Tiny Bites: Linguini Fini, The L. Place, Queens Road Central. Now with added family-friendly features!

We originally reviewed Linguini Fini over a year ago and were suitably impressed by their delish food and laid-back vibe, so when we heard about even more tweaks to the family-friendly formula, we were happy to head back to see what was new.

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As we exited the lifts, we were greeted by the holy grail of Hong Kong family dining… a soft play area! And a decent-sized one it is too, with ample running-around space, a slide and plenty of toys to keep wee ones from wrecking the joint between courses. As an added bonus, it’s supervised (within reason, of course!), by a member of staff, reducing the risk of Junior wandering off while you’ve got your eye on a glass of Prosecco… no? Just me then??

Brand new to the baby brunch bunch are Linguni Fini’s weekly kids’ cooking classes, where tots have the chance to get up close and personal with their meals, chipping in to make luxury sandwiches, decorate cupcakes or get hands on with homemade pasta. Although my 2-year old was far too distracted by the toys to get involved, I did eavesdrop on the class taking place on the day we were there, and was impressed at the detailed explanations of exactly where that mozzarella in their sandwich comes from (clue: it’s made in-house and is a must-try)!

The food was impressive and great value – something of a rarity in Hong Kong. Stand-out dishes were the Fazzoleti pasta – a hearty nose-to-tail Bolognese that even the most squeamish can get on board with; the classic Caprese salad with the aforementioned mozzarella, and a truly moreish spicy Eggs Benedict that my husband has not stopped talking about since our visit.

My son’s Fettucine Alfredo from the kids’ menu was something I would have been more than happy to order myself. On any other day he would have devoured it, but on this occasion it was largely ignored in favour of his father’s excellent pizza.

It’s worth noting that all of the pasta dishes offer a gluten-free option for a small extra charge of $20, and there are plenty of vegetarian choices too, making this a viable restaurant if your group have specific dietary requirements.

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If I had to be picky (and I guess I do!) it would have been nice to see a few more options on the kids’ menu – perhaps a little person’s version of some of those scrummy pizzas? And a flip-down changing table in the bathrooms would be a huge advantage in a restaurant that is so hot on family dining.

Stroller access?
Yes, and ample space to stash it too.

Highchairs?
Stacks of ‘em, and all scrupulously clean.

Kids’ Menu?
Yes – the kids’ menu is on the small side, but extra brownie points for the healthy veggie sticks, making a nice change from the norm.

Price range
Surprisingly good value: salads start at $78; antipasti from $98; brunch items, pastas and pizzas from $118.

Opening Hours:

Lunch: Monday-Friday 11.30am–2.30pm
Brunch: Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays 11.30am- 4pm
Dinner:
Daily, 6pm – 10.30pm

Linguini Fini, 1/F, The L Place, 139 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong
www.linguinifini.com
Tel: 2857 1333; Email: [email protected]