Three-Michelin-Starred Restaurant Caprice Launches Limited-Time Pastry Trio

If you're craving a beachside escape without leaving Hong Kong, Terracotta Lamma delivers in full technicolor. 

As the temperature rises, so does the heat in the kitchen. Former BEDU Chef Richard Solnik has rolled out a refreshed à la carte menu of vibrant dishes and cocktails that celebrate the best seasonal produce of the summer. Highlights include the family-friendly Yellowtail Crudo (HK$150), Charred Asparagus (HK$130), Scallop & Chorizo (HK$180), Grilled Sea Bass (HK$185), and Grilled Pork Loin (HK$170). Not to be missed are Terracotta's popular signature dishes that have defined Terracotta since opening in 2023, including those cooked on the charcoal grill.

Terracotta is just a breezy 25-minute ferry ride from Central, followed by a five-minute seaside stroll. Perched on the edge of a fishing village in a beautifully restored historical house, stepping into Terracotta feels more like entering a beach oasis than a restaurant. With its bamboo décor, outdoor seating, and views of the sea, Terracotta's essence is somewhere between Lamma and the Aegean coast.

We dove in with some crowd favorites first — a Terracotta classic — the ultra-creamy Hummus with Smoked Paprika (HK$65) and Smoked Labneh (HK$55). The hummus has been perfected by Chef Richard over the years, and is a silky blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic. It is everything a classic should be and comes with warm grilled pita, lightly brushed with za’atar oil to finish.   

Next up, seafood fans will want to get their hands on their Yellowtail Crudo (HK$150). This dish shone in its simplicity; delicate slices of hamachi were brightened with olive oil, lemon, and salsa verde. The sweet buttery texture of the fish was balanced well with the roasted pine nuts atop.

For something heartier, the Grilled Sea Bass (HK$185) with saffron fregola and sauce vierge is a highlight, and the Charred Asparagus (HK$130) with creamy whipped feta, a soft-boiled egg and a scattering of fresh herbs, offers the kind of comforting richness you want after a day in the sun.

Other highlights included the eye-catching Burrata with Pickled Beetroot with endives and blueberry vinaigrette (HK$155), a tropical dish that's tangy and nutritious, and the flame-kissed Grilled Pork Loin (HK$170) with green harissa and fresh watercress salad. 

But the dish that stole the show was their generous plating of Half-Roasted Chicken (HK$180 for half, HK$320 for whole), which is topped with pickled chili, smoked labneh, and a bright splash of salsa verde. 

No meal here is complete without the Olive Oil Cake, a high note to end on. Light and fluffy, not too sweet, and finished with spiced cream and berries marinated in fruit juice, this cake is pure summer encapsulated in a dessert. 

Doubling as a vibey beachfront bar and backed by the brilliant minds behind Honky Tonks Tavern and Bourke’s, it’s no surprise that Terracotta's cocktails slide down a little too smoothly.

Drinks-wise, the newly refreshed cocktail line-up is as playful as it is polished, using ingredients and spirits sourced from the Mediterranean region. Overseen by Group Beverage Director Adam Schmidt and Supervisor Aciel Anderson, new additions include the must-try Garden Paloma (HK$90), bursting with strawberry, fennel, and grapefruit, and the Vino Verde (HK$90), a twist on the classic Gin Sour, combining Spanish Xoriguer Manhón Gin with green grapes and basil. 

For full tropical vibes, go for the Luau Daiquiri (HK$80), blending rum with lime, pineapple, and mango.

There's also a rotating monthly slushie (HK$50), and non-drinkers are looked after well, with fruity picks like the Mediterranean Mule or Terrazzo Lemon Crush ($40/$60).

Walk-ins are welcome, but you can also book via Seven Rooms here. For more information, visit Terracotta Lamma on their website, Instagram, and Facebook.  

Location: Terracotta Lamma, G/F, 47 Yung Shue Wan Main St, Lamma Island 

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday from 12 NN until late, including Public Holidays 

Celebrating five years of redefining the non-alcoholic drinking experience, Saicho—the beloved sparkling tea brand —marks its anniversary with a pair of East-meets-West collaborations.

