You might have heard about our love for Hong Kong umpteen times – we still do, but today, we want to share some dining highlights from a recent trip because there are many reasons to love dining at Central, really!

We all have different objectives when we travel – some like to just stuff their faces silly with all the good food, some like to experience the local culture so that they have memories to keep in their hearts for always, some like to explore the famous attractions and sites. But because we always prioritise eating (greedy like that), our tummies are ever ready to be surprised, ever game to dine at non-touristy places, ever excited to explore all the food awaiting us.

Central is a bustling area in Hong Kong, and while it may be the CBD of Hong Kong, it actually has many dining options to offer.

From a very gorgeous cafe that is filled with natural sunlight, to what is probably the sexiest Japanese restaurant in Central, and a brilliant bakery that bakes the most creative croissants; here are 7 Restaurants in Central Hong Kong To Fall In Love With.

#1 CAFE LANDMARK

It is impossible to miss this grand restaurant that sits within Landmark shopping mall. The crowd that patronizes Cafe Landmark is a chic one; an evident favourite among stylish executives in the area, as well as shoppers who need a resting stop in between their retail therapy, Cafe Landmark is easy to fall in love with.

An open space with an effortless grace and grandeur, the restaurant has an international menu with Asian influences. The patisserie is an artisanal one, with delicate bakes and creations that are both feasts for the eyes and soul.

Shop 107-108,1/F, Landmark Atrium
15 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2526 4200
Mon to Sat: 8am – 9pm
Sun & PH: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Central

#2 GOGYO 

Founded by the same owner of Ippudo Ramen, GOGYO is a modern and chic Japanese ramen bar that is quite unlike the usual traditional ramen shops. The idea at GOGYO is the start with drinks; why not, right? There is a comprehensive range of Japanese craft beers, shochu, and cocktails. Then, proceed with snacks, or what we’d like to think of as Japanese bar grub. A hearty bowl of ramen shall be your main, and that is the way we roll at GOGYO.

GOGYO has five ramen options on the menu, but the one to turn your attention to is the famous Kogashi (burnt) Miso Ramen – the broth is charred with large flames, giving the ramen a sensational smoky flavour. Expect a slightly thicker broth, and more robust taste; if you are not a fan of rich flavours, this might not be for you, though.

Fancy a lunch set? They’ve got one that is pretty value-for-money. For HK$188, the Eel Hitsumabushi Rice Bowl Set comprises a unajyu, vegetable tempura and a side salad. The seating capacity at GOGYO is relatively small, but there is a reason why so many are willing to wait patiently for a seat. You shall know why too when it is your turn.

Shop 3020, Level Three IFC Mall
1 Harbour View Street, Central
Tel: +852 2385 1366
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Hong Kong

#3 KIKUSAN

Kikusan is our newfound favourite restaurant in Hong Kong when we need our Japanese food fix without breaking the bank. It is also possibly the sexiest Japanese casual dining outlet in Central, one that we cannot ever get sick of. The prices are unbelievably affordable, and if we were citizens of Hong Kong and working in Central, you would see us there very often with our Kikusan Roll.

Yes, the Kikusan Roll (HK$68), a maki roll with gorgeous chunks of uni (sea urchin), shrimp and minced fatty tuna. You read that right – all these premium ingredients packed in a neat maki roll for just HK$68! Can you believe it?!

Kikusan also has a selection of Japas (their version of Japanese tapas). It might sound bizarre, but we actually love the Kimuchi (HK$28) the best. It is essentially ‘kimchi’, but Kikusan prepares their own with homemade Japanese chilli. Other noteworthy dishes include the comforting Fried Okinawa Bitter Melon & Pork (HK$58) which reminded us of a taste of home, and the Assorted Sashimi with Rice (HK$138) which is otherwise known as ‘chirashi-don’.

Shop B13-16, Basement, Landmark Atrium, Central, Hong Kong
15 Queen’s Road Central
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2500 0555
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Central

#4 MAXIM’S CAKES

Of course, the ones who are always in a hurry are not forgotten. You still deserve some nice bites in between meetings. Grab some fresh bakes from Maxim’s Cakes to keep you company while you clock your meetings in the day. Maxim’s Cakes is an all-time favourite place to stop by whenever we need to pick up a bread roll or two, and they are conveniently located EVERYWHERE in Hong Kong – and we really mean everywhere.

