional wisdom on food through a deeply artisanal focus. What’s more, his restaurant Okra is set to become an esteemed drinking and dining destination on its own right. Showcasing both a fixed menu and a seasonal menu, Okra Hong Kong is the perfect place to encourage diners to recalibrate their know-how and savoir faire in food.

Things to Do

Not only are the restaurants fantastic, but there will be a veritable cornucopia of associated culinary delights on offer at Taste. Here are a few things to keep any eye out for at the event! Pro tip: check out The Gourmet Market and The Foodie Market.

The Gourmet Market

The Gourmet Market is a ‘cannot miss’ for those looking for a range of premium food and beverage producers on offer. From delicious food specialties to a range of premium drink products, you’ll be sure to love the eclectic mix on offer at The Gourmet Market. With so many temptations, we’re sure you won’t leave empty-handed!

The Foodie Market

Be sure to head over to the Foodie Market and try your hand at music, cooking demos, workshops, and more on offer. The bi-annual Foodie Market features fantastic wine and pairing opportunities!

Meet the Chope Team!

Drop by our booth at Taste and check out our awesome giveaway featuring our interactive Chope Ring Toss and the Chope Wheel of Fortune! We’re giving away loads of cool Chope swag bags brimming with mugs, notebooks, and a ton of exciting and different prizes! It’s definitely a treat for all of our loyal Chope users. What’s more, as an added bonus, our loyal Chope users get an exclusive 26% discount on general admissions tickets using promo code “tasteofhk17” when booking tickets through Ticketflap. See y’all there!

*Discount applies to advance price General Entry tickets only (subject to availability). Booking and transaction fees apply.

Tags Guides, Michelin

Destination Hong Kong

Part 1: Top Tips for Taste of Hong Kong

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date March 3, 2017
No Comments on Part 1: Top Tips for Taste of Hong Kong

Ahoy! Foodies rejoice cause Taste of Hong Kong is coming to Hong Kong! We are so excited for what is undoubtedly going to be the ‘greatest restaurant festival in the world’. But worry not, we’ve got you covered on what to taste, drink and see at Hong Kong’s premier food festival. In the first of our two-part series on what to taste and do at Taste, we’re going to explore some of the top restaurants that will be showcased at Hong Kong’s premier food event!

This year, Taste of Hong Kong is going to be even bigger than ever, with a fresh (and popping) new lineup of restaurants, smokin’ hot chefs, and culinary experiences to boot! What’s more, you’ll get to learn about 15 of Hong Kong’s most elite and exclusive restaurants and meet their renowned chefs.

So…who’s going to be there? Here are some of our favourite restaurants that you’ll see this year.

Tosca

One of Hong Kong’s most exclusive restaurants, Tosca offers innovative Italian cuisine with gorgeous Victoria Harbour panorama views as a backdrop. Relive the passion and enchantment of one of the world’s most beloved operas through this Romanesque, stylish dining destination, and be sure to try out gems on their menu, including Prime Beef in Pizzaiola Sauce and Octopus, Amalfitan Lemon Mayo, and Parsley Salad. It’s truly exquisite, Italian-inspired fare to savour, available exclusively at Taste of Hong Kong!

Dishes to Watch Out for at Taste: Prime Beef in Pizzaiola Sauce, Amalfitan Lemon May and Parsley Salad

Find it at Level 102, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Rd. W., Kowloon
Book a table at Tosca and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Arcane

Nestled in the heart of Central, Arcane offers seasonal European gastronomy by Michelin-starred Chef Shane Osborn. The best part of their Taste of Hong Kong menu has to be the Salad of Octopus with Aubergine and Green Daikon! With octopus flown overnight from Japan, aubergine shipped in from France, and salad greens from the U.K., Arcane literally uses the freshest international flavours. From the Rangers Valley Wagyu Short Rib to Sautéed Potato Gnocchi, their menu lends itself to the best of Australian and European decadence. Trust us when we say don’t miss the sumptuous delights to be had at Arcane!

Dishes to Watch Out for at Taste: Salad of Octopus with Aubergine and Green Daikon, Rangers Valley Wagyu Short Rib, Sautéed Potato Gnocchi

Find it at 3/F, 18 On Lan St., Central
Book a table at Arcane and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tin Lung Heen

Similar to its brethren Tosca, Tin Lung Heen offers luscious Cantonese cuisine 100 stories up in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui. Our fave dishes on Tin Lung Heen’s menu include Deep-Fried Shrimp Toast and Double-Boiled Chicken Soup with Fish Maw in Baby Coconut. Head to Tin Lung Heen for the best of Cantonese cuisine and panoramic views from Hong Kong’s loftiest hotel.

Dishes We Love: Deep-Fried Shrimp Toast, Double-Bouled Chicken Soup with Fish Maw in Baby Coconut, Steamed Dumpling with Egg Custard

Find it at Level 102, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Rd. W., Kowloon
Book a table at Tin Lung Heen and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

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KAUM at Potato Head

Tucked away in a largely nondescript Third Street outpost in Sai Ying Pun, KAUM makes its Hong Kong debut marrying multiple Indonesian flavours. What’s unique about KAUM is its showcasing of almost-forgotten Indonesian cooking techniques. Their most famous dish has to be the Timbungan Babi: pork belly marinated with Balinese spices and cooked inside a bamboo shoot! At Taste, the eclectic menu combines classic Indonesian dishes with modern twists. Take their Braised Wagyu Beef Shank in a Black Nut and Chayote, Sweet Soy Sauce & Coconut Milk Broth – iconic yet modern. Don’t also miss out the Scallops & Barramundi Cooked in a Spicy & Sour Turmeric Sauce.

Dishes We Love: Braised Wagyu Beef Shank in a Black Nut and Chayote, Sweet Soy Sauce & Coconut Milk Broth, Brongkos Shenkel Daging Sapi

Find it at 100 Third St., Sai Ying Pun
Click here for more info on KAUM at Potato Head

Check out Part 2 of our series on the Top Tips for Taste of Hong Kong

Tags Guides, Michelin

Destination Hong Kong

7 Must-Try Tapas Bars in Hong Kong

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date February 24, 2017
No Comments on 7 Must-Try Tapas Bars in Hong Kong

Along with the bottles of wine imported to Hong Kong, Spanish specialties such as jamon Iberico and paella are quickly gaining a mass following. But what’s better than the traditional paella? Tapas.

