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Reminiscent of the buzzing, cheerful beerhalls in Germany, FRITES pays tribute to authentic bierkellers in the heart of Quarry Bay. The restaurant has several locations across Hong Kong (including its newly-opened branch in Tseung Kwan O), serving an enticing range of Belgian brews from its lengthy “Beer Bible” menu. Aiden Bradley dropped by the vibrant venue to try a selection of sharing mains and beers.
Location
Nestled under an escalator at Oxford House in Taikoo Place, the venue certainly does not appear to be within an office block. Decked in floor-to-ceiling timbers and deep woods, FRITES Quarry Bay is a hidden oasis that gives an immediate German beer hall vibe. The atmosphere is friendly and easy-going and the crowd ranges from families to date nights. Bar stools fill the room to add to the casual yet cosy ambiance, as inspired by the traditional German beerhouses.
Image courtesy of Aiden Bradley | Cha Siu Papers Times
The Food
First, we tried the Niçoise Salad, a generous, hearty portion of mixed leaves served with tuna. Although the dish was very well-portioned for its price, the taste was pretty standard.
Image courtesy of Aiden Bradley | Cha Siu Papers Times
The crab tian came next, a starter full of flavour and beautifully presented. It was, however, a little acidic as the combination of lemon and raw onions gave an overwhelming result. Served with crisp, freshly-toasted bread slices, the soft texture of the crab went well with the crunchy companion.
Image courtesy of FRITES
We tried various mains from the menu. The burger was juicy and well portioned, using premium Wagyu beef patties and soft buttered buns, layered with crispy bacon, fresh tomato and lettuce, and scrumptious cheddar cheese.
Image courtesy of Aiden Bradley | Cha Siu Papers Times
Like its counterparts, the Chicken Parma was also generously portioned. Smothered with creamy mozzarella cheese atop a hefty chicken breast, each bite was an indulgent mouthful of juicy goodness. On the side, a handful of fries and salad to complement the main.
Image courtesy of Aiden Bradley | Cha Siu Papers Times
The Steak and Frites, obviously a signature dish, was served medium-rare with two dollops of truffle butter on the steak. It was very well cooked to an optimum medium-rare temperature, served with fries and salad.
Image courtesy of Aiden Bradley | Cha Siu Papers Times
For dessert, the Baked Alaska was a really good mix of traditional baked Alaska with Belgian influences, using Belgian chocolate ice cream and waffles for a cultural update.
Overall
One of the highlights of FRITES is the daily deals which include offers like all-you-can-eat steak and buy-one-get-one-free specials at all its branches. Beer is a must at FRITES and we were served palm beer, which was smooth and fruity to taste. The restaurant offers a good selection of vegetarian-friendly dishes including an Impossible burger and Impossible Bolognese.
FRITES Belgian On Tap, G/F, Oxford House, Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, (Entrance at 22 Westlands Road), Quarry Bay, Hong Kong, +852 2250 5188, frites.hk