The outlet in Central is strategically located on Pedder Street, just right outside the MTR station. We often find ourselves drawn to the shop by the aroma of fresh bread and cakes. There will definitely be something for everyone – savoury and sweet breads, cake slices, biscuits and even mooncakes now that it is Mid-autumn festival.

This Mid-autumn festival, look forward to the Mei-Xin Lava Custard Mooncakes which has liu sha that actually flows from the mooncake center. What socery, right? Another creation that you can look forward to is the special Tsum Tsum edition mooncakes. The cute packaging will definitely delight every fan. But you may stick to the classics if you’d like – the Mei-Xin White Lotus Seed Paste with Egg Yolk will be just right for you.

Shop 3, G/F, Tak Shing House
20 Des Voeux Road Central, Central
Tel: +852 2526 7296
Nearest Station: Central

#5 PEKING GARDEN RESTAURANT

Established in 1978, Peking Garden Restaurant is known for its authentic Peking Cuisine and it is listed in the Michelin Restaurant Guide from 2013 to 2015. Whether it is a place for family dinners, or for a corporate meal, Peking Garden Restaurant is a notable choice.

While Peking Garden Restaurant has several outlets in Hong Kong, we like the branch at Alexandra House as it exudes ancient beauty with hints of gold and red.

Famed for their Barbecued Peking Duck (well, you saw that coming from their name right?), we savoured the prized crispy skin that came with a hint of smoky applewood taste.

Dining here may be relatively pricier, but the Peking Duck, as well as dishes such as Braised Tientsin Cabbage with Jinhua Ham, Deep-fried Prawn in Chilli Sauce and Chilled Duck Tongue in Mustard will have you rubbing your bellies with happy sighs.

Shop B1, Basement 1, Alexandra House
16-20 Chater Road, Central
Tel: +852 2526 6456
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Central

#6 SIMPLYLIFE

simplylife is a European-style bakery cafe, and it is one that had us falling in love with over and over again. In a busy city where people are always racing against time and missing out on the smallest things, simplylife is an oasis of calmness in Hong Kong, and quite simply what life should be.

Nothing here is unnecessarily expensive, and only the freshest ingredients are used in the preparation of its bakes and mains. There are several outlets across Hong Kong, and the one that sits at Landmark is convenient and very accessible. Well-loved by the executives working in the area, simplylife is a haven of fashionable European bakes.

Awake your senses and be greeted by the scent of fresh bakes every morning. simplylife’s range of breads and cakes is a sight to behold. Prices here are exceptionally reasonable, by the way.

Shop B32, Landmark Atrium,, Central
The Landmark, Central
Tel. +852 2978 3929
Mon to Sat: 7.30am – 8pm
Sun & PH: 8.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Central

#7 URBAN BAKERY WORKS

It is no secret that our loyalty is sold to URBAN Bakery Works. Its concept shop at The Landmark is a stunner, and it promises nothing but a hip and fun experience. We are crazy about their croissants. If you haven’t tried, you must not miss the world for this – because these people are really game to outdo the Parisians with their croissants.

While you may be mind-blown by the sheer number of fancy croissants available, the highlight has got to be the Ball Law Cowssant – a hybrid of croissant and po luo bao (pineapple bun) complete with a slab of French butter, the Ball Law Cowssant (Dare devil version) totally blew us away, and we will go so far as to say that it is a must-eat in Hong Kong.

Other croissant flavours that captured our hearts were the Crunchy Peanut Butter that is lavishly filled with chunky spread, and the Lava Custard Croissant – if you think “liu sha bao” is divine, wait till you try this! That’s not all. The chic bakery cafe also serves excellent Vittoria coffee, a variety of salad and sandwiches which are perfect for a light and casual meal, as well as an array of decadent cakes and pastries.

Room 322, 3/F The Landmark
15 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3565 4320
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 8pm Sat, Sun & PH: 8.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Central

This post is brought to you by Maxim’s Group.

You know that feeling of stepping in to a patisserie that is laced with sweet scents and the aroma of fresh bakes, and how your heart would skip a beat when you set your eyes on the wondrous display of cakes and patisseries?

