Restaurant review: Social Place, Central - dim sum for a younger crowd

If you think going to yum cha at a regular cha lau is a bit old fashioned, try restaurant group Tang Palace's latest venture, Social Place. This is apparently tailored for a younger crowd. The restaurant in Central has a casual ambience and lively vibe, with a sleek, playful interior design adorned with giant terrariums, golden water kettles, and bottles of sauce and condiments.

Our meal started with a few nicely executed appetisers. The drunken chicken (HK$68) came with tender pieces of drumstick, which had a rich flavour from the Chinese wine it was soaked in.

The spiced ginger pork knuckle (HK$68), served in a glass jar (like the chicken), was bouncy and tasty, thanks to a light soy spiced up with lots of garlic and coriander.

The simple century duck eggs and silken tofu (HK$48) were elevated with Sichuan peppercorn which added complexity.

The truffle shiitake buns (HK$49 for three pieces), which are very popular on social media platforms, are not just about the cute, faux-mushroom look. The bun was a hit with my two-year-old guest, and was soft and fluffy, with a rich (albeit a scarce) filling of diced shiitake with a hint of truffle scent.

The spicy minced pork and vermicelli (HK$78) and osmanthus honey pork and pumpkin (HK$88), were both flavourful.