Tapas are a traditional Spanish dining concept, and have roots tracing back to the early thirteenth – fourteenth century. The most popular legend involves the late King Alfonso X of Castille. After recovering from an illness where he could only eat small portions of food and wine, the King mandated for all inns across Spain to always serve a small snack, paired with wine. This storied history has made tapas infamous, particularly in Asia. A dozen or so new tapas bars have quickly cropped up across Hong Kong, and here are some to look out for next time you’re craving some Spanish cuisine.

Fofo by el Willy

Fofo by El Willy has been the talk of the town ever since it opened in 2010. Wondering who this El Willy character is? Fofo is the second restaurant by Willy Trullas Moreno (aka ‘el Willy’), an infamous chef hailing from Barcelona. Sadly, Willy no longer helms his Hong Kong jaunt, but another Barcelonian chef by the name of Alex Fargas takes pride in producing Chef Willy’s contemporary Spanish tapas.

Our favourites on their tapas menu include the ‘Atun’ Marinated Tuna, Smoked Sardine, Salmorejo Tomato Salad and the Explosive Smoked Salmon Air Bag (buckle up for a flavour blast!). The latter is a delicious ‘melt-in-your mouth’ combo that provides incredible flavour as the pastry, topped with a chunk of salmon, bursts in the mouth.

Dishes We Love: Explosive Smoked Salmon Air Bag, ‘Atun’ Marinated Tuna, Smoked Sardine

Find it at M99, 2-8 Wellington St., Central
Book a table at Fofo by el Willy and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Supergiant Tapas & Cocktail Bar

Sure, Supergiant doesn’t sound Spanish at all. In fact, it kind of sounds like a grocery store. But its moniker doesn’t forebode inauthentic Spanish eats. Quite the opposite! Nestled in the third floor of a stunningly beautiful boutique hotel, Supergiant Tapas is led by famed Chef Guillermo Delvault, hailing from Argentina. Trained in Barcelona, Delvault has designed a wonderfully Spanish-influenced menu, but with a Chinese twist.

Favourites on their menu include Saturn’s Rings (crunchy, succulent strips of calamari dipped in flour, and fried to golden perfection) and Grilled Chorizo Oreado Sausage – two traditional fresh chorizo sausages, infused with paprika, served with a crusty baguette. End the meal with Supergiant’s infamous Traditional Churro, paired with a sumptuous, rich chocolatey dip and vanilla ice cream. Talk about Supergiant taste!

Dishes We Love: Hokkaido Scallop, Saturn’s Rings, Crispy Suckling Pig, Grilled Chorizo Sausage

Find it at 3/F, Mira Moon Hotel, 388 Jaffe Rd., Causeway Bay
Book a table at Supergiant Tapas & Cocktail Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Timon Seafood Tapas

Located on the other side of Ship Street past a bunch of other buzzy restaurants such as Akrame and 22 Ships, Timon Seafood Tapas is an excellent place for fans of traditional tapas paired with house wines. Our favourites at Timon include the Salted Anchovy with Quince Jam on Toast and the Octopus with Sweet Potato Foam & Paprika. The former is a piece of salted fish goodness, whilst the latter couples the spicy kick of paprika with the tanginess of Octopus.

Dishes We Love: Stuffed Baby Squid with Romesco Sauce, Deep Fried Calamari, Slow-Cooked Chorizos

Find it at 33 Sheep St., Wan Chai
Book a table at Timon Seafood Tapas and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

One Minden Tapas Kitchen

We love the delectable tapas on offer at One Minden, including crowd-pleasers such as Crispy Pig Ears and Handcut 36-month Belloto Ham. What’s so special about One Minden’s Wan Chai outpost is its mix of seating options – downstairs (counter-heavy), upstairs (table-heavy) – which are reminiscent of those cool tapas shops off the coast of Spain. In addition to the aforementioned dishes, be sure to try out the Grilled Iberico Pork Shoulder Loin: rare, thinly sliced pieces of tepid meat, paired with chimichurri sauce. What a bright and refreshing denouement to your meal!

Dishes We Love: 36-month Belloto Ham, Iberico Pork Shoulder, Crispy Pig Ears

Savvy Diner Tip: Be sure to head to One Minden every Tuesday for 2-For-1 Mains. Also, get a complimentary glass of house wine per guest on every purchase of an All You Can Eat Tapas Brunch!

Find it at G/F, 1 Minden Ave., Tsim Sha Tsui
Book a table at One Minden Tapas Kitchen and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Catalunya

Who could forget the delicious bites found at Spanish mainstay, Catalunya? One of Hong Kong’s most talked about restaurants ever since its opening, Catalunya has not seen its popularity abade. No, not all. In fact, the Tapas Lunch menu has grown incredibly popular amongst the lunch crowd; priced at a reasonable $188 and $200, for two and three tapas respectively, it’s hard to beat! On the Hot Menu, make sure to choose the Hokkaido Scallops with Coconut – coconut-celery vichyssoise mixed with curry oil sliced almond and perfectly cooked with Hokkaido scallops. It’s an irresistible combination of flavours! On the Cold Tapas Menu, make sure to try out the Tuna Tataki, which features pieces of succulent, just-caught Atlantic tuna paired with salpicon and raspberries. The other ‘can’t miss’ menu item is the Cod Fish “Esqueixada” – featuring flaky pieces of just-cooked fish, onions, olive oil and hard-boiled eggs.

Dishes We Love: Catlaunya Tomato Tartare, Gazpacho, Crystal Bread

Find it at Guardian House, G/F., 32 Oi Kwan Rd. Wan Chai
Book a table at Catalunya and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Iberico & Co.

Iberico & Co, a multi-award winning restaurant brings the popular Mediterranean tastes of the Iberian coast to Hong Kong. Be sure to try out the signature paella – a slow-cooked daily paella cooked in a massive 50kg cast iron pan alongside a traditional rotisserie oven packed with spicy Portuguese peri peri roast chickens. Do make sure to wash down your meal with jugs of traditional or fruit Sangria. We love the Bruschetta with Crushed Vine Tomato, Serrano & Basil (juicy pieces of roasted vineyard tomato, paired alongside crushed pieces of oven-baked Bruschetta) and the Broccoli with Garlic, Goats Cheese & Almonds (just-plucked pieces of broccoli paired with delicious pieces of fresh cheese and crunchy almonds)

Dishes We Love: Broccoli with Garlic, Goats Cheese & Almonds, Bruschetta with Crushed Vine Tomato, Serrano & Basil, Bruschetta with Prawns & Garlic Aioli

Find it at 18 Shelley St., Central
Click here for more info on Iberico & Co

Chico Chica

An up-and-coming tapas bar located in hip Sai Ying Pun, Chico Chica is one of our favourite places to try out tapas outside the Iberian coast. Crowd pleasers include Tomato Tempura – cherry tomato paired with wasabi and mozzarella, and Pluma Hamburger – a juicy hamburger patty with Hoisin sauce on the side. Sure, the tapas are on the simple side, but we love their simple, fresh creations.

