Gold Rush: With the precious metal surging to record highs, future investments look golden

Gold has held a captivating appeal through the ages, from the pharaohs with their golden masks to the limited-edition gold smartphones of today. The precious metal is a symbol of wealth, prestige and power, and both nations and individuals crave it. Traditionally it has been seen as a hedge against inflation, and over the last year its desirability has been exceptional.

China’s glittering prize

China is the largest producer of gold, followed by Australia, Russia, Canada and the US. The mainland topped the gold-mining charts with an output of 370 metric tons last year – from a worldwide total of about 3,000 metric tons. Its consistency in this regard is treasured, with the country unearthing over 300 metric tons annually for more than a decade. In the past two years, it has also overtaken India as the world’s biggest consumer of gold.

Gold reached a record high of US$2,450 (HK$19,132) per ounce on 20 May this year. According to many analysts, Chinese demand is one of the chief factors behind the recent price hikes. “China has been showing the biggest increase in demand for gold with a year-to-year increase of 68% in their purchases of physical gold in the first quarter of 2024,” says Joshua Rotbart, founder and Managing Partner of precious metals trading firm J. Rotbart & Co.

Rotbart opines that the weak Chinese currency during the first two months of 2024 was a major factor, motivating locals to preserve their wealth in a so-called safe-haven asset. An added dimension to the situation in China is that both the property and equities markets have been underperforming and showing instability. Its central bank added a whopping 225 tonnes to its gold reserves last year, easily surpassing actions of its peers.

Sam Kima, Senior Vice-President of bullion services provider First Gold, says profit-making options available to local investors have become very limited on the mainland, and that the Shanghai Gold Exchange benchmark price has been rising faster than international prices for the past couple of years, highlighting intense Chinese demand.

Jewellery bling

The Chinese middle class has perhaps taken reassurance from its central bank and is eyeing gold as a way of preserving fortunes in the absence of alternative overseas options, such as buying US dollars or US-denominated products. Many are turning to gold jewellery. The World Gold Council reported that sales of gold jewellery in China last year reached a record high of 282 billion yuan (US$39 billion).

Some analysts speculate that the increased demand for gold jewellery on the mainland is partly due to the rise of the guochao or ‘China chic’ trend, as a way of celebrating Chinese heritage and identity. The ancient goldwork techniques and skilled craftsmanship are appealing, as well as the long tradition of gold being a valuable commodity to hedge against currency devaluations and collapsing property prices.

This trend is having some interesting consequences in China, as the Gen Z turns to gold in increasing numbers. “Young consumers, disillusioned by non-performing promises for making a quick buck, are moving back to a traditional asset that has proved its value,” says Rotbart.

“Jewellery investments have their own advantages such as using it as accessories or passing down wealth to the next generation, which is very common in the Chinese culture. However, gold jewellery comes with high fees charged by the makers and the retailers,” he adds, while pointing out the need to melt jewellery into gold bullion.

Raising the bars

Owning physical bars and coins provide the advantage of pure 24-carat gold investments with minimal fees, whether buying or selling. “Physical bar and coin investment would definitely be recommended in order to preserve your wealth for the long term,” he notes.

Kima says many gold jewellery brands in China are adopting innovative marketing approaches to capture the attention of young consumers attracted by the traditional Chinese aesthetics and cultural elements of the jewellery. He also points out gold is hypoallergenic, does not tarnish, and retains its value over time, presenting promising appreciation compared to other jewellery.

There have been some reports in China of jewellery scams, such as pieces containing large amounts of silver and rhenium. “Gold extracted by amalgamation or cyanidation contains a variety of impurities, including zinc, copper, silver and iron, and all of these metals are rising together on an acclivity trend,” says Kima of jewellery made with impure gold.

Economic stability

The bulk of the recent huge demand for gold came from purchases made by central banks, according to Kima, despite periods when the US dollar and Treasury yields were rising. “By holding gold, countries can instil confidence in their economic stability, especially during financial uncertainty,” he says.

“While the gold standard is no longer widely used, some countries still view gold reserves as a means to maintain currency stability. Gold is a tangible asset; by holding it in their reserves, countries can diversify their overall portfolio. This diversification helps mitigate the risks associated with fluctuations in the value of other assets.”

Alongside China, the world’s largest gold consumer, Kima says India and Turkey have also been players recording recent strong demand. “Traditionally, India is also a helping hand during the first few months of the year, as demand in the world’s second-largest consumer for the precious metal increases due to the wedding season,” he shares.

Global uncertainty

Rotbart attributes the “phenomenal” ascent in the price of gold to a culmination of circumstances, including higher levels of debt around the world due to increased expenses on security; geopolitical uncertainties, especially the Russia-Ukraine war, the Iran-Israel conflict, the war in Gaza, and the looming elections in the US; record net purchases by central banks around the world; and expectations of lower interest rates. “Gold performs better in a low-interest environment,” he notes.

Likewise, Dr Vineet Agarwal, Reader in Finance at Cranfield School of Management, cites several interlinked factors behind the recent rapid price upswing. He notes that sanctions on Russia saw several countries (led by China and Russia) attempting to switch bilateral trade to their own currencies from the US dollar, sparking increased demand.

Agarwal believes the “hedge against inflation” argument for buying gold is an oft-repeated claim without much basis in fact. However, he foresees an increasingly important role for gold in global trade as certain countries try to move away from the US dollar for geopolitical and strategic reasons. He says efforts by the BRIC countries – Brazil, Russia, India and China – to try to come up with an alternative currency “will lead to a move back towards something on the lines of the Bretton Woods system and an increasingly important role of gold in global trade”.

Under the Bretton Woods Agreement of 1944, the convertibility of independent states’ currencies to US dollars was guaranteed within fixed parity rates, alongside the rate of convertibility of the dollar into gold bullion.

