Hong Kong Restaurants

1. Amber

As you would expect from a restaurant in the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong Amber will linger in your memories for its modern style, impeccable service, and creative cuisine. Chef Richard Ekkebus’s menu of creative European dishes still doesn’t fail to impress.

2. Caprice

The Four Seasons spared no expense in creating this space, bringing in well-known designers and feng shui masters, and the result is a private dining room that might be one of the most spectacular in the world. Guests can see into the entire open kitchen, while floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of Victoria Harbour and beyond. Executive chef Fabrice Vulin hails from France but worked in Geneva and Morocco, and dishes such as the caramelized pigeon breast with North African spices reflect his multicultural influences. The restaurant also boasts an excellent cheese cellar. Even if you’re not having a full sit-down meal, you can still enjoy some fromage and wine at the adjoining bar and lounge.

3. L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon

Joël Robuchon, one of the world's most iconic chefs, claims that his atelier (or “artist’s workshop”) is for contemporary casual dining. Diners sit on barstools around a counter designed like a modern Japanese sushi bar so that everyone can watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen.

4. La Crêperie

This French-owned spot specializes in authentic, thin Breton crêpes filled with all sorts of sweet or savory fillings. Most of the clientele is French, which is a good indication of the authenticity of the food. Fillings for these made-fresh-to-order pancakes range from traditional to experimental; La Complète buckwheat galette is loaded with a classic combination of egg, ham, and deliciously gooey melted cheese, while L’Italienne has tomato, mozzarella cheese, anchovies, and olives. The dessert crêpe selection is just as wide-ranging. La Crêperie also carries a delicious apple cider—the traditional drink of choice for accompanying galettes in Brittany.

5. La Crêperie

6. Ladurée Tea Room

Foodies were understandably excited when this iconic French patisserie set up shop in Hong Kong. Its pastel-colored macarons come in a rainbow of flavors, such as classic rose and sea-salt caramel. You can enjoy these delectable confections in the sit-down tearoom, or take them to go in one of the gorgeous pastry boxes.

7. Plat du Jour

This cozy bistro stands out as a true gem in a neighborhood dominated by quick-bite eateries and cheap food stalls. Diners can choose between the two- or three-course menu, which features a short but solid selection of classic French dishes. Hearty options range from escargot in garlicky butter to beef bourguignon and the traditional apple tarte tatin. Given the quality of the food, prices are extremely reasonable for both lunch and dinner.

8. Restaurant Petrus

From atop the Island Shangri-La Hong Kong, Restaurant Petrus scales the upper Hong Kong heights of prestige, formality, and price. This is one of the city’s few flagship hotel restaurants that has not attempted to reinvent itself as fusion—sometimes traditional French haute cuisine is the way to go.

9. Seasons by Olivier Elzer

Chef and cofounder Olivier Elzer cut his teeth at Pierre Gagnaire and Joël Robuchon’s kitchens before opening his solo venture. The idea is to serve modern French cuisine that pays tribute to seasonal ingredients. Grab one of the bar seats at the chef’s table if you want an unobstructed view of the action in the open kitchen. The menu is designed to be flexible, with dishes available in full or half portions. Standouts include the grilled tuna with five spices and the langoustine risotto venere with masala butter. The restaurant offers a set dinner, but you can also create your own four- to eight-course tasting menu.

10. St. George

Hullett House—the former marine police headquarters turned into a boutique hotel—was designed with maxed-out luxury in mind, so it’s to be expected that its signature fine-dining French restaurant would be a no-expenses-spared venture. The restaurant is decked out in colonial era–inspired duds, complete with chandeliers and comfy leather sofas. But while the decor pays homage to days gone by, the cuisine is modern, creative, and totally inspired. Guests can look forward to dishes such as tomatoes served eight ways with black garlic, basil, and olive-oil “caviar.” Two tasting menus (four or six courses) are available for those who want the full St. George experience.

11. Upper Modern Bistro

Cool and sophisticated, this restaurant is a labor of love for Philippe Orrico, a protégé of revolutionary chef Pierre Gagniare. Though classically trained in French cuisine, Orrico takes inspiration from all around the globe.