This summer, Saicho has teamed up with two uniquely Hong Kong icons: the traditional red-sailed Aqualuna boat and the luxurious Island Shangri-La hotel.  

First up is a decadent dim sum cruise on board Aqualuna. From now through summer, guests can board the 75-minute afternoon voyage and indulge in a photogenic spread of dim sum plus afternoon tea set experience on Victoria Harbour. 

Think truffle har gau, black garlic siu mai, wagyu beef puff, and more — balanced by an elegant spread of British-style pastries like chocolate mousse, opera cake, and mini tiramisu. 

Each set is served with a flight of Saicho’s signature sparkling teas: Jasmine, Hojicha, and Darjeeling.  

Priced at HK$469 per person, every guest also leaves with a mini bottle of Saicho—a ‘Taste of Hong Kong’ you can take home. Bookings are available via Aqualuna’s website here. 

Meanwhile, over at Island Shangri-La, Saicho is rolling out a month-long customer appreciation campaign from Aug. 1 to Aug. 31, 2025.

Tea lovers who spend HK$1,000 or more on Saicho will unlock the “Anniversary Journey,” which begins with access to a special quiz celebrating the brand’s heritage.

The participant with the most creative answer will win a luxurious one-night stay for two people at Island Shangri-La’s Grand Premier Harbour View Room, breakfast included.

For more information on these collaborations, visit Saicho on their website, Instagram and Facebook. 

In celebration of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025 award ceremony, Zuma threw an exclusive “Friends of the House” bar takeover on July 14 — a buzzing, boozy gathering of top-tier mixologists from across the region and a one-night-only cocktail lineup. 

On the roster of talents was Shanghai’s Ryohei Yamagishi, Bar Manager at The Odd Couple; from Bangkok, Attapon De-Silva, Head Bartender of G.O.D. (No. 26 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 list), and Santo Metodo, Bar Manager of Zuma Bangkok. 

Representing the home team, Zuma Hong Kong’s very own Bar Manager Andrei Makarevich, who kept the crowd buzzing with bold pours and inventive pairings.

We kicked things off with Andrei’s Spicy Hebi Highball, which tasted more like fruity sunshine than spicy fire. A clean and refreshing blend of Olmeca tequila, clarified Calpis soda, raspberry, orange liqueur, and mango, it came with a dried mango slice on the side, which Andrei advised we eat first to cleanse our palettes. 

Next up was Ryohei’s T n T, an aromatic mix of Kinobi gin with earl grey, hoji tea, plum, grapefruit, and tonic. It was floral yet crisp, with layers of complexity that snuck up on you. 

Santo Metodo from Zuma Bangkok presented the refreshing Ueno Blossom, a floral drink featuring Ki no Bi gin, Sakura vermouth, Sakura liqueur, clarified yuzu, and jasmine rice syrup. It was slightly sweet, with a rice-forward depth that grounded the blossom-y notes. 

His Shinjuku Neon was just as poetic: Beefeater 24 gin meets ratafia, shiso liqueur, yuzu, lemon, soda, and a milk wash — light, citrusy, and finished with that unmistakable hint of shiso.

A highlight on the lineup was Attapon De-Silva’s Saketini 2.0, served with a slice of watermelon crowned with uni and a sprinkle of toasted rice salt and black pepper. A fizzy mix of Absolut Elyx, sake, CO₂, and more, this cocktail was tart, and had a subtle balsamic vinegary flavor from the balsamic glaze. 

And because it wouldn’t be a night at Zuma without a feast, we were served delicious bites on the side. Freshly made hand rolls with tuna, avocado, wagyu fillings bursting with flavor were the perfect complement to the evening’s electric cocktail lineup. 

Plan your next visit to Zuma Hong Kong and read all about their new Shūmatsu Brunch! 

For more information, visit Zuma Hong Kong on their website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

Location: Zuma Hong Kong, Landmark Level 5 & 6 15 Queen's Road Central Hong Kong

If you’ve ever been curious about trying the King of Fruits — or proudly count yourself among the durian obsessed — The Mira Hong Kong’s “Taste of Malaysia” shaped up to be the most indulgent event of the season. 

