AUGUST 2017 | SOUTHBAY 103 Hong Kong is a city full of indulgences, as evident by their impressive skyline—archi- tects keep going higher and higher, creating over-the-top steel masterpieces. In this mas- sive metropolis that makes New York City look small in comparison, visitors are being spoiled with world-class, high-end shopping literally on every corner, inside every mall and within most five-star hotels. It’s easy to get turned around in the city if you are using designer name storefronts as a reference. It’s also an entertaining game to try to count how many Louis Vuitton stores you can see in one day of walking around the city center. But beyond the shopping, Hong Kong is an epicenter for food … and the number of Michelin Star restaurants in one concentrated area is proof of that. With such high stan- dards all around, chefs are stepping up their game and presenting menus that could be hung on a gallery wall—pure extravagance and beauty. Even the neighborhood restau- rants— including the ones that have been there for generations, frequented by locals— are worth your time and dollars. Hong Kong isn’t just a stopover city on your way through Asia. It’s a destination of its own, and one you should really prepare yourself for … and also come hungry for. STAY. EAT. REPEAT. Many of Hong Kong’s best restaurants can be found in the city’s best hotels … five-star ser- vice with five-star dining, and in some cases Michelin stars too. Tosca at The Ritz-Carlton High ceilings, majestic chandeliers and stately fountains dominate this stylish dining room. Tosca’s innovative Italian menu fea- tures thrilling interpretations of the region’s notable cuisine as well as improved favorites. This is one of the many options inside the Ritz-Carlton, all of which rival one another. For after-dinner drinks, head upstairs (via elevator) to the world’s highest bar—way up in the clouds—for a spectacular view of the city (clouds permitting) as well as an ambi- ence that’s incomparable. OZONE is the most celebrated rooftop sky bar in Hong Kong. Level 102, International Commerce Ctr., 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon Lung King Heen at Four Seasons The world’s first Chinese restaurant to be awarded the coveted Michelin three-star rating is located in one of Hong Kong’s favorite hotels (which also has one of the most amazing rooftop pools, with views of Victoria Harbour). Executive chef Chan Yan Tak leads the operation, including a team of regionally renowned chefs. Using the fresh- est local ingredients, Chef Chan expertly combines textures and flavors with his creative presentations that will satisfy even the most sophisticated taste buds. 8 Finance Street, Central Felix at The Peninsula Hotel Located within one of Hong Kong’s most prominent locations—inside the city’s oldest and most glamorous hotel—Felix offers spec- tacular views of Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Renowned avant garde designer Philippe Starck is the mastermind behind this gem, inside The Peninsula tower on the 28 th floor. Chef Yoshiharu Kaji pushes boundaries and shocks both the taste and visual senses with his creations. Salisbury Road, Kowloon KITCHEN at the W Hotel This stylish and welcoming bistro was inspired by the world of Alice in Wonderland, and it truly is magical. Expertly led by culinary director Alain Allaire, this place is best known for its buf- fets: breakfast, lunch and dinner (although there is an à la carte menu as well). Bubbly Sunday Brunch is among the most popular of the buffets, as the seafood selection is drool-worthy and Veuve Clicquote Yellow Label Champagne is free-flowing. 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon Station, Kowloon Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental One of the most visually impressive dining rooms in the city, the contemporary inter- pretation of French cuisine led by culinary director Richard Ekkebus has earned various awards—including two Michelin stars and #20 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2016. Chef Ekkebus uses his classical train- ing and creativity to invent dishes that will please even the fussiest of jaded palates. The combination of the restaurant’s cutting-edge style with inventive lighting provides a one- and-only setting for Amber’s coveted cuisine. The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road, Central Captain’s Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong’s favorite watering hole for Prepare for eclectic eating in one of Asia’s most diverse and delicious destinations. WRITTEN BY DAVID DURAN