This summer, the world’s eyes are on France, with the Olympic Games just around the corner. But while the spotlight shines on Paris, another corner of the globe is already deeply immersed in French culture: Hong Kong.
Home to over 25,000 French expatriates, Hong Kong embraces Bastille Day, on July 14, with open arms. This French National Day, which commemorates the French Revolution, is a chance to indulge in its traditional cuisine, clink wine glasses in chic bistros and soak up Gallic charm.
For those eager to immerse themselves in the culture, this guide is your passport to a French dining experience—right here in the heart of Asia. From the comforting French classics of Bouillon to the delicate fine dining of Louise, let’s raise a glass (or two) and savour the flavours of France without leaving the city. Oui, oui!
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Caprice
Caprice, whose name evokes an irrational or unpredictable desire, will quickly become a constant craving once you’ve tasted its magic. Nestled within the elegant Four Seasons Hotel, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a culinary journey as captivating as the city views from its windows. Chef Guillaume Galliot’s masterful French cuisine, combined with seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques, creates a symphony of flavours that will delight your taste buds.
As a French expat in Hong Kong, Bouillon is my go-to for a taste of home. When I’m feeling homesick and craving comfort food, Chef Johan Ducroquet’s French classics always hit the spot. From the boeuf bourguignon and duck confit to the steak tartare, every dish on the menu transports me straight back to the heart of France. The warm, inviting atmosphere and the familiar dishes create a sense of comfort and nostalgia that’s hard to find anywhere else in the city.
BouillonAddress: 6 Pound Lane, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Louise
At Louise, good food and beautiful design go hand in hand. The ground floor’s La Terrace by Louise is a haven for leisurely weekend brunches, perfect for celebrating Bastille Day under the sun amidst lush greenery. Louise’s brunch menu is a culinary delight, featuring dishes like oysters, foie gras, and the iconic “Île flottante” that captures the seaside charm of the French Riviera.
Wine lovers, this one’s for you. Bâtard combines a passion for wine with a dedication to elevated French cuisine, offering simple yet flavourful dishes that perfectly complement their extensive wine list. This year, Bâtard is taking its love of wine to the next level with the launch of Club Bâtard, the city’s first physical club dedicated to wine located in Central. Members will enjoy access to fine wines and rare whiskies at retail prices, creating a haven for those who truly appreciate the art of fine drinking.
The chemistry of two friends, translated into food. Chefs Romain Dupeyre and Adrien Castillo, both hailing from the south of France, share a deep respect for culinary tradition. At Racines, they blend this heritage with innovation, infusing classic French dishes with their unique backgrounds to create a modern experience for their guests. As you approach the restaurant, you can’t miss the glass doors offering a glimpse of the interior design. A majestic pendant tree, its branches reaching towards the ceiling, all of which set the stage for a night of culinary discovery.
Jean May transports you to a charming bistro in the heart of Paris’ Marais district. Imagine a Parisian neighbourhood bistro, the kind everyone returns to time and again—that’s Jean May in Hong Kong. Here, you can experience the quickest culinary escape to France, enjoying classic French cuisine with a touch of local flair. The menu changes seasonally, showcasing the freshest ingredients at their peak. Be sure to end your meal with a touch of childhood nostalgia: their madeleines are simply divine.
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