Devilish Days, Nefarious Nights: Halloween celebrations for the full day

This Halloween, begin the frightful festivities early and continue those chilling celebrations well into the night with our guide to a full-day hellish Halloween celebration.

Starting with brunch…

Argentinean steakhouse Gaucho presents the Halloween Slaughter House Brunch. Go dressed in your ghoulish best to enjoy their free-flow Mumm Grand Cordon Champagne Brunch, complete with spooky cocktails in an even spookier setting.

Tuck into an early dinner…

Till 7 November, The Drunken Pot offers a Halloween-special Pumpkin Truffle Pot (HK$288) which features a wholesome, if wholly scary, pumpkin, black truffle and assorted mushroom broth, of course, with ghostly carving. Another scarily sumptuous serving on offer is the Halloween Glutinous Rice Dumpling Balls – which could kill with their cuteness.

Head out for some drinks…

Join the land of the dead this Halloween at Honi Honi Tiki Cocktail Lounge. Themed after Haitian spirit Baron Samedi, this Halloween celebration lures in your dark side over a night of heady cocktails, mischief and a little voodoo.

Go trick or treating…

The Cakery brings just the Halloween-inspired cupcakes to make your Halloween celebration hauntingly special. Enjoy a spooky and fun treat!

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Gaucho pays homage to its British roots with new Sunday Night Roast menu

The Argentinian UK-born Gaucho Hong Kong is paying a tribute to its British roots by debuting its first ever Sunday Night Roast menu.

Choose from a menu of five tempting mains served alongside a selection of traditional side dishes for only HK$299.

As any food aficionado would know, at Gaucho, and with any Argentinian asado (the country’s name for roast), the star of the show is beef. For a taste of the renowned Argentine beef, choose from the Bife de Ancho, evenly marbled throughout for a beautifully, full-bodied flavour, or the Bife de Chorizo, a tender cut of sirloin with a strip of juicy crackling.

For those who prefer poultry, the mouthwatering Spatchcock Chicken proves that Gaucho’s other meat options can be equally soul satisfying. Marinated to perfection with oregano and parsley, the chicken is both succulent on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside. Each mouthful is packed with a delicate touch of juicy flavours and when paired with the crispy roasted potatoes, makes a match made in heaven.

Allowing those who prefer fish to appreciate the roast experience with equal pleasure, Gaucho provides an alternative option with an oven-baked Sea Bass Fillet.

We, of course, had to give the alternative dish a try and were pleasantly surprised. The delicate fish, which is first pan seared and then oven-baked, was perfectly light, moist and tender in flavour. We came to the conclusion, that while this isn’t your typical roast meat, we would 100% order it again.

For those looking for a traditional Sunday roast, Gaucho’s new menu will confidently satisfy your craving. Each delicious meat dish is served alongside a beautiful ensemble of traditional trimmings – carrots, parsnips and roast potatoes, and of course, the obligatory Yorkshire pudding.

And while the main components of a British inspired roast dinner have been fulfilled in this Sunday Night Roast, it would be folly, as a Brit, not to admit that there was in fact, one vital part missing: our beloved gravy. Born and raised in a country where gravy is more than just a condiment, I must confess that this experience would be enhanced even further with a drizzle of liquid comfort. Naturally, one might then ask, would this deter me from returning again? 100% no. In fact, we are already planning our next trip back (but maybe with a cheeky tub of Bisto gravy in hand).

Gaucho’s Sunday Night Roast is available from 6pm – 10pm every Sunday.

Address: 5th Floor, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road Central.
To book: Call (852) 2386 8090 or visit www.gauchorestaurants.com

Text: Hira Desai

Father’s Day festivities: Gifting and dining ideas for daddy dearest

Father’s Day is almost upon us, and while we think that just one designated day is not enough to show the love we have for the most special man in our lives, it’s also true that Father’s Day provides a perfect opportunity to shower daddy dearest with gifts and pamper him silly on this special occasion. But before you zero in on a gifting and dining option, check out our round-up:

To gift:

TUMI Alpha Bravo collection

Available in different colours to suit your dad’s personal style statement, the iconic Alpha Bravo collection has long been any jetsetter’s favourite accessory. Featuring luminescent reflective silver that pops to life under bright lights, the Alpha Bravo is a versatile collection that easily transitions between your dad’s days at the office, nights out in town and everywhere in between.