The durian celebration took place from July 15 to 17 in The Mira Hotel's Penthouse Ballroom, a culinary adventure featuring unlimited premium durian and savory Malaysian delights. 

Due to overwhelming demand, durian lovers can now mark their calendars for newly added dates from July 30 to Aug. 1, 2025. 

Backed by Miramar Travel and the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board, with the support of Malaysia’s Consul General in Hong Kong, Mr. Muzambli Markam, the event is a deep dive into the rich culture, flavor, and festivity of Malaysia, with a special focus on the "King of Fruit" as a symbol of Malaysian culture and heritage. 

This celebration served up a one-ton-a-night durian extravaganza, complete with hawker-style tables and live performances, leaving no palate unchallenged.

Guests could get their hands on exotic fruits, like the “Queen of Fruit” mangosteen, sweet rambutan, and cempedak, and taste their way through five rare, premium durians freshly cracked open before their eyes. 

A highlight of the lineup was the ultra-creamy Musang King D197, the complex Black Thorn D200, and the nostalgic, bitter-sweet XO D24. Making a grand appearance is the bold newcomer from Penang, the Tupai King D214, gunning for “most desirable durian” of the season, and the classic, nostalgic Gang Hai D1.

And because there’s no such thing as too much durian, guests enjoyed unlimited helpings of fresh Musang King and three seasonal durians, highly rated by connoisseurs.

This wasn’t simply a durian buffet, however — it was also an authentic gastronomic journey of Malaysia’s street food and iconic dishes, brought to life with six sizzling live cooking stations. 

From smoky Char Kway Teow and rich Bak Kut Teh, to golden Fried Oyster Omelette and flavorful Malay Chicken Rice, the air was thick with aroma and excitement, reminiscent of Penang's famous street food markets. 

At the hot buffet, must-try regional favorites like Nasi Lemak, tender Beef Rendang, and the tangy, daring Tempoyak Ikan Patin (catfish in fermented durian paste) showcased the true diversity of Malaysian cuisine.

On the list of savory specials, there was a live cooking station of Durian and Chicken Curry with Roti with Peanut and other creative offerings such as Durian Pizza, Durian and Pineapple Seafood Fried Rice, and a Baked Vol-au-Vent filled with coconut milk and D24, so indulgent it should come with a warning.

Over at the drinks corner, a Malaysian Pulled Tea Master whipped up frothy glasses of Teh Tarik, while Ipoh coffee, tropical juices, and more kept everyone cool and caffeinated.

Dessert was where Executive Pastry Chef Smita Grosse flexed her durian mastery. 

She transformed different durian varieties into six creative desserts, such as Durian Mille Feuille, using D101 Mas Johor, Choux Puffs filled with D198 Golden Phoenix, perfectly crisp Durian Egg Tarts using the classic D24 Sultan, as well as the crowd-favorite Durian Panna Cotta with D175 Red Prawn.

Between bites, we were treated to a flurry of Malaysian cultural performances: beginning with a high-energy lion dance by Tam Pui Yuen Lion Dance Association, a graceful traditional dance, and a mini concert by Penang’s very own Rax Teh — aka “Dolphin Tone Prince” — who brought serious star power to the stage with his TVB pipes and magnetic presence.

Interactive games like bowling with durians and a durian guessing game added a playful spirit to the event that had the ballroom buzzing with laughter. 

Tickets for Taste of Malaysia are priced at HK$838 for adults and HK$588 for children. They are already flying fast, so grab yours here. 

For more information, visit The Mira Hong Kong on their website, Instagram, and Facebook.

And for those unable to make this grand celebration, Yamm at The Mira is running a durian-themed Afternoon Tea Buffet every weekend through July and August, featuring a dozen innovative desserts crafted with premium Malaysian durians and crafted by Chef Smita Grosse.  

To make a reservation at Yamm, click here.

Taste of Malaysia Event Information:

Location: The Ballroom, 18/F, The Mira Hong Kong, Mira Place, 118 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Date & Time: July 30 to Aug. 1, 2025, 6:30 PM to 10 PM

CAFE DECO PIZZERIA by Café Deco Group is back, and it’s sleeker, livelier, and more delicious than ever. 