Go for gold

Rotbart echoes this point by stating that the top three gold-producing countries – China, Australia and Russia – are less dependent on the US dollar as they have trusted reserves in the form of gold during trade wars or geopolitical conflicts. He believes the demand for gold in terms of central bank purchases looks set to continue upwards despite record-high gold prices, reflecting the attractiveness of gold as a safe-haven asset.

He also reveals funds are being diverted to buy “physical gold” as opposed to “paper gold” due to its desirability and lack of counterparty risk, and the fact it’s not a financial product.

Photos: 3D-GOLD Jewellery (HK) Ltd

Treasure Chess: Play it close to the heart with handcrafted customised sets fit for your King and Queen

The game of chess has been played and loved since its known origins circa sixth-century India, and it remains to this day as a metaphor for dynamic strategy and intellectual prowess. What can make the challenge even more special is plotting your next move with chess pieces moulded according to your taste, whether through material, shape or size.

Bespoke chess sets have become a sought-after luxury item for chess enthusiasts and collectors alike. These unique, custom-designed offerings offer a level of personalisation that goes beyond mass-produced, generic sets. Different motivations drive the demand for bespoke chess pieces. For some, it’s the desire to express their love of craftsmanship or individualism. For others, it’s the opportunity to create a family heirloom or special gift.

Whatever the reason, bespoke chess sets have become a status symbol and there are specialised companies out there ready to make your personal chess ambitions a reality.

Neochess

Founded by London-based architectural designers Ian Flood and Chris Prosser, Neochess offers an exclusive bespoke service allowing clients to customise every aspect of their chess set so that it reflects their personality. From the material, which embraces options like wood, steel and bronze, to the design, the bespoke possibilities are endless. Alternatively, keen players can adapt the company’s classic Staunton set according to their preferred colour and feel to own personalised pieces that glide stylishly across the board.

Neochess believes that chess is more than just a game – it’s an art form. Which is why it is committed to creating chess sets that are not only functional and practical but also beautiful and inspiring. neochess.com

Skyline Chess

Skyline Chess is Flood and Prosser’s original venture, which saw the light in 2013 following a discussion about architectural masterpieces over a game of chess. Using their design acumen, the pair created chess sets featuring iconic city skylines and buildings. They began with London; Paris, New York, Dubai, Tokyo, Singapore and others followed. Crafted in stainless steel or bronze with the option of a marble or wooden board, the sets make perfect gifts or keepsakes of a memorable stay in a world city. They offer a way to capture a city close to your heart and keep it with you at all times. The board and packaging can be customised with company logos and messages.

Replete with intricate pieces, these collections will have the city’s tallest buildings as King and Queen, while Knights and Bishops are usually historical landmarks of the respective location. Special editions pitch one place against another for a two-city chess challenge. skylinechess.com

Geoffrey Parker

Having crafted luxury leather board games by hand in Essex, England, since 1958, Geoffrey Parker is recognised for making the finest chess sets in the world. The family legacy is steeped in chess history; their master craftsmen made the leather boxes and chessboards for the iconic 1972 World Championship match between Boris Spassky and Bobby Fischer in Reykjavik, Iceland. This momentous event cemented the company’s reputation for unwavering quality, innovative design and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Combining tradition with innovation, their exceptional customised chess set begins with a leather box of sumptuous hide selected from a wide range of colours. The high-quality, hand-carved chess pieces come in a choice of sizes and styles. These beautiful sets provide the most pleasurable of games or a standalone interior-design feature ¬– they can become an ornament in any space.

Geoffrey Parker brings a touch of fun and nostalgia to chess sets for children, utilising its printing machine to recreate a series of themed watercolor illustrations onto the leather and featuring pieces of hand-painted crushed stone and resin. Themes include J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit, and Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. vv.com

Chess Clubhouse HK

Founded by James Ho, this Hong Kong-based venture combines a chess club that encourages the game to flourish in the city with an online shop. It offers a range of bespoke chess sets combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design. The Chess Clubhouse HK collection caters to diverse tastes and preferences, from handcrafted wooden pieces to digital electronic chess sets. Top-of-the-range boards come with additional features and pair handmade artistry with artificial intelligence. chess-clubhouse.com

Whether you are a chess enthusiast, a collector or someone who appreciates the beauty of bespoke craftsmanship, the unique chess sets of these four names are sure to impress. Each is a work of art, meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled playing experience. Indeed, chessboards are more than just a game for these artisans; they are a statement of sophistication and a showcase of bespoke artistry where creativity knows no bounds.

Customised chess sets are designed to be cherished for generations, offering a timeless appeal that transcends trends. So why settle for an ordinary chess set when you can own a masterpiece tailored to your individuality?

Step into any of these meticulously curated shops and you’ll be transported to a realm where every detail matters. The air is thick with the scent of polished wood and the faint sound of pieces clicking against ornate boards. This is where the true aficionados of the game congregate, seeking out the perfect set to complement their playing style and personal aesthetic. Truly, you can’t help but feel a sense of connection to the city’s vibrant past and the endless possibilities that the future holds. For in Hong Kong, the art of chess piece is not just a game – it is a testament to the city’s unwavering passion for craftsmanship, tradition and the timeless allure of the world’s most captivating strategy game.

Gut Reaction: Nourishing your immune system with plant fibre and fermented foods fights inflammation and ill health

Food plays a powerful role in developing a strong and resilient immune system. This simple fact means we can boost our immune system through what we eat.

This is vital as the immune system plays a powerful role in the maintenance of our health. It helps protect us from infections caused by viruses and other harmful microbes. If a person has weak or compromised immunity, it can have severe consequences. A healthy immune system, for instance, can identify tumours as foreign and may be able to contain or destroy cancerous cells.