We understand, because we are lucky enough to have experienced that excitement many times. Everywhere we go, we keep our eyes peeled for patisseries, and boy, the world really spoils us silly.

This list should be never-ending, and we are on a never-ending quest of sussing out the bests patisseries, but first, let us share 25 Amazing Patisseries Around The World. Among them, what you must not miss out on are the quintessential ones in Paris and Japan that set our hearts aflutter every single time.

#1 ADRIANO ZUMBO / SYDNEY

One of the most well-known pastry chefs in Australia, Adriano Zumbo started his first patisserie in Balmain in 2007, and today he runs six patisseries in Sydney and Melbourne. Zumbo offers a range of cakes, pastries and macaons in the wackiest flavours that you could ever imagine.

Crazy flavours he’s got there for his Zumbarons, and our favourites include Salted Butter Popcorn and Kaffir Lime & Mandarin.

296 Darling Street
Balmain, Sydney
Tel: +61 2 9810 7318
Daily: 8am – 6pm

#2 ANGELITA PATISSERIE / BALI

Bali’s very own Ladurée/Angelina, Angelita Patisserie is every bit Parisian, in the softest pastel hues and candy-coloured chinaware. A stunning display of in-house bakes and sweet creations, Angelita is an elegant tea salon-cum-patisserie that serves French sweets.

Think eclairs in assorted flavours like oreo and passionfruit, chocolate tarts and raspberry mousse cakes. Fine and exquisite, everything here is so reasonably priced between RP30,000 to RP50,000.

Angelita Patisserie is also listed in our guide to Bali’s 18 best cafes.
Jalan Raya Kerobokan no. 10A
Banjar Taman, Kerobokan, Kuta, Bali
Tel: +62 361 7473138
Area: Seminyak

#3 ANGELINA TEA SALON / PARIS

When in the City of Love, sip luxe hot chocolate at Angelina. This place is an institution, and it is almost synonymous with Paris. Long queues are formed outside almost every outlet on a daily basis, and it is your best retreat in winter. And why Angelina? Because apart from hot chocolate, they bake incredible Mont Blanc too.

226 rue de Rivoli, Paris
Mon to Thu: 7.30am – 7pm
Fri: 7.30am – 7pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 7.30pm

#4 ANTOINETTE PATISSERIE / SINGAPORE

Undoubtedly one of the prettiest tea salons in Singapore, Antoinette is a perennial favourite for elegant French pastries and sweets. Nothing quite like your usual cakes and tarts, Antoinette promises nothing but surprises.

Antoinette Patisserie is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s 58 must-try desserts.

333A Orchard Road
#02-33/34, Mandarin Gallery
Tel: +65 6836 9527
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#5 BOURKE STREET BAKERY / SYDNEY

It is a neighbourhood joint where locals meet their friends for coffee; or drop by to grab some pastries for breakfast next day. The bakery serves simple, honest and delicious baked goods like strawberry & vanilla brulee tart (A$5), lemon curd tart (A$4.50), raspberry & chocolate mousse tart (A$4.80) and carrot cake (A$4.50).

633 Bourke Street
Surry Hills, Sydney NSW 2010
Tel: (02) 9699 1011

#6 C’EST LA B / HONG KONG

Housed in HarbourCity – the ultimate shopping mall in Hong Kong – C’est La B is a chi-chi dessert spot that is well-loved by both locals and tourists. Dim lights set against a monochrome interior, the patisserie is that of a mysterious yet alluring one. The cakes are fascinating, no less.

G111, G/F, Harbour City
17 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: +852 3102 2838
Daily: 9am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsim

#7 CHEZ DRÉ / MELBOURNE

Just a stone’s throw from South Melbourne Market, Chez Dré is one of the best patisseries in Melbourne. The Lemon Hazelnut Tart was mind-blowingly good. Who would have thought that lemon and hazelnut would go so well together? Equally pleasing was the black forest cake. It was almost too pretty to be eaten.