Housed in the upscale ELEMENTS mall, this revamped eatery carries forward the legacy of the original Café Deco at The Peak — a nostalgic icon for those who remember its bubbling stone-oven pizzas back in the '90s. 

Today, the pizzeria is reimagined with rustic Italian charm, clean-lined interiors, and a roomy, 118-seat layout that caters to both cozy catch-ups and casual group feasts.

At the heart of the menu is pizza, made with Caputo '00' flour, seasonal sun-ripened tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella flown in from Italy. Each pie is baked to perfection in a sleek Wood Stone oven. 

To celebrate its refresh, with a floor space spanning 2,100 sq. ft, CAFE DECO PIZZERIA is introducing brand new dishes to accommodate discerning palettes. 

First up is the Trio Pork BBQ Pizza (HK$188), loaded with sausage, ham, bacon, and a sweet, smoky barbecue sauce that tastes like summer at a picnic table. From the appetizers, the new additions Truffle Fries (HK$88) and Squash & Parmesan Croquettes (HK$98) are compulsively snackable, while the Okonomiyaki Corn Ribs (HK$98) — topped with bonito flakes, sesame, and seaweed — might just be your new guilty pleasure.

The other appetizers bring European flair and plenty of personality. Highlights include a rich Beef Tartare with truffle cream (HK$168), tender Roasted Octopus (HK$168), and Garlic Prawns (HK$128) with just the right hit of chili. 

Meanwhile, the ultra-Instagrammable Smoked Tuna Belly Pizza with Free Range Egg (HK$198) is topped with a runny free-range egg, salmon roe, shiitake, and sakura shrimp. Other tempting options include M6 Wagyu & Prawn and Seafood Supreme, or classics like Funghi Di Parma and Pepperoni. 

But these delectable creations don’t stop at the pizza. Other standout mains include the newly added tender Grilled Togarashi Spring Chicken (HK$228), and swoon-worthy Blue Mussels (500g for HK$198), served with garlic bread to mop up the creamy herb sauce. 

Carnivores are well looked after with hefty mains like the USDA Black Angus Ribeye (HK$388) and the juicy Wagyu Beef Burger (HK$182). Pasta fans can twirl their way through classics like Linguine Alle Vongole (HK$178) or a decadent Tiger Prawn Linguine in lobster cream sauce (HK$198).

The menu's drink offerings are the cherry on top for a well-rounded experience. Their cocktail menu is fresh, fun, and friendly on the wallet (HK$82 each). Try the Enchanted Garden — a tropical mix of white rum, coconut water, and butterfly pea tea — or The Darker Secret, a gin-based number with hibiscus and lemon. 

For dessert or just because, don’t miss their selection of house signature Gelato Milkshakes (HK$78), perfect for when you want to indulge. Flavors include the rich Chocolate with Guanaja 70%, Strawberry using wild strawberry purée, and White Chocolate Lotus Biscoff, a dreamy mix of Dulcey 35% and caramelized biscuit.

CAFE DECO PIZZERIA has two branches, one in Kowloon and one in Tai Wai. For more information, visit CAFE DECO PIZZERIA on their Facebook and Instagram. 

ELEMENTS:

Location: Shop 2133, 2/F, Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon

Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 10 PM

TAI WAI:

Location: Shop 218, 2/F, The Wai, 18 Che Kung Miu Road, Tai Wai

Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 10 PM

Bar Story

Nestled along the quietly vibrant Elgin Street, Bar MIND – 念 introduces a minimalist cocktail experience by celebrated local mixologists Jo Lo and Birstacla Wong.

Partners in both life and business, Jo and Birs channel their award-winning talents into crafting refined yet honest drinks. Opened in June, Bar Mind welcomes guests into a serene and contemplative space, where every drink is distilled down to its purest expression.

Eight signature cocktails round out the menu, including several served on tap. Each creation is defined by clarity and intention, allowing the flavors of the cocktails to do most of the talking. 

The name of the bar 念 means “thought” or “intention” in Chinese, reflecting Jo and Birs' belief that when a cocktail is made with genuine purpose and sincerity, it resonates personally and tells its own story. 

