PEARL ON THE PEAK

Some of Hong Kong’s best restaurants boast views of Victoria Harbour, but there’s only one that can claim a jaw-dropping, 270-degree view of the city itself – harbour and all. Pearl on the Peak is a veritable gem of a spot, with an incomparable location, chic, understated décor and delectable food. But you know all this already. What you don’t know, is that Pearl has embraced the less-is-more approach when it comes to cost. It’s no longer a dining destination reserved for thick-walleted out-of-towners. With Pearl’s recession-friendly summer menu, this elegant restaurant is now an affordable option for any discerning foodie who fancies a superb meal in a proposal-worthy setting. Especially since the dishes on offer have lost none of their sex appeal and the portions are more than generous.

Start your meal with the jet-fresh Hokkaido seared scallops served two ways – with refreshing mango salsa or with a homemade XO sauce (HK$98). For a vegetarian treat that even carnivores will find rich and hearty, the warm wild mushroom and spinach tower with almond mousse (HK$130) is almost a meal in itself. For something really meaty and divinely tender, tuck into the beef rib au vin rouge (HK$270), a one-pound select US premium beef rib served with vegetables. It’s certainly more than enough for two. Desserts are a specialty at Pearl, and the snow lemon cheesecake with mango sorbet and berries (HK$60) is a case in point. Light and tangy – it’s the perfect way to round off a meal on a hot summer’s day or night.

When it comes to wine, Pearl has an impressive selection on offer, housed in a stylish glass-walled cellar. Ask the knowledgeable wait staff or charming manager, Harry Chui, for a food and wine pairing suggestion and they’ll happily oblige.

So be it for lunch, when the light-filled restaurant seems to float like a graceful bubble above the green of the Peak, or at night, when the spectacular view of city lights takes centre stage, Pearl on the Peak is the perfect choice for any occasion. And remember, while lofty it may be, it’s only a 3-minute tram or 15-minute cab ride from Central. What are you waiting for? Book now.