Commissary: Casual So-Cal Comfort Food Arrives at Pacific Place

California here we come…

Right back where we started from… California… California! The OC has made it’s way to Hong Kong and all of us at Sassy HQ are not complaining. I had a chance to check out the new So-Cal joint, Commissary a few weeks ago and am already making plans to return.

A chilled-out vibe and welcoming atmosphere is what this casual dining joint lives and breathes. Strung up light bulbs on their open terrace brings you straight to warm southern Californian nights. The lush foliage and modern art was the perfect highlight to the wooden chairs and tables. The friendly staff and great cocktails and beer selection will instantly put you at ease as you settle in for a night out with friends or a quick bite after work or respite from a long day with the kiddos (we totally understand, mamas!). 

Once I walked past the bustling open terrace and bar and was seated, I had the chance to peruse the cocktail menu because #priorities. I opted for the Mint Julep which was perfect to kick the night off (not going to lie, I had another soon after I polished my first!).

Onto the menu… if poke’s an option, you can bet I’ll be ordering it! After all, I expect nothing less from this Cali all-day resto to have this classic staple, and I was not disappointed. The Tuna Poke Tostadas ($178) was the perfect way to start off what would be a heavier dinner. The succulent tuna pieces were perfectly marinated and had a tangy finish sitting on top of creamy guac and fresh purple onions. It married well with the just-fried-oh-so-crispy tostadas. If poke ain’t your thing, you definitely have to try the hearty Clam Chowder with Cloudy Bay diamond clams and potato chips ($108) or the Oysters with cucumber mignonette ($50 each).

Next, I moved onto a southern classic, Shrimp and Grits ($158). I was immediately reminded of how large American portions were! They definitely did not skimp on the large fresh shrimp. They were cooked perfectly and coupled with the super creamy and decadent grits made for a truly indulgent main. An honourable mention goes to the runny poached egg that sat atop and then eventually ran down all of that goodness.

If you want to try out more mains, this one is great for sharing as it is quite heavy. I’d definitely recommend the Southern Fried Chicken sandwich with fries ($198) or the Fish Tacos with Green Goddess sauce and cabbage slaw ($138).

Even though I was feeling pretty full, there is always room for desserts, amiright mamas? The Apple Fried Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream ($68) couldn’t be more quintessentially American so I had to order it. Flaky, light and gorgeously golden, the apple pie filling was perfect and with a heaping spoon of vanilla ice cream, I was in dessert heaven.

If you’re craving cake, then you’ll definitely love the popular classic, Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting ($68). The cake and frosting layers are piled high which gives an illusion of a heavy and dense cake. But this slice was wonderfully light and fluffy and definitely satisfied that sweet craving I was having.

Looking for a relaxed venue that will satisfy your comfort food cravings with fresh ingredients, indulgent options and refreshing cocktails? Commissary hits the spot. Whether you’re thinking of gathering your mama friends or a date night with hubby, this is the place for you!

Commissary, Level 4, Pacific Place, Admiralty; www.commissary.hk