285-287 Coventry Street, South Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9690 2688
Daily: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Nearest Tram Station: Dorcas Street/Clarendon Street

#8 DEUX AMIS PATISSERIE / SEOUL

Seated along the streets of Garosu-gil, Deux Amis Patisserie is a terrific patisserie that serves gorgeous cakes and tarts in an array of flavours and colours. It is a must-go for desserts when you are in Seoul. Try their Strawberry Tiramisu Tart and Caramel Cake.

535-9 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu
Tel: +82 2 3443 0030
Nearest Station: Sinsa Station

#9 DOMINIQUE ANSEL BAKERY / NEW YORK CITY

You know cronuts, but do you know its origins? Created by Dominique Ansel, with its flagship store at Soho @ New York City, Dominique Ansel Bakery is surely one place to check out for its famed creations.

189 Spring Street, New York
Tel: 212 219 2773
Mon to Sat: 8am – 7pm
Sun: 9am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Spring Street

#10 HENRI CHARPENTER / TOKYO

Well-loved by the world, Henri Charpenter makes exceptional desserts and pastries that are awards-worthy. Its flagship outlet at Tokyo is a classy setting of a tea salon. Fans of lemon desserts have to try Henri Charpentier’s Tarte Au Citron; it is the best we’ve had.

Bring back a piece of Henri Charpenter in the form of takeaway snacks (¥683 or S$9) such as madeleines, financiers and biscuits – they all come in very pretty boxes. They definitely make great gifts for friends and colleagues.

2-8-20 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Tel: 03 3562 2721
Station: Ginza-Itchome (metro exit 9), Ginza (metro exit A13)

#11 HUMMINGBIRD BAKERY / LONDON

Do yourself a favour and pick up a cupcake from Hummingbird Bakery when at London. They make the world’s best red velvet cupcake, and few things in life are as satisfying as sinking your teeth into the moist and crumble red cupcake. Not a fan of red velvet cupcakes? No worries. There are many more flavours and the selection is enough to drive you crazy.

155a Wardour Street, Soho Square, London W1F 8WG
Tel: +44 20 7851 1795
Mon to Sat: 9.30pm – 8pm
Sun: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Tottenham Court Road

#12 LA BELLE MIETTE / MELBOURNE

A cute little French patisserie that specialises in macarons, La Belle Miette – which broadly translates to “beautiful small thing” – has one of the best, if not the best, macarons in Melbourne. Flavours include Lavender, Violette & Blueberry, Raspberry, Cherry Blossom & Sake, as well as our favourite Scones with Honey & Jam.

La Belle Miette also carries a range of tea from Mariage Frères to go along with the macarons. There are currently four outlets in Melbourne.

30 Hardware Lane, Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9024 4528
Mon to Fri: 10am – 6.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Bourke Street/Elizabeth Street

#13 L’ETO CAFFE / LONDON

And then, there is L’eto that sits on the same street as Hummingbird Bakery. They have an insane display of daily fresh bakes, and it is almost frustrating to pick just one. Every item baked and assembled with love, and you can almost smell the pastry chefs’ passion in every piece.

155 Wardour Street, London W1F 8WG
Tel: +44 20 7494 4991
Mon to Tue: 8am – 9pm
Wed to Sat: 8am – 11pm
Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tottenham Court Road

#14 LA DOUCEUR PATISSERIE / TAIPEI

With more than a dozen desserts (NT$160-170) – such as Mont Blanc, Matcha Cake, Cherry Mousse, 72% Dark Chocolate Tart – available on the menu, La Douceur will satisfy every sweet tooth. They also have, hands down, one of the best macarons in Taipei. Choose from flavours like strawberry, passionfruit, caramel mandarin, lavender and caramel.

La Douceur Patisserie is listed in our guide to Taipei’s best desserts.

No. 223 Jinhua Street
Tel: 02 3322 2833

#15 LADURÉE PATISSERIE / PARIS

Of pretty pastels and the world’s most gorgeous macarons, Ladurée is the first pit-stop on our list whenever we find ourselves in the City of Love. This heaven of pastel colours is laced with romantic scents of Parisian sweets, and every time we step in to the desserts boutique, we fall in love all over again.

And the wondrous display of intricate French bakes and macarons never fail to make us go weak in the knees. You are only letting yourself down if you give Ladurée a miss.

