Oenophiles in Hong Kong are not short on options for quality bottles, considering the sizeable French population in town and the subsequent demand. With the arrival of Nez, wine connoisseurs will have even more to celebrate.
Nestled in the bustling Central business district, Nez echoes the charms of traditional French bistros, but with a modern look and feel to go with the neighbourhood. A warm and inviting atmosphere governs the bar and restaurant; think booth seating, a copper-toned bar, and a hidden wine cellar, while an alfresco balcony adds a nice airy touch and brings in city views. A private dining room hides itself behind silk curtains for additional intimacy.
Nez’s name comes from the French word for “nose,” paying homage to the sense of smell that is essential to wine and food tasting. As in-house sommelier Victor Petiot puts it, “The nose is the first aromatic impression of the wine, just like the aroma of a dish preceding tasting.” The award-winning Frenchman and his team have put together a curated list of bottles from all over the world, including some that are rarely seen in Hong Kong. A reserve wine list features some of the city’s best offerings. To pair with this extensive selection and emphasise the flavours, Petiot also handpicked artisanal French cheeses.
Exceptional wines are best when matched with exceptional food. At Nez, dining is as equally enticing as wining and the restaurant features familiar French bistro staples designed by a multi-Michelin-starred French chef. Chef de cuisine Don Wong leans on his experience from working in upscale hotel kitchens to execute the menu; Pierre at the Mandarin Oriental and Seasons by Oliver E stud his résumé.
Start with the signature foie gras “Rougié” crème brûlée made with cognac-infused foie gras mousse and the Burgundy snails for rustic French flavours, or opt for the classic beef tartare featuring hand-cut US tenderloin. For mains, choose from the rich crustacean seafood soup, juicy bavette de bœuf Wagyu, or organic yellow chicken with morel mushroom and yellow wine sauce. Sweet tooths will enjoy the puffy profiteroles, fresh tarte au citron topped with thyme sorbet, and 72 percent chocolate moelleux with chocolate ice cream.
2/F, The Steps, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong
(+852) 6315 6134
Images courtesy of Nez.
