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The full French focus…
Have you ever wandered the streets of Sheung Wan thinking “there are more people speaking French than English!”. Well, it’s actually a fact that there are more French people in Hong Kong than Brits.
Born and raised in Paris, France, I took to the streets of Hong Kong to find the most authentic eateries worth checking out. After all, our strong accent is just one of the charming things we’ve brought to Hong Kong! Along with the booming community, French bistros, bakeries and boutiques have been popping-up all over the city. Whether you’re looking for a delectable cheese platter and Bordeaux wine, kid-friendly bistros or bakeries featuring buttery croissants, we’re here to make sure you enjoy your fair share of French art de vivre!
Family Friendly French Dining
Metropolitain
Named after Paris’ MTR, Metropolitain has some strong Parisian Bistro vibes. This is my go-to spot for family lunches. I would usually go for a classic, like the Warm Camembert Cheese or the Croque Monsieur. Comfort food at it’s best! The laid back spot also has a kids menu and a few toys to keep your kids entertained while you are treating yourself to some French favourites.
Metropolitain, G/F 46 High St., Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong, 6271 6102, www.french-creations.com/metropolitain
Scarlett
This is my go-to place whenever I’m craving cold cuts and cheese with a glass of red wine. I love the sharing platter for 2 to 6 people and usually end up staying for more than just that. Make sure to try the Burgundy Snails, Os à Moelle, Traditional French Onion Soup, and Roasted Chicken. It’s all your guilty pleasures featured on one menu.
Scarlett, 2 Austin Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, 3565 6513, www.randblab.com/scarlett-hk
La Crêperie
Serving specialties from French western province of Brittany, where my mother was born and raised, La Crêperie is a perfect spot for a friends and family lunch or dinner. The savoury galettes and sweet crepes are the perfect treats for both foodie parents and kids.
La Crêperie Wan Chai, 1/F 100 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2529 9280
La Crêperie Sheung Wan, G/F 69 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2679 4666
La Crêperie Causeway Bay, 8/F The L Square, 459-461 Lockhart Road, Causeway Bay Hong Kong, 2898 7123, www.lacreperie.com.cn/en
Date Night Dining
Le Bistro Winebeast
In my books? This is the best Bistro in town! Chef Johan has been working in Parisian starred restaurants, and his seasonal French cuisine is a perfect combination of traditional and creative. The value for money is great and wines are featured retail price. I can never get enough of the signature Pithiviers, French puff pastry with duck and foie gras.
Sassy Tip: Head over for the Saturday brunch, where kids under 12 eat for free!
Le Bistro Winebeast G/F & 1/F Tai Yip Building, 141 Thomson Road, Wanchai, 2782 6689, www.wine-beast.com/le-bistro
Le 39V Hong Kong
Going for a gorgeous view? From the 101 floor of the ICC, Le 39V Hong Kong offers fine French cuisine and envies nothing about its Michelin-starred father, Le 39V in Paris. The unique view over Victoria Harbour is my favourite backdrop for a date night. The food is elegant but generous and always has me salivating. The service, lead by the friendly Julien, is absolutely perfect. The champagne lunch on weekends is a great option to consider if escaping a few hours on weekends is easier than at night. And if spending a few hours without the kiddos is definitely not an option, they do boast an impressive kids menu.
Le 39V Hong Kong, shop A 101/F ICC 1 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, 2977 5266, www.jcgroup.hk/le-39v-hong-kong
A.O.C eat & drink
This charming place cooks up a super chilled atmosphere in the heart of Wan Chai. A.O.C is not a fancy, but the tiny space is very relaxed and very French. With super yummy and seasonal French regional delicacies prepared by Chef Stephane and served with a glass of wine, it’s an ideal location if you’re looking for a lowkey night out without the kids. The daily happy hour is worth checking out if you want to stop by for a glass of wine and saucisson before heading back home.
AOC eat and drink, 15 McGregor Street, Wan Chai, 2479 6833, www.aoceatndrink.com
Read more: Regional French Food and Wine at Retail Prices at A.O.C Eat & Drink
Sweet treats and cafés
Le Petit Croissant
Buttery croissants, fresh orange juice, warm bread, French ham, salted butter… delivered straight to your door on a Sunday morning for you to enjoy. Family breakfast in bed just got a whole lot more tempting. Sounds like a plan, no? I thank Le Petit Croissant for making it possible and fixing my French breakfast cravings each weekend. The only downside is that these experts only deliver between Kennedy Town and Quarry Bay.
Pierre Hermé
Is there any sweet treat more Parisian than a macaroon? I mean, aside from a croissant. Whether in France or in Hong Kong, some of the best macaroons are to be found at Pierre Hermé. Kids will usually go for the classics such as chocolate, vanilla or strawberry, whilst I’d encourage parents to try iconic creations such as Le Mogador – milk chocolate and passion fruit. 100% Parisian, 100% yummy and 100% guilty.
Pierre Hermé, Shop 2029, Level 2, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, 2833 5700
Pierre Hermé, 9/F, The Ritz Carlton, Intenrational Commerce Centre, Kowloon, 2263 2232, www.pierreherme.com/hk
The Bonbonist
I know I shouldn’t but whenever I see candy I feel like a kid and want buckets. If you are just like me and feel like treating yourself and your children at the same time, you’ll love The Bonbonist at Pacific Place. Fairly new on the Hong Kong scene, the selection of candies and chocolates is divided by tribes, each tribe representing a unique themed with special flavours. Some options such as the chilli bang bang, the Prosecco bears or the pina colada time are definitely for the grow up while others will please the entire family. I love the playful concept – a yummy paradise for both big and little kids.
The Bonbonist, 2/F, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 3488 6163, thebonbonist.com
