4/F Two IFC, 8 Finance Street, Central, 8129 8882
Fare New California cuisine featuring 'a little of everything'. The emphasis is on health-conscious and beautifully presented dishes that are naturally good and fresh. Ambience A lively atmosphere, especially if you sit outside. Inside, candles are lit at night and a red hue imbues the eatery. Tables are well- spaced and the floor-to-ceiling windows offering impressive views of the city's skyscrapers. The modern, trendy yet casual feel of the place was spoilt by the '80s pop/rock music playing too loudly. The venue is popular for functions so book in advance. Cost About HK$400 each for a three-course meal without drinks, so savour every morsel. Who to bring Posh friends in suits who need to let their hair down; a romantic prospect if you don't mind shouting over the din; or visitors from out of town who will be impressed with the views. Turn-ons The beef carpaccio with deep-fried capers, parmesan and rocket was melt-in-your-mouth delicious and offered fine slithers of beef in a good-sized portion. The roasted lemon and dill marinated halibut fillet (HK$288) with bell peppers and pernod dill butter sauce did not disappoint. And for dessert, the Mango Lover (HK$78) deserves a mention for its beautiful mango and banana filo pastry roll and to-die-for mango parfait. Service was excellent and dishes were served promptly. Turn-offs The special of the day, a 12oz grain-fed sirloin steak (HK$288), was good but the mashed potato was lumpy, the button mushrooms looked like yesterday's big breakfast leftovers and the unappetising grilled tomato remained untouched. Drinks Excellent selection of wines with by-the-glass options from America, Australia and Europe.