Armand de Brignac flute glass set

In time for Father’s Day, Armand de Brignac has released a new limited-edition gift set, including a bottle of Armand de Brignac Brut Gold (750ml), alongside two Armand de Brignac crystal champagne flute glasses. Conceptualised by Philippe Jamesse, the head sommelier at two-Michelin-star restaurant Les Crayères, the tulip-shaped flutes are shaped to best bring out the flavours and aroma of Armand de Brignac Champagnes. Direct orders at: www.adb-asia.com

Emporio Armani Father’s Day collection

Ahead of Father’s Day this year, Emporio Armani brings a range of signature pieces, including ready-to-wear items and accessories for fashion-forward fathers. From structured suits to well-fitted trousers, from jaunty shoes to casual t-shirts, there’s something for all fathers, no matter what their individual style is.

Check out the collection at:
1/F & 2/F Chater House, No. 11 Chater Road, Central
Shop 227, Level 2, Pacific Place, No. 88 Queensway, Admiralty
Shop G103A, No.23 Canton Road, Harbour City, Kowloon
Shop 6W542, Terminal 1, West Hall, HK International Airport, Lantau Island

To dine:

Gaucho

Treat your beloved dad to a sumptuous meal at Gaucho’s this Father’s Day. Chef Saruulgerel Eggi-Enkh-Amgalan cooks up a delectable storm for brunch, paying tribute to the diverse culinary traditions of Argentina. From succulent free-range beef, mouth-watering ceviches and other Argentinean classics to free-flow desserts, Father’s Day at Gaucho is expected to be a very satisfying affair.

Address: 5th floor, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road, Central
Tel: +852 2386 8090
Email: reservations@gauchorestaurants.com

Gaia Ristorante

Go Italian this Father’s Day with Gaia’s special brunch menu. Choose from a wide selection of appetisers and seafood from the buffet or creamy soup before progressing to meatier options like beef lasagna or roasted suckling pig. Those looking for white proteins can opt for grouper fish or free-range eggs.

Address: 181 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan
Tel: +852 2167 8200
Email: contactus@gaiagroup.com.hk

Rech by Alain Ducasse

Spend a relaxing Father’s Day over a French seafood lunch at InterContinental’s 1-Michelin star restaurant Rech by Alain Ducasse. Offering a 5-course set menu comprising a seafood sampler, choice of appetisers, main course and dessert, and Rech’s famous Camembert, the menu ensures a fulfilling experience for even the most discerning of dads. For children, the restaurant also offers a separate 3-course menu with choices of starters, main course and dessert, plus free-flowing drinks to keep your tiny tot happy and engaged as well.

Address: InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon
Tel: +852 2721 1211
Email: hongkong@ihg.com

Bread Street Kitchen and Bar

Nothing spells gourmet better than Gordon Ramsey’s dishes, and that is exactly what is on offer at Bread Street Kitchen and Bar this Father’s Day weekend. Treat your father to the king of all dishes, Gordon Ramsey’s classic preparation of Beef Wellington. Also on offer are British classic brunch favourites, alongside a traditional Sunday roast, meaning there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Address: LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham Street, Central
Tel: +852 2230 1800

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Top places to dine with your Mum this Mother’s Day

It’s that time of year again when we celebrate the superwoman in our lives – our mums! While we think our Mums deserve appreciation everyday, Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to pamper them and make them feel extra special. From brunches to special dinners with gifts, check out our guide to giving your mum the star treatment she deserves.

Free-flow bubbly brunches

Mercato by Jean-Georges’ new family-style brunch menu is the perfect way to enjoy the special occasion with your loved ones. Complete with hearty sharing dishes such as the Crispy Chicken Sandwich (HK$198) and Sunny Side Up, Egg House-Made Sausage Pizza (HK$188), this is a great option for large groups. If you are looking to incorporate some fizz into your celebrations, opt for the bubbly experience by adding two hours of free-flow Champagne Mumm (HK$258).

