The Chinatowns in different cities around the world have, for a long time, symbolised a blend of cultures and an adaptation of ideas. It was with this in mind that Chinatown - a newcomer to Wan Chai's nightlife - was created. From the design of the interior to the menu, it is the epitome of an East-meets-West concept that is becoming popular with many establishments in Hong Kong.
On a recent visit we chose to sit on the veranda outside the bar, which was tastefully decorated and comfortable even on a hot summer evening. Inside, red lanterns, ceiling fans and portraits of famous communist leaders give a distinct Chinese identity to the otherwise typical bar setting. The menu is somewhat limited but boasts a selection of delights from around the world, including popular bar nibbles such as fish and chips and spring rolls. We started with tomato soup ($30 per person), which was bursting with the flavour of fresh tomatoes and extremely appetising. We also liked the deep-fried chicken wings ($45), covered in a light, crunchy batter and fried to a golden brown. Thai fish cakes ($45) were so salty we had to wash them down with a lot of mineral water.
The same fault was repeated in the Thai curried prawns ($85): the over-salted sauce failed to revive the tasteless prawns but left our taste buds numbed. Nasi goreng (Indonesian fried rice, $65) came in a generous portion, complete with two sticks of chicken satay, prawn crackers and a fried egg. The rice was well-made but the chicken satay was tough and almost inseparable from the stick. We ended the meal with a complimentary shooter named Nothing, a delightful combination of melon and coconut liqueur, vodka and pineapple juice. Dinner for two, including drinks, came to $385.
G/F Hang Shun Mansions, 78-82 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai. Tel: 2861 3588. Open: Mon-Thur 11am-3am, Fri-Sat 11am-4am, Sun 5pm-3am. $$