Thus, aside from doing regular exercise and avoiding alcohol, drugs and a stressful lifestyle, for optimum health we should succour our immunity with foods that are known to play a vital role in upping our ability to combat disease and infection.

Scientists are developing a clearer picture of the role food plays, and doctors are even prescribing certain foods as medicine – clinics and health organisations in various countries offer low-income groups produce prescription programmes so they can boost their intake of fruit and vegetables. Some nutritionists are now selling so-called immunity cubes – small ice cubes packed with immune-boosting ingredients – and advocating them as part of the daily diet.

Healthy defence

A basic understanding of the immune system is valuable to health. According to New Scientist, our innate immune system is the body’s first line of defence against pathogens. It responds rapidly to general threats and can distinguish between different classes of pathogens to recruit the most effective form of adaptive immune response to eliminate them. Providing an immunological memory of the threats we have faced, it enhances our future immune responses and builds a specialised defence system.

T-cells, which attack invading pathogens and infected cells, form part of the adaptive immune response. These lymphocytes can act as ‘helper cells’ by supporting B-cells to produce antibodies. B-cells are involved in both the innate and adaptive immune system and are responsible for mediating the production of antibodies against specific threats. Antibodies recognise specific antigens – a molecule from foreign material such as a virus or pollen grain that adheres to a specific antibody or T-cell – and bind to them as a way of tagging the unwanted object for attack by the rest of the immune system.

Alternatively, antibodies can neutralise foreign material directly. Natural killer (NK) cells – white blood cells that form part of the innate immune system and provide a rapid response to viruses and other pathogens – are important players here.

Balanced immunity

A key aspect of a healthy immune system is to strike a balance between reactivity – such as warding off infection by detecting and killing bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites – and restraint. The latter is required as the immune system can overreact when internal checks are compromised, causing it to attack the body’s own cells and proteins.

This is often the case with people who have allergies; their immune system overreacts to harmless foreign substances like pollen and peanuts and these overreactions can lead to chronic low-level inflammation and cause debilitating conditions and accelerate the ageing process.

Microbe management

Scientists now know that the digestive tract is at the heart of the immune system. The largest immune organ in the body, the gastrointestinal tract has to sift through and cope with oodles of foreign bodies and microbes on a daily basis, sorting out the helpful from the harmful. Some microbes make us ill, while many more are crucial for our health. The immune system is in regular contact with trillions of microbes living in the gut, and from this communication, signals are sent to instruct the ramping up or down of gut activity.

The vast microbiome inside our gut is the all-important bacterial community for stimulating the immune system. This vital link between gut microbiota and immunity became clear in a 2020 study by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York, which showed for the first time that the concentration of different types of immune cells in the blood changes in relation to the presence of different bacterial strains in the gut.

Powerful foods

Furthermore, research has revealed that food plays a vital role in our gut ecology. Given the important function this organ plays in our health, it is heartening to know that scientists believe the delicate balance of the immune system can be modified naturally through diet. As the composition of our microbiome can redress chronic inflammation, any dietary intervention could be critical.

Numerous studies have highlighted the correlation between diverse, immune-healthy gut microbiota and a high-fibre diet containing vegetables, whole grains and lettuce. The likes of leeks, onion, artichokes, soybeans and cabbage are particularly rich in a variety of fibre that provides nourishment for beneficial bacteria. Other prebiotic foods with special plant fibres that help healthy bacteria grow in the gut include garlic, asparagus, chicory and bananas. It is also possible to take prebiotic supplements.

Foods such as green, leafy vegetables that dampen any inflammation after meals are thought to be vital in boosting the immune system. A team at King’s College London discovered people who regularly eat a lot of vegetables had lower levels of circulating white blood cells, resulting in fewer bouts of chronic inflammation and lower risk of chronic disease.

Fermentation focus

Consuming fermented foods such as kimchi, miso or yoghurt that contain helpful probiotics also plays a role in developing microbiome diversity and decreased inflammation markers. Probiotics are live cultures of the good bacteria normally found in your intestine. They can benefit your health by improving the balance of your gut bacteria and alleviating the harmful effects on the gut of poor diet, stress, ageing, infection or antibiotic use. A popular form is kefir, a fermented milk drink that can contain a billion bacteria. Probiotics are also available as tablets, capsules or sachets which can be added to a range of foods.

A note of caution regarding prebiotic and probiotic supplements comes from Justin Sonnenburg of Stanford University in California, who has said “very few things are solved just by popping a pill”. The professor of microbiology and immunology believes the most important factor in keeping your natural defences in good shape and maintaining a healthy gut is the overall composition of your diet.

Ultimately, foods containing essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, D and E, as well as some of the B vitamins, plus zinc, copper, selenium, magnesium and iron will help provide micronutrients to support the immune system. Fresh raw fruit and vegetable are the best sources of vitamin C, and pulses, shellfish and unrefined cereal provide zinc. In essence, immune-boosting foods are thought to be gut-friendly foods that help microbes do a more effective job in safeguarding the immune system.

Compound Growth: Through its revitalised historic buildings, Tai Kwun – celebrating its sixth anniversary – keeps our past alive and the community enthralled

Tai Kwun, located in the heart of Hong Kong’s Central district, is a heritage site of immense cultural significance. Embracing three monuments, the former Central Police Station dating back to 1864, the former Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison, the historic compound was meticulously restored and revitalised over the course of nearly a decade, officially opening to the public in May 2018.

Six years later, it is clear that justice has been done to this ambitious project – a collaboration between the Hong Kong Jockey Club and the government. Transformed into a vibrant hub for arts, culture and community engagement, Tai Kwun is a true gem in Hong Kong’s cultural landscape.

Sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse have breathed new life into the cluster of historic buildings, and ever-changing programmes amounting to a 365-day annual festival of local art, culture and history allow the public to engage with and appreciate the city’s rich heritage. The site has welcomed 17 million visitors since opening, with four million in the last year alone.