Dishes We Love: Tomato Tempura, Pluma Hamburger, Octopus Galicia

Find it at 70 Third St., Sai Ying Pun
Click here for more info on Chico Chica

Tags Bars, Guides, Lunch

Destination Hong Kong

6 Asian Restaurants, with a Modern Twist!

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date February 14, 2017
No Comments on 6 Asian Restaurants, with a Modern Twist!

Tired of Yardbird, but want a quick fix of classic Asian cuisine with a modern take? Worry not! Here’s a list of six up-and-coming restaurants that we love, popping up all over town. From a modern take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine to a contemporary twist on Taiwanese classics, we have you covered!

Mrs. Pound

Nestled in an old stamp shop, Mrs. Pound is one of the coolest restaurants around! It’s easy to walk right past the green / white storefront – unless you have a particular interest in stamps. (We’re not judging.) What sets Mrs. Pound apart however, is its playful take on Asian street food. One dish worth trying out is the Sriracha Street Corn – a chunk of juicy grilled corn, dressed up with pecorino cheese, and rubbed up with spicy sriracha spicy mayo. So delicious! Don’t also forget Mrs. Pound’s signature Rendang Bao, an incredible melt-in-the-mouth bao plumped up with smoldering char siu sauce.

Dishes We Love: Sriracha Street Corn, Rendang Bao, Avocado Fries

Find it at G/F, 6 Pound Lane, Sheung Wan
Click here for more info on Mrs. Pound

Dragon Noodles Academy

A perennial Chope favourite, Dragon Noodles Academy offers the best of fun, quality contemporary-classic Canto classics, but with a modern twist. Most of the cool dishes worth trying out are on their dinner menu, including Peking Duck, Fried Rice and Whole Fish, which is braised in several mouthwatering ways. The afternoon tea menu also has a few dishes to nosh on – Sous Vide Chiz Rolls, pseudo-sushi rolls made with boneless chicken, and Berry Winter Melon, resembling none other than mini melons! One final ‘don’t miss’ item – the 12-hour Sous Vide US Bone-in Short Ribs. The slices of beef are incredibly tender, juicy and are packed full of flavour!

Savvy Saver Tip: Dragon Noodles’ lunch menu offers great value, with mains starting at only $79

Dishes We Love: Homemade Duck Foie Gras, Classic Lobster Bisque, Rib-eye Steak

Find it at Shop No. G04, G/F, Man Yee Arcade, Man Yee Building, No. 68 Des Voeux Road, Central
Book a table at Dragon Noodles Academy and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Chom Chom

Chom Chom brings Vietnam’s lively Bia Hoi tradition of sipping fresh beer on busy street corners to Hong Kong. With a menu inspired by classic Hanoi street fare, paired with regional Vietnamese beers, it’s one of the coolest takes on traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a modern setting.

Head directly to their Large Plates menu, and be sure to try out Shaking Beef (juicy beef tenderloin, paired with rocket and tomato salad) as well as their low-carb Short Rib Lettuce Wraps. The wraps are full of juicy braised short ribs, and have a kick thanks to a mix of spring onion and diced red chili peppers.

Dishes We Love: Shaking Beef, Short Rib Lettuce Wraps, Bun Cha Pork Skewer

Find it at G/F Block A, No. 58 – 60, Peel St., Central
Click here for more info on Chom Chom

4FUN by Check-In Taipei

Taiwanese puh-leez! We love Check-In Taipei and the street food memories it evokes every time we visit. Unlike traditional Taiwanese food, which isn’t the most photogenic, Check-In Taipei’s dishes are truly Instagram-worthy, and delicious at the same time. What a great combo!

We love their crispy Chicken & Waffles sliders, which are seasoned with chunks of crunchy garlic, tangy ginger and five-spice powder, as well as C.I.T. Noodles, based off of a traditional Taiwanese pork rice dish. Truly a fun, new twist on a Taiwanese classic!

Dishes We Love: Ping Pong, Chicken & Waffles, Flaming Beef Shortrib

Find it at G/F, 27 Hollywood Rd., Central
Book a table at 4FUN by Check-In Taipei and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Little Bao

Little Bao combines the best of sharing – food and cultures. Influenced by international tastes of its hometown Hong Kong, Little Bao serves up an original take on classic comfort foods that we’ve all grown to love.

Much of Little Bao’s menus consist of small plates that encourage sharing, along with some seasonal specials. Dishes that we currently obsess over include their four baos on tap: Pork Belly Bao, Chicken Bao, Fish Tempura Bao and Mushroom Bao. Aside from their signature baos, be sure to try on their sumptuous sides – Orange Chicken, Eggplant & Shiso Pork Tempura. The former is coated with sweet and salty batter, and has an orangey, zesty kick to it. The latter, well, it’s hella tasty! That’s all we can say.

Be prepared for an authentic (and fun) cross-cultural eating experience for all!

Dishes We Love: Fish Tempura Bao, Pickled Mushroom Salad, Orange Chicken

Find it at 66 Staunton St., SoHo
Click here for more info on Little Bao

YUM CHA

Who can forget the decadent Instagram-able dishes at YUM CHA? The dishes are a perfect take on traditional Chinese fare – with much more sophisticated flavours to boot. We love their adorable Hot Custard Bun (oozy buns filled to the top, with cute lil’ eyeballs). Some of their main dishes are also Instagram-worthy. Their Egg White and Seafood Fried Rice and the Organic Kale with Garlic are sure not to miss as well. Be sure to head over to YUM CHA, for a great, modern take on traditional Chinese dishes!

Dishes We Love: Piggy BBQ Bun, Hot Custard Bun, Egg White and Seafood Fried Rice

Find it at Shop 1 – 2, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Rd., Central
Book a table at YUM CHA and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chinese, Guides, Taiwanese, Vietnamese

Destination Hong Kong Save/Splurge

9 Best Affordable French Restaurants in Hong Kong

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date February 10, 2017
No Comments on 9 Best Affordable French Restaurants in Hong Kong

Who hasn’t had that craving for a delicious seafood Bouillabaisse or a succulent Coq au Vin?

