Hong Kongers undoubtedly have a love affair with Italian cuisine; this is evident by the number of Italian dining spots – from the very basic eateries, to the Michelin-stared fine dining venues that have attracted celebrity chefs from Italy’s numerous culinary regions. We welcome La Locanda, Hong Kong’s most recent addition purposely aimed at serving authentic Italian fare. Centrally located atop of Harbour City Ocean Centre (Level 4) in Kowloon’s lively Tsim Sha Tsui district, acclaimed Italian chef Giancalro Perbellini proudly presents his culinary creations. The formula surprisingly simple – his focus is placed on the quality of produce while emphasizing the characteristics of classic Italian cooking.
La Locanda classic Italian cuisine atop of Harbour City
La Locanda classic Italian cuisine atop of Harbour City – Pizza
La Locanda’s décor reflects its Mediterranean roots – wide-plank heart pine flooring and timber ceiling features are nicely set in their natural tones; while whitewashed timber planks balance out the rustic barn board accents. Adding to the ambience, an open kitchen stage – visually connecting skillful chefs with their audience of Italian foodies. While the venue may appear petit, a sense of space around each dining table is certainly unique. Bare bulb pendant globes shine from above, and real candlelight add to a cozy feel. Evoking a sense of authentic place, a solid-timber table feature and nearby artifacts add to an atmosphere of Italian country kitchen dining.
La Locanda classic Italian cuisine atop of Harbour City
La Locanda classic Italian cuisine atop of Harbour City – Ravioli
The menu comprises of classic Italian dishes – a vivid mix of antipasti, primi, and secondi favorites. Testimony to La Locanda’s focus on quality and classic Italian cooking characteristics, a complimentary serving of freshly-made grissini (dipping-sticks) and a treat to truffle-induced dollop of ice cream. The choice, on this occasion, a starter serving of Tagliere di Salumi – comprising of delicious cuts of Parma, Pancetta and Mortadella. Complimented with freshly baked bread and virgin olive dipping; followed by a taste of naturally oven-fired Genovese White Pizza with Buffalo Mozzarella.
La Locanda classic Italian cuisine atop of Harbour City
La Locanda classic Italian cuisine atop of Harbour City _ Calamari Fritti
Selected from the list of Chef Perbellini’s personal favorites, the Ravioli di Percorino is highly recommended, as it signals the simplicity of Italian cooking based on quality core ingredients. A delightful experience too, was the Bistecca di Manzo Roasted Rib-eye with freshly flown-in Spinach (garlic sautéed) and Roasted Baby Potatoes. Certainly content with the multi-sensory experience of newly opened La Locanda, boosting Italian authenticity to Hong Kong’s ever-expanding culinary scene. Noteworthy too, is the value equation for the quality of produce, ambience and overall dining and service experience. Buon Appetito!
- La Locanda classic Italian cuisine atop of Harbour City