“In the past six years, Tai Kwun has established itself as a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists,” affirms Bernard Charnwut Chan, Chairman of the Tai Kwun Culture and Arts Company Limited. “Our sixth-anniversary celebrations aimed to highlight the site’s evolution as a dynamic cultural hub that appeals to diverse audiences.”

The site pulled out all the stops to commemorate the milestone. A series of special exhibitions, performances and community events were organised to showcase the breadth of Tai Kwun’s offerings and its unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing Hong Kong’s cultural heritage. Spectacular French physical theatre in the vast Parade Ground, a major contemporary exhibition, conservation talks, and world-class chamber music in the intimate JC Cube exemplified the diversity of Tai Kwun’s always-inspiring calendar of events.

Back to the future

Over the past six years, Tai Kwun has continuously expanded and diversified its programming to cater to the evolving needs and interests of its audience. From world-class art exhibitions and thought-provoking panel discussions to family-friendly workshops and community events, the site has solidified its reputation as a vibrant cultural hub.

One such initiative is the establishment of a dedicated heritage education centre, which will serve as a hub for learning, research and exploration of the compound’s history and its significance within the broader context of Hong Kong. Additionally, Tai Kwun is exploring opportunities to collaborate with international cultural institutions, further expanding its reach and impact.

Preserving the past

Tai Kwun’s long-term vision is to strike a delicate balance between preserving its historic character and adapting to the needs of contemporary audiences. This challenge was at the forefront of the site’s development, as the team carefully navigated the nuances of heritage conservation and adaptive reuse, and continues to this day.

This commitment to heritage preservation is evident in the site’s ongoing and meticulous restoration efforts, which aim to maintain the architectural and historical integrity of the buildings. At the same time, Tai Kwun has embraced innovative technologies and design elements to enhance the visitor experience, making the site more welcoming and engaging for contemporary audiences.

Engaging the community

Tai Kwun’s mission extends beyond preserving the physical structures; it is also dedicated to engaging the local Hong Kong community and fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage. Through a diverse range of educational programmes, community events and outreach initiatives, the site has become a hub for cultural exchange and dialogue.

“Tai Kwun is not just a destination for art and culture; it is a space for the community to come together, to learn and to celebrate our shared history,” emphasises Cheung Yan-lam, a local resident and frequent visitor to the site. “The team’s efforts to connect with the community and make the site accessible to all have been truly commendable.”

The site’s leadership is actively seeking ways for the public to engage and contribute to its ongoing development. Whether it’s attending a thought-provoking exhibition, volunteering or participating in a community event, or supporting conservation efforts through fundraising initiatives and sponsorship opportunities, the public is encouraged to explore the myriad ways they can engage with and contribute to Tai Kwun’s future.

Cultural collaboration

“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the Hong Kong public,” says Jee. “Their enthusiasm and participation have been instrumental in shaping Tai Kwun into the vibrant cultural hub it is today. We look forward to continuing this collaborative journey and inviting even more people to be a part of Tai Kwun’s story.”

In addition to its community-focused initiatives, Tai Kwun has also forged strong partnerships with other arts, cultural and heritage organisations in Hong Kong. These collaborations have helped to expand the site’s reach and impact, enabling it to showcase a broader spectrum of the city’s cultural diversity.

“By working closely with our partners, we are able to leverage our collective resources and expertise to create richer, more impactful programming for our audiences,” explains Cheng. “These synergies are essential in shaping Tai Kwun’s role as a leading cultural destination in Hong Kong.”

Ongoing commitment

As Tai Kwun looks ahead to the next chapter of its evolution, the site’s leadership is committed to building upon its successes and further solidifying its position as a premier cultural hub in Hong Kong. This includes exploring new avenues for expansion and enhancement, such as potential renovation and restoration projects that will improve the visitor experience and accessibility.

“Tai Kwun has undoubtedly become a true landmark in Hong Kong’s cultural landscape,” reflects Chan. “But our work is far from done. We are constantly seeking ways to elevate the site’s offerings, to deepen its connection with the community, and to amplify its role in preserving and promoting our city’s rich heritage.”

One key focus area for the future is increasing Tai Kwun’s engagement with the city’s diverse cultural communities, ensuring that its programming and initiatives reflect the multifaceted nature of Hong Kong’s identity. This will involve collaborating with a wider array of artists, cultural practitioners and community groups to create more inclusive and representative experiences.

As Tai Kwun celebrates its sixth anniversary, the site stands as a testament to the power of preserving and reimagining Hong Kong’s cultural heritage. Through its commitment to innovation, community engagement and heritage conservation, Tai Kwun continues to carve out a unique and essential role in the city’s evolving cultural landscape.

Don Appétit: Savouring the flavours of celebrated chef Donovan Cooke’s life’s work

In the realm of gastronomy, there are chefs, and then there are culinary storytellers – those who, through their craft, weave together the flavours of their past, their journeys and their passion. Veteran chef Donovan Cooke, the creative genius behind the culinary magic at his new venture, Causeway Bay-based Donovan, is undoubtedly one such storyteller. His modern European menu has quickly captured the attention of the city’s foodies, making it a must-go-to restaurant for anybody looking for great food in the bustling heart of Hong Kong.

“The inspiration for the restaurant is basically being here in Hong Kong. I’m in the middle of the world with some of the best ingredients from around the world, and I have an opportunity to use and showcase the best of the ingredients following the seasons – and not so much following the seasons,” the chef laughs as he explains his ethos. “However, we are trying to maintain sustainability, and at the same time evolve classical combinations – which I’ve been doing for 40 years – in a more modern way.”

The roving Briton has been an instrumental figurehead in the fine- dining scene of wherever he has landed. At a young age, he was seasoned and nurtured in traditional French cuisine by the legendary, then-two-Michelin-starred Marco Pierre White at Harveys in London.

