Where to find the best 6 fine dining restaurants in Central, Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, Central's fine dining scene is buzzing with classics like Caprice and trendy spots like The Aubrey.
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If you’re in the mood for top-notch service and incredible food in an elegant setting, fine dining is the way to go. And in Hong Kong, Central's fine dining scene is buzzing with classics like Caprice and trendy spots like The Aubrey. Whether you're marking a milestone or simply spoiling yourself, fine dining can make dinner the highlight of the evening. Before we dive into Central's top six fine dining restaurants, let's first explore the ins and outs of what fine dining is and where it all began.
Understanding fine dining and its origins
Fine dining is about more than just food – it's an art form. From elegant settings to fine wine and top-notch service, every detail is meticulously crafted to make diners feel like royalty. Fine dining's history dates back centuries to places like Egypt and ancient Rome, and it's evolved through time with influences from many different cultures. It really came to its modern peak during the Renaissance and became synonymous with luxury and sophistication. The modern restaurant showed up in the 19th century, with French cuisine at the top of the game. No longer reserved only for aristocrats and royalty, this tradition of culinary excellence endures today with a focus on innovation and seasonality.
Quick fine dining tips
- Dress the part – Fine dining spots usually have a dress code, so think classy threads like business casual or even fancier. You can call ahead or check the website to find out the guidelines for the specific restaurant.
- Book ahead – These places tend to fill up fast, especially on busy nights. So, it's wise to book a table in advance, even months in advance if the place you're eyeing is quite popular.
- Time it right – Being fashionably late isn't cool in the world of fine dining. Try to arrive on time or a tad early to kick off your evening smoothly.
- Mind your manners – Remember basic dining etiquette, like using utensils properly and keeping the conversation light and polite. Trust us, it's all part of the classy vibe.
- Keep an open palate – Fine dining is all about exploring new flavors and dishes. So, don't be shy to step out of your culinary comfort zone and try something different.
Caprice
Tucked away in the Four Seasons Hotel, Caprice is a Central standout when it comes to fine dining. With three Michelin stars, this restaurant serves up classic French dishes with a global twist, all thanks to the creative direction of Chef Guillaume Galliot. Don't miss their must-try signature dish, Alaskan King Crab paired with Crustacean Jelly and Osciètre Prestige Caviar for a full spread. Other menu highlights include their Roasted Lamb from La Maison Greffeuille with Yogurt Gel, Green Pea and Mint Condiment and the Japanese Saga Beef and Morel Mushroom with Zucchini Flower and Spring Sauce. With a stunning harbor view and an impressive selection of Château d'Yquem vintages for wine lovers, you can’t go wrong with Caprice.
Quick facts
- Where – Podium 6, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance Street, Central
- When – Tuesday to Sunday, noon - 2 p.m. and 8:30 - 8:30 p.m.; Closed on Monday
- Price – $$$$
- Phone – +852 3196 8882
- Menu
- Website
Cristal Room
As the most Michelin-starred female chef in the world, Anne-Sophie Pic is on a culinary mission with Central's Cristal, saying, "I will continue my exploration of the Asian continent so dear to me; reappropriating and interpreting ingredients with French cuisine codes." With its Baccarat setting and meticulously crafted dishes, from Hokkaido King Crab seasoned with Sobacha to Line-Caught Mackerel with Dashi infused with Matcha, Cristal is perfect for a special event or a treat-yourself evening. Here, it's all about her method of "imprégnation," which takes different aromas to their height through techniques like marination, infusion and smoking.
Quick facts
- Where – 44/F, Forty-Five, Gloucester Tower, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central
- When – Monday to Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - midnight; Wednesday to Saturday, noon - 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. - midnight; Closed on Sunday
- Price – $$$$
- Phone – +852 9099 9609
- Menu
- Website
Arcane
Central’s Arcane is a foodie’s paradise. At this Michelin-starred gem, Australian chef Shane Osborn lets ingredients shine with minimal fuss, and the menus are designed seasonally. Try the Sautéed Potato Gnocchi with Caramelized Leek and Shiitake mushrooms, paired with Osborn's fresh rye bread and savory cream sauce. Steak lovers will appreciate the Pan-Roasted Mayura Wagyu Sirloin, and cheese fans can explore the cellar for ideal pairings. Don't forget to ask for wine recommendations from the in-house sommelier. For an al fresco experience, have dinner out on Arcane's terrace, which offers a cozy English garden vibe with fresh herbs and veggies from their kitchen garden.
Quick facts
- Where – 3/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central
- When – Monday to Saturday, noon - 2:15 p.m. and 6 - 10 p.m.; Closed on Sunday
- Price – $$$$
- Phone – +852 2728 0178
- Menu
- Website
Amber
For 16 years, Amber has been making waves in fine dining, bagging two Michelin stars annually and snagging the prestigious Michelin Green Star in 2022 for its focus on sustainability. Led by Chef Ekkebus, the menu showcases natural, consciously sourced ingredients using French techniques. Highlights include dishes like Blue Lobster with Fermented Uni Miso, Red Sea Urchin, Vin Jaune, Bottarga, Heirloom Carrot and Kumquat, as well as savory Miyazaki Wagyu Beef. The restaurant also features custom-made sculptures crafted by Hong Kong-based artist Gail Deayton.
Quick facts
- Where – 7/F, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central
- When – Monday to Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. - midnight
- Price – $$$$
- Phone – +852 2132 0066
- Menu
- Website
Hansik Goo
For a taste of upscale Korean dining in Central, head over to Hansik Goo on Wellington Street, Hong Kong's sole Michelin-starred Korean restaurant. At Hansik Goo, named after Chef Mingoo Kang ("goo"), who infuses every dish with familial warmth ("sikgoo"), you'll find a blend of traditional Korean flavors and innovative twists. Don’t miss favorites like the Chicken Roulade with Ginseng Yakbap or the refreshing Spring Naengchae, capped off with their Heukyimja Mousse to satisfy your sweet tooth. Feeling boozy? Try their signature wine pairings or opt for the Korean Sool Trio, featuring traditional Korean Sool Takju to complement your meal.
Quick facts
- Where – 1/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central
- When – Tuesday to Thursday, 6 - 11 p.m.; Friday to Sunday, noon - 3 p.m. and 6 - 11 p.m.; Closed on Monday
- Price – $$$$
- Phone – +852 2798 8768
- Menu
- Website
The Aubrey
If Japanese izakaya vibes are your thing, then The Aubrey on the 25th floor of The Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, is where you want to be. Offering izakaya bites like Chicken Katsu Sando and A4 Miyazaki Wagyu Sando, along with inventive cocktails like Kagoshima or Yuzu Highballs featuring Nikka Coffey Grain, it's an upscale feast that'll leave you feeling spoiled. Designed by Singapore's Silverfox Studios, the whimsical "Japonisme" theme brings a touch of magic with ukiyo-e prints, impressionist paintings and rare books. Don't miss their curated Japanese spirits and flavors, carefully selected by The Aubrey mixologist team to kick off your night with a little spirit.
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