21 Rue Bonaparte, Paris
Tel: +33 1 44 07 64 87
Mon to Fri: 8.30am – 7.30pm
Sat: 8.30am – 8.30pm
Sun: 10am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Rue du Bac

#16 LET THEM EAT CAKE / BANGKOK

Bangkok is known for many things, but nobody associates it with good French desserts and pastries. That was what we thought too, until we went to Let Them Eat Cake. Their display of exquisite creations will have you feeling like you are transported to Paris. Look out for their Thai-inspired flavours, else their classic chocolate series are fantastic all the same.

4th floor, Siam Center
989 Rama I Road
Tel: +66 2 658 1603
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

#17 MAGNOLIA BAKERY / NEW YORK CITY

Founded in 1996, Magnolia Bakery is an institution in New York City that is well-loved for its cupcakes. Featured on shows like Sex and the City, and The Devil Wears Prada, Magnolia Bakery is recognised as one of the patisseries that started the cupcake trend in the Big Apple.

401 Bleecker Street and W. 11th Street
Tel: +1 212 462 2572
Mon to Thu: 9am – 11.30pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 12.30am
Sun: 9am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: 14 St

#18 MAISON BERTAUX / LONDON

Maison Bertaux, one of the oldest patisseries in London, is our go-to place for an quiet afternoon tea. They offer many beautiful cakes and pastries, but our favourite is their almond croissant.

28 Greek Street, London, Greater London W1D 5DQ
Tel: +44 20 7437 6007
Mon to Sat: 8.30am – 11pm
Sun: 9.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Leicester Square

#19 PASSION 5 / SEOUL

If you ask us to recommend just one place in Seoul, it will be Passion 5. They have five different categories of dining all under one roof – gelato corner, bakery take-out station, patisserie and café, chocolatier and a full-fledged restaurant. Trust us, you will be tempted to order all the cakes from the patisserie.

Passion 5 is also listed as one of our 10 favourite cafes in Seoul.

272, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2 2071 9507
Nearest Station: Hangangjin

#20 PIERRE HERMÉ / PARIS

The maestro of desserts, the quintessential Parisian patisserie; Pierre Hermé is our utmost favourite. Every single item fascinates and makes us squeal with excitement like kids. Famed for his macarons with unusual flavours, Pierre Hermé is known as the “Picasso of Pastry”. His chocolates are to die for, too. Don’t forget to try Ispahan, the most iconic pastry.

18 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, Paris
Tel: +33 1 43 54 47 77
Nearest Station: Hotel de Ville

#21 PRIMROSE BAKERY / LONDON

It is impossible not to like Primrose Bakery. This cute little bakery serves one of the best cupcakes in London. And beyond cupcakes, Primrose Bakery also has an array of layer cakes, loaves and sliced cakes. Primrose Bakery also has a second branch in Covent Garden, but we very much preferred the peace and tranquility of Primrose Hill.

69 Gloucester Ave, London NW1 8LD
Tel: +44 20 7483 4222
Mon to Sat: 8.30am – 6pm
Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Camden Town/Chalk Farm

#22 SADAHARU AOKI / TOKYO

Nobody should leave Tokyo without visiting Sadaharu Aoki. This famous Japanese-trained pastry chef made his name in Paris by creating French desserts with Japanese flavours.

Aoki makes exquisite macarons with Japanese flavours like sesame, matcha, yuzu and genmaicha. And their eclairs… what’s a better word than ‘divine’? We dare claim that Sadaharu Aoki has the best eclairs in the world.

Tokyo Midtown B1F
9-7-4 Akasaka Minato-ku Tokyo
Station: Roppongi

#23 SIMPLYLIFE / HONG KONG

Simplylife is our favourite patisserie in Hong Kong. With a bakery that produces an amazing range of bread, pastries and cakes, everything is of premium quality, and no additives are added. We fell in love with it, more than what we thought we would. The space is one that have you slow down, relax and breathe in the simple pleasures of life. simplylife, indeed.

Shop 30, L2, Festival Walk
80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Tel: +852 2777 5168
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kowloon Tong

#24 VIRON / TOKYO

If you are in the Shibuya area, make Boulangerie Patisserie Viron your pit stop. They have really impressive desserts. On the ground floor, the boulangerie sells bread and pastries. You can also choose to dine in the brasserie on the second floor.

