GLOBETROTTING EPICURE

New openings in London and Hong Kong

Adding to his repertoire of jaw-dropping bar designs across Asia, Australian interior designer Ashley Sutton dazzles with not one, but two new projects in Hong Kong; Dining Concept’s Dear Lily and Dragonfly.

F. Scott Fitzgerald would have been right at home sipping an afternoon cocktail in Dear Lily. Sutton recreates the vibe of Paris through a sprawling space of carved wood and soft gold that’s reminiscent of the timeless glamour that enraptured the literary genius. That’s not forgetting Sutton’s attention to detail where he peppers the interiors with bouquets, trinkets and an awe-inspiring ceiling of a wrought iron chandelier swimming in a sea of dried lavender. It paints the perfect backdrop for head chef Bhupendra Singh’s indulgent 8 oz Japanese Wagyu Strip Loin (HKD688/S$120) and Tasting of Caviar platter (HKD488) and, the eclectic cocktails served within the centerpiece of a four-seater bar. The bar stands distinct from the rest of the restaurant, thanks to an elaborate wrought iron floral partition and an extensive library of spirits. You can’t go wrong with the aptly named Mad Enchantment (HK$128) that comes in a teacup and a golden spoon.

Dragonfly, on the other hand, takes a deep dive into the enchanting art nouveau style of Louis Tiffany. It takes bargoers back to the late 19th century with an alluring turquoise interior, patterned mosaics, plus an eye-catching dragonfly nymph statue inspired by René Lalique. Down too many of the Glided Age Sazerac (HKD160) - a mix of Michters Bourbon and Montenegro Amaro - and you might think you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole and into wonderland. Fellow creatives can delight themslves with the Gaudí Sour (HKD130) and martinibased Glass of Gallé (HKD130), based on the legendary Antoni Gaudí and Émile Gallé. Shop 4010, Podium Level 4, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. Tel: +852 2771 6060. Shop 10 - G1, Tai Kwun, Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong.

Tel: +852 2777 2633