Amid Central's historical neighbourhood, the Pottinger Hotel houses fine-dining Gradini Ristorante Italiano in an elegant and welcoming interior with large windows, pastel hues and subtle Italian design. The service is warm and engaging. Chef Giovanni Greggio takes time to welcome diners and share recommendations. The grilled Mediterranean octopus and citrus salad (HK$140) is delightful. The delectable octopus goes perfectly with bursts of orange and grapefruit on fresh spinach with drizzle of balsamic and olive oil. This complements the Zuppa di Pesce alla Gradini (HK$190) - a hearty soup with robust crustacean tastes in a tomato and herb base. The Tuscan sausage pasta in spicy tomato sauce (HK$220) is a classic, but the rustic eggplant and ricotta takes the cake. The eggplant and ricotta are a velvety blend inside each fresh pasta pouch. The salt-crusted sea bass (HK$320) delivers an aromatic herb blend. Topping off the evening was the sea-salt chocolate truffle slice (HK$75) and the baked sliced apple on filo pastry served with vanilla gelato (HK$75). GRADINI RISTORANTE ITALIANO G/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong, 74 Queen's Road, Central 2308 3088
