Nikkei Indulgence: A Peruvian-Japanese fusion master weaves culinary originality within the dreamscapes of Honjo

Tucked away in the vibrant neighbourhood of Sheung Wan lies one of the dining world’s best-kept secrets: Honjo. With its innovative spirit and a twist on traditional tastes, Honjo’s modern Japanese cuisine has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and visitors alike – or, as their tasting menus highlight, Dreamers and Travellers. So if you are a foodie ready for an edible adventure, buckle your taste buds – things are about to get deliciously progressive.

With the arrival of Executive Chef Sandro Montero’s new à la carte menu, Honjo takes diners on a spectacular culinary journey that pays homage to Japanese techniques while incorporating rich, global flavours. You may be wondering what in the world a South American chef is doing serving Japanese cuisine in Hong Kong, but never fear – Montero brings some serious flair to the dining scene that you won’t want to miss.

The Peruvian culinary wizard’s almost 20 years of experience has taken him from the colourful streets of Lima to Brazil, Indonesia and beyond, armed with a fascinating take on Nikkei cuisine – Peruvian-Japanese fusion – that masterfully blends familiar tastes with unexpected elements. “My transition from Peruvian and Nikkei cuisine to Japanese dining at Honjo has been an exciting challenge,” shares the globetrotting chef, who landed in Hong Kong in October last year. “I believe my diverse background allows me to create culinary experiences that surprise and delight.”

He certainly delivers on this assertion. Honjo’s menu is a tantalising tapestry of gastronomical delights. From the very first bite of the unagi – a sweet, smoky fried eel sushi that’s dressed to impress with parmesan spicy sauce and a luscious tobiko mix – to a delicate hamachi salad drizzled with vibrant yuzu, your taste buds will be doing a happy little dance!

For those with a penchant for deep-sea delicacies, plump oysters luxuriate in a zesty yuzu, ponzu and sriracha dressing that won’t fail to leave you dreaming of ocean breezes and sandy shores. Who needs a beach when you can travel to Japan via Thailand and back with just a few mouthwatering bites? Lobster maki, meanwhile, is a truly extravagant roll, perfectly sous vide and topped with tempura asparagus and creamy mayo mentaiko sauce, that makes you question all past sushi experiences.

If you’re into group outings, diving into one of Honjo’s tasting menus is highly recommended. Whether The Dreamer or The Traveller, each weaves a captivating culinary narrative through evolving seasonal dishes that shout creativity and passion. Inventive sake and wine pairings heighten the drama. “The inspiration behind the menus is capturing the journeys we take in life,” shares Montero. “Each experience is designed to encourage guests to return time and time again.”

A chef is only as good as their team, and Chef Sandro is clearly a master of his art. “The team is the backbone of our kitchen, and every one of their contributions has shaped the vision for Honjo,” he elaborates. It shows, too – their harmonious work ethic and respect for ingredients breathe life into every dish, and a culture of joy and discipline is championed on each plate.

Stepping into Honjo is like entering a vibrant dreamscape of colours and textures that nod to Japanese aesthetics. It’s not just dining; it’s an event with themed rooms that allow you to escape the mundane. You find yourself daydreaming about the next dish – a comforting, sweet-savoury bowl of seafood kamameshi, perhaps, cooked in an iron pot that will surely warm the heart and fill the soul.

Whether you are a sushi novice or a raw-fish aficionado, Honjo’s modern Japanese cuisine offers a sensational experience that promises not only satisfaction but also surprises galore. Prepare your palate for an unforgettable journey – you might just find your new happy place in this delightful blend of tradition and innovation.

