Amber [Hong Kong/ French]

Amber [should go]

add:香港中環皇后大道中十五號香港置地文華東方酒店7樓

hours: 7am-10:30pm

tel:+852 2132 0066 

mrt: central 

pricing: expensive~luxurious  $$$$~$$$$$

Jumping right off the plane we rushed ourselves to the Landmark mall. Once there we quickly checked ourselves in at the Mandarin Oriental Landmark, and hurriedly upstairs for our lunch reservations at Amber. 

Amber has been awarded two Michelin stars and heralded as one of the top 50 best restaurants in the world.

The restaurant's simple elegance can be seen throughout its design and decor. True to its namesake, Amber is colored with with warm amber hues, that invites you to sit and relax. I was also immediately drawn to the dramatic and gorgeous chandelier,comprised of 4,320 bronze rods, that suspend above the room. 

The lunch set menu is available in a 3 course set or a 4 course set.

The meal started with some complimentary appetisers,

My starter dish was philibon’ melon, delicious strip of belotta ham with sweet melon.When eaten together the savory and sweet of the two form a beautiful melody.

Although we ordered the three course meal, the chef graciously treated us an extra dish on the house. The next dish was the Australian abalone with tomato compote and braised crispy oxtail. The freshness of the abalone and the slight vinegary taste of the compote complimented each other well.

Next we had the  amazing line caught brill cooked in ramson leaves

We also had braised Pyrenees lamb, which was exceptionally tender and flavorful.

some pre-desserts

The white peach  was not only beautiful but also deliciously comforting, with citrus and nectarine cream and sake ice cream

The lychee sorbet  was my favorite. The sorbet was paired with chocolate ganache, tons of summer berries and macaroons, creating an absolutely refreshing dessert.

Lastly after our dessert, tea was served along with a three tiered dish of tea desserts.

Amber is truly a magnificent dining experience, from beginning to end. A huge part to the dining experience is the impeccable service from the staff. They are exemplary trained, they are well informed on all dishes and are able to recommend dishes that would best suit your taste. Moreover they are like ninjas, they instinctively know what you need before you have to ask and disappear as quickly and quietly as they came.

If you are ever in Hong Kong and have the time and extra money, you should try the dining experience at Amber.