Bartender Story

Jo cut her teeth bartending at the acclaimed DraftLand, then moved to The Pottinger’s hidden gem Room 309. She claimed the Diageo World Class Hong Kong & Macau Champion title in 2022, and brings a wealth of knowledge and unrelenting passion to Bar Mind.

“I’m grateful to work in a bar community where conversations about inclusivity aren’t just talk — they’re action,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Birs transforms cocktail-making into high art. A former fashion designer, Wong brings her creative flair to the bar, crafting drinks that dazzle the eye and intrigue the palate. Guided by instinct and steeped in creativity, her experimental concoctions showcase bold contrasts and harmonious blends.

“Cocktails are a creative discipline built on subtlety. My background in fashion taught me how harmony and contrast create beauty, and I carry that same philosophy into every drink I make.”  

What’s the Vibe and Venue Like

Bar Mind's vibe is modern edginess meets minimalist sophistication. Perch on the high stools to watch the bartenders in action, or sink into one of the snug corner seats for a more intimate vibe. With its moody lighting and pared-back design, it’s a seductive choice for date nights, and the perfect refuge for a solo wind-down.

How Much Are Food and Drinks

Cocktails are priced between HK$130 and HK$150. There is no food menu, but the drinks are thoughtfully composed and flavor-rich enough to stand on their own.

What Drinks Did We Get

We sampled the full list of their eight house cocktails. The bar's drinks are crafted without any visible bottles or branding, which enhances their pared-back vibe. We tried cocktails infused with the Cantonese flavors of local dishes, and each drink offered unique flavor combinations that were unlike anything we had tried before.

Whispering Blooms (HK$130)

Whispering Blooms is light, floral, and refreshing. The jasmine tea provides a delicate base, while the elderflower adds a gentle sweetness. The hibiscus introduces a subtle tartness that rounds out the floral notes, while the citrus brings a clean, crisp finish, keeping the drink balanced and not too sweet. Ideal for those who prefer something subtle, fragrant, and easy to sip.

Monk’s Sea Breeze (HK$130)

This savory-meets-tropical cocktail is a visual delight, immediately inviting interaction. It arrives adorned with a quail egg–shaped delicacy nestled in a shell — almost too beautiful to touch. But do: once bitten, it releases a luscious passion fruit syrup, which can be poured into the drink to dial up the sweetness.

The flavor journey begins with vibrant rum and passion fruit, offering a bright, exotic lift. Tomato adds subtle acidity that cuts through the lushness, and the Lillet lends gentle bitterness and herbal finesse. A briny edge and a sharp touch of acid complete the experience.

A Taste Of Home (HK$140)

This cocktail features bold flavors such as tequila, bitter melon, and fermented black bean, inspired by the home-cooked meals from Jo and Birs’ childhood. It is a very approachable drink, despite the bitterness from the melon and the acidity of lime. The fermented black bean gives it a funkier edge than most cocktails, which gives it a subtle umami flavor. It feels like revisiting a memory: wistful, bold, and comforting all at once.

Campino Dreams (HK$140)

Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy Campino Dreams, a strawberry-flavored, yoghurt-washed cocktail reminiscent of childhood sweets. Topped with two pieces of dehydrated strawberry, this bright red concoction is fruity and punchy, with a touch of savory notes from the white miso, which keeps the sweetness in check.  

Streetwise Boulevardier (HK$150)

This cocktail leans heavily into spice and umami, but it still tastes complex. The bourbon’s sweetness is matched with the mild heat of Sichuan pepper and chili oil, which offers a warmth that slowly builds rather than hitting you at once. The drink’s complex profile is complemented by a sea snail garnish, which keeps it interesting.   

Savory Sipper (HK$150)

This is an earthy cocktail with an umami profile. The whiskey provides structure and warmth, and the dashi gives it a smoky and slightly fishy flavor, while the Pu Erh tea brings depth and slight smokiness. There is a slight sourness and herbal flavor from the bonito bitter, which is offset by the digestive biscuit.  

Day & Night (HK$140)

This cocktail was a standout and a crowd-pleaser, especially for Espresso Martini lovers. Despite containing cream and milk, this velvety drink is surprisingly light. The Matcha adds an earthy element, which is strong enough to disguise the whisky slightly, without being overpowering. Served with a shortbread biscuit, it’s mellow and easy to drink, with a slightly sweet finish.