Honjo. 1/F,  77-91 Queen’s Road West, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

Photos: Honjo Video: Jack Fontanilla

Mother’s Day 2022: Delightful menus to honour the main woman in your life

We are finally putting the rocky start to 2022 behind us as we move towards a sense of semi-normalcy. With dining restrictions finally easing just in time to celebrate the leading ladies in our lives, we put our focus now on our queens – Mum! Make your reservations now for a date with mum to celebrate her strength, her aura and her mere presence in your life… 

Lobby Lounge, Kowloon Shangri-La
Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong kowloon shangri-la lobby lounge x canvas

What’s a mother’s day weekend without a dainty afternoon tea to pamper mum with. Take your special heroine out for the perfect afternoon date at Tsim Sha Tsui-set Kowloon Shangri-La, where the hotel’s Lobby Lounge will be serving a gorgeous ‘Rosy Wonderland’ Afternoon Tea. Serving scrumptious scones, finger treats and special sweet treats and cakes in collaboration with Australian beauty and aromatherapy brand CANVAS. Joining hands, for the first time, to embrace the beauty and love of every mother this occasion.

For more information: shangri-la.com / (852) 2733 8740

Lobby Lounge at Kerry Hotel by Shangri-La 
Kerry Hotel, Hung Hom

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong kerry hotel by shangri-la grace lumiere afternoon tea

Kerry Hotel and Korean skincare brand su:m37˚ presents ‘Graceful Lumière’ Afternoon Tea at Lobby Lounge from 3 May to 30 June 2022. The team at Kerry Hotel has curated a brand-new afternoon tea with a slew of Korean-based dishes. Think kimchi for Bibimbap with Chicken with gingseng chicken rice croquettes, black garlic for Black Mandu with Wagyu beef cheek and black truffle. Sweet delicacies include refreshing Greek Yogurt Cheesecake and Exotic Composition, as well as the traditional and special Candied Lemon and Yuzu scones fresh from the oven, amid the laid-back atmosphere at Lobby Lounge.

Diners can also toast to the afternoon treats with the complimentary Pine-infused Osmanthus Tea or two glasses of Veuve Clicquot Brut NV at just HK$188 for an elevated experience. And for something even more special, two complimentary sets of su:m37° 3-step to Goddess Aura Deluxe Gift Set (valued at HK$528) will be offered at a first come first serve basis. 

Tin Lung Heen
The Ritz-Carlton, Tsim Sha Tsui

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Tin Lung Heen chinese cuisine

If you’re looking to really impress mum with an authentic fare of Cantonese cuisine, the 6-course South African Yoshihama abalone menu (HK$3,576 per person) at majestic two Michelin-star Tin Lung Heen might just be the restaurant to fit the bill. Special for Mother’s Day, the menu is elevates  traditional Cantonese cuisine to new heights with luxurious ingredients that will truly make the special occasion a memorable one. 

For a complete day of pampering for dearest mum, The Ritz-Carlton will also be offering a “Heavenly Spa Indulgence” package for two people at The Ritz-Carlton Spa and a “Stellar-bration with Mom” staycation package. 

For more information: ritzcarlton.com / (852) 2263 2270

Spring Moon
The Peninsula Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Spring Moon chinese cuisine

Spoil mother dearest with a lavish day out at The Peninsula on her special day. This month, aside from the luxurious staycation packages and indulgent spa treatments, the hotel’s Michelin-starred Spring Moon restaurant will be serving its guests of honour – dear mum, an exclusive Mother’s Day gourmet affair. Offering an 8-course dinner set (HK5,380 for four persons) full of exceptional Cantonese favourites such as Double-boiled Sea Cucumber Soup with Sea Dragon and Conpoy, Steamed Spotted Garoupa Fillet with Matsutake Mushrooms, and Braised whole five-head abalone and fish maw with rich chicken sauce festively served in a pumpkin.

For more information: peninsula.com / (852) 2696 6760

The Chinese Library
Tai Kwun, Central

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Dim Sum Library

To satisfy mum’s yum cha cravings, The Chinese Library will be serving a mouthwatering 8-course Mother’s Day Dinner Tasting Menu (HK$888 per person) of reinvented classics between 6 and 9 May. A Longevity Peave “Shou Tao” and Mango tofu curd with ice jelly will be an exclusive offering only available during that long weekend. Also, a Mother’s Day Unlimited Dim Sum Menu (HK$568 per person) for brunch will be on offer, with free-flow champagne, cocktails, wine and beer for an additional HK$300 per person.

