Basin
Inspired by the Mediterranean coast and located in Central’s new FOCO building, Basin brings a slice of leisurely coastal dining to the heart of Hong Kong’s concrete jungle. Industry veteran Erik Kirakozov and Spanish-born Chef Antoni Bernabeu helm the venture, and sought to infuse the communal dining and easygoing feel of the Mediterranean with fresh produce that the pair source from Europe. Cooked on the Josper, the grilled octopus is smoky and tender, served with olive oil from the South of Spain and dehydrated olive powder for a smack of umami, while creamy sweet potato puree balances out the mix.
3/F Foco, 46-48 Cochrane Street, Central; basin.hk
The Bayside
With panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, The Bayside features the best of European fare with tapas from Spain, seafood and tartares from France and fresh vegetables and meat from the Mediterranean coast. An extensive selection of cocktails and a cosy al fresco area add to the restaurant’s leisurely atmosphere. The creamy salmon tartare offers a refreshing change from the standard choice of tuna – topped with salmon roe and a quenelle of dill cream, the dish is paired with beetroot relish and crunchy crostini for a dish that is all at once creamy, tangy, fresh and sweet.
Shop G, G/F, 18 Tak Fung Street, Whampoa Garden, Hung Hom; @thebayside.hk
Breeze Bistro
Situated by the water is Kennedy Town’s newest neighbourhood joint, Breeze Bistro. With lashings of Mediterranean influence and other fresh, seasonal flavours, the convivial space channels a relaxed coastal spirit, with Italian, French and Spanish influences courtesy of Chef and co-founder Chris Gill’s diverse experiences. “My favourite part about the cuisine is its diversity and culture, which allows me to use various aspects from my background to blend a dish from different parts of Europe.” Breeze Bistro’s Niçoise salad is an exemplary Mediterranean dish combining buttery lettuce, creamy poached eggs, fresh tomatoes and French side beans with seared tuna and anchovies. Zingy and bright, this dish offers the best of Mediterranean produce while packing a punch with flavour and freshness.
7-8 New Praya, Kennedy Town; breezebistro.com
Photography: Samantha Sin
Styling: Ella Wong
Editor
Carina Fischer