For those looking for a healthier option, Gaucho’s new revitalized brunch menu (from HK$350pp) offers the perfect balance of refreshing dishes while retaining its authentic Argentinean flavours.

Alternatively, treat Mum to a lavish brunch with the family at sophisticated Argentinian steakhouse Buenos Aires Polo Club, with a striking seafood bar, regal prime rib carving station, bountiful charcuterie and cheese boards, opulent egg station and towering selection of freshly baked pastries, breads, cakes and sweets.

Afternoon tea at Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour

Celebrate with your Mum this Mother's Day - Dr Fern's Gin Parlous

If you’re mother is a fan of gin, this is definitely not one to miss! Inspired by the Swedish tradition of ‘Fika’, or time set aside to have tea in a highly social setting, Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour launches a brand new Nordic afternoon tea (HK$498 + 10% for 2) this Mother’s Day. Each mum will receive a free upgrade to a Mother’s Day gin & tonic with the chance to surprise her with a special floral bouquet or organic tea jars crafted by Dr. Fern himself. If the idea of “pause and reset” sounds appealing, pair that with yummy treats and a live band performance for a perfect afternoon!

For more information: www.drfernshk.com, info@drfernshk.com, (852) 2111 9449

Mother’s Day at Intercontinental Hong Kong

If you are looking for something extra special this Mother’s Day, you will be spoilt for choice with an array of offerings at Intercontinental Hong Kong. The “Rosy Love” Afternoon Tea Set (HK$668 for 2) in partnership with SABON includes a luxurious gift set, complete with bodycare products and a gift card for a complimentary hand treatment.

Rech by Alain Ducasse celebrates Le French GourMay with both an Apéritif and 5-course menu (HK $1,188 per person) paying homage to Provence, this year’s showcased region and Nice, the hometown of Rech Executive Chef Stéphane Gortina. Alternatively, opt for the French seafood 4-course lunch set menu with choices of appetiser, main course and dessert, plus Rech’s famous Camembert (HK$588). Please note: All prices are subject to a 10% service charge.

If that isn’t enough to convince you, read on! All mothers enjoying the buffet or set lunch and dinner menus in the Intercontinental restaurants on May 13th will receive a gift set valued at HK$618 from “history of Whoo”, the prestigious Korean skincare brand. What’s not to love?

For more information and special offers at the Intercontinental Hong Kong, click here.

Whether you are looking for a low-key family get together or a reason to splash-out, Mother’s Day dining is a great way to spend some quality time with your loved one.

Text: Hira Desai

Gaucho taps into its Argentinean heritage in a new revitalised brunch menu

The 852 is no stranger to a weekend brunch (or two). With countless restaurants offering free-flow packages and indulgent buffets, we asked ourselves, what makes Gaucho unique?

Famous for its sumptuous steaks and mouth-watering ceviches, Argentinean restaurant Gaucho now offers a new weekend brunch menu featuring refreshing options for everyone while retaining its traditional Argentinean flavours.

THE SETTING

As you step inside the elegant room paved with marble flooring, it’ll be hard not to miss the impressive wine collection through the tasting room’s mirrored walls. Glancing around the room, I take note of the lavish interior resembling that of its popular London branch, Gaucho City, complete with mirrored walls, dim lights and ceilings adorned with crystal chandeliers. Guests sit comfortably in plush leather booths and cowhide chairs, patiently waiting for their champagne-filled flutes to arrive.

EAT & DRINK

Upon being seated, the gourmand in me is unleashed. To start the feast we begin with an unlimited selection of starters including Mini Beef Empanadas made with carefully hand-diced beef, red peppers, Spanish onion and aji molido and Braised Back Ribs, topped with a delicious combination of hoisin, chilli orange sauce and pickled jalapeños for an extra kick. Juicy and flavourful, these meaty treats were cooked to perfection.