33-8 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03 5458 1770
Station: Shibuya

#25 ZENIQUE / TAIPEI

Zenique is a teahouse and patisserie which serves pretty awesome French desserts (NT$160-180/slice) like Kyoto Matcha, Rose Versailles and Tarte Aux Fraises with tea-infused flavours. They also have nine different macarons (NT$60). We fell head over heels in love with their rose macarons.

Zenique is listed in our guide to Taipei’s best desserts.

No 8 Lane 4 Yong Kang Street
Tel: 02 2395 1558
Sun to Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10.30pm

Among all the different dining concepts that we went to during our Hong Kong trip in July, simplylife – a European-style bakery cafe by Maxim’s Group - is our favourite place.

In a busy city where people are always racing against time and missing out on the smallest things, simplylife is an oasis of calmness in Hong Kong, and quite simply what life should be. We fell in love with it, more than what we thought we would. The space is one that will have you slow down, relax and breathe in the simple pleasures of life. simplylife, indeed.

Since its opening in 2007, simplylife has not only expanded to 8 branches in Hong Kong, but it has also garnered a strong support among its loyal customers. Nothing is unnecessarily expensive, and only the freshest ingredients are used for every item they serve and put on your table.

We can go on and on about why we are head over heels in love with the concept, but the best way is for you to include it in your itinerary when you are in Hong Kong. Here is how simplylife stole our hearts:

Beyond the charming European-style decor, aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the cafe, and an amazing display of breads, cakes and pastries, simplylife offers absolute comfort. For locals who are dashing off to work, comfort is having freshly baked bread and pastries to start the day right. For those who are in need of a caffeine boost, comfort comes in the form of a cappuccino, while you nibble on a chocolate croissant, a blueberry danish, or a mixed berry tart.

For those who are famished and seek something more substantial, comfort means fresh salads and homemade pastas, or the many other savoury simplylife’s main courses, especially the signature Angus beef burger.

Interaction with the chefs and servers is encouraged, and the open kitchen concept is quite a show to boast. Patrons can take a few minutes to watch the creaming of a cake, or the cutting of fresh homemade pasta. The display of fresh bakes is so seductive that breakfast has never been better; and it is impossible to order only one.

The food at simplylife is the kind of stuff that you can eat every day and not get bored of. It is the type that you will crave when you want comfort food for the soul. Everything here is of premium quality, and no additives are added.

Think Crabmeat and Mixed Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing and the classic English Big Breakfast as the first meals of your day; a whole series of Organic Brown Rice with power ingredients, and handmade Tagliatelle or Linguine in your favourite sauces like Truffle Cream Sauce and Spicy Tomato sauce.

At the desserts galore, it is a whole new world. We do not even know where to begin from, but to give you an idea, the endless options include Rose Yogurt Pear Mousse Cake, Chocolate Espresso Chestnut Mousse Cake, Mixed Berry Tart, all kinds of danishes that you can ever imagine… and by now, you really should be hungry.

And of course, it helps that the chefs are constantly putting on their thinking caps to come up with new creations so that even regulars will always something new to try.

Prices are exceptionally reasonable for the quality of food. The dinner menu is divided into Salad (HK$118 – HK$138), Meat (HK$118 – HK$208), Rice & Handmade Pasta (HK$98 – HK$148), and Pizza (HK$118). simplylife also has an impressive array of breads, pastries and cakes that are freshly baked every morning. The selection changes from time to time, but you will always be spoiled with choices from the 9 tarts, 8 whole cakes, 4 whole roll cakes, 6 danishes, croissants, baguettes and more.

“Less is more at simplylife” – its mantra describes exactly what the cafe is about. It aims to do fewer things well by using the freshest ingredients and a simple yet unique style of cooking.

