Where a Japanese-American in Hong Kong eats ramen, Peking duck, hotpot and katsu curry
- Ichiran for ramen, Saboten for katsu curry, Yardbird for skewers and Zuma for tempura spring rolls – ex-banker has her home comforts nailed
- She also enjoys classic and modern Chinese fare too, and Chaiwala’s Indian street food
Mina Martinez, a former investment banker, now focuses on fundraising and is a board member of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund.
Hong Kong has been my home for the past seven years, before which I spent 17 years in New York and Los Angeles, both food-obsessed cities. Being Japanese-American, I was raised with delicious flavours all around me – most Japanese are foodies.
For Chinese food, I like Mott 32 (B/F, Standard Chartered Bank Building, 4-4A Des Voeux Road Central, tel: 2885 8688). Pre-order their Peking duck, which is a highlight. The ambience is special and hits your eyes immediately. With low lighting and an almost speakeasy feel, it is a luxurious way to enjoy the delicious duck and other modern Chinese dishes.
I also love the hotpot and spicy Sichuan cuisine at San Xi Lou (22/F Coda Plaza, 51 Garden Road, Mid-Levels, tel: 2868 8811). Hotpot is a great way to enjoy a meal with vegetarian friends, using the split pot option.
Equally outstanding is the restaurant’s Sichuan offerings. My favourites are the fish or chicken mixed with whole red chilli peppers, ma po tofu and minced pork with green beans.