From dim sum lunches to fine Italian fare, Hong Kong restaurant picks of a property firm founder
Victoria Allan loves Japanese and Italian food and knows where to take city visitors to make an impression
Australian native Victoria Allan has lived and worked in Hong Kong for more than 25 years. A real estate entrepreneur who founded Habitat Property, she loves nothing more than eating out with her two young children on the weekend.
I’m a creature of habit and like to go to the same few places regularly. My favourite food is Japanese and Italian.
I really like the new Tai Kwun development and love Old Bailey (2/F, JC Contemporary, Tai Kwun, Old Bailey Street, Central, tel: 2877 8711). The interior and the bar area are cool. It’s a great place for drinks and snacks at the bar, or you can stay for dinner. The drinks are really good.
The food and vibe at Chino (1B-1C New Praya, Kennedy Town, tel: 2606 0588) are great and the staff really know what they are talking about. The chef and owner Erik Idos is from Los Angeles and he used to be the executive chef at Nobu, so even though the food is Mexican, it has a Japanese sensibility. His salsas and ceviche are off the charts. The margaritas are pretty good too.
I’m also a fan of Ronin (8 On Wo Lane, Central, tel: 2547 5263) for great Japanese in a small, unique space. They only seat about 15 people and the interior is really beautiful, very considered, which I like. Chef Matt Abergel changes the menu daily depending on what is fresh and available.