Hong Kong has some delicieux French-dining establishments, but sometimes we just don’t want to break the bank just for the opportunity to dine on crisp, white tablecloths, imbibe four to five-figure bottles of wine and savour French culinary creations. As the French say, ‘Ce n’était pas un problème!’ We have you covered with our guide to the best affordable French restaurants around Hong Kong.

Bon appétit!

Bistro du Vin

Nestled in hip and quaint Kennedy Town, Bistro du Vin has been a convivial addition to the up-and-coming neighborhood. We love Bistro du Vin’s rustic French décor, replete with bare wooden furniture, art-deco-inspired tiled flooring and diffused lighting. What’s more, its intimate setting (around 20 tables), makes it just private enough to for a romantic dinner for two or a private gathering for four.

The starters and mains at Bistro du Vin are reminiscent of French, homey classics. Must-try Starters include Escargots in Shell, Garlic Herb Butter, which include juicy pieces of succulent escargot sitting atop a fatty, melting piece of bone marrow, and Cheesy Onion Soup – an oozy, creamy soup infused with sage butter. Our favourites mains include their signature Coq au Vin – garlic and Burgundy wine-infused goodness! All in all, Bistro du Vin is the place for delicious French classics reminiscent of the best of France. Even better? You can dine there for less than the cost of a night of boozing it up in TST!

Dishes We Love: Assiette of Hokkaido Sausages, Escargots in Shell, Crispy Suckling Pig Confit
Price points: Starters [$90 – $180], Mains [$200 – $260]

Find it at Shope 1D, Davis St., Kennedy Town
Book a table at Bistro du Vin

Eiffel Bistro

Located in peaceful Taikoo Shing, Eiffel Bistro is quickly positioning itself as the place for either an upscale business lunch or a more chill family soirée. We love Eiffel’s Parisian-style bistro, open kitchen, and wide, people-watching windows and artwork, inspired by the iconic Eiffel tower.

Eiffel’s menu is a bit more diverse than other classic French bistros on our list. Inclusive of additions such as fishes, meats and sharing platters, Eiffel Bistro’s a la carte offerings are definitely fit for anyone’s taste. We love Eiffel’s Homemade Duck Foie Gras, which include two generous pieces of perfectly cooked liver coupled with seasonal chutney and crispy toast. Eiffel’s Classic Lobster Bisque – creamy and buttery goodness with massive chunks of succulent lobster – is not to be missed. Be sure to try their Seared Tuna Steak (jet-fresh tuna perfectly charred coupled with crunchy bacon bites) and Eiffel’s signature Rib-eye Steak. It’s a juicy and tender rib-eye cutlet coupled with buttery Allgot mashed potatoes! This could be better than a visit to Paris…

Savvy Saver Tip: Book through Chope and enjoy 15% off Eiffel’s A La Carte Menu (excluding beverages and service charge)

Dishes We Love: Homemade Duck Foie Gras, Classic Lobster Bisque, Rib-eye Steak
Price points: Starters [$68 – $168], Mains [$158 – $288]

Find it at Stage 5, Shop G514, Tai Yue Ave., Tai Koo
Book a table at Eiffel Bistro

le Relais de l’Entrecote

Located in bustling Wan Chai, le Relais de l’Entrecote is the place for authentic French bistro flavours, crunchy home-made fries and tangy, signature ‘secret’ sauce that has all of Hong Kong talking. We love how le Relais uses only the freshest, and highest quality ingredients, imported directly from France.

Le Relais’ affordably priced set lunch menu is the gem that keeps on giving. Their ‘light lunch’ menu starts at only $168 and comes with a Green Salad with Walnuts and le Relais’ signature Steak & French Fries drizzled with a unique sauce. Le Relais’ Steak et Frites is to die for! The crunchy, yet light, sizzling duck fat potato wedges coupled with a juicy French sirloin seared to perfection showcases the best of French cooking. If you have a sweet tooth, then be sure to try out le Relais’ tender, rich, and creamy vanilla bean-infused Crème Brûlée (!). If you’re on the east side of the Island, head over to le Relais de l’Entrecote for the best of what France has on offer at an affordable price.

Savvy Saver Tip: Pre-purchase Chope Vouchers, and get 10% off

Dishes We Love: Green Salad with Walnuts, Steak and Fries with Unique Sauce, Profiteroles
Price points: Set Lunch [$168], Set Dinner [$288]

Find it at 222 Queen’s Road E., Wan Chai
Book a table at le Relais de l’Entrecote

Bistronomique (Kennedy Town)

Head over to Bistronomique’s Kennedy Town outpost for great flavours and striking minimalism. With its high ceilings, Bistronomique’s dining room decor touts Scandinavian chic meets country rustic. We love the warm cream tones , providing a soothing ambiance overall. Tables are a bit too close for our liking, but hey, what’s not to like in being close to your fellow comrades? Maybe you can try a bit of their Roasted Goose if you ask nicely.

Led by local chef David Lai, Bistronomique combines the best of local Hong Kong flavour with the techniques and culinary concoctions of the kitchens of illustrious restaurants such as Alain Ducasse’s Le Louis XV in Monaco. Don’t miss out on Bistronomique’s delicious Kurobuta Pork Belly and Roasted Goose, a tender and juicy bird, sizzled alongside crunchy, oven-cooked chestnut, sage-infused pumpkin and spinach. For those looking to pinch a penny (or two), check out their fall-off-the-bone Slow-Cooked Australian Lamb Shank: priced at a reasonable $258. All in all, Bistronomique is the place for an affordable yet elegant evening with with your loved one!

Dishes We Love: Brown Butter Frogs Legs, Truffled Salt Cod Brandade, Slow Cooked Lamb Shank
Price points: Starters [$75 – $88], Mains [$248 – $338]

Find it at Shop 1, 1 Davis Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong
Book a table at Bistronomique

Chez Patrick Deli (Star Street)

If you’re in the mood for some of the French tastes you enjoyed at Chez Patrick Restaurant, then visit Chez Patrick Deli and you’ll find the same fresh, hand-plucked ingredients found in Chez Patrick’s food, but for less! Most of the products and ingredients found here are as fresh as those found in its sister restaurant, and you’ll find a bunch of homey bistro menu items including home-smoked salmons, freshly baked breads and homemade pates and jams.

