Upper Modern Bistro, Hong Kong

English

The one and only Michelin starred Bistro in Hong Kong

The Upper Modern Bistro, the vision of multi-Michelin starred Philippe Orrico, in Sheung Wan just off busy Hollywood Road , serves the perfect marriage of familiar and comforting French bistro dishes, tapas and more elaborate cuisine with an Asian twist.

In 2014, Upper Modern Bistro has been awarded a coveted Michelin star in the Michelin Guide Hong Kong Macau 2015.  Upper Modern Bistro is among eleven restaurants to obtain their first star this year and the only bistro in Hong Kong – and one of the few bistros in the world.

Upper Modern Bistro is the clever amalgamation of Philippe’s extensive travel experience, technical skill learnt in France’s top kitchens, as well as his own personal curiosity of the world’s cuisine.  The menu is ingredients led— fresh, light and modern, and the menu changes with the seasons.  Philippe is best known for the inspiration he gathers from ingredients.  Imaginative dishes are created with care and passion.

The interiors are a particular highlight here.  Upper’s fresh light, stylish interiors are by Tim Shephard of Three Wise Monkeys, who worked closely with Philippe to create a modern brasserie, with a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere where the kitchen is the focal point of the room.  The cocktail bar and dining area are linked into one harmonious room by the creation of a dangling petal-inspired ceiling.

You have to try the aperitifs here.  They are quite unlike what I have ever tried.

Normandy oyster, Ponzu marinade

The Ponzu marinade gave one of my all-time favourite appetizers, raw oysters, a really refreshing, unusual twist!  My dining experience was off to a great start!

Foie gras creme brulee, poppy seed

OMG!  I never imagined one of my “luxury” ingredients foie gras could be re-imagined as creme brulee.  This foie gras creme brulee is very, very creamy and goes perfectly with the croutons that come with it.

Grilled Octopus, smoked eggplant, red wine sauce

This one is a killer!  I can totally see why this place was awarded with a Michelin star.  The play of different temperatures and flavours was a total play on the palette.  It was unusual and just exciting!  You must try this when you come here.

Roasted Maine Lobster, Macaroni, Lingzhi, Yuzu emulsion

Each component on my dish was expertly executed.

This main course pairs perfectly with Domaine d’Elise Petit Chablis 2014

Vanilla rice pudding, caramelized bananas, yoghurt sorbet

A wonderful play of textures.  I loved that the dessert was not heavy.  It was light and gave a nice, sweet finishing touch to the meal, just what a dessert should do.

I also ended my meal with the wonderful W&J Graham’s fine tawny port.

Upper Modern Bistro is open Monday to Thurday 12.30pm to 10.30pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 11pm, Sunday 11am to 10.30pm.  On Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays brunch is served 10am to 3pm, followed afternoon tea.  The lunch menu at upper Modern Bistro starts at HK$138 for three courses and corkage is HK$100 per person.