An Australian producer’s choice dining spots in city
Originally from Australia, Kate Oliver is HK executive producer of the theatrical version of The Sound Of Music, the first musical to be staged at Xiqi Centre’s Grand Theatre, running until June 9.
Growing up, dinners were often a simple affair, focused around family. Our usual staple was “meat and three veg”.
I do not spend a lot of time in high-end restaurants; however, for celebrations, Gaia Ristorante
(G/F, Grand Millennium Plaza, 181 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan. Tel: 2167 8200) is my go-to place.
It has been a tradition over many years, and it never disappoints, especially the house made fresh pasta with burrata and pomodoro.
Closer to where I live in Tseung Kwan O, in the New Territories, we have had lovely and simple celebratory evenings at Oolaa
(Shop G16, G/F, Capri Place, 33 Tong Yin Street, O’South Coast, Tseung Kwan O. Tel: 2369 2866). It is hard to beat their slow-roasted pork belly lollipops.
I have shared many happy dim sum visits to Maxim’s Palace Chinese Restaurant (2/F, City Hall, 5-7 Edinburgh Place, Central. Tel: 2521 1303). It is a must for visitors and friends. My girls absolutely love it and know to watch for the trolleys searching for their favourites.
For a special dinner it has got to be Grissini (2/F, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. Tel: 2584 7722). The food, wine and service are exceptional. The warm aroma of freshly baked grissini bread hits you as you walk in and is irresistible. Their wine list is absolutely next level. Try the Ben Rye Passito.
I would also take visitors to Tai Kwun, a wonderful place to walk around and the range of restaurants is fantastic – Madame Fu
(3/F, Barrack Block, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central. Tel: 2114 2118) is another favourite. The setting is gorgeous and their range of dim sum, both traditional and vegetarian, is next level. The Peking duck is delicious, too. Across the Parade Ground,
Cantina (1/F, Block 1, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central. Tel: 2848 3000) has a wonderful ambience.
It is a special spot with the New York-style Italian feel in a Hong Kong heritage building.