Va Bene (Hong Kong, CHINA) ★★★☆☆

A few years ago, if someone had told me that Sai Ying Pun would become one of the hottest district for trendy restaurants, I would have never believed them. But with the lights of Fish School, La Paloma and Yuan Is Here all joining the party last year, the area is quietly becoming a foodie's haven. And starting in January 2016, Va Bene is becoming a member of that growing list. 



I've always enjoyed dining in restaurants with a cool industrial vibe and Va Bene certainly belongs in that category.



For a scallop lover like me, starting things off with the scallop carpaccio was really a no-brainer at all.



I love the way they matched the raw scallops with hazelnut purée and lemon. The stark contrast in flavors and textures has brought the dish to another level. 



Risotto with beetroot and gorgonzola sauce is one of the house specialty here and I can definitely see why. The dish is beautifully presented with a stunning red color. The sweetness of beetroot was the first thing that jumped out with the gorgonzola cheese sauce providing the finishing touch. That's an excellent and well executed dish.



My main course was pan fried sea bass fillets with broccoli, black olive and green pea purée. It was another pretty nice dish with the different flavors harmonizing each other perfectly.



What would a nice Italian dinner be without a traditional tiramisu!? This is exactly how one would like their tiramisu to be done, very light, moist and rich with the right mix of rum. Very nice.



Not the best looking dessert by any stretch of imagination but this soft chocolate with hazelnut ice-cream was just seriously good and it helped to put the exclamation point to an enjoyable evening. 



After dinner, I went to check out one of the restaurant's private dining facility. This is pretty cozy, and perfect for a group between 10 to 12 people. Perhaps I should consider bringing my team over here for a team lunch sometime.



Food Rating: 5/10
Price: $$$
Address: G/F, Soho 189, 189 Queen's Road West, Western District, Hong Kong
Closest Metro Station: Sai Ying Pun
Tel: +852 2845-5577
Website: www.gaiagroup.com.hk/va-bene