Embarking on his curious global journey, he headed first to France and then Australia, where his footprint was recognised by multiple accolades. Melbourne newspaper The Age’s Good Food Guide named him Chef of the Year in 2003 and 2004. He also made appearances on the reality TV show MasterChef Australia and co-authored the award-winning cookbook, Marriages. His dedication to innovation and new culinary excellence then won the hearts of local socialites and celebrities during a six-year stint at the helm of Derby Restaurant and Bar at the Hong Kong Jockey Club.

With each step, he absorbed new techniques, flavours and inspirations, enriching his culinary palate and ultimately bringing him to a Hong Kong homecoming late last year. His self-titled restaurant artfully combines his own heritage with a global perspective – a testament to his eclectic journey, offering diners an experience that transcends borders.

“I want to showcase a vast array of dishes here in my new restaurant, and the best way to do that is to do a Japanese-style tasting menu,” he says. “It’s a journey of eight to 10-12 courses, starting with refreshing light and then moving on to a richer main course. In the past, when I did à la carte, people just go for the things that they’re safe or that they know, so I decided to do it omakase-style because I want people to taste lots of different things that they normally wouldn’t order.”

The dinner-tasting menu at the time of our review kicks off with an artistic ensemble of appetisers such as truffle macaron; parmesan tart with onions and flowers; chicken liver parfait, apple and prune; and the house signature soy-sauce brioche. These are followed by seared tuna belly decorated with spiced tartare, celeriac, truffle dashi and shiso; and the heady combination of the spiced roasted blue lobster with foie gras, fig, port wine, chocolate and coffee.

One of his standout dishes is smoked olive oil confit salmon, seasoned with leek, razor clam, bone broth, salmon roe and chive oil. It’s a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of Chef Donovan on a plate.

A meat lover’s dream comes in the form of Pyrenees milk-fed baby lamb with girolles, gnocchi and thyme jus, and the cooked to a mouth-watering medium-rare, pepper-crusted wagyu 9+ sirloin atop onions, bone marrow and Bordelaise sauce.

Desserts of spiced roasted pineapple with pain d’épices ice cream and tonka bean panna cotta with rhubarb, honeycomb and Stone’s ginger wine jelly form a perfect palate cleanser to this savoury culinary adventure.

Amid the elegant ambience and the warm embrace of European hospitality, Donovan is a testament to the power of roots, the influence of loved ones and the fusion of global experiences into tantalising dishes that have earned the well-travelled chef countless plaudits for his unparalleled contributions to gastronomy.

Donovan, 16/F, Cubus, 1 Hoi Ping Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

Photos: DONOVAN Video: Jack Fontanilla

Hummus Hurrah: A home away from Beirut, Maison Libanaise brings epicurean joy to the heart of Hong Kong

The hubbub of laughter and feasting echoes against wood- block and salmon-pink painted walls and zellige tiles. Fine, dainty lamps suspended from the ceiling and no-fuss green wooden stools at the bar, while doing little to absorb the thrum, add lustre. Just these elements alone conjure an inviting haven for a long, slow nightcap after a long, frantic day.

Occupying a three-storey walk-up in the bustling SoHo district of Central, Maison Libanaise stands as a culinary oasis, offering a captivating escape to the vibrant flavours and rich traditions of Lebanon. With its warm ambience, friendly service and an extensive menu that showcases the best of the country’s cuisine, it has become a go-to destination for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic Middle Eastern experience – transporting diners to the streets of Beirut, or as Chef Teya Mikhael would have it, her childhood memory lane.

“My recipes are very home-inspired rather than restaurant-inspired,” she says. “We try to provide a real home experience. It’s a female-dominant kitchen, just like it is back home. It’s all mothers and ladies who give out dishes with so much love and so much beauty.” The exuberant chef bursts into laughter: “But I am not a mom – yet!”

Stepping inside Maison Libanaise is to be greeted by an inviting, cosy atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Lebanese home. It makes for an intimate experience – though perhaps a little too snug at times, depending on the size of the dining crowd. Just as personal is the service. Chef Mikhael chats to diners like she would to friends, sharing her personal recommendations from the drinks list which runs from Middle Eastern-inspired contemporary cocktails to largely familiar and beautiful wines.

“Lebanon has a really big wine scene with over 60 to 70 wineries’” she says. “Here, we have the biggest Lebanese wine list, which we really try to emphasise. The Lebanese way is best spent with wine in hand, over long and leisurely meals shared with friends and family. It’s so ingrained in me that I try to sneak a couple of bottles home whenever I can,” she adds, with a cheeky wink.

But what has seen the restaurant boom is the food – with guests returning many times to explore the broad menu designed around a charcoal and wood grill. Spices are sourced directly from Lebanon, with sumac, in particular, standing out. Enhancing the natural flavours of the food it is cooked with, deep- red sumac features in almost every dish in this vibrant restaurant. There are specific seasons for sumac berries and the tart, acidic spice is prepared and used in the traditional way. Like pomegranate molasses, which the culinary team also applies liberally, it is at the heart of Lebanese cuisine.

The new a la carte menu is inspired by dishes the chef made with her mother and grandmother when she was growing up. Each dish is an edible memoir of cherished recipes from her childhood in Lebanon, carefully curated and reimagined from her unique perspective. Exhibit A: Sujuk Bel Banadoura, a symphony of spicy, tangy and sweet notes showcasing grilled beef sausages with matbucha (Moroccan tomato salad) and pomegranate molasses.

Another crowd favourite, Hummus Araydis is a testament to the chef’s creative spirit, marrying her love for hummus with the fond memories of prawns she orders at her favourite beachside haunt. In this dish, the creamy chickpea purée dances with chives, coriander, lemon and chilli, and is crowned with prawns sautéed in Aleppo chilli oil.