The Zen Harmony (HK$150)

The Zen Harmony is a clear, well-balanced cocktail with a touch of savoriness. The citrusy brightness from the yuzu stands out, while the kombu adds a subtle salty edge that doesn’t take over. The Japanese Genmaicha tea rounds it all out with a refreshing, toasty vibe that keeps the drink well grounded.

For more information, visit BAR MIND - 念 on their Instagram. 

Location: BAR MIND - 念, G/F, 11 Elgin Street, Central

Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays from 5 PM to 12 AM, Saturdays and Sundays from 5 PM to 2 AM

Keen for another round? Check out our other Delish Sips reviews here. 

Zuma Hong Kong has long held the crown for delicious weekend brunch and free-flow champagne — and now this indomitable dining gem has launched Shūmatsu Brunch, serving up unlimited sizzling Japanese delicacies in a buffet style. 

At the heart of Shūmatsu Brunch is the new Baikingu station, where guests are encouraged to grab plates at their own pace.

It’s a seamless journey that begins with cold starters served tableside: think Seared Beef Tataki with Truffle Ponzu, Seared Salmon with Lemon, Shiso and Soy, and a creamy Potato Salad elevated with Truffle Mayo and Soft-Boiled Egg.

Shortly after, a stunning sushi and sashimi platter arrives, with salmon, tuna, and hamachi sashimi, alongside delicate engawa and salmon nigiri, and a medley of maki rolls including spicy hamachi. Every bite delivered on freshness and had us ordering extra for the table. 

Guests can load up on izakaya-style hot dishes like Chicken Karaage, Pork Gyoza with a spicy yuzu truffle kick, or Japanese Takoyaki drizzled with nori and yuzu mayo.

The Baikingu station features a wide range of skewers and snacks front and center, like crispy Assorted Tempura, plump Tiger Prawn with Apple Chilli Miso, Sweet Corn with Shiso Butter, and Tsukune Chicken with Teriyaki Glaze.

Meat lovers will not be disappointed; the robata (Japanese charcoal) grill offers many dreamy, flavorful dishes. Indulge in Tsukune Chicken with Teriyaki Glaze skewers, Barley Miso Chicken, sticky-sweet Pork Ribs with Spring Onion, Australian Angus Sirloin, and Saba Fish grilled to perfection with Japanese herbs.

You can also fill up on Japanese Oden at the Baikingu station, which is brimming with daikon (Japanese radish), tofu, and other vegetables. Or you can opt for the Miso Clam Soup with mitsuba and yuzu to add a comforting touch to your meal.

If you want to splurge, add Roasted Lobster with Shiso Ponzu Butter (HK$220), or indulge in A4-grade Japanese Wagyu Miyazaki Sirloin (HK$590). 

The dessert, Zuma’s iconic Premium Dessert Platter, is a showstopper. Think juicy fresh fruits, melt-in-your-mouth macarons, rich chocolate lava cake, and scoops of dreamy ice cream, all in one bowl. It’s got something for every sweet tooth and is made to share, if you can resist keeping it all to yourself.  

If you're in the mood to indulge, Shūmatsu Brunch has you covered with four free-flow food and drink packages, all served over a leisurely 2.5 hours. Sip on “R” de Ruinart NV Champagne with the elegant Tanoshī package (HK$1,168/person), upgrade to Ruinart Blanc de Blancs NV with the Sachi package (HK$1,568/person), or go all out with Dom Pérignon in the ultra-luxurious Zeitaku package (HK$2,888/person).

Non-drinkers can enjoy the standard Umai brunch package, with unlimited soft drinks and juices for HK$788 or add on unlimited Saicho Hojicha sparkling tea for HK$168.

For more information, visit Zuma Hong Kong on their website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

Location: Landmark Level 5 & 6, 15 Queen's Road Central 

Date: Every Saturday and Sunday from June 14, 2025 onwards 

Opening Hours: 11 AM to 2:45 PM (2.5 hours seating) 

Restaurant Story

We can’t get enough Spanish food these days! What began as a casual craving turned into a full-blown Spanish affair at Aire, a vibrant Spanish eatery in the heart of Causeway Bay.

