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As government restrictions begin to lift, Hong Kong residents are back on the city streets, ready to get the dine-in restaurant fix we’ve all been missing. Whilst many eateries are opening their doors back up to later hours of the night, some people are still home-bound and have been enjoying the indulgence of self-takeaway specials. With the introduction of discounted deals on restaurant favourites, sometimes, takeaway is a more viable option, especially with the uncertainty of COVID-19. That’s not to say, of course, that we won’t be dining in too—balance is key. Here are some of the best takeaway meals we tried during September. Without further ado.
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
FRITES
With several locations scattered across Hong Kong (which includes a soon-to-be-opened branch in the up-and-coming neighbourhood, Tseung Kwan O), FRITES has been in the city for some time now. The Belgian beer house is famed for more than just its fine selection of beer, or frites (which translates to fries), although both are winning feats. Its selection of European fare, which includes dishes like salads, meats, and pastas, are also popular amongst diners. Order some of the restaurant’s sharing dishes to get a nibble of everything. Some of our particular favourites include the 750g Roasted Pork Knuckle (HK$255), the Flemish Beef Stew (HK$335), and the Pomme Puree (HK$60).
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
Emmer Pizzeria & Cafe
What’s a home takeaway without the occasional indulgent pizza? Forget about fast food chains, and opt for something more authentic—that is how the Italians ought it to be, after all. From the same brainchild behind Beef & Liberty, Emmer Pizzeria & Cafe takes you back to the beginning. Using organic heritage grain, which is blended with rye and Italian flour, the pizzas at this restaurant are all made by hand. The dough is fermented for over two days to curate a light and airy consistency, which won’t leave you feeling bloated for hours. There’s a wide selection of pizzas on the menu, but if you’re wanting something different, there’s also the fresh salad bar and paninis which are just as popular. We recommend the vegetarian Funghi pizza (HK$138) and the Heirloom Tomato Salad (HK$68).
Emmer Pizzeria & Cafe, Shop no. 407, Level 4, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong, +852 2780 1110, emmerpizza.com
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
MEATS
From the highly-acclaimed Pirata Group (who recently launched DRUNCH, a drink-and-dine concept), comes MEATS, a restaurant that specialises in gourmet cuts for carnivores. The SOHO joint welcomes customers to roll up their sleeves and tuck into the meaty dishes, which are typically tender, juicy, and satisfying. You can count on the restaurant to provide the best cuts of meat, served in innovative ways. Sharing platters are recommended, with some of our favourites include the Beef Tartare (HK$120), the Fish Tacos (HK$120), the Truffle Mac & Cheese (HK$90), and the Duck Salad (HK$110). There are, of course, a whole lot more to choose from, going from steaks to French chicken, so be sure to try a selection to savour. Also, keep your eyes peeled for any extravagant, new deals from the restaurant group.
Call +852 2711 1812 to make your order and pick up from SOHO
MEATS, G/F Soho, 28-30 Staunton St, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2711 1812, piratameats.hk
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
Gaylord Indian Restaurant
Opening its doors in 1972, Gaylord has quite a stellar reputation for Indian food. Located in Tsim Sha Tsui, the restaurant is recommended by the Michelin guide and celebrates traditional Indian cuisine in all its glory. Gaylord is currently offering a 50% discount off selected items on self-takeaway orders, and 30% off a la carte dishes. If you’re craving quality, authentic Indian dishes, order a range of Gaylord’s specialties, with discounts; the Vegetable Samosa (HK$49), the Saag Paneer (HK$59), the Dal Makhani (HK$54), are all winning feats. A true stand-out for modern diners, though, is the Truffle Cheese Naan. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about what to order, but if you’re an avid truffle eater, you’ll be delightfully surprised.
Gaylord Indian Restaurant, 5/F, Prince Tower, 12A Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2376 1001, mayfare.com.hk
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
Uma Nota Meraki at Home
Designed to provide fuss-free, gourmet dining, Meraki Hospitality Group launched its Meraki Meal Plans, which feature dishes from BEDU, Uma Nota and the newly opened Mamma Always Said. Dive into the best of Middle Eastern fare, South American spice, and veggie-loving creations. For lunch plans, the package is HK$575 (HK$115/ day) and includes a fresh health juice shot. For dinner plans, the price is HK$1,000 (HK$200/day) and includes a homemade style dessert to end the day on a sweet note; payment is taken by mobile payment service PayME. The meal plans are curated and updated every Thursday at 5pm, with deliveries operating from Monday to Friday for locations in Hong Kong Island only.
Pick ups from Uma Nota are also available
Uma Nota, F, Upper G, 38 Peel St, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2889 7576, uma-nota.com/hong-kong
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
The Pawn
Housed in one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks, with a history dating back to 1888, The Pawn pays tribute to the historical site by keeping the building’s unique features intact. The restaurant specialises in rustic and traditional cooking, serving Western favourites in an ambient setting. There is currently a 30% off self pick-up orders from Monday to Friday (12pm to 10pm) and Saturday to Sunday (3pm to 10pm). Try the three-course set menu (HK$228) which includes a starter, main, and dessert. We particularly liked the pan-seared duck breast and the Linguine Carbonara (HK$168, a la carte). For dessert, the brownies from the set menu are a delight.
Order delivery via FoodPanda or arrange pick up
The Pawn, 62 Johnston Road Wan Chai, Hong Kong, +852 2866 3444, thepawn.com.hk
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
Namo Avant Thai
Nestled in Tsim Sha Tsui’s Empire Centre, Namo Avant Thai was launched by Michelin star Chef Alejandro Sanchez together with renowned Thai chef Khun Wijannarongk Kunchit (from the contemporary kitchens of Bobby Chinn). The restaurant serves modern Thai cuisine, which utilises techniques from across the globe. Namo Avant Thai is currently offering a 50% discount off selected items on self-takeaway orders, and 30% off a la carte dishes. We love the Chicken Satay (HK$54), the Grilled Pork Neck, and the Papaya Salad (HK$69).
Namo Avant Thai, Shop G18, Empire Centre, 68 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Hong Kong, +852 2739 1133, mayfare.com.hk
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
Classified
Classified celebrates art, culture, and dining in an intimate space. Rapidly expanding across Hong Kong since its debut, the restaurant group caters to healthy palettes, with delectable favourites ranging from eggs for breakfast to fresh salads. There’s also a plant-based menu. Some key highlights include the Peri Peri Chicken (HK$208), the Endive (HK$95), and the Benedict on Sourdough (HK$115). Guests can indulge from home by ordering online or arranging self takeaway/pick-up from select locations.
Classified, multiple locations, classifiedfood.com
Image courtesy of Mr Ping | Cha Siu Papers Times
Gunpowder Indian RestoBar
Another popular Indian restaurant, Gunpowder, is Mayfare Concept’s Island side branch. Following the success of Gaylord, Gunpowder takes a modern approach to Indian dining, serving its dishes in small portions which are perfect for sharing (which they call IndiSum). Expect street savouries, tandoori grills, exotic curries, and freshly-made Indian breads to sate your palette. The restaurant is currently offering a 50% discount off selected items on self-takeaway orders, and 30% off a la carte dishes. Some must-orders (price with discount) include the Gunpowder Chicken (HK$59), the Garlic Naan (HK$21), and the Lamb Roganjosh (HK$79). If you’re dining with a group, try the Sarson Ka Saag Makki Roti and the Goan Fish Curry, too.
Gunpowder Indian RestoBar, G/F, J Residence, 18 Ship St, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, +852 2827 7777, mayfare.com.hk