Diner’s Diary | Posto Pubblico marks sixth anniversary with some new additions to the menu

On a Tuesday evening, passing through SoHo along the Mid-Levels escalator, we could see a number of restaurants half full or with only a handful of diners, which seemed to reflect the city’s economic slowdown. But when we arrived at Posto Pubblico on Elgin Street, it was bursting with people standing by the entrance with drinks in hand, creating a boisterous atmosphere.

The American-Italian eatery celebrates its sixth anniversary this year with a slight revamp of its menu, and we were invited to try some old favourites and new additions to the menu.

For starters, the long-standing dish of homemade burrata (HK$208) comes with a locally grown tomato sliced and stacked with basil leaves, next to the creamy burrata seasoned with pepper and olive oil. We also liked the king prawn scampi (HK$188) drizzled in lemon juice and cooked with lots of minced garlic.

Our favourite of the evening was the new Bronx bomber pizza fritta (HK$148) – a pizza with crumbled sausage, pepperoni and oregano pan-fried in a cast-iron skillet. It arrives piping hot at the table, so the best way to eat to avoid burnt fingers is with a knife and fork. The bottom and crust were crunchy, and it was gooey and savoury.

Those hankering for a mac'n'cheese (HK$158) can order it here off menu. It arrived with a soft poached egg on top and was more creamy than cheesy.

Chicken Francese style (HK$218) is a lemony treat, the chicken lightly battered then fried with a generous serving of lemon sauce and sliced button mushrooms topped with Italian parsley. The main came with a side of spicy pumpkin (HK$85), segments that are marinated in chilli oil before being roasted. It’s delicious and not too spicy.