Chef Mario Batali and Partner Joe Bastianich Launch LUPA in Hong Kong

Seems like Dining Concepts’ collaboration with Michael White for Al Molo wasn’t enough for the ginormous F&B group—now they’ve pulled in another big-shot American Italian chef, Mario Batali, for a glamorous fine dine in Central.

When our lovely associate editor Hana first found out about this, she was ecstatic—having grown up in New York and all, she’s an ardent fan of Otto, one of the Mario Empire’s many, many restaurants.

The one that’s coming to Hong Kong is called Lupa, and is set to soft-open during the last week of March.

Lupa will be serving Italian American specialties just like its identically named New York counterpart, including escarole, walnut and pecorino salads and primis such as ricotta gnocchi with sweet fennel sausage.

A quick glance at the original New York menu has me thinking that comfort foods like spaghetti alla carbonara and hearty mains like pork loin with braised cabbage and roasted squash will also be on offer—although it’s too early to verify at this point. Mario’s protégé Zach Allen will be heading the kitchen in Hong Kong.