New Restaurants to Try in Hong Kong, From Vicky Lau's JIJA at Kimpton Tsim Sha Tsui to Woolly Pig's MoA Dining

HONG KONG

Looking for something new to try in Hong Kong? You’re in luck, because the city’s dining scene continues to heat up with new restaurant openings. Whether you’re craving for comfort Korean or Japanese food, or want to try new concepts, you’ll find something that will satisfy your palate. So, let’s dig in! Check out our top picks of the new restaurants to try in Hong Kong right now.

Carmela

From the team behind FRANCIS and FRANCIS West comes Carmela. This new dining destination in Central boasts a garden-like retreat, serving Southern Mediterranean cuisine. Its name, ‘Carmela,’ is derived from Hebrew, which means ‘garden’ or ‘vineyard.’ As such, the menu leans into simple ingredients, fresh produce, with a focus on light, green-forward plates. The lunch options are perfect for easy, all-day dining. Come nightfall, diners can sample dishes like Galician Octopus and Lamb Shoulder. In addition, Carmela’s beverage menu mirrors its coastal spirit, offering classic drinks with a Mediterranean twist, such as the Olive Oil Martini.

Address: Shop G09, Nan Fung Tower, 173 Des Voeux Road Central, Central, Hong Kong | Website: carmela.com.hk | Phone: +852 9489 9212 | Email: hello@carmela.com.hk | Instagram: @carmelahk

JIJA

Renowned Hong Kong chef Vicky Lau debuts her newest venture: JIJA. The new Chinese bistro takes inspiration from the region of Yunnan, celebrates fresh ingredients, and showcases the warm hospitality of southwest China. The name ‘Jij’ comes from a colloquial Hong Kong term (吱吱喳喳), which refers to the cheerful chatter when people come together. For the menu, chef Lau took inspiration from her own travels to Yunnan and put the region’s produce, such as wild mushrooms and cured meats, centre stage. In fact, Yunnan is home to the largest number of edible mushroom species in China, so diners can expect plenty of dishes that incorporate them. Highlight dishes include the Seasonal Mushroom Salad, Pu’er Tea-Smoked Three Yellow Chicken, and Yunnan Pork Fat Fried Rice.

Address: 15/F, Kimpton Hotel, 11 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong | Website: jijarestaurant.com | Phone: +852 3501 8555 | Email: hello@jijarestaurant.com | Instagram: @jijabyvickylau

Jejusic

There is no shortage of new Korean restaurants in Hong Kong this year. Following the success of Samsic comes another Korean restaurant from the same F&B group: Jejusic. As its name suggests, the restaurant serves as a Jeju Island-inspired counterpart to Samsic. Get a taste of different Jeju dishes such as Jeju-sourced Sashimi and Jeju Pork Gukbap. True to its theme, the interior is adorned with basalt stones and Dol Hareubang (traditional volcanic rock statue from Jeju Island) statues to provide diners with a true Jeju Island experience right here in Hong Kong.

Address: 22/F, 46-48 Cochrane Street, Central, Hong Kong | Phone: +852 9430 8374 | Instagram: @jejusic

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Petit Jardin

Almost a decade since its conception in Shanghai, Petit Jardin opens its latest branch in Hong Kong at The Peak. It builds on the success of its previous locations, including the Wan Chai outpost, which received the Michelin Star for 11 consecutive years. The Peak branch continues to serve a modern interpretation of Jiangnan Cuisine while drawing from the essence of Huaiyang and Shanghaiese cuisine to present a contemporary dining experience. Signature dishes include Jiangnan Gua Bao Platter, Mapo Tofu with Snapper Fillet, and Shanghai Juicy Trio Assorted Xiao Long Bao. The Chinese-inspired cocktails aren’t to be missed as well, especially if you have sweeping views of Victoria Harbour to enjoy them with.

Address: Shop 103, Level 1, The Peak Tower, 128 Peak Road, Central, Hong Kong | Phone: +852 2849 2275 | Instagram: @petitjardin_hk | Facebook: @petitjardinhk

NOMA ryouri

Hongkongers don’t have to travel far to enjoy Japanese homestyle dishes. Thanks to NOMA ryouri, diners can feel the warmth and taste of home cooking, prepared with fresh ingredients and pure flavours. The new restaurant in Taikoo takes inspiration from Japan’s pastoral landscapes with its warm, natural wood interior that evokes a homely charm. For lunch, the Noma Ryouri Lunch Set comes in three, five, or seven courses. Meanwhile, dinner includes shareable mains and hotpots, alongside a six-course Dinner Set. For those with a sweet tooth, dessert is a must, and the options range from tea-infused light bites to filling giant options.