We love the Crab and Avocado Tartar – delicious, hand-plucked crab married with zesty avocado – and the Green Asparagus Soup: salty and savoury, oven-roasted asparagus paired with shallots, onions. We’re also mildly obsessed their Organic Wholewheat Seafood Liguini – jet-fresh squid, clams and scallops married with white wine sauce and fresh tomato, oh my! – and Chicken Basquaise (roasted chicken leg with seared Espelette peppers).

Dishes We Love: Crispy Pork Belly, Crispy Shredded Yam, King Prawn with Bang Sauce and Fried Man Tou
Price points: Starters [$68 – $128], Mains [$118 – $218]

Find it at 3 Star St., Wan Chai
Chez Patrick Deli (Star Street)

The Continental

Even though we know that The Continental isn’t a pure play French restaurant, we love the restaurant’s contemporary design, inspired by Europe’s grand cafés. The best way to describe The Continental is French elegance meets British gastronomy.

What’s more, their Valentine’s Day Set Menu is sure one not to miss. We can’t get enough of their Butter Poached Alaskan Halibut & Caviar, featuring crushed russet potatoes, with tangy lemon butter and luxurious bits of caviar. Don’t miss out their seared Rangers Valley ‘Black Market’ Rib Cap Steak garnished with bits of crunchy cauliflower and black truffle. Finish the night off with a delectable Strawberry Tart, and Champagne Coulis – a freshly-baked tart mixed with succulent, just-picked strawberries. This set menu is definitely one that’s worth breaking any diet for!

Dishes We Love: Taiyouran Egg Carbonara, Rib Cap Steak, Noisette
Price points: Set Dinner [$1,388 per couple], Starters [$95 – $215], Mains [$215 – $625]

Find it at Unit 406, L4, 88 Queensway Rd., Admiralty
Book a table at The Continental

LE CAFÉ de Joël Robouchon

Two-Michelin starred chef Joël Robouchon is famous for his LE JARDIN and L’ATELIER dining concepts, offering the best of French classics amidst a contemporary fine-dining experience. If shelling out four to five-figures for lunch ain’t your thing, head over to LE CAFÉ de Joël Robouchon, and savour Michelin-starred culinary delights at half the price!

Neatly ensconced amongst the litany of Harbour City shops with the likes of French staples such as Maison Margiela and Chloé sits Robouchon’s affordable offshoot, LE CAFÉ. We love the Mixed Mushroom ‘velouté’ with Black Truffle and their sumptuous Hokkaido Kegani Snow Crab Salad with Avocado off their starters menu. Mains worth pecking at include Crispy Duck Confit with Fresh Figs and Cabbage as well as Iberico Pork with Mashed Potato and Classic Charcutiere Sauce. Sure, having dinner whilst hearing hordes of shoppers vying for the next GUCCI sale sure ain’t romantic, but LE CAFÉ offers high-quality timeless French classics at an unbeatable price.

Savvy Saver Tip: If you’re in a hurry, head to LE CAFÉ’s express counter and grab one of their baguettes, shipped daily from Paris.

Dishes We Love: Crispy Duck Confit with Fresh Figs, Iberico Pork Rib with Mashed Potato and Classic Charcuterie Sauce, Mixed Mushroom ‘Velvoute’ with Black Truffle

Price points: Starters [$160 – $290], Mains [$180 – $300]

Find it at Harbour City, 2608-2610, 3 Canton Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Click here for more information on LE CAFÉ

Les Fils à Maman

Named after four childhood friends who decided to bring back the good old recipes they enjoyed so much during their childhood, Les Fils à Maman serves up simple homemade classics their French mothers used to cook them everyday.

We love the Obelix & Asterix references, and the adorable childhood pictures of the co-founders of the restaurant, found in Les Fils’ rustic menu. It’s certainly something unique, and different vis-à-vis other restaurants that we had the pleasure of visiting. We love the outrageous value found within Les Fils’ lunch menu, including dishes such as Fried Spices Babybel Croquettes, Raw & Smoked Salmon Rilletes as well as Fish of the Day and Seasonal Pot. What’s more, most French degustations at Les Fils are under $200! As an added bonus, we dig their tastefully designed interior; it’s reminiscent of the rustic chateaus off in France’s Burgundy region and costs waaaay less than a plane ticket to France.

Dishes We Love: Fried Spices Babyel Croquettes, Raw & Smoked Salmon Rilletes, Seared Red Tuna Burger
Price points: Starters [$40 – $100], Mains [$155 – $200]

Find it at 75 Hollywood Rd., Central
Click here for more information on Les Fils à Maman

Cocotte

The instant that you walk into Cocotte you’re reminded of that chic Parisien home with plush velvet chairs and eye-catching wallpaper. Standouts at Cocotte include the juicy Steak Tartare, and delicious Crab Cake as well as the perfectly-seared, oh-so-tender Wagyu Beef Bravette Steak. Cocotte’s Discovery Menu is certainly worth perusing, especially their Truffle Risotto, which features truffle shavings and parmesan married with delicious pasta. Don’t miss out on the Grilled Beef Mignon, a juicy, chargrilled cut mixed with freshly cut and perfectly salted homemade fries. Oooh la la indeed.

Dishes We Love: Truffle Risotto, Grilled Beef Filet Mignon, Goat Cheese and Vegetables Tart
Price points: Set Dinner [$1,388 per couple], Starters [$95 – $215], Mains [$215 – $625]

Find it at 9 Shin Hing St., Central
Book a table at Cocotte

Tags Cheap, Cheap and Good, French, Guides, Michelin, Save

Destination Hong Kong

11 Best Dim Sum Restaurants in Hong Kong

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date January 26, 2017
No Comments on 11 Best Dim Sum Restaurants in Hong Kong

Who doesn’t love dim sum? Here’s a list of 11 of our favourite dim sum restaurants to try in Hong Kong the next time you have that yearning for hot, creamy Custard Buns and Har Gao. In fact, if you’ll excuse us…

YUM CHA

Of all the dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong, YUM CHA offers dim sum with a modern twist; it’s quickly earning a reputation as one of the hottest places in town to get your fix. Conveniently close to the MTR and across from ‘The ONE’ in TST, YUM CHA is a great option if you’re looking for something quick, easy and delicious on the Kowloon side. Don’t forget to try out YUM CHA’s adorable Piggy BBQ Buns (almost too cute to eat), and their Sticky Rice and Shrimp Veggie Dumplings! Even better? YUM CHA’s Hot Custard Buns.