Aqua Luna
Central Pier 9 or Tsim Sha Tsui Pier 1

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Aqua Luna afternoon tea

Alternatively, to take mum on an experience like no other, book Mother’s Day afternoon tea cruise (From HK$399 per person) with Aqua Luna to enjoy the beautiful sights of Victoria Harbour during the day. Aboard the iconic red-sailed junk aqua luna, sip on champagne and nibble on dim sum bites, such as black truffle shrimp dumplings, rose-shaped buns with red bean, and a range of vegetarian options, courtesy of Dim Sum Library. 

For more information: chineselibrary.com.hk / (852) 2848 3088

Hutong
H Zentre, Tsim Sha Tsui

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Hutong chinese cuisine

Set in their new location at H Zentre, the coveted northern Chinese restaurant Hutong will be serving a slew of scrumptious dim sum, sharing plates, and more! With breathtaking views of Hong Kong’s skyline and Victoria Habour in the background, treat mum to a memorable mother’s day dinner, featuring a seven-dish tasting (HK$4,388 per table of four persons) and an exclusive lychee with chocolate mousse for dessert. 

Or perhaps, the family would prefer to take dear mum out for brunch instead. Hutong’s Mother’s Day Feng Wèi Brunch offers an unlimited dim sum and Sichuan chicken, complete with free-flow packages for 3.5 hours (HK$988 per person). Don’t miss out on their Peking Duck upgrade and their signature cocktail Perfume No.10 made with Tanqueray No.10, homemade rose ginger, passion fruit and yuzu (HK$68).

For more information: hutong.com.hk / (852) 3428 8342

 

Also Read: Yung Kee: A New look at the iconic Cantonese eatery

1908BC 
Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong 1908BC british chinese cuisine

Inspired by the founder’s own mother’s home-cooking that often brought together Chinese traditions and British influences, contemporary British-Chinese restaurant 1908BC will be serving a sophisticated gastronomic fare in the form of two special menus to honour mums: Old Hong Kong Mother’s Day Menu (HK$620 per person) and new Hong Kong Mother’s Day Menu (HK$480 per person). The former, an 8-course dinner menu for families of four or more, is a hearty feast of comforting and time honoured classics, such as Double Boiled Pork and Hairy Fig Soup, Fish Maw with Chinese Mushrooms in Abalone Sauce, and ‘ketchup prawns’ with Giant River Prawns in a Tangy Tomato Sauce, just to name a few.

For a more modernised affair, the latter selection is a day menu that features more contemporary interpretations of Chinese staples. Among these, are Crispy Wonton served with house red sauce, Honey Pork Ribs, the restaurant’s most ordered golden Butterfly Prawn Toast and the crackling Crispy Aromatic Duck. 

For more information: 1908bc.com / (852) 2116 4668

Arbor
H Queen’s, Central

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Mak Mak thai cuisine

A break from Chinese cuisine, perhaps a move farther east for a Japanese fare with a contemporary twist at two-Michelin-stars Arbor will be just the ticket. The restaurant be celebrating all mothers this May with a sumptuous eight-course brunch (HK$1,488 per person) and delicious 11-course dinner (HK$2,888 per person) for a full spread on their special day. Diners can expect nothing less than the best here, especially when their menus highlight premium Japanese ingredients like Kohada fish and A4 Wagyu beef. 

For more information: arbor-hk.com / (852) 3185 8388

Also Read: Canton Fare: Top 30 Cantonese restaurants in Hong Kong

Honjo
Hollywood Centre, Sheung Wan

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Honjo japanese cuisine

This Mother’s Day, Pirata Group will be celebrating all mothers with the hashtag #StrongLikeAMother and offering special heartwarming menus to show mums our appreciation for their resilience and hardwork. At Honjo, treat mum to a gastronomic adventure of exquisite contemporary Japanese dishes for Mother’s Day Brunch (HK$688 per person).

Starting with four savoury starters, including chilled spinach served with sesame sauce and mustard seed, Wagyu in chorizo oil and sliced hamachi in yuzu soy, together with Honjo Tempura and a Mother’s Day sushi sashimi platter featuring salmon, hamachi, chu-toro and sweet prawn. An appetising introduction to the delectable mains to follow, including Barramundi in pea puree, lamb chops and Grilled Rib-eye, and not to mention, sweet treats such warm chocolate truffle with matcha ice-cream and sakura coulis for an indulgent finish. For an additional HK$388 per person, you enjoy a wine, sake or champagne pairing. 