Address: Shop G1019, Kam Sing Mansion, 3 Tai Fung Road, Taikoo, Hong Kong | Phone: +852 2328 6331 | Instagram: @noma.ryouri | Facebook: @noma.ryouri

Mi Manchi

With the opening of the East Kowloon Cultural Centre also comes Mi Manchi, the first restaurant to open at the new arts and cultural hotspot. The restaurant specialises in daily handmade pasta and Italian delicacies that integrate local ingredients such as salted fish, Hua Diao wine, and XO sauce. The result? Dishes filled with flavours that Hongkongers are familiar with but presented in new ways. For instance, the Local Salted Fish Croquette uses salted fish from Tai O instead of Italian cured meat. Meanwhile, the Mezze Maniche al Polpo d Nduja comes with locally made XO sauce. The Spaghetti Alla Red Shrimp consists of wild Spanish red prawns marinated in a Hua Diao wine and soy sauce mixture. Mi Manchi is a great spot for lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, while its design is reminiscent of an Italian trattoria.

Address: 1/F, East Kowloon Cultural Centre, 60 Ngau Tau Kok Road, Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong | Phone: +852 2555 6607 | Instagram: @mimanchihk

MoA Dining

MoA Dining takes over the former location of HUE to bring modern Mediterranean cuisine to Hong Kong. From Woolly Pig Restaurant Group, the new culinary destination not only champions Mediterranean flavours but also has thoughtful nods to local dishes. The a la carte menu blends influences from Spain, Italy, and beyond, such as crispy-skinned Suckling Pig, Seafood Paella, and Bouillabaisse. In true Mediterranean dining tradition, guests can enjoy artisanal Bread Trolley Service, which features breads baked in-house, served tableside, and paired with olive oils from the region and other condiments. In addition to the stunning views of Victoria Harbour, guests can also admire artworks by Damien Hirst, Rocco Ritchie, and Tracey Emin that adorn the walls.

Address: 1/F, Hong Kong Museum of Art, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong | Website: moadining.com.hk | Phone: +852 2330 0110 | Email: hello@moadining.com.hk | Instagram: @moadining

Sushi Raku & Bar

Sushi Raku’s new concept store at BaseHall builds on its legacy as a specialist in bluefin tuna. All its bluefin tuna is sourced directly from Toyosu wholesaler Yamayuki and flown to Hong Kong daily. Plus, its use of Niigata Koshihikari rice reflects its commitment to heritage. The BaseHall branch showcases a lineup of dishes built around the spirit of Toyosu Direct, such as the Tsukimi Bluefin Tuna Tartare and the limited edition Bluefin Nakaochi (Backbone Scarpe). Diners can also sit at the new counter, which serves signature rolls, nigiri, sashimi, and donburi.

Address: LG & BF Levels, Shop LG5 & 7, LG15, B3, Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong | Instagram: @sushi_raku_hk | Facebook: @SushiRakuHK

Twist Pasta Bar

From hospitality veterans who brought Hongkongers Bourke’s, Terracotta Lamma, Honky Tonks Tavern, and Mendel’s comes this new neighbourhood spot that specialises in handmade pasta. At Twist Pasta Bar, diners can sample a range of pasta dishes from a menu that weaves Hong Kong ingredients with Italian technique. Chef Ben Sears integrates local ingredients such as shrimp roe from Yau Kee and Koon Yick Wah Kee curry powder for his cheeky creations. Aside from the ‘Twist’ options, diners can still enjoy classic favourites like Baked Rigatoni. As if that’s not enough, there are also non-pasta options such as Nacho Italiano Steak Tartare and Tramezzino Crispy Pig Ear Sando. Top off the experience with Twist Pasta Bar’s drinks, such as Cherry Bounce or Caprese Martini.

Address: 17 Bridges Street, Central, Hong Kong | Website: twistpastabar.com| Phone: +852 5278 9884 | Email: info@twistpastabar.com | Instagram: @twistpastabar

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Zozzona

Inside Zozzona, diners are greeted with fresh pasta, lively chatter, and 1980s Japanese city pop. The new pasta bar from chef Takayuki Kumai offers diners a chance to try Itameshi, a fusion cuisine that combines Japanese and Italian food elements. Expect pasta handmade fresh daily with flavours that pay homage to Japanese and Italian cooking. There are plenty of options on the no-fuss, ingredient-led menu, but the best way to go is to opt for the seven-course omakase. It includes the crispy Okinawa Seaweed Zeppole and fresh Akami Tuna Tataki for starters. At the heart of the meal are the pasta, starting with the signature Rigatoni alla Zonna and followed by the light Tagliolini Freddi. The food is best paired with drinks, with options ranging from highballs to wines.