For those looking for something a little lighter, opt for Gaucho’s signature twist on two different Argentinian ceviches – Seabass Ceviche served with grapefruit, grilled corn, jalapeño and wasabi, and Tuna Ceviche, perfectly paired with an irresistibly creamy guacamole. It would be criminal to partake in the brunch without trying the Watermelon Salad – my personal favourite among the starters. The meat-free option packs a punch with a surprisingly moreish mixture of avocado, feta, chilli, mint and basil, topped with toasted almonds to add some crunch.

The mains offer a pleasant selection of hearty and light dishes, accompanied with green salad and chips for the table to share. Beef-lovers should choose from the Bife De Ancho (300g) – a delicately marbled rib-eye throughout, basted in home-made chimichurri, or the Bife de Chorizo (300g) – a tender yet succulent sirloin with its juicy and crackling strip. Pair these succulent dishes with the perfect red wine; Gaucho’s very own ‘G’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 from Mendoza, Argentina. While a true Gaucho experience is incomplete without its prime selection of free-range beef, non-beef eaters and vegetarians also have plenty to be happy about! The Oven-Baked Sea Bass with Torrontés confit tomatoes was not only light but deliciously fresh and flavorsome. Vegetarians may spoil themselves with the creamy Risotto with a simple yet sublime mixture of lemon and basil.

Taking a breather, I pondered the question of what beverage to choose next. For champagne lovers, Gaucho offers a free-flow package of Veuve Cliquot .Other options include house pours and select cocktails including Bloody Mary and mojitos. For those refraining from alcohol, there is a selection of mocktails including Homemade Mint Lemonade, Ginger Crush and not to forget, the refreshing Mojito, which I must note, tasted just as good without the rum.

To end the culinary adventure, treat yourself to Gaucho’s decadent and unlimited sharing platter of desserts including Mango and Passion Fruit Mess, Chocolate Brownie and the moist Dulce de Leche Cheescake – an all-time favourite with guests.

THE VERDICT

Whether you are on a health kick or continuing to dine on great food, Gaucho’s menu is a perfect mix of light and hearty dishes. However, with a number of delicious starters on offer, one must refrain from over-indulging or risk leaving the mains and dessert uneaten – which I must add, would be a real shame. The drinks, meanwhile, can’t be faulted. With classic brunch tipples, as well as a generous selection of non-alcoholic drinks, we can’t complain.

Gaucho has done a great job of incorporating its signature Argentinean dishes to form a tasty brunch menu but with Hong Kong’s cut-throat F&B scene, will it be enough to stand out? We, for one, hope that Gaucho stands the test of time.

Gaucho’s brunch is available from 12pm-3.30pm every Saturday, Sunday and public holiday. Each sitting is two hours, with free-flow packages starting from HK$350.

5th Floor, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road Central. (852) 2386 8090. www.gauchorestaurants.com

Text: Hira Desai

Christmas Day lunch: Five standout holiday feasts across Hong Kong

Why slave away at the kitchen this Christmas with so many festive dine-out options available? Here are our top picks of the best Christmas Day meals in town.

La Rambla

ifc’s newest Catalan restaurant, with its stunning view of Victoria Harbour, is currently a hidden gem on the third floor, tucked away unassumingly by Lane Crawford. However, once you get past the subtly gilded entrance, the place opens up to a vast space and terrace flooded with natural light. On 24 and 25 December, the Spanish establishment lays out an elaborate spread of Iberian favourites for its Christmas Brunch Buffet. The affair is hosted by none other than Father Christmas, featuring the famous Segovian suckling pig, paellas, tapas and a wide selection of oysters from France, Spain, Ireland and the US. Pastry Chef Valerie Zuniga outdoes herself on the dessert section, so save room for that. Children under 3 eat for free; for 3 to 9 years old, it’s HK$320 a head; adults are HK$780 plus HK$320 for free flow options of red wine and champagne.

