In the sticky toffee pudding stakes, BB's Bar and Brasserie runs a pretty good one. But it's nothing like the rush for this unlikely hot-spot in the middle of Wan Chai.
Live music, a range of beers brewed exclusively for them by South China Brewery in Aberdeen, and late night theme evenings have become the talk of Hong Kong's night life.
Apart from staying open until 3am on weekdays and 5am on Friday and Saturday, BB's has little in common with Wan Chai. With its floor-to-ceiling glass front, minimal lines, and modern Australian menu, the place looks like a bit of Lan Kwai Fong (or even Quarry Bay these days) slumming it among the girlie bars.
The dining area upstairs - called simply Upstairs at BB's - stands tall among the trendy restaurants. Executive chef David Laris, formerly with Mezzaluna in Macau, has designed a menu filled with chi-chi Aussie dishes.
These include a mille feuille of yabbies, tomato, goat's cheese and aioli ($105); zucchini, sour cream and parmesan soup ($50); char-grilled chicken and pancetta caesar salad ($88); and pan-fried barramundi fillets with braised vegetables and crispy leeks ($163). Plus his signature sticky date pudding with warm whisky caramel sauce and cream ($60).
'There are no fixed rules,' Laris says, describing his menu. 'You have to let the food flow. I prefer to do what comes to my head.' Call 2529-7702 for reservations.