With spring semester behind me and the summer semester in full-swing, I'm feeling cheery and positive about an otherwise sweltering, humid, and grumpiness-inducing three month stretch in Hong Kong. Mosquito bites, 120% humidity, and heat rash---I dare you to damper my good mood!
I recently went to Phuket, which would be my 3rd visit to Thailand since I moved to HK. Phuket was beautiful but I must admit, I had more fun on my last trip to Thailand. A 2 day visit + 3 day visit to Hua Hin to me, is a more perfect combination of night life/shopping/beach/and spa. Phuket's snorkelling was truly amazing though and the surrounding islands were lovely and definitely worth the visit.
My JD gang at Chocolate, our local watering hole 
HK Art Fair 2010: hopefully my future living room muralBISTECA - Lan Kwai Fong, Central
After my dismal experience at Craft steakhouse in Soho, I had little hopes for a top notch steak house experience in Hong Kong. It seemed that I would be doomed to chewy and sinewy meat or over-processed options unless I wanted to shell out serious cash for the Wagyu and Kobe cuts at various Japanese outlets. Thankfully, the Dining Concepts group has yet again churned out a consistent and delicious steakhouse restaurant right in the heart of LKF. Located on the second floor, next to Tuscan H, I was pleasantly surprised by the perfectly prepared steaks and the homey décor. I particularly liked their 8 oz filet, which was perfectly tender and well-seasoned, served on its own wooden cutting board. Bisteca also has creative sides served in cast iron skillets. Everything was done well from the fresh baked focaccia to the creamed spinach. It's a little more pricey than the other steak places but definitely worth the price. Steaks start at around $265 HKD ($35USD) and sides are about $35HKD
Ladies and gentleman, southern BBQ has arrived to HK! Blue Smoke, much like the version in NYC, has great ribs, brisket, and an authentic rustic décor. I love the wooden picnic tables, open air space, and where else do you get served complimentary cornbread and freshly fried bacon as starters? I didn't love the baked mac & cheese nor the lamb ribs, but the creamed corn was fantastic as was the key lime pie. The Chef and owner, Chris, is Canadian, and also is part owner of Bisteca located downstairs. Blue Smoke is a great place to bring friends as they have large tables perfect for get togethers. Be expected to pay $200-300 per head including a drink.
Baby back ribs, creamed corn and spinach
PASTIS - Wyndham St, Central
Pastis serves up solid french fare that did not disappoint. I was impressed with the authenticity and full flavor of the dishes that we tried. The menu is relatively limited so I would stick with the beef bourguignon, garlic shrimp, and escargot. Make a reservation as seating is very limited.
COAST - Soho, Central
For their easily acceible location right on the escalator to Soho, I would say that this restaurant is a good value. I thoroughly enjoyed their Australian and mediterranean fare ranging from their Aussie kangaroo pie to their baramundi fish and chips. I also liked their mushy peas and brussel sprouts and proscioutto sides. Coast is great for large groups as they have sharing plates and large tables. They have $110 HKD Mussel Mondays and also serve up a tastey steak for approx $285 and up. Just beware that they sometimes run out of mussels on Monday so try and get there early! Some things to avoid would include the risotto balls and the desserts as the variety is limited and they aren't particularly delicate.