For more information: honjo.hk / (852) 2663 3772

Mandarin Grill + Bar / Café Causette
Mandarin Oriental, Central

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong mandarin oriental bar + grill

Nothing brings the family together quite like a succulent weekend roast. Offering a sumptuous Sunday Roast menu like only Mandarin Oriental can, mums will be spoiled for choice at the Michelin-starred Mandarin Grill + Bar. Serving an egg dish appetiser and her choice of main and treats from the dessert trolley. 

For a classier alternative, clink tea cups at Café Causette for a high tea date that will have mum indulging in class. From sweet nibbles, finger sandwiches and the hotel’s signature scones, an afternoon here will surely have mum feeling pampered. The Mandarin Afternoon Tea is also available for takeaway at The Mandarin Cake Shop for pick-up or delivery. 

For more information: mandarinoriental.com /Mandarin Bar + Grill: (852) 2825 4004 / Café Causette: (852) 2825 4005

Louise
PMQ, Central

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Louise western cuisine

A toast to all beautiful mums, French restaurant Louise treats the city’s strong and courageous mothers to a delicious fare of Michelin plates. From their iconic Hong Kong Yellow roasted chicken to their angel caviar pasta, mum is sure to feel the love from a heart-warming meal.

For something extra special, JIA Group has partnered with Blossom Minds, a division of Learning Support Services Association, in providing beautiful bouquets as an add on option upon reservations (HK$600). This collaboration will help support employment opportunity for young adults with special needs to work in the mainstream workforce. In addition, the group has is also offering a limited edition Mother’s Day Hamper until 10 May. Filled with delicious homemade jam, ‘mama Royer’ yogurt cake, celebratory bubbles and a ‘Humorist Set’ by @aesopskincare, the hamper is available for pre-order on @jiaeverywhere.   

Mak Mak
The Landmark Atrium, Central

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong Mak Mak thai cuisine

Presenting a tantilising and edgy alternative, Mak Mak at Landmark adds a kick to Thai classics. Available for both Mother’s Day brunch and dinner, enjoy a range of flavours from hot and tangy to spicy and savory. Try some of their much loved dishes such as Yum Sum O (Pomelo Salad), Muu Tod (Marinated crispy pork), Pla Krapong Neung Manow (Steamed Sea Bass). They even have vegetarian options available — delightful news for non-meat eaters! Each booking comes with a welcome round of Veuve Clicquot champagne, in addition, an optional free-flow of Veuve Clicquot, Aperol Spritz, Beer and more is also available for their brunch menu.

For more information: makmak.hk / (852) 2983 1003

Morton’s Steakhouse
The Sheraton Hotel & Towers Fourth Level, Tsim Sha Tsui

gafencu mother's day menu dining hong kong morton's steakhouse

For a meat-centric festivity, Morton’s Steakhouse will be serving a premium surf-and-turf menu for lunch that will offer diners the best of both land and sea, not to mention spot on side dishes and desserts to complete the experience. Yes, we’re talking about the steakhouse’s world-famous Parmesan & Truffle Fries, Morton’s Legendary Hot Chocolate Cake, Key Lime Pie and elegant Crème Brûlée.

Enjoy a three-course meal (HK$788 per person) with mum, starting with a choice of a classic fresh Caesar Salad, specialty Center-cut Iceberg or sophisticated Lobster Bisque. Followed by a tender 6oz Center-cut Filet Mignon, with either a juicy Crab Cake, succulent fresh Lobster Tail or umami-ladened Bacon-wrapped Scallops. Of course, the option to opt for the steakhouse’s signature Morton’s steak cuts for an additional price will also be available. 

For more information: mortons.com / (852) 2732 2343

Also Read: Clarence: Reviewing the new modern French fine dining, because dinner is back on!