Aire is an upscale restaurant at Lee Garden One that blends bold regional flavors with warm Iberian hospitality.

Aire presents a vibrant tapestry of Spanish cuisine, from individual tapas to hearty plato dishes perfect for sharing—with a special focus on premium meats and seafood grilled over the Basque parrilla (the traditional Spanish charcoal grill).

Riding the wave of success from Pica Pica (2018) and BÀRBAR (2022), Epicurean Group has expanded its Spanish culinary footprint, adding Aire and PINTXOS by bàrbar in Wan Chai to their esteemed portfolio this year. They are currently the only restaurant group in Hong Kong to operate a family of four pedigree Spanish restaurants. 

Chef’s Story

Heading up the kitchen is Catalonia-native Executive Chef Pere Moreno Germès and Chef Edgard Sanuy Barahona, Head of Spanish Restaurants Division at Epicurean Group. 

Chef Pere Moreno and Chef Edgard are passionate about showcasing the full breadth of Spain’s gastronomic soul. While many Spanish eateries lean heavily on familiar tapas and cold cuts, the chefs encourage diners to savor the freshness of expertly prepared seafood and meats, all infused with the distinctive smokiness of traditional open-flame cooking from their homeland. 

What’s the Vibe and Venue Like

Located in the sleek Lee Garden One — one floor below Roganic — Aire brings laidback charm and contemporary sophistication to the heart of Causeway Bay.  

From the moment you step into Aire, its warm ambience and welcoming vibe feels like a breath of fresh air. Its modern décor, vibrant patterned tiles and playful pops of color make it feel casual yet refined, and on the wall hangs a large, illuminated lobster artwork, giving the room an unforgettable splash of personality.

But the real star is Aire's newly opened al fresco terrace, a sprawling urban oasis perfect for golden hour reverie. 

Easily one of the most spacious outdoor dining spaces in town, it's a spot where you won't notice the time slip by, as you enjoy the surrounding leafy greenery and twinkling lights of skyscrapers with a chilled glass of sangria in hand. 

Aire even features magic performances on select dates, making it the perfect spot for large-group gatherings or family meals. 

How Much Does it Cost?

We felt the pricing was very reasonable. Some of the snacks start at only HK$20 a piece, which is comparable to street food prices.

The starters using vegetables as a main ingredient come in at less than HK$100 and the meat tapas are mostly less than HK$200. We felt it was definitely worth it to splash out and pay more for the WOW factor of the squid ink paella and dishes cooked on Aire’s signature Basque parilla.

What We Tried

We started by sampling from the Para Picar Snack menu. The Iberian Ham croquettes (HK$23/pc) have a crispy exterior, casing the fluffy potato filling and laced with a sliver of freshly sliced ham. 

Aire also has an interesting range of vegetarian options. We opted for the Eggplant “escalibada" (HK$67), a cold dish of soft mashed eggplant, topped with crunchy browned almonds and a tangy romesco sauce. This dish was a pleasant surprise; it had no bitterness and a pleasantly refreshing mouthfeel.

The tapas were totally fabulous and we tried dishes we’ve not seen anywhere else in Hong Kong. 

Highlights included The Free Cage Broken Egg (HK$115) a rich blend of crispy Agria potato fries, runny yolk crowned with slices of Iberico ham and potato foam, and Deboned Suckling Pig with almonds and pumpkin (HK$210), which was perfectly crisp on the outside and had tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.

The star of the lunch was the Basque Parilla, the woodfire grill which imbues meats and seafoods with a woodsmoke flavor distinctive of Northern Spanish cuisine. 

Meat lovers will beat a path to the Galician cow Dry Aged Sirloin (HK$270), served with juicy piquillo peppers in olive oil. This is a lean cut, served medium rare with a side dish of red peppers that brought the right level of acidity and a tinge of sweetness. 

Next up, the Seafood Black Rice with baby squid, ink & all-i-oli (priced HK$245) is a showstopper! 

There’s something undeniably dramatic about a wide, flat pan of pitch-black rice with baby squid hiding just below the surface. The squid ink adds depth of color and also gives it a rich and addictive umami flavor that's utterly crave-worthy. And then there’s the socarrat: that glorious, crispy layer of caramelized rice at the bottom, which brought an earthy smokiness that ties it all together.

