Antipasto

A few weeks ago,in the midst of all the chaos in planning and packing for the big move, H announced his plans of flying me to Hongkong with him for a much needed R&R before he flies off to his business meetings in another continent. Needless to say, I was a giddy and excited mommy- HK is after all, one of my most favorite cities. H articulated our thoughts about the marvelous place very well this morning: 'HongKong is just like San Francisco- there are a lot of great places to eat'. This just shows you how H and I share the love for fine food such that all our vacations (maybe even all waking hours!) are highlighted with culinary adventures.

After checking-in we decided to take an early lunch. He was craving for thin crust pizza and was talking about it all throughout our plane ride. Luckily, we chanced upon an Italian restaurant called Antipasto near the corner of Jaffe and Stewart Roads in Wanchai.

We were greeted by a tall, pleasant man while a Filipina lady showed us to our table. The place oozed with confidence that you will find in successful joints: clean tables, simple yet sophisticated ambiance, nicely laid out dining area, friendly staff.

For starters, I ordered open faced grilled cheese and anchovies in french bread. It was heavenly. The bread was toasted to perfection, with the right amount of crust and tender, pillow-like center topped with flavorful cheese and a whole anchovy that gives it a kick. Perfection!

Main course was linguini with crab sauteed in capers and tomatoes. I cannot even put into words how much I loved it. All I can say is that I will order that again for lunch tomorrow and maybe everyday while we are here.

H ordered the more traditional mozarella, basil and tomato salad and it did not disappoint. The tomatoes are plump and juicy and they gave generous slices of cheese. Its an ode to a traditional fare. His main course was chicken parmigiano that they served with assorted roasted veggies. That too was an encouragement to go back to the place.

The gentleman and our server, the lady from the Philippines, were refreshing to come across with in a dining experience. Despite the craziness of having a full house with people waiting in line outside the resto, both were generous with pleasantries and great service; they exuded a level of enthusiasm that is hard to find in our busy world nowadays. They seem to like having us there and that added to the feeling of us liking to be there.

Over-all I give it five rolling pins out of five. Great food, awesome service and a lot of friendly smiles- its was a glorious lunch with the man I love in a the wonderful place that is HongKong. H didn't even miss the thin crust pizza he was craving for all morning.

MrsA