Of course, Lebanese cuisine is entirely about the shared table, a balance of flavours and dishes, and the moment of bringing people together. The Mashewe Mshakal platter does just that, embracing beef kafta, beef skewers, shish taouk (chicken kebab), lamb chops and vegetable skewers accompanied with hearth-baked pita bread, sumac-roasted tomato, grilled onion and the holy trinity of harissa, toum and tahini (red chilli-, garlic- and sesame-based relishes) for dipping.

Maison Libanaise is all about celebration, food and fun, and as home to three layers of indoor and outdoor drinking and dining salons, the merry hubbub will only intensify.

Maison Libanaise, 10 Shelley Street, SoHo, Central. Tel: 2111 2284. maisonlibanaise.com.hk

Photos: Maison Libanaise Video: Jack Fontanilla

Amazing Lots Under the Hammer

The latest auctions produced a slew of multi-million-dollar bids for some amazing items including a magnificent fancy vivid blue diamond, a fearsome Ferrari, a sensuous Sanyu and some valuable whisky.

Royal Blue

Flawless diamond sets year record

A recent jewellery auction in Geneva produced a slew of huge prices, and topping the lot was a magnificent internally flawless fancy vivid blue diamond set in a ring. Sold for a gargantuan US$44 million (about HK$343.4 million), it represented the highest price achieved by a jewel at auction in 2023. The superb stone, known as ‘The Bleu Royal’, was the highlight of Christie’s autumn Luxury Week, which amassed sales totalling US$140 million.

An intense bidding war took place to secure the gem, which eventually went to a private collection for the first time in 40 years. The whopping 17.61-carat fancy vivid blue pear-shaped brilliant- cut diamond is set in platinum and 18-carat rose gold and flanked by two pear-shaped brilliant-cut white diamonds of 3.12 and 3.07 carats, with all three stones internally flawless.

The Bleu Royal is the largest internally flawless fancy vivid blue diamond ever put up for auction. Christie’s jewellery expert Max Fawcett shared that it excited collectors from all over the world because of its long list of attributes, particularly the deep, rich blue colour that endows it with a unique quality.

Whisky Allure

60 Year Old Scotch stirs collector

Considered the world’s most valuable whisky, a bottle of The Macallan Valerio Adami 1926 created a buzz in the auction room at Sotheby’s in London. Bottled in 1986, the 60 Year Old elixir numbered just 40 bottles, and every time one comes up for auction whisky connoisseurs worldwide wish to raise their hands and their glasses. This most recent prize – one of 12 bearing a label designed by the Italian painter – fetched £2.18 million (about HK$21.6 million), almost three times the pre-sale low estimate of £750,000.

The appeal among collectors was enhanced by the fact that Sotheby’s worked directly with The Macallan to recondition and authenticate the bottle – the first time this vintage has undergone reconditioning prior to being auctioned. This process involved replacing both the capsule and the cork, applying new glue to the corners of the labels and taking a 1ml sample to test against another 1926 bottle at the Glasgow office of Edrington, owner of the brand.

Sotheby’s spirits specialist Jonny Fowle believes this was the most desiraxble bottle of whisky ever to come to market. He says: “The Macallan 1926 is the one whisky that every auctioneer wants to sell and every collector wants to own.”

Nude Nature

Sensual Sanyu arouses intense bidding

A seminal Chinese modern painting led Christie’s evening sale of 20th and 21st-century art, with a packed Hong Kong saleroom witnessing the 1929 masterpiece change hands for an astonishing HK$187 million (about US$24 million). Femme nue sur un tapis (Nude on Tapestry) by Chinese-French artist Sanyu generated an electric atmosphere and such was the fierce competition that the auction attracted international participation from 24 countries. It was a bidder in the room, however, who landed this historically important work.

Born in Sichuan to a family who made their fortune in the silk business, Sanyu moved to Paris as a student in 1921 and is often hailed as the Chinese Matisse. Nude on Tapestry was his first major nude painting and it depicts Kiki de Montparnasse, a popular muse for the era’s avant-garde artists, in a style that reflects his mastery of calligraphy.

The valuable oil on canvas was entrusted to Christie’s from the prestigious Dreyfus Collection. A spokesperson for the auction house indicated that the outstanding result shows the resilience of the market and the enduring demand for Chinese modern art.

Red Racer

Fearsome Ferrari roars into history

A coveted Ferrari 250 GTO from 1962 was sold in New York by RM Sotheby’s for US$51.7 million, making it the most expensive of the marque ever to go under the hammer. It also whizzed into the record books by achieving the second-highest price for a car at auction – top honour here goes to a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé.

The whopping figure paid for this Ferrari is due in no small way to the 38 years of fastidious care lavished upon it by its previous owners, and the fact that this beautiful motor has a rich and distinctive history. It was the only GTO Tipo 1962 to race under the flag of the company’s own Scuderia Ferrari team. At the 1962 Nürburgring 1,000 km, it chalked up a class win and a second overall finish, before being driven by Mike Parkes and Lorenzo Bandini at the 24 Hour Le Mans. Three years later, it was the runner-up in the Sicilian Hillclimb Championship.

One of its former owners was the chairman of the Ferrari Club of America, and the sale came with a detailed documented history of the car, including copies of factory build sheets, owner’s correspondence, period of racing coverage and magazine feature articles.

Dame and Fame: Classicism meets contemporary excellence at the timeless culinary haven of Gaddi’s in the Peninsula

As it marks 70 glorious years, Gaddi’s in The Peninsula Hong Kong stands as a testament to time and elegance. The peerless dining room of the ‘Grande Dame of the Far East’ has long been revered as a culinary gem. With a rich heritage spanning seven decades, it continues to captivate diners with its impeccable service and outstanding French cuisine.

