New Moroccan Restaurant: Sensual Flavours and Immersive Dining at LILYA

Step into the heart of Morocco on Wyndham Street

District: Central, Hong Kong
Cuisine: Moroccan
How much: Starters from $58, mains from $138, dessert from $68
The Best For: Ideal for a night out with friends or an intimate cocktail and dinner date.
Must Order: Saddle of Lamb and Mechouia

Arriving at LILYA I was greeted by a colourful display of authentic Babouche slippers which paved the way for the authenticity I was met with upon entering the bar itself. Low couches compliment the low lighting and an eye-catching wall of silk tassels add to the immersive experience. Mystical Fatima hands and elegant Arabic graphics also adorn the walls; an Instagram dream! If the design detail isn’t enough; the cocktails are divine. Warning to all…you won’t be stopping after just one (as was my plan!). They’re just too lovely to refuse.

The Our Oriental Fashion ($115) with smoked spices is served with real smoke; perfect for dramatic effect and, of course, more Instagram likes. Marjorelle ($120) was by far my favourite; named after the garden in Marrakech which inspired couture designer Yves Saint Laurent, the cocktail is every bit as chic as you’d expect. I also loved the Bazaar ($115), a house-infused Titos’ verbena, served in exclusively designed LILYA glasses. Like I said, don’t plan to come here for just one drink (so it may be best to tuck the littles in bed beforehand).

Head Chef Ahmed Boulalam has certainly hit the spot with the authentic Moroccan cuisine. He uses traditional cooking styles to ensure the dishes are bursting with flavour! The result? The sheer range of dishes is enough to entice any food lover. The Saddle of Lamb ($168) is full of flavourful herbs and spices and was truly mouth-watering. And I have to admit to ordering more of the Mechouia, the mixed peppers with olive oil, ($58) as they were just so delicious.

The Deep Fried Mini Pastry Vegetables roll ($88) and the Kefta (beef and lamb meatballs with pine nuts) and Khlii ($138) are creatively and loving prepared – truly capturing the essence of Moroccan flavours.

Perfect ambiance and great service complimented a truly lovely night. So, let Morocco come to you without the cost of a plane ticket.

Sassy Mama Tip: The music is loud and the portions are small so if you’re looking for a place that’s great for conversation, this wouldn’t be it. However, if you’re looking for a place with small bites, drinks, and bumpin’ music, this spot is for you.

LILYA, 2/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.diningconcepts.com/restaurants/Lilya