A pasta lover's guide in Tsim Sha Tsui

When it comes to carb-loading comfort food, pasta is the ultimate go-to.

A pasta lover's guide in Tsim Sha Tsui
Source: Pexels/Engin Akyurt

When it comes to carb-loading comfort food, pasta is the ultimate go-to. Did you know that there are over 600 different shapes of pasta produced around the world? Each shape has a unique name and purpose, as the different shapes are meant to complement specific sauces and ingredients. Luckily, Hong Kong's Tsim Sha Tsui neighborhood is perfect for pasta lovers, with a growing number of Italian spots that have mastered the art. Whether you're craving a classic spaghetti carbonara or a bold, fragrant puttanesca, read on for our guide to Tsim Sha Tsui's pasta scene.

Angelini

Angelini is a must-visit if you’re seeking an authentic taste of Italian cuisine. This restaurant prides itself on delivering handcrafted pasta dishes that pay homage to time-honored traditions and feature fresh produce and ingredients straight from Italy. Signature dishes include the Spaghetti alla Carbonara Classico and the Tortelli Granseola, featuring homemade crab ravioli paired with salmon roe, saffron and a champagne cream sauce. Another standout is the Tagliatelle al Tartufo, handcrafted egg noodles tossed in black truffle and Pecorino cheese sauce. 

Quick facts

  • Where – Mezzanine Level, 64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East
  • When – Monday to Sunday, noon - 2:30 p.m.; 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2733 8750
  • Menu 
  • Website

Paper Moon

Located in the Ocean Terminal of Harbour City, Paper Moon is a go-to destination for authentic, unpretentious pasta and stunning Victoria Harbour views. With seasonally rotating menus that showcase the finest produce and ingredients, this restaurant always has something fresh on the menu. Favorites include the Trofie al Pesto con Fagioli e Patate, which pairs basil pesto with green beans and potatoes. If you’re craving a classic, the Tagliatelle with Bolognese Ragout Sauce is prepared with their homemade Tagliatelle noodles and a rich, slow simmered ragout. 

Quick facts

  • Where – Shop OTE 301, Level 3, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui
  • When – Sunday to Thursday, noon - 11:30 p.m.; Friday to Saturday, noon - midnight
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2156 2256
  • Menu 
  • Website

Palco Ristorante

Helmed by the talented Chef Ken Lau, Palco Ristorante has earned a reputation for its contemporary Italian-fusion cuisine. Chef Lau, who has over 30 years of experience, has worked at prestigious establishments such as Verandah, Chesa, Felix and Gaddi’s in The Peninsula. Lau’s expertise and talent can be seen through every dish on Palco’s menu, particularly the pasta. To start, enjoy their Risotto with Black Truffle and Wild mushrooms. Seafood lovers will be tempted by the Spaghetti with Grilled Scallops and Tartare. More adventurous diners might want to go with the Squid Ink Pasta with Hokkaido Sea Urchin. 

Quick facts

  • Where – Shop OTE 403 & 404, Level 4, Ocean Terminal Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui
  • When – Monday to Sunday, noon - 10 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2382 3123
  • Menu 
  • Website

Cucina

True to its name, which means "kitchen" in Italian, Cucina is helmed by the talented Chef de Cuisine Andrea Delzanno, who blends centuries-old culinary traditions with innovative flair. Diving into their pasta offerings, they present dishes such as the Strozzapreti with Braised Wagyu Beef, Barolo Wine, Seasonal Mushrooms, and Black Truffle; the Penne with Black Truffle Cream Sauce and Parmesan Cheese; and the Spaghetti with Arrabbiata Sauce. The restaurant's open kitchen concept also allows guests to watch the chefs at work, adding an interactive element to dinner.

Quick facts

  • Where – Level 6, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, 3 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui
  • When – Monday to Friday, noon - 2:30 p.m. and 6 - 11 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and 6 - 11 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2113 0808
  • Menu 
  • Website

La Taverna

As the first Italian restaurant in Hong Kong, La Taverna has etched its name in the city’s history. The restaurant has built a legacy for its authentic Italian flavors, drawing inspiration from the 1960s. At the core of La Taverna’s pasta dishes is their intricacy – each may require a preparation of over 24 hours to perfect. Standouts include the Linguine Alle Vongole, a traditional dish with fresh clams and a savory white wine sauce. Or opt for the rich and luxurious Spaghetti del Millonario (seriously, it's topped off with sprinkles of 24K gold!) or the classic Spaghetti Carbonara.

Quick facts

  • Where – G/F, Astoria Building, 36 - 38 Ashley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
  • When – Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5:30 - 11 p.m.; Friday to Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5:30 - 11 p.m.; Closed on Sunday
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852+ 2376 1945
  • Menu 
  • Website