From power lunches to corporate banquets – why business dining matters so much to Hong Kong’s finest restaurants
The smorgasbord of options in terms of diversity and variety for business dining in the city has never been greater, with restaurants and private kitchens going the extra mile to meet increasingly high expectations
The business environment has been difficult in Hong Kong, but people still have to eat and executives still want to work on deals. That means business dining will continue to be vital to restaurants’ own bottom lines.
Of course, competition is also tougher than ever. The smorgasbord of options in terms of diversity and variety for power lunches and corporate banquets has never been greater. From hotel restaurants to private kitchens, classic Chinese institutions to Michelin-star modern fine dining, there truly is something for all in the business community.
Unless you are a start-up, you do not talk deals in a coffee shop or the lounge of a co-share office space. You book a private dining room instead of grabbing a tray when your number is called.
One of the best bolt-holes for business discussion is Italian ristorante Gaia. For two decades it has been a favourite for Central suits to escape for pasta, pizza, and profit-sharing in a secluded Sheung Wan piazza.
“In our case, we think the main key is the trust we gain from customers,” chef Paolo Monti says of their incredible longevity. “The effort is to keep the best of what we are able to create and keep the experience consistent. We are very lucky most of our team has been with us for more than a decade. The challenge is to meet loyal guests’ requests.”
Beyond smart service with a smile, guests continue to retreat to Gaia’s envied location away from traffic and crowds for Monti’s consistently high quality menu, and he knows his guests’ preferences. “We are always turning out our specials and daily lunch menus offering seasonal dishes. So, being in a place that has been around for a long time is a good beginning. After that, the food and service has to be the best.”
A new outlet building a name among business diners is one-Michelin-star Aaharn in Tai Kwun. Contemporary Thai cuisine might not be an obvious choice for a corporate lunch but star chef David Thompson’s inventiveness is forcing it onto the menu.