As mentioned earlier, there are 8 branches in Hong Kong, but we will suggest going to the biggest restaurant at Festival Walk in Kowloon Tong. It has both indoor and “outdoor” seated – both are still within the mall that is fully air-conditioned, but the latter is a simulation of a European outdoor verandah, with natural sunlight streaming in and warming your souls as you sink in to your chair and relax over a cuppa and a slice of cake.

simplylife has great potential and we really hope to see it opening in more cities in Asia. The concept is simple and endearing, and somewhere you will go to no matter how you are feeling – to treat yourself to a good meal without bursting the budget, and to embrace life.

simplylife Bakery Cafe
Shop 30, L2, Festival Walk
80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Tel: +852 2777 5168
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kowloon Tong

This feature is brought to you by m.a.x concepts’ work.

Hong Kong is such a paradise for food lovers, and is always among the first in Asia to launch trends from across the globe. Whatever you are feeling – casual fast meals to fine dining – Hong Kong always has something to offer.

And to embrace this love for food, Maxim’s Group www.maxims.com.hk celebrates the Tastes of Life and we joined them on a journey to discovering the bests of what this F&B giant has to offer. Visitors to Hong Kong would be all too familiar with this household name, but do you know that they have an impressive of 70 brands under their belt, with 840 outlets all over Hong Kong, China and Vietnam?

Think about Cantonese cuisine and you’d think of Maxim’s; think about cakes and breads and you’d think of the familiar red signboard in every single MTR stations. Maxim’s always promises an epicurean journey to titillate every sense, and it is by no surprise that they are the top-of-mind brand when it comes to F&B in Hong Kong.

Earlier this month, we had the privilege to feast at some of the best house brands by Maxim’s, and we are already looking forward to our next trip to Hong Kong for more good food. The next time you take a holiday to the Pearl of The Orient, read this guide to Maxim’s Group restaurants like it is your bible and visit the bests of Maxim’s.

DONDONYA HONTEN

DONDONYA Honten has several branches in Hong Kong, and connoisseurs would be happy to know that a meal at its flagship store at Elements is highly recommended for they serve really premium Japanese cuisine in a really cosy space.

The Premium Wagyu Tobanyaki Gozen (HK$358) features Japanese wagyu beef with excellent marbling, and beef lovers must not miss this for the world. Another one that we enjoyed was the DONDONYA Gozen (HK$388) that comes complete with king crab legs and so much food that no one does not go into a food coma after. Our favourite, however, is the Premium Fisherman’s Rice Bowl (HK$268). It is among the best chirashi-don that we have had, and we made a pact to revisit DONDONYA on our next trip – especially for the chirashi-don.

Shop 2103-04, Level 2, Elements
1 Austin Road West Kowloon, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2196 8589
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kowloon

HONG KONG DAY

Counting sheep is easier than counting the number of cha chaan teng (Hong Kong local cafes) there are in Hong Kong. But let’s just say we have our favourites and Hong Kong Day is a recent addition to our list. We never knew, but we were happy to find out that Maxim’s Hong Kong Day has many outlets all over the city. Dishing out comforting casuals like soya sauce chicken and wanton noodles, this is one casual dining option when you need affordable and good eats.

Your wallet does not need to take a beating when you dine at Hong Kong Day. And oh, do not forget your Iced Yuan Yang, too!

#02-242 Ocean Terminal
Harbour City, 17 Canton Road
Tel: +852 2375 3789
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsui

MAXIM’S PALACE

If you had told us this was a palace with food fit for the royalty, we would really buy it. Maxim’s Palace is renown for its fine dimsum, and it is an even better experience when you have Hong Kong ladies pushing plates of dim sum around in old school pushcarts and you pick your favourites from the endless selection. The posh interior with high ceiling and crystal chandeliers and a view of the Harbour complete the impeccable experience.

And it is really quite unlike any other dimsum restaurants, because the 500-seater Maxim’s Palace has over a hundred varieties of dishes that are all prepared fresh from the kitchen daily. Its series of accolades is also a testament to their consistency in delivering only the finest Canton-style cooking. Wonderful theatrics and satisfying food; it can only be Maxim’s Palace.

Just a note that they do not take in reservations, so be prepared to queue. But we promise you it would be worth the wait.

3/F, City Hall 5-7 Edinburgh Place
Tel: +852 2521 1303
Nearest Station: Central

M&C. DUCK

One of the newest dining concepts by Maxim’s Group is M&C. Duck, which offers a refreshing take to Chinese cuisine and at very reasonable price points. First, the brand is youthful and vibrant, with a modern European-style décor. Nothing too fancifully Chinese, but nothing too unpretentious too. We’d say this is a decent option when you need to treat your date to some good Chinese cuisine.