Their Custard Buns are one of our favourite dim sum dishes and for good reason: they’re fluffy on the outside but rich and gooey in the inside; just the right consistency. Chef Winson Yip is the mastermind behind a slew of delightful dishes at YUM CHA including Apple-Rosette Egg Tarts, Doggy Sausage Rolls and those adorable bird-shaped shrimp puffs that resemble animated characters. Of course, don’t miss YUM CHA’s more eclectic eats like Marinated Chicken in Spicy Sauce, and their Scallion Ginger Pork Knuckles. YUM CHA indeed.

Dishes We Love: Piggy BBQ Buns, Sticky Rice & Shrimp Veggie Dumplings, Hot Custard Buns

Find it at Nan Fung Tower, 2/F, 173 Des Voeux Rd., Central
Book a table at YUM CHA (Central) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Lei Garden

Lei Garden’s legacy in traditional Cantonese-style cuisine is something to behold given the unique Chinese tasting menus inspired from different parts of the world. One of the top dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong, Lei Garden boasts impeccable service and mouth-watering dim sum at surprisingly affordable prices.

Must-eats include their Steamed Pork & Mushroom Dumplings (a uniquely flavourful blend of steamed pork and Chinese mushrooms), Barbecued Delicacies Combo (a delicious potpourri of tantalising barbecued pork and roast goose) and Salt and Pepper Mantis Prawn (deep-fried fresh seafood goodness from Hong Kong). All in all, Lei is the perfect place for some Chinese wholesome deliciousness.

Dishes We Love: Steamed Pork & Mushroom Dumplings, Barbecued Delicacies Combo, Salt & Pepper Mantis Prawn

Find it at International Finance Center, 1 Harbour View St., Central
Book a table at Lei Garden (IFC) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Ming Court

Fancy some Michelin-starred dim sum in Mong Kok? Don’t forget to try out the two Michelin-starred Ming Court – their sophisticated menu is influenced by cuisine in China, Europe, Australia and Japan – and is truly the place to be for the best dim sum in Hong Kong!

We dig Ming Court’s stylish, quietly subdued ambiance nestled in the five-star Langham Place Hotel. Authentically Chinese, but with a contemporary twist, Ming Court’s modern decor echoes a traditional Chinese restaurant – minus the translucent lighting, noisy kitchen and surly wait staff. Led by Chef Mango Tsang Chiu Lit, Ming Court offers bold and rich flavours alongside exceptional ingredients.

Be sure to try the divine six-course degustation menu, as well as Ming Court’s signature dim sum menu. From the Shanghainese Pork Dumplings to their Eel Spring Roll with Minced Shrimp, Ming Court is the place to try outstanding gourmet Chinese dim sum in an authentic setting in Kowloon.

Dishes We Love: Shanghainese Pork Dumplings, Steamed Drunken Shrimp Dumpling Cooked in Chinese Wine, Eel Spring Roll with Minced Shrimp

Find it at Cordis Hotel, Level 06, 555 Shanghai St., Mong Kok
Book a table at Ming Court and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Dynasty

If you’re looking for dim sum with a view, then head over to Dynasty – the award-winning Chinese restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of Renaissance Harbour View Hotel. It’s a great setting to dine at a venerable Hong Kong institution renowned for great dim sum and char siu. If you haven’t had the pleasure, char siu is the finger-licking goodness of roasted succulent pork enveloped in honey BBQ and charred to a state of sticky perfection.

Don’t forget to try out their Trio Dim Sum Platter, which includes Shu Mai (pork and mushroom dumpling), Fan Guo (steamed dumplings with veggies and peanuts) and Har Gao (shrimp dumplings). Another must-try is Dynasty’s Fresh Crab Claw Steamed with Parsley and Preserved Egg. Even though it might sound a bit odd, the egg whites in the dish give it an airy, light texture that offsets the rich flavours of the fresh crab.

Dishes We Love: Trio Dim Sum Platter, Barbecue Pork, Deep-fried Fresh Prawns with Oats, Buddha Jump Over The Wall

Find it at Renaissance Harbour View Hotel, Level 03, 1 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai
Book a table at Dynasty and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Nanhai No. 1

Nanhai No. 1 is more atypical of the dim sum restaurants on this list in that they serve Guangdong-inspired dishes. Nanhai, named after the Chinese naval navigator Zheng, mixes stellar harbour views with impeccable service from servers dressed in nautical-themed wear. The restaurant’s dim sum menu reflects the nautical-themed ambiance of the restaurant, setting it apart in our minds.

The extensive menu is primarily Cantonese dim sum dishes; be sure to try out Nanhai’s two signature dishes – Crispy Pork Belly and Crispy Shredded Yam. The former is cooked just to perfection, leaving you with a crispy, yet satisfying crunch, whilst the latter is definitely a surprise hit – thinly shredded, crunchy, and a sweet/salty contrast in each bite. The gooey drizzle of honey on top the crispy shredded yam only accentuates this piquant mix. Two dim sum desserts worth sharing include their adorable Sesame Seed Balls – all airy, puffy but wonderfully chewy – as well as the Chilled Blueberry Pudding – succulent blueberry goodness, but light and guilt-free, at the same time!

Here’s a helpful Chope tip: when booking, be sure to put in a request for a window table as some of the booths at Nanhai are somewhat dark and have restricted views.

Dishes We Love: Crispy Pork Belly, Crispy Shredded Yam, King Prawn with Bang Sauce and Fried Man Tou

Find it at iSQUARE, Level 30, 63 Nathan Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Book a table at Nanhai No. 1 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Ye Shanghai

We’ve had our fair share of Shanghainese-inspired cuisine here in Hong Kong, and two-Michelin-starred Ye Shanghai is certainly not to be missed.

Our favourite dishes include their piping hot soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), Glutinous Rice Balls (Chi Fan Tuan), fried plain buns dipped in condensed milk (Mantou) and their Hua Diao Wine Marinated Drunken Chicken. One of the unique things about Shanghainese cuisine is their preference for cold appetisers, and while Ye Shanghai’s wide selection is certainly extensive, it’s not too overwhelming. The final show stopper at Ye Shanghai is the rich Black Sesame Créme Brûlée with Roasted Peanut Butter Ice Cream. We seriously cannot get enough of this dish – the velvety texture of the créme brûlée, combined with the graininess of the the bold, black sesame, makes this honestly one of our favourite dishes on Ye Shanghai’s dim sum dessert menu that’s worth breaking any diet for!

