Tiny Bites: Motorino, Shelley Street, Central

Mamas, I’ve discovered the perfect little pizza joint for a kid-friendly, but adult-happy weekend lunch! We all know Mid Levels is the perfect people-watching playground and Motorino, a hip, hole-in-the-wall eatery will happily oblige! This cute Italian pizzeria is literally just off the Mid Levels escalator, and with its rustic, al fresco ambience, this little gem is well worth a peek (if you, plus your small people and stroller can make the climb!).

Pizza is naturally the menu staple at this New York-import neighbourhood pizzeria, and founder chef Mathieu Palombino doesn’t disappoint here in Hongkers. Having made quite a name for himself in the Big Apple, he takes the art of pizza making very seriously indeed, kitting the kitchen out with a totally authentic wood-burning Ferrara brick oven.

Thumbs up: Let me tell you, if you’re a pizza lover, you’ll certainly be glad you made the trip. These Neapolitan pizzas are true to form, with their thick, doughy, slightly charred crusts, topped with only the freshest ingredients. For a total taste-fest that allows the quality to speak for itself, go for tried-and-tested faithfuls like Marinara or Margherita, or alternatively try the Stracciatella with olives, basil and sea salt. If you’re partial to a bit of greenery on your plate, try the signature Brussels Sprouts pizza (yes, really!). With Fior Di Latte, garlic and pecorino plus smoked pancetta, it’s nothing short of superb… and heck, what better way is there than pizza to get junior to eat their greens?!  You can also add your own toppings to suit your individual taste buds if that all sounds a little adventurous! Pizzas aside, there’s also a tasty antipasto selection, which includes almost every kid’s favourite – sumptuous slow-cooked meatballs braised in a thick tomato sauce. How can they refuse? There’s also a super-yummy marinated beet salad which Ava thoroughly enjoyed in between carrying out a bit of fancy artwork with the kids crayons at the table. Parents can wash all that Italian goodness down with what Motorino dubs “The Perfect Pizza Wine”, then top it all off with a freshly baked slice of tiramasu and everyone’s happy. Can’t face the trek to Central? Look out for the brand new Motorino Wan Chai, opening soon on Ship Street!

Thumbs down: There’s no children’s menu here. But if your little ones like pizza (and I’ve yet to meet a kid that doesn’t!), you’ll be fine. As with so many of Hong Kong’s newest and hippest openings, Motorino has a no reservations policy, so choose your times wisely!

Stroller access?: It’s a bit of a tight squeeze, but the staff will happily take care of the stroller and any baby paraphernalia you can live without over lunch.

Highchairs?: Yes! Highchairs are available, and come with the all-important ‘colouring-in crayons’ to ensure your little one is occupied while you enjoy your lunch (and a spot of people watching)!

Kids menu?: No. But also, no need!

Price Range: Antipasti from $88-$138; Pizzas from $98-$208; Desserts $68-$98.

Motorino, 14 Shelley Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2801 6881 www.motorinopizza.com