The Peninsula opened its lavish restaurant in 1953, and it was named for General Manager Leo Gaddi, who had started the hotel’s new era of flawless service and attention to detail.

It quickly gained recognition as one of the top continental dining venues in the region, in addition to being the best restaurant in the city. Weeks in advance, its two dinner seatings a night were fully reserved, drawing foreign heads of state and celebrities.

“Gaddi’s sets itself apart from other restaurants through its unique combination of factors,” says Albin Gobil, Executive Sous Chef of The Peninsula Hong Kong. “Collectively, these elements – the first fine dining restaurant in the Far East to offer European cuisine, the city’s oldest dining establishment and exceptional service – contribute to Gaddi’s positioning as a highly sought-after Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant in Hong Kong.”

*Kaviari Daurikus caviar with Tsar Nikolai balik salmon and potato blinis*

Stepping into the restaurant is like taking a stroll back in time. The interior exudes a classic charm, characterised by two suspended, retro crystal chandeliers, plush velvet upholstery and carpet and ornate woodwork. The soft lighting adds a touch of romance, creating an intimate atmosphere. The live music, featuring a talented pianist, further enhances the ambience, transporting guests to an era of sophistication and refinement.

The rest of the space is equally as pleasing to the eye. Large windows look out into the city streets and Victoria Harbour, the high ceilings offer grandeur and the walls replicate an Italian faux finish. Modern light fixtures rest against the walls and cast a bewitching glow, spotlighting the wall covering’s idiosyncrasies.

Just as the interior aims to seduce the old and new guards, the menu too succeeds in pleasing both. Gaddi’s has reached even greater heights recently, earning a Michelin star for the last four years in a row. Bringing the level of energy and enthusiasm expected from a fine seasoned restaurant, it ticks all of today’s essential boxes for a satisfying dining experience: fine food, cool and lavish interiors, consummate cocktails, an accessible wine list and agreeable service.

Bresse Chicken Parfait, White Piedmont Truffle, Crayfish, Nantua Sauce

Under the direction of Executive Sous Chef Albin Gobil, the restaurant’s elite culinary team created a stunning seven-course menu for a 70th-anniversary gala dinner that paid delectable homage to the establishment’s past through archive research and contemporary techniques.

The gastronomic parade moved from Kaviari Daurikus caviar with Tsar Nikolai balik salmon and potato blinis and Double-boiled Aubrac oxtail consommé in the crust with bone marrow and black Périgord truffle to Bresse chicken parfait with white Piedmont truffle, crayfish and Nantua sauce, before fish and meat mains of Dover sole filet à la Dieppoise with Bouchot mussels, prawns and celeriac and Rhug Estate roe deer saddle with caramelised shallots, soufflé potatoes and Bordelaise sauce. Mandarin raviolo with Champagne emulsion, and Apple tarte tatin with Avallen calvados and Tahitian vanilla crème fraiche sealed a sweet finale. Gobil’s masterpieces were showcased in both vintage and newly designed collections of tableware and glassware by Bernardaud.

*Apple tarte tatin with Avallen calvados and Tahitian vanilla crème fraiche*

In honour of Gaddi’s opening year, the exceptional dinner was combined with the best French wines and Champagnes, including a 1953 Domaine Remoissenet Père & Fils Vosne-Romanée. The wine list is extensive but not intimidating and takes diners around all the key wine-producing regions of France.

The restaurant’s elegant ambience, coupled with a menu of exquisite French cuisine, creates an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a refined evening of gastronomy, Gaddi’s is a destination that promises to transport you to a world of refined indulgence.

Gaddi’s, 1/F, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, The Peninsula Hong Kong.

Tel: +852 2696 6763, gaddis@peninsula.com

Gadgets Galore

Two great gadgets designed to bring joy – a bike with enhanced features that will make any workout a sheer delight and a camera that can save and print digital images.

Instant Print

Shots that leave a legacy

Leica have updated their printed photo and camera specifications with the Sofort 2, an enhanced version of the Leica Sofort 1 which has proved such a resounding success. This new product has just come onto the market and looks set to offer camera consumers additional benefits for those who love instant printed photos. The love affair with instant prints took off in the 1970s and 1980s, and though the onset of the digital age seemed to push the instant print to the sidelines temporarily, the demand endures and this new hybrid model offers the advantage of combining both digital and analogue technology with greater flexibility.

The Leica Sofort 2 enhanced features allow users to permanently save digital images and choose the best photos before making the plunge to print them. This facility is available for all photos taken on your smartphone as well those shot with other Leica cameras and stored in the Leica FOTOS App containing a gallery of shots. Sofort 2 weighs 320 grams and has a RGB colour filter, its file size is around 1.2MB and has an image output time of around 16 seconds.

The camera is available in black, red or white options and offers a range of fun features to aid the creative process. The camera also has numerous accessories such as wooden picture frames to showcase the prints. Costs US$389.

Pedal Power

Cycle your way to pleasure

The Peloton Bike+ has incorporated improved features allowing those keen to get in their full resistance and endurance training every opportunity to push themselves to the limit in style and without any hindrance. For instance, the ability of a new and much larger touchscreen to swivel outwards allows someone keen to combine workouts the opportunity to undertake other strength and cardio routines.

The speakers are also of higher quality, such that the effect of these powerful built-in speakers is to make those engaged in heart-pumping activity feel closer to the action and the enhanced quality can cancel out all distractions, meaning the user is supremely focused on the activity class during sweaty workouts. In addition, an automatic resistance setting reduces the need to think about making correct settings and allows users to train stress-free.

The monitor offers a variety of classes with different instructors and other classes such as yoga, boxing and weights are options using the range of accessories. Users can connect to live classes in other parts of the world such as Sydney, New York and London and feel the warmth of the community. Other additional features include an upgraded front-facing camera from 5MP to 8MP, a slightly changed handlebar design and power cables are now all internally routed. Price from US$2,040.