Dishes We Love: Xiao Long Bao, Chi Fan Tuan, Sea Cucumber with Mild Chili Sauce

Find it at Pacific Place, Level 03, 88 Queensway Rd., Admiralty
Book a table at Ye Shanghai (Pacific Place) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Dim Sum Bar

Dim Sum Bar is by no means your average, run-of-the mill dim sum restaurant. Its modern interior, sans chandeliers, makes it a welcome respite from the ornately-decorated interiors of many dim sum restaurants across Hong Kong. Despite the modest digs, be prepared to be dazzled by many of the dim sum options on the menu.

Dishes at Dim Sum Bar are presented elegantly, giving off a clean, pared back feel while maintaining a casual, down-to-earth vibe. Even though Dim Sum Bar’s old favourites, including Char Siu Cheong Fun and Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai, are great traditional bites, be sure to try out the King’s Dumplings in Lobster Bisque and Traditional Cantonese Fried Rice with Shrimps. Their signature cream buns, including the Baked Almond Cream Buns and Baked Chocolate Cream Buns, are great denouements in a dim sum feast. If you’re a bit bored of the standard fare at other restaurants, and truly want something unique, be sure to try out Dim Sum Bar.

Dishes We Love: Baked Abalone and Chicken Pastry, Black Truffle Shrimp Shumai, King’s Dumplings in Lobster Bisque

Find it at Harbour City, G103, 3 Canton Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Book a table at Dim Sum Bar (Tsim Sha Tsui) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Hoi King Heen

Hoi King Heen is certainly one of Hong Kong’s hidden digs. Despite its cosy location, nestled in the basement of the Intercontinental Grand Stanford, Hoi King Heen is recognised as one of Hong Kong’s finest Chinese restaurants, specialising in Cantonese cuisine. What’s even better? They’re Michelin starred!

We dig their tastefully designed interior, it’s a welcome respite from the blinged out, chandelier-laden ostentation that seem to pervade the interiors of almost all of Hong Kong’s Chinese restaurants.

Two menus worth a perusal are the Awards Degustation Menu and the Promotion Menu. We dig the Michelin-starred items in the former, including Steamed Fresh Crab Claw with Egg White in Far Dew Chinese Wine and Sautéed Diced Beef Tenderloin with Lingzhi Mushrooms and Osmanthus. That said, Hoi King Heen’s ever-changing promotion menu is something to behold; right now they’re featuring the Chinese Festive Cuisine menu that showcases crowd favourites including Baked Bird’s Nest with Eggs, Scallops and Crab Roe, as well as Stewed Tibetan Brisket of Lamb with Bamboo Shoots and Mushrooms. Who could ask for more?

Dishes We Love: Steamed Garoupa Roll with Yunnan Ham, Pan Fried Glutinous Rice with Chicken, Braised Winter Melon Balls Stuffed with Black Olives Mustard

Find it at Intercontinental Grand Stanford, Basement Level, 70 Mody Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Click here for more info on Hoi King Heen

Tim Ho Wan

Every Honker knows about Tim Ho Wan. These self-proclaimed ‘dim sum specialists’ are one of the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants in the world! What’s more, they’ve recently launched a global domination plan erecting outlets far and wide, from Singapore to most recently, New York. In our book, Tim Ho Wan offers the best inexpensive dim sum in Hong Kong.

Sure, the seating and decor ain’t luxurious (unless you fancy sitting elbow-to-elbow with diners and dining out of melamine resin dishes) but, hey, the dim sum at Tim Ho Wan more than makes up for the lack of ambiance! Our favourite dishes include their juicy, and succulent steamed beancurd roll (Fuu Pei Guen) and their tender minced pork and shrimp dumplings (Siu Mai). Also, be sure to indulge in Tim Ho Wan’s lotus leaf-infused glutinous rice dumpling (Lor Mei Gai). You’ll definitely get your money’s worth here, as this dish is full of the rich flavours of juicy, tangy, succulent chicken and earthy degustations of freshly-picked shiitake mushrooms. The best part of finishing up Tim Ho Wan’s Lor Mei Gai? You’ll get the burst of sweet n’ salty goodness from finishing up the egg yolk in the middle!

Dishes We Love: Prawn Dumpling, Baked Bun with BBQ Pork, Beef Ball with Beancurd Skin, Spring Roll with Egg White

Find it at Hong Kong Station, Basement Level, 8 Finance St., Central
Click here for more info on Tim Ho Wan

Crystal Jade Jiang Nan

Amid divine dim sum, seafood steamed to perfection, and cosy Hong Kong-style seating booths is Crystal Jade Jiang Nan – think Din Tai Fung meets Lei Garden. Celebrating its fifteenth anniversary, we can’t get enough of Crystal Jade’s juicy and succulent Steamed Black Guinea Pork Xiao Long Bao and Handmade Dan Dan Noodles in Soup.

Dishes We Love: Steamed Black Guinea Pork Xiao Long Bao, Handmade Dan Dan Noodles in Soup, Double-boiled Duck Soup with Handmade Fish Balls, Braised Mandarin Fish with Rice Wine Sauce

Find it at Tai Yau Plaza, Third Level, 181 Johnston Rd., Wan Chai
Book a table at Crystal Jade Jiang Nan and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

T’ang Court

We know we’re Michelin snobs, but T’ang Court is a worthy must-try on our list of best dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong. Winner of multiple culinary accolades, T’ang Court reflects the classic timelessness of the Tang Dynasty, China’s golden age. Luxuriate amidst velvet upholstery, embossed cushions and lavish furnishings whilst dining on authentic Cantonese culinary masterpieces popular during China’s gilded age.

Don’t miss out on their seasonally rotating menus, comprised of T’ang Court’s take on what’s ‘popping’ in the culinary ingredients universe. Eye-catchers in T’ang’s latest dim sum menu include Pan-Fried Rice Flour Rolls with Homemade Spicy Sauce, Golden-Fried Beef Dumplings with Spring Onion and Ginger and Steamed Shrimp and Scallop with Truffle Paste Dumplings.

Dishes We Love: Pan-Fried Rice Flour Rolls with Homemade Spicy Sauce, Steamed Shrimp and Scallop with Truffle Paste Dumplings, Golden-Fried Beef Dumplings with Spring Onion and Ginger

Find it at The Langham, 8 Peking Rd. Tsim Sha Tsui
Click here for more info on T’ang Court

Tags Cafe, Coffee, Dim Sum, Guides

Destination Hong Kong Shanghai Singapore

7 of the Most Innovative Coffee Cocktails in Asia

Post author By
Post date November 4, 2016
No Comments on 7 of the Most Innovative Coffee Cocktails in Asia

These are not your typical espresso martinis, folks.