Go Honjo: Exploring this hip, contemporary new Japanese eatery

With few in the Fragrant Harbour having much of an appetite for Hubei cuisine at the present, hungry Hongkongers have been casting about for a tempting alternative. One that has come very much to the fore is Japanese food. Indeed, unless you’ve spent the last month forcibly con ned just off the coast of Yokohoma, chances are you can easily nd this an enigmatic and oft underexplored cooking style. Thankfully, for those looking to address any such shortcoming on their personal, diet-based, mission of discovery, there is a local destination sure to remedy just that – Sheung Wan-set Honjo. 

Honjo Interiors

One of a number of dineries debuted last year by the Wong Chuk Hang-headquartered Pirata Group – the company behind such celebrated scofferies as The Optimist and Tokyolima – Honjo prides itself on reinventing quintessential Japanese dishes in a wholly contemporary manner. The result is an expansive, well thought- out menu that’s eclectic yet familiar, comprising everything from raw staples and cold appetisers to sushi, tempura and a positive panoply of larger platters.

Those expecting any hallmark of greatness from without, however, might be a little disappointed – access to its apparently unassuming premises is via an equally unassuming little door. Once you have crossed the threshold, though, you are immediately transported through time and space, but not to any destination you might anticipate… Rather than finding yourself catapulted to the court of the Chrysanthemum Throne sometime 1700 AD-ish, instead it’s the singular stylings of ’50s Britain, all dim lighting, safari prints and ruddy furnishings, that greet you. Despite being something of a surprise, it is undoubtedly welcoming and cosy in its own way…

Honjo Bar

It would also take more than an outré ambience to dissuade us from our tasting mission and we were more than eager to dive into the first course – Tuna Cracker, a modern interpretation of the traditional nigiri. Each piece proved a mighty mouthful, with shredded raw tuna, ikura (salmon roe), an avocado mousse and a deep-fried rice-cracker all vying for mouthroom. It was an intriguing combination, with the crunchy rice, juicy roe and slight wasabi sting in the mousse all acting to enhance the creaminess of the tuna. 

Honjo Iberico

Next up was Iberico – seared pork tenderloin, seasoned with a spicy Sichuan oil and a refreshing ginger scallion salsa. With further refinement coming in the form of both the bubu arare (deep- fried rice grains) and the lingering notes of Sichuan pepper, every bite lingered long, light and tangy.

Honjo Sushi Platter

The final cold dish to be served up was a Medium Sushi Platter, laden with four types of nigiri – salmon, hamachi belly, chutoro and tuna – and two rolls, salmon / avocado and hamachi / cucumber. A feast for the eyes as much as the palate, the melt-in-your-mouth chutoro was an instant hit, while the hamachi cucumber roll – accented with purple yukari shiso salt – offered the most interesting in-mouth sensation. Next up was the first hot dish of the tasting – the Honjo Tempura Selection. Lightly battered, but perfectly crisp, the black tiger prawns surprised as the undoubted stars of this delicious dish. Once again, though, the restaurant had an ace up its sleeve, this time in the form of its Broccolini. While it’s an unusual tempura inclusion, its subtle crunch and juicy texture won us over completely.

Honjo Broccolini

Perhaps the most outstanding dish, though, was the Whole Chicken & Rice, which, true to its name, featured a whole baby chicken, one stuffed with mushrooms, pancetta and sticky rice, then served with hazelnuts, salt and a delectable, buttery ginger roast sauce. While there’s no denying the East-meets- West credentials of this particular dish, it’s a combination that, while complex, is far greater than its constituent parts. Not only does the dish shine in its own right, the addition of each condiment transforms the overall flavour palate, essentially delivering four courses on one plate.

Honjo Whole Chicken & Rice

All in all, it’s an apt display of just how Honjo has raised the bar for modern Japanese cuisine, experimenting with new ingredients and enhancing classic favours with a wholly dynamic flourish. Add to that its stunningly lush interiors and what you get is a true culinary gem. 

Honjo. 1/Fl, 77-91 Queen’s Rd West, Sheung Wan. (852) 2663 3772. honjo.hk 

Text: Tenzing Thondup
Photos: Honjo