La Rambla. 3071-73 level 3, ifc mall, Central. 2661 1161

*Ole has a special hunting menu this winter*

Olé

The months running from November to February mark hunting season in Spain, and in many a pastoral home, it wouldn’t be uncommon to find heart-warming dishes of venison, wild boar, red dear and pheasant. From now until 28 February 2018, Olé – Hong Kong’s most established Spanish restaurant now on its 19th year – presents a winter menu celebrating the rustic cooking associated with the season. Its themed dishes include the rich Red Deer Hunters Stew (HK$280), the shredded Wild Boar “Civet” Raviolis (HK$260) and hefty Wild Duck “Challandaise” Breast with Sweet Potato, Figs & Port Wine Reduction (HK$360). The menu’s meats have been personally secured by Spanish Executive Chef Jesus Pascual, hence the opportunity to try dishes like Wild Pheasant with Truffle (HK$390) and Quail Legs Stew (HK$180) – they’re sure to warm you up on a cold day.

Olé. 1/F, Shun Ho Tower, 24-30 Ice House Street, Central. 2523 8624

Gaucho

Presenting a decadent Christmas extravaganza, London-born Argentinean restaurant Gaucho brings a classic Argentinean twist to your favourite foods this winter. Soak in the Yuletide spirit with special dishes and drinks, including Beef Wellington, Ancho (Argentinean beef), Candied Apples, Gingerbread Sour and more. Don’t miss the Slow-Braised Lamb Shank that takes over four hours to prepare! Brunch packages start from HK$518 for food only and goes up to HK$768 on adding Veuve Cliquot and cocktails.

Gaucho. 5th Floor, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road, Central. 2386 8090

Jinjuu

If you’re tired of traditional Christmas fare, why not head to modern Korean hotspot Jinjuu? Run by head chef Judy Loo, this restaurant is already well known for its inventive fusion flavours. The Christmas Day menu continues this trend, featuring interesting reinterpretations of usual culinary suspects such as the Jinjuu Korean Crispy Fried Turkey, Gochujang Honey-roasted Iberico Pork Belly and Minced Pie Mandoo dumplings. Unexpected combinations also appear, from ssamjong wonton in the Creamy Pumpkin Soup to yuzu cream and green tea sugar in the Yule Log. Jinjuu’s seven-course Christmas Day menu is priced at HK$668 per person.

Jinjuu. UG/F, 32 D’Aguilar Street, California Tower, Central. 3755 4868

Amber

Voted one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, French fine dining restaurant Amber serves a memorable meal every time. But two Michelin-starred chef Richard Ekkebus is going one step further for Christmas, foregoing traditional courses like turkey and ham in his quest to push the boundaries of gastronomic innovation. Diverging from his usual repertoire, Ekkebus has introduced strong Asian flavours for the five-course affair. Case in point, his main course – Challans Female Duck brushed with hyuganatsu marmalade, Japanese whiskey and miso. While the menu may not suit those looking for a generic Christmas dining experience, it promises to be a true treat for epicurean adventurers. Amber’s five-course Christmas Day lunch menu is HK$1,388 per person.

Amber. 7/F, Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Road, Central. 2132 0066

Killer parties in town this Halloween

It’s that time of the year to embrace your darker side! Halloween’s round the corner and here are our top picks from the hippest parties and the coolest restaurants:

CÉ LA VI

LKF’s popular party destination, CÉ LA VI, is all geared up for a killer party – A Night to Dismember – to celebrate Halloween this Saturday, 28 October. Offering a bird’s eye view of the city from the 25^th floor Club Lounge and Sky Deck bar, the venue is sinfully enticing to the lovers of glam and gore. DJ Bennie Blanco and DJ Fudge will be spinning well into the night for the monster’s ball where guests dressed in their Halloween best can ‘raise hell’ with their dance moves. On offer are poisons like Angel’s Blood (HK$118), Black Widow (HK$118) and Toxic Mary (HK$108).

25/F, California Tower
Lan Kwai Fung
28 October, 9pm onwards
Dress code: Frightfully fabulous or fiendishly fun
Cover charge:
Advance Early Bird Tickets: HK$150
Early Bird Tickets: HK$200
At the Door: HK$250
Tickets are available on Ticketflap

Dada Bar + Lounge

Dress up in your ghoulish best and find out ‘who’s the fairest of them all’ at Dada Bar + Lounge this Saturday, 28 October. There are special prizes for whoever is announced a winner by the magic mirror in the house. Body painter Jay’s handiwork and DJ Marina D’s haunting music promises to make things even more devilishly exciting. The lounge also has on offer drinks like Sinister Ooze (HK$90), Piledriver (HK$90) and E.T. Lou (HK$50/shot), specially crafted to give you goose bumps.