Inspired by a recent visit to my Chope Shanghai compatriots that involved several coffee-based alcoholic beverages, as well as my general predisposition for all things coffee and alcohol, I decided to take it upon myself to find the most innovative caffeinated cocktails across Asia.

While a shot of whisky in your afternoon long black is a quick ‘n dirty instant fix (not that I’ve ever done that), I suggest you instead visit any of these renowned spots to experience a creative coffee cocktail mixed to perfection – at a more socially acceptable hour of course.

The Liberties: Coconut Cold Brew & Irish Whiskey at Jigger and Pony, Singapore

Let’s start right in our own backyard – we all know that the team at Jigger and Pony crafts a killer cocktail, but The Liberties truly exceeded my high expectations. As you take the first sip an arresting aroma of roasted chocolate makes it difficult not to dive right into the mix of Teeling small batch Irish whisky, coconut cold brew coffee, pandan bitters, and the source of the heavenly smell: a garnish of roasted chocolate nibs. The taste is impeccably smooth with only the faintest hint of coconut complementing the full-bodied flavour combo of Irish whisky and cold brew. It’s like the rich, sophisticated aunt of a Black Russian who you’ll want to visit again and again.

Find Jigger & Pony at 101 Amoy Street (Telok Ayer), Singapore

Californication – coffee infused beer at Ocean Grounds, Shanghai

What do you get when you cross one of the best craft beer breweries in China with one of the most innovative coffee bars in Asia? Cue up Californication, a combination of Boxing Cat Brewery amber ale that’s brewed with Ocean Grounds’ Santa Leticia Bourbon Especial cold drip coffee. The 14-hour brewed cold drip has hints of palm sugar, tootsie roll, and nougat, thus the the resulting beer that’s been brewed WITH the coffee is crisp with notes of caramel – a heady experience that warrants several rounds. What surprises me most is that coffee beers tend to be in the stout or porter families, but this light and refreshing amber ale brew pushes boundaries in new and delicious directions.

Find Ocean Grounds at Hong Kong Plaza, Room 1-09A,283 Huaihai Zhong Lu, Shanghai, China

Photo Credit: Eat Drink KL

Golden Eclipse – hot espresso Nutella milk with rum at Olfactory Bulb Cafe, Petaling Jaya (Kuala Lumpur)

Olfactory Bulb Cafe specialises in coffee, tea, and chocolate-based cocktails (when can I move in?), so choosing just one from their extensive menu proved a bit challenging. One look at “Nutella milk” however, and I was sold. The Golden Eclipse contains Mount Gay Barbados Rum, Frangelico, chocolate bitters, espresso, and house-made Nutella milk. It’s a nutty, sweet, hazelnut-mocha-like reason to drink alcohol that warms like a nice cuppa hot cocoa, with a grown-up twist.

Find Olfactory Bulb Cafe at 15-2, Jalan PJU 5/13, Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

reviver-regent-sg

Reviver – jalapeno and coffee bean infused apple brandy at Manhattan, Singapore

Forget an alarm clock, take a swig of the Reviver at Manhattan (which was recently named Asia’s best bar and 11th best in the WORLD) and you’ll be feeling all kinds of alive. Daron calvados (apple brandy), Carpano Antica Formula vermouth, Ferrand Dry orange curaçao, sugar, bitters, cloves, jalapeno, and coffee beans are all soaked together overnight to make this complex drink. Spicy, bold, and strong, this is a cocktail fit for one of the top bars on the planet.

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Level 2, Regent Hotel, Singapore
Book a table at Manhattan.

Costadoro Martini, an updated espresso martini at The Artisan Room, Hong Kong

It’s no secret that I’m a sucker for a good espresso martini, but The Artisan Room’s updated version on the classic reinvents the wheel in all the right ways without straying too far from a formula proven to work. They specialise in coffee and tea cocktails, so rest assured there is skill, passion, and experience behind this badass tipple. Instead of coffee liqueur, vodka, and espresso (a typical espresso martini), the Costadoro Martini is created with dark rum, Costadoro espresso, Bailey’s, coconut milk, and Okinawa black sugar. The heavier coconut milk and dark sugar result in an exceptionally smooth martini laced with hints of hazelnut and toasted bread from the the Italian coffee exclusive to Artisan Room. Pair that with an al fresco garden area and I think that’s the sound of me packing my bags for Hong Kong.

Find The Artisan Room at 8 South Ln, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong

Photo Credit: Q&A Bar

Coffee Negroni at Q&A Bar, Bangkok

This hip Bangkok speakeasy is so secret that there isn’t even a photo of the elusive coffee cocktail – but something as delicious and unique as a coffee negroni deserves a spot on the list. Hidden behind a nondescript green door in Asok, Q&A has become somewhat of a cult hit for cocktail lovers in Bangkok. With equal parts gin, vermouth, and campari, this negroni mixture brews for six hours with Ethiopian coffee beans resulting in a sultry combination of flavours that fit perfectly with the intimate interior of the bar. The depth and nuttiness of the coffee mellows out some of the bitterness you’d expect from a negroni, which basically means it’s the negroni I’ve always wanted. Ask about their cold brew version as well!

Find Q&A Bar at 235/13 Sukhumvit Soi 21, 02-664-1445, Bangkok, Thailand

Prohibition – Cutty Sark & cold brew at Gibson, Singapore

One of the fruitier options on the list, Gibson goes for a refined simplicity with Prohibition. They mix Cutty Sark Prohibition whisky, grapefruit & orange campari, and Antica Formula (sweet vermouth), with cold brew ice cubes, then garnish with grapefruit zest and gold leaf – ‘cause Gibson is that badass. Think a more robust Manhattan that becomes increasingly smooth as the cold brew ice gradually melts and infuses the drink with the dark and chocolatey notes of the coffee.

Find it at 20 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore
Book a table at Gibson.

Tags Bars, Cocktails, Coffee, Drinks, Guides

Destination Hong Kong

Do or Die: Hong Kong Edition

Post author By Chope
Post date October 27, 2016
No Comments on Do or Die: Hong Kong Edition

HK is a wildly popular holiday destination for many tourists from around the world, and for good reason. From thrilling roller coasters and day-long hikes to decadent culinary delights, the buzzing city has activities that cater to all ages. Here’s the low-down on food, attractions, and activities that promise you the experience of a lifetime if you’re planning to visit Hong Kong.

Tags Do or Die, Guides, Travel