If the heat and humidity are getting too much, take a ferry ride across to the Harbour Plaza in Hunghom, which has been transformed for the summer into a Caribbean beach resort. Swimming and snorkelling lessons are offered in the rooftop pool and children can enjoy arts and crafts workshops. The Promenade Coffee Shop is also getting into the island spirit by serving Caribbean dishes, such as conch chowder, fritters and sushi. Phone 2621-3188.
Until August 15, the Island Shangri-La will feature cuisine from Egypt, Greece, Lebanon and Turkey at the Cyrano lunch buffet. The selection will change daily, but the buffet might include cold dishes such as hummous, dolmas and stuffed eggplant, and hot dishes such as couscous, beef shawarma and chicken skewers marinated with saffron and yoghurt. The Middle Eastern buffet is $178 plus 10 per cent Monday to Friday, and $208 Sundays and public holidays. Phone 2820-8591.
The Pizzeria in the Kowloon Hotel is featuring country-style Italian cuisine, with a selection of wines from Marchesi di Gresy winery in Piemonte. On the menu are dishes such as baked artichoke hearts with spinach, risotto with snails and crispy Parma ham and pan-fried eel on chickpea mousse. Many of the wines are available by the glass, and there is a wine-tasting package of three glasses for $140 or $240, depending on selection. Call 2929-2888 ext 3322.
Look out for the revamped Il Mercato. This casual basement restaurant in Lan Kwai Fong will have a new menu starting the first week of August. Some of the dishes will be offered 'family style' - bigger portions that will serve two or more. These dishes include spaghetti with lobster and tomato and mixed grill of fish and seafood; they can also be ordered for single diners. Call 2868-3068.
The Renaissance Harbour View Hotel is serving sparkling and red wines on the wine buffet in the Oasis Lounge. Sparkling wines include Veuve du Vernay from Bordeaux, and Wynns Seaview Brut from South Australia. Fruit liqueurs are provided so guests can make sparkling cocktails. The wine buffet is $150 plus 10 per cent; call 2802-8888 ext 6353.
The food pages are edited by Susan Jung. Tel: 2565-2611. Fax: 2562-2485.