For dessert we tried the Hot Chocolate Tart (HK$89). This heavenly parcel of rich sweetness is drizzled with Arbequina olive oil and finished with a kiss of sea salt; the pastry case oozed chocolate lava and was the perfect end to a wonderful meal. 

The crisp pastry shell gave way to a river of dark molten chocolate, complemented by the tanginess of the passion fruit sorbet, making it a sublime finale to a wonderful meal. 

What We Liked

We enjoyed the South China Sea Turbot (priced at HK$435), hot off the grill Basque Parilla and served with garlic oil. 

We loved the crispy skin and flavor-packed soft flesh of this flat fish. The fish was tender and easily fell off the bone. Pescatarians will have much to appreciate on this menu, with an irresistible selection of seafood dishes on the tapas menu, snack menu and from the Basque grill!

We are still dreaming about The Free Cage Broken Egg from the Meat Tapas selection; a tasty and sophisticated version of egg and chips. Runny eggs are served at the base of the dish and topped by hand-cut French Fries, which taste phenomenal when mixed together, creating a bowl of instant comfort food. 

The Deboned suckling pig from the Meat Tapas selection was a standout, and the neat slices of Suckling Pig are sure to satisfy the palate of many a Hong Kong customer. The skin was crispy (it’s pan fried separately for maximum crunch), and the rich, succulent meat was offset well by slices of pumpkin and a trickle of pumpkin jus. 

What We Didn’t Like

While Aire consistently delivered standout flavors and beautifully composed plates, we felt the Eggplant “escalibada” didn’t quite reach the same heights as the other dishes. Despite being very well-executed and visually appealing, it lacked the depth and smokiness we were hoping for — especially when compared to the rustic, layered flavors showcased elsewhere on the menu.

What You Should Order

Dinner at a Spanish restaurant would not be complete without sampling the seafood. Try Galician Octopus served over smoked potato (HK$150) or the Gambas Ajillo (HK$172); garlic prawns prepared in the traditional tapas style. This is great for sharing and wonderful with a piece of Spanish bread to mop up the garlicky juices. 

In addition to their signature hits—like the inky, umami-rich squid ink paella and the beautifully cooked Galician cow sirloin—Aire is rolling out a few special-edition plates for Lee Gardens’ Celebrate Every Bite campaign.

Top of the list? The Galician Beef Prime Rib “Txuleta" (HK$1,488), grilled to perfection and bursting with smoky depth, and the Lobster Rice Caldoso (HK$340), a soul-warming dish of tender lobster simmered in a briny, savory broth that clings to every grain of rice.

Another highlight is Chef Edgard's Carabineros “Formentera Style” with sunny side duck eggs and crispy agria potato chips, which is priced at HK$498. Vivid red Mediterranean prawns are served over crispy agria potato crisps and rich duck eggs—a combination that hits all the right textures. 

Cap off your experience with a delightful finale—the luscious White Chocolate & Yogurt Ganache (HK$78), crowned with zesty Passion Fruit Glace and a scoop of refreshing Ginger Ice Cream. But don’t wait—these exclusive treats are only available until July 13, 2025, so now’s the perfect time to indulge!

As part of Lee Gardens Celebrate Every Bite Campaign, Aire will be throwing surprise magic performances on select dates during the promotion, and guests who book three days in advance can receive a complimentary 2-meter-tall, personalized crystal balloon.

When you spend HK$1,500 or more at one of the six premier restaurants included in the promo, you’ll receive a HK$200 Lee Gardens One-Six e-Coupon. Spend HK$6,800 in a single dining transaction and get HK$400 Lee Garden One-Six e-Coupons and a Pret A Manger e-Coupon valued at HK$100!

To make reservations at Aire, visit this website. 

For more information, visit Aire on their website, Instagram and Facebook. To find out more about the restaurants included in Celebrate Every Bite, visit Lee Gardens on their website, Instagram and Facebook. 

Location: Aire, Shop No. 301B-302, 3/F, Lee Garden One, 33 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay

Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM; 6 PM to 10 PM

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Delish Eats reviews here.