Just Breathe...

With the onslaught of second semester assignments, readings, job applications, student government elections (and the list goes on..) it seems that I've barely had a moment to breathe. I keep reminding myself that I can do it, I just have to keep focused and prioritize activities each day. Although I am determined, I can't help but feel a bit depressed--- like I'm an automaton, checking off the boxes, moving from one task to the next. Not even the random splurge at Lane Crawford seems to be able to boost my mood. Normally retail therapy makes everything better! Is this a sign of a more deep rooted problem? I surely hope not!



On a much brighter note, I am very glad to be back as I've missed my girl friends! It was great to see all my local HK and JD friends last weekend. To the left are my best gfs in HK, Bonnie and Justine.

I've also been much happier about returning to delicious Hong Kong food and Asian-sized portions. I was starting to get a little ice cream belly while being home in the States! It seems that I've finally gotten over my bronchitis so that means no excuses for logging in gym time. I must admit though, hiking up the hills in central and the mid-levels is no joke so that's been great exercise.


Since I've been back, I've been going back to some of my favorites including Wasabisabi in Causeway Bay and Nha Trang in Central. Below are some highlights:


I can't get over how delicious the soft shell crab spring rolls are at Nha Trang. I have to eat these almost every other day and at $46HKD, they're very affordable!


In addition to knock-out pho and other standard Viet specials, their Shaken beef with fried garlic, snow peas, and cherry tomatoes is also an outstanding dish. It's rare to eat good red meat in HK but this dish definitely hits the spot at $68 + $15 for a side of garlic rice


Moving right along, I can't stress how good Wasabisabi is, especially when they offer 20% the bill when you sit at the bar. It saddens me to see them so empty at peak dinner time on a Monday night.

Oh-toro and uni sushi wrapped in shiso leaf ---so beautiful, it melts in your mouth ($110 for two pieces)


My favorite appetizer hands down is the seared foie gras and Japanese cucumber. It's a very hearty portion for $88HKD! I could eat three servings with a bowl of rice as a meal. For foie lovers, this is a must!


Main dish: Australian Wagyu beaf tenderly wrapped around morels, seared, and served with daikon. Not pretty to look at but absolutely divine to eat!


Main dish: This was the grilled giant prawn with uni sauce. Sadly, the execution failed as the prawn was not cooked properly throughout and the uni sauce was entirely one dimensional. It needed an additional flavor, perhaps a citrus like yuzu or even shiso leaf to make this dish worthy of a two thumbs up. I would definitely discourage any one from ordering this dish.



Thankfully, the meal continued onto a glorious finish with the indulgent but perfectly portioned green tea creme brulee. I just can't seem to get enough of this dessert. There's something about the creaminess of the brulee that pairs so nicely with their caramelized top. If I didn't care about calories, I would eat this every day. Seriously.


Lastly, has anyone tried rice pizza yet? I walked by this establishment while shopping near Sogo in Causeway Bay with Justine. She tried to convince me that there are some tasty options but I'm a bit skeptical...something about a rice based crust topped with ham and pineapple just seems wrong!