2/F, The Luxe Manor
39 Kimberley Road, TST
28 October, 10pm onwards
Cover charge: HK$180 per person (including free makeup service)
For reservations, visit http://www.dadalounge.com.hk/reservations.php

Gaucho

For those looking to start their parties early can head to Gaucho this weekend. The posh restaurant at Central celebrates Halloween with a weekend-long brunch featuring devilicious items like traditional empanadas, ceviches and succulent steaks. There is a special kid’s menu for the munchkins and minions as well. The surprise doesn’t end there! Gaucho has also organised special prizes for the best-dressed group on Saturday and four complimentary tickets to Ocean Park (2 adults, 2 children) for the best-dressed family on Sunday.

5/F, LHT Tower
31 Queen’s Road Central, Central
28-29 October, 11am – 4pm
Prices start from HK$350 per person (HK$100 per child)
For reservations, visit http://www.gauchorestaurants.com.hk

Jinjuu

It’s double the fun at Jinjuu’s this Saturday. Celebrating “Cirque du Jinjuu: Hour of the Dark Twins” on 28 October, Jinjuu calls out to the two-faced Janus in each of us. With ‘best-dressed pair’ competitions, free-flowing spirits, Korean fare by celebrity chef Judy Joo, Jinjuu promises to spice up things two times over! Things may take a wilder turn post 1am, with drink prices dropping to just HK$60.

UG/F, 32 D’Aguilar Street, Central
28 October, 11pm onwards
Advance tickets: HK$350
At door: HK$400
For details, call 3755-4868

Ms B’s Cakery

Moving over to the dark side can be a sweet experience as well! Asia’s Queen of Confectionery, Bonnae Gokson, has created special Halloween-themed cakes to make the scariest night of the year a tad sweeter. Cakes like Happy Halloween, Death by Chocolate, Halloween Taster are decadent indulgences especially designed to tempt you to lost paradise.

Halloween Taster: HK$60 each
Death by Chocolate: HK$5,200 for 1,000gm
Happy Halloween: HK$880 for 500gm, HK$1,500 for 1000gm

Ms B’s Cakery
Shop 248, Landmark Prince’s
10 Chater Road, Central
Tel: (852) 2530 0203

Ms B’s Cakery
39 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2815 8303

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Hong Kongers embrace Chope’s ‘Food on Foot Tour’

Chope, a real time restaurant-reservation booking platform, recently hosted its “Food on Foot Tour”.

Participants of the tour sampled one dish and/or signature drink at over 10 venues in Central, including Gaucho, Porterhouse, Bungalow and Jinjuu.

Chope is Michelin’s official online restaurant booking platform.

Take a culinary journey through Central

With the constant stream of Christmas parties comes the constant stream of booze and food, which turns December into a month of overindulgence for a lot of people.

Escaping the chilly weather to gorge on food and drink as much alcohol as possible is the norm for this time of year. However, for the more daring among you, December also offers a culinary journey through some of Central’s best restaurants, with the “Chope’s Food on Foot Tour”.

For one night only, participants of the “Chope’s Food on Foot Tour” will gain access to one dish and/or signature cocktails/beers at over 10+ venues in Central, including the likes of Gaucho, Jinjuu, Porterhouse by Laris and Café Siam.

Guests can wander at their own speed between the participating restaurants from 6pm to 11pm on 7 December.

Tickets can be purchased through the Chope platform (available on iOS, Android and online), and redeemed on the day of the event from 6pm onwards at Bungalow.

Guests will receive a welcome signature cocktail and a selection of bites, complimentary shaves and temporary tattoos from Selvedge Grooming and plenty of goodies from both Selvedge Grooming and Yeechoo.

Venue: Central

Time/date: 6pm-11pm on Wednesday 7 December

Price: HK$350 (until Nov 30), $450 (until Dec 6), HK$500 (Door)