Second, it offers its signature Barbecued Peking Duck in two options – whole (HK$288) and half (HK$150) duck. Couples and small families usually have problems when it comes to Peking Duck because there would be food wastage for sure, but rejoice, for the half duck option is perfect for sharing even in small groups. Most of the dishes are given a modern twist to surprise your taste buds, and the chefs take pride in the presentation of every dish. We do not really think Chinese food could be sexy, but we take our words back now.

Shop 3319, level 3, Gateway Arcade
Harbour City, 17 Canton Road,
Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: +852 2347 6898
Daily: 11.30am – 4pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsui

URBAN BAKERY WORKS

Sexy. Artsy. Fuss-free. Comfort. Altogether, URBAN Bakery Works presents itself as the it place for all-day casual dining. The concept shop at The Landmark is a stunner, and it promises nothing but a hip and fun experience.

The bakery focuses on croissants, with no less than seven different flavours – like almond, Belgian chocolate, cheddar cheese, and brulee – available every day. URBAN bakery Works’ latest creation, the Ball Law Cowssant, will blow your mind. It is a hybrid of croissant and po luo bao (pineapple bun), and complete with a slab of French butter, this is nothing but sheer indulgence. Warning: one might not be enough!

The cakes are worth a try, too. Check out the decadent options like What The Fudge and See You In Hell. Yes, the names summarise ‘em all. Go ahead and sin; we won’t tell.

Room 322, 3/F The Landmark
12-16 Des Voeux Road Central
Tel: +852 3565 4320
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 8pm Sat, Sun & PH: 8.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Central

SIMPLYLIFE

Among all the different dining concepts that we went to during this trip, simplylife is our favourite place. We fell in love with it, more than what we thought we would. The space is one that have you slow down, relax and breathe in the simple pleasures of life. simplylife, indeed.

With a bakery that produces an amazing range of bread, pastries and cakes, everything is of premium quality, and no additives are added. Interaction with the chefs and servers is encouraged, and the open kitchen concept is quite a show to boast. Patrons can take a few minutes to watch the creaming of a cake, or the cutting of fresh homemade pasta. The display of fresh bakes is so seductive that breakfast has never been better; and it is impossible to order only one.

For lunch and dinner, the kitchen dishes out fresh salads, pastas, burgers and other savoury main courses.

There are 8 branches in Hong Kong, but go to the biggest restaurant at Festival Walk in Kowloon Tong. We can go on and on about why we are in love with the concept, but the best way is for you to include it in your itinerary when you are in Hong Kong.

Shop 30, L2, Festival Walk
80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Tel: +852 2777 5168
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kowloon Tong

THE SQUARE

The crown jewel under Maxim’s Group, The Square has retained its One Michelin Star for six consecutive years, which is no mean feat given the competitiveness of the dining scene in Hong Kong. Its consistency and commitment to excellence are the key reasons for regulars’ loyalty, and the indulgent experience makes it the perfect choice when you need to throw a feast during a special occasion.

Standout dishes include the signature Steamed Lobster Dumpling, and the Golden Crispy Prawns with Strawberry Sauce, which was specially created for Gwyneth Paltrow when she was in Hong Kong in June 2014.

4/F, Exchange Square II, Central
Tel: +852 2525 1163
Daily: 9am – 4.30pm, 5.30pm – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Central

MAXIM’S CAKES

Last but most certainly not the least, this is the red signboard that monopolises all MTR stations, and is more often than not our answer to breakfasts and suppers. Maxim’s Cakes is a well-loved bakery that offers fresh selections daily, from buns to cakes to biscuits. And nothing is exorbitantly costly.

This mid-autumn festival, do not forget to pick up a box of traditional baked mooncakes for your family, too! They have some real deal at the mooncake plant that we were so very honoured to have visited and will share more soon, but for now, grab that Chinese delicacy and enjoy it over your favourite Chinese tea while soaking in some moonlight.

For the latest updates, go to www.maxims.com.hk, and like Maxim’s Group on Facebook.

This feature is brought to you by Maxim’s Group.