Miracle or Mirage: The wonder products of good health may not be all they are cracked up to be

In the world of health and wellness, there are a plethora of products that claim to offer extraordinary benefits. It is only natural to question whether these grand claims hold any truth. Here, we delve into three such products – alcohol-free beer, toothpaste said to heal teeth and gums, and over-the-counter painkillers – seeking expert opinion on whether all their hype is justified. Are consumers right to trust those bold proclamations on the packet or bottle, or have we become too cynical in the modern age?

Alcohol-Free Beer: A Healthier Alternative?

The market for no- or low-alcohol beers has grown significantly, with major breweries and craft beer producers jumping on board. But do these beverages truly contain negligible amounts of alcohol, and are they genuinely better for our health than traditional beers?

Big brands like Heineken and Guinness are now offering versions of their signature brews with the alcohol removed. According to Laura Willoughby, an expert on low- and no-alcohol drinks, Guinness uses a cold-filtration method to create Guinness 0.0, a non-alcoholic beer that closely resembles the taste of the original stout. This process involves removing the alcohol and reintroducing other ingredients to maintain flavour and texture.

Some craft brewers have used different yeast strains and innovative technology to create non-alcoholic beers with exceptional taste. In fact, some of these brews have won awards in blind tastings, dispelling the notion that alcohol- free options lack flavour.

Labelling standards vary by country, with most considering drinks below 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) as alcohol-free. In the UK, however, the threshold for non-alcoholic classification is 0.05% ABV, and beverages ranging from 0.05% to 1.2% ABV are considered low-alcohol.

One important question is whether these low-alcohol beers can intoxicate consumers. Willoughby assures us that this is not possible. Research conducted in Germany, where volunteers consumed 0.4% ABV beer, found blood-alcohol levels to be 100 times lower than the legal drink-drive limit.

Drinking alcohol-free or low-alcohol beer, which tend to have fewer calories compared to their alcoholic counterparts, can also provide health benefits. They contain polyphenols, compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote overall well-being. Additionally, these beers often possess isotonic properties that aid in rehydration, making them suitable sips after physical exertion or in hot climates, according to nutritionist Kerry Torrens.

Drinking in moderation is crucial. Keeping within the recommended weekly alcohol limit can help reduce the risk of health issues associated with excessive alcohol consumption.Pregnant women and those with alcohol dependency are advised to avoid even the smallest amounts of alcohol.

Healing Toothpaste: Too Good to Be True?

Toothpaste manufacturers often make bold claims about repairing enamel, protecting gums, and alleviating teeth sensitivity. But are these assertions genuine?

Dr Saoirse O’Toole, a clinical lecturer in prosthodontics at King’s College London, says the advantage offered by expensive toothpaste labelled as “enamel repairing” is minimal compared to standard products containing fluoride. The improvement is estimated to be only from 2% to 5%.

It is important to note that no toothpaste can completely restore enamel. “You will have a small additional benefit, but nothing will compensate for what you are doing in the diet, the way you are brushing, and the amount of oral procedures you are using,” she states.

Nor is toothpaste a remedy for protecting or hardening gums, according to O’Toole, who stresses that the best way to protect your gums is through brushing, flossing, and interdental cleaning methods.

However, there is evidence that toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth can be beneficial and even offer instant relief. These toothpastes contain specialised desensitising agents that form a protective film on exposed tubules, reducing pain associated with sensitivity. For individuals experiencing dentine hypersensitivity, trying different brands of dentine hypersensitive toothpaste may help identify the most effective option.

Do Painkillers Ease the Pain?

Everyone experiences acute pain from time to time, be it a migraine, sports injury or, for women, period pain. Sufferers generally have their go-to painkiller at hand to provide relief, but is there much difference between taking aspirin, paracetamol or ibuprofen? And can some brands act more quickly than others to dull pain and target particular areas of the body?

Biochemist Dr Andrew Moore believes that analgesics advertised to be fast-acting do, in many cases, warrant this bold claim. “If you package paracetamol with sodium bicarbonate it seems to be absorbed faster,” he points out. Paying a little more to get a tablet with caffeine in it, or drinking coffee on the side can also help. Analysis of evidence in 500 clinical trials and 50,000 patients suggested that 10% more people received good pain relief when the product contained at least 100mg of caffeine, indicated Moore.

However, over-the-counter painkillers may be less effective than commonly expected. Moore warns that only about 30% or 40% of people who have moderate to severe pain will receive satisfactory pain relief from paracetamol, and this figure can drop to 25% to 30% when taking aspirin. Ibuprofen, a non- steroid anti-inflammatory drug, appears to offer more effective pain relief, though, with “about 50% or 60% of people getting good pain relief”.

Some brands of ibuprofen can be fast-acting. Moore says salt formulations of ibuprofen act quicker than standard acid ones, especially when taken on an empty stomach. Ibuprofen also tends to have fewer side effects than aspirin.

He suggests that ingesting a combination of pain relivers can be beneficial. Moore believes scientific research does not indicate that painkillers are effective at targeting a specific location of pain in the body.

Dr Mary Joan Macleod, a clinical pharmacologist, argues that while painkillers all work on the same pathway, different painkillers work on the pathway in slightly different ways.

All painkillers will target any pain in the body, but if the nerve endings are being stimulated by inflammation, she recommends ibuprofen. “For joint pains you are much better with an ibuprofen,” she states. “Ibuprofen is better for period pains because there are a lot of prostaglandins produced in the womb around the time of the menstrual cycle.” She also suggests combining paracetamol and ibuprofen when in pain.

According to Macleod, there is little difference in quality between the various brands of painkillers, but capsules are likely to provide faster relief as they are absorbed more easily.