Address: 29-31 Hillwood Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong | Website: zozzona.com | Phone: +852 7073 8825 | Email: info@zozzona.com | Instagram: @zozzonahk

La Vache! Exchange Square

Hong Kong's favourite steak-frites restaurant just opened a new branch in buzzy Exchange Square. The Black Sheep Restaurants brasserie serves a simple yet absolutely delicious menu, combining organic green salads with richly marbled USDA Prime ribeye and crispy fries served with pots of sauce made using a secret recipe. Perfect for a date night or a post-work meal.

Address: Shop 103, 1 Two Exchange Square, Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong | Website: www.lavache.com.hk | Phone: +852 2154 6110 | Email: exchangesquare@lavache.com.hk | Instagram: @lavachehk

Kansai One

Warm up at Kansai One, a sukiyaki restaurant dedicated exclusively to A5-grade Kuroge Wagyu (Japanese Black Wagyu). It’s the highest grade certified by the Japan Meat Grading Association. Kansai One’s Wagyu meat also has excellent Marbling Standard with its meat colour, fat colour, and firmness all meeting the highest criteria. The restaurant features Kagoshima Satsuma Wagyu, reared by Japan’s largest Wagyu ranch at Kamichiku Farm. Pick from three A5 Wagyu sukiyaki set meals featuring different cuts, such as the shoulder clod, chuck short rib, and rib-eye.

Address: 26 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong | Phone: +852 9275 7870 | Instagram: @kansaione

Osteria Uno

Savour the taste of Italian culinary delights at Osteria Uno, a new restaurant in the heart of Tai Kok Tsui. Its name, “Uno,” means “one” in Italian and reflects their philosophy of unity and simplicity. The interior of this neighborhood eatery is inspired by traditional Roman osterias and the vibrant street life of Hong Kong, with earthy tones and playful decor. At Osteria Uno, diners can try fresh, handmade pasta, artisanal and made-to-order pizza, hearty grilled dishes, and classic Italian desserts. Don’t miss the Tagliolini Black Truffle, Pizza Diavola, Grilled Salmon, and Tiramisu.

Address: Shop G08-G11, G/F, West 9 Zone, 38 Cherry Street, Tai Kok Tsui, Hong Kong | Phone: +852 9525 7283 | Website: osteriauno.com | Instagram: @osteriaunohk

Pedder Chinese

Pedder Chinese is nestled inside Pedder Building, the historic neoclassical landmark in Central. Chef Eric Chan, a rising luminary with over 20 years of experience, presents a menu anchored in classic Cantonese techniques with sprinkles of modern flavours. Step inside the grandeur of the 1924-Pedder Building and try a range of authentic claypot specialties and stir-fried dishes, from small plates to banquet feasts. Don’t miss the Stir-fried Sole with Leek, which comes in spicy and non-spicy tender fish, as well as the Crispy Eel with Black Vinegar. Other highlights include the “Pedder” Stir-fry Chinese Chives, Mixed Seafood & Cashew Nuts in XO Sauce, as well as the Black Pepper 8-Head Kuruma Shrimp.

Address: LG & G/F, Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central, Hong Kong | Website: linktr.ee/pedderchinese | Phone: +852 2866 0081 | Instagram: @pedderchinese | Facebook: @pedderchinese

Yurt

Yurt, Hong Kong’s first modern Central Asian halal restaurant, opens its doors in Central. The team hails directly from the region and is dedicated entirely to introducing the modern and nuanced flavours of the food from the Central Asian region. At the helm is chef Marat Zakaryayev, a Kazakhstan native, with experience leading kitchens in Almaty and within Moscow’s White Rabbit Family. Embark on a culinary journey with their six-course tasting menu and sample the region’s most celebrated recipes. The standout is horse meat in a traditional dish, Beshbarmaq, which is a traditional centrepiece of nomadic dining. Adding to the culinary journey are pastries from chef Anna Labanova. As a halal restaurant, Yurt serves no alcohol but instead brings tea flavours and essential herbs of Central Asian drinking culture with zero-proof drinks such as Almaty Nights and traditional teas.

Address: 32 Elgin Street, Central, Hong Kong | Website: yurthk.com | Phone: +852 6845 7149 | Instagram: @yurt.hk