Autumn is the best time to dine out. Hong Kong has a good handful of restaurants which offer alfresco seating in a comfortable atmosphere. While the five destinations introduced below serve up different cuisines, their outdoor dining areas all feature great views for diners to chill out in the mild weather.
Old Bailey (Central)
Central-based Old Bailey focuses on traditional Jiangnan fare which originates in Shanghai, Nanjing and Wuxi. It also has a fine collection of Chinese tea and other special tea options suitable for tasting on a lazy afternoon. The walnut wood tones of the dining area, with wooden tables and chairs made of leather and rattan, give out relaxing vibes. The restaurant is located inside Tai Kwun, a cultural centre that demonstrates Hong Kong’s rich history. This makes Old Bailey the perfect spot to unwind after a walk around the complex.
The Salted Pig (Sai Wan Ho)
The Salted Pig has various locations around the city. Its walnut tables are paired with different types of chairs to create a warm atmosphere. Its Sai Wan Ho branch boasts an outdoor dining area fitted with high chairs facing the streets, which makes it the perfect choice for an evening chitchat with friends. Pork-centric cuisine is the specialty of the restaurant. Its menu covers everything from pre-meal snacks to substantial main courses. The long drinks list has many cocktails and non-alcoholic options like slushies and sodas.
Qi – Nine Dragons (Tsim Sha Tsui)
The restaurant name of Qi – Nine Dragons is inspired by its location in Kowloon (which literally means nine dragons). It takes authentic Sichuan recipes and combines them with creative cooking techniques. The joint also serves special cocktails that go very well with the dishes, which are packed with a lot of heat. Situated on the 20th floor, it overlooks the fantastic scenery of the Victoria Harbour. At the same time, its red and black interior is clearly Chinese-influenced. Alfresco seats can be found on the spacious balcony which opens up to the spectacular night view of the harbour.
With a menu designed by “Demon Chef” Alvin Leung, it's no wonder that the Korean street-style cuisine here is inventive and interesting — think kimchi carbonara udon, pork belly bulgogi benedict and tiramisu made with rice wine, all to go with a plate of crispy Korean fried chicken which uses 12 secret herbs and spices for a savoury kick. The Quarry Bay branch boasts a spacious outdoor patio and offers a brunch menu available on weekends and public holidays, making it one of the go-to alfresco locations for a relaxing holiday meal.
Located inside Lane Crawford at IFC Mall, SHÈ gives shoppers a break in style with its nature-inspired interior and contemporary Chinese dining experience. Putting the focus on giving Chinese cuisine a modern touch, SHÈ’s signature dishes include Champagne Gold Har Gow where a juicy prawn is wrapped in a light, rose-gold skin and Siu Mai crafted from kurobuta pork and topped with a small dollop of caviar. Don’t forget to ask for the homemade XO and Chilli Soy Sauce. Choose to sit at the outdoor terrace for the beautiful view of Hong Kong Victoria Harbour.
