The Pawn (Hong Kong, CHINA) ★★★★☆

There's a real sense of excitement at The Pawn since the arrival of Tom Aikens. These days, the room is feeling a little brighter. The sofa a little more comfortable and even the servers looked a little more friendly.



I was always tempted to sit at the balcony and enjoy the surrounding area from up top but it was just too hot out there.



Not that turning on the fan would make much difference so a good idea for me to stay inside.



Gazpacho is a great idea for this hot summer afternoon. Here's my green pea gazpacho with mint oil and cream cheese. Very refreshing with a bit of acidity from the cream cheese. Good wake-up call for my taste buds!



One thing I've seen a vast improvement since Tom Aikens arrived was the plating of these dishes. Look at this beautifully presented roasted chicken breast with confit chicken wings, corn purée, shiso and popcorn. Gorgeous, isn't it?

The chicken was seriously good and serving it with corn and popcorn was an interesting idea but I thought the sauce could definitely have been slightly less acidic (vinegar?).



There was no doubt in my mind what the star of the meal was. Dessert. 

Different textures of carrot including a small slice of carrot cake, two pieces of candied carrots and others in the form of a purée and meringue were nicely complemented by some orange flavored jelly and a carrot-mint ice-cream. Great textural contrast and a perfect finishing touch on a wonderful meal.



I'm looking forward to Chef Aikens' second restaurant in Hong Kong - The Fat Pig, which is slated to open in Times Square some time this fall. Would be interested to see if this is going to be a "Nose to Tail" place like St John.



Food Rating: 6.5/10

Price: $$$

Address: 62 Johnston Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong

Closest Metro Station: Wanchai
Tel: +852 2866-3444
Website: www.thepawn.com.hk