Boqueria bar offering Spanish tapas celebrates opening in Hong Kong

Spanish tapas are sure taking the city by storm with at least three new bars now featuring the fare.

Last Friday, Boqueria - originally the popular tapas haunt in New York - landed in Hong Kong. A lavish party was thrown to celebrate its grand opening in LKF Tower. About 300 bottles of Cava sparkling wine and 500 glasses of sangria were consumed on the opening night.

The duo behind Boqueria Hong Kong, Christopher Mark and Syed Asim Hussain - who departed from their previous venture in the Dining Concepts group - are convinced they've hit a niche by bringing authentic tapas to town.

"The tapas concept is well accepted by Hong Kong gourmands," said Mark. "In its New York branches, Boqueria has a basic menu and a seasonal menu. We've kept the original basics and added more luxurious choices in the seasonal menu featuring premium ingredients to suit the Hong Kong crowd. The restaurant is accessible but at the same time with a taste of luxury."

Opening for business this week are 22 Ships in Wan Chai by JIA hotel's Yenn Wong and Michelin-starred Jason Atherton, as well as VI Cool in Harbour City by Dining Concepts, featuring celebrity Spanish chef Sergi Arola.