Refreshing simplicity at Atelier Vivanda, Akrame Benallal's new addition to Ship Street

Atelier Vivanda 
9 Ship Street, Wan Chai, 2109 1768, ateliervivanda.com.hk

Akrame Benallal is a two-Michelin-starred chef known for his eponymous restaurant on Ship Street. His latest venture, Atelier Vivanda, does not disappoint. Located just a block from his fine-dining establishment, the casual eatery keeps it simple with a delectable menu based on meat and potatoes in an intimate environment.

The set menu at HK$448 offers guests the choice of a starter, a meat main, unlimited sides and dessert. It's refreshingly simple, with lots of appetising choices. For starters, we opted for the duck leg terrine, and the beetroot and smoked haddock risotto.

The risotto was cooked to perfection and left us wanting more, while the terrine also did not disappoint.

A range of meats are available for the main course, and we decided on the Persille Black Angus steak and Iberian pork rib. Drizzled in Akrame's own olive oil, the meats were tender and delicious, pairing beautifully with our sides.

The unlimited sides consist solely of potatoes - cooked five ways. There is something for everyone. We especially loved the pommes dauphines (deep-fried potato balls), which melted in our mouths. Also recommended is the gratin dauphinois.

We had to reluctantly stop ourselves from ordering more sides to save room for dessert. The crème brûlée was a delight, but the traditional moelleux served with a green citrus sauce stole the show.