WINING & DINING IN HONG KONG

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) recently presented the most anticipated food event in Asia.

- PEPPER TEEHANKEE

The "Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival" welcomed about 155,000 locals and visitors with more than a 10-percent increase from the last edition.

Hong Kong is a popular gastronomic destination, attracting tourists from around the world. During the five-day festival, Hong Kong also welcomed three international cruise liners, with the passengers checking out the festival and joining the exclusive wine-tasting and pairing events organized by HKTB.

This year's festival boasted over 300 booths with food and drink offerings from 35 countries and regions. The F&B head of a participating hotel said that business at the festival was better than what they initially estimated, with business doubling during the weekend.

For an elevated gastronomic journey, the Harbour Lounge presented a selection of exclusive cocktails blended with local flavors especially crafted by mixologists, allowing guests to take sips of unique Hong Kong tastes while enjoying the stunning view of Victoria Harbour.

Guests immersed themselves in premium booths that included CIAK-In the Kitchen, the casual concept of Michelin-starred chef Umberto Bombana of Otto e Mezzo. Also in this area was Fisholic, now part of the Michelin Guide Hong Kong. Chef Hyvan Tong made us try noodles made with fish, french fries made entirely of fish, and his unique Fishotto, where minced fish was shaped like rice grains.