One would think that, being on an island and all, Hong Kong would have some top-notch seafood restaurants. While there are a few that stand out, it’s hard to find a quality restaurant that focuses solely on serving up fresh and sustainable seafood. This is where Fishsteria comes in. Recently opened in Wan Chai by Gianni Caprioli (the man behind Giando, GIA, and EAT.it), this seafood restaurant will convert just about anyone into a seafood-lover.
Vibe
G/F Bar
1/F Dining Area
From the outside, Fishsteria seems like an unassuming small seafood joint, however, once you step inside you’ll be swept up by the array of bright artwork on the walls, patterned floor tiles, and various nautical-themed decor. This bar area is a perfect spot for a casual drink and some oysters after work to wind down. Fishsteria also has a large dining area on the first floor with an ample amount of spacious tables and a minimalist vibe.
Drinks
Bloody Fishsteria (HK$118)
Hocus Pocus Fizz (HK$118)
There’s plenty to choose from when it comes to the cocktail menu at Fishsteria. Being a big fan of Bloody Mary’s (well, Caesar’s, but I’m no longer in Canada) myself, I usually order one if it’s on the menu. This “fishy” take on the traditional Bloody Mary, aptly called the Bloody Fishsteria (HK$118) was perfect, as it used 1800 tequila and had a good kick thanks to the red and green Tabasco sauce. We also tried a gin-based cocktail called the Hocus Pocus Fizz (HK$118), which was served in a fun magic bottle. I loved the first half of this drink, but the herbal/flowery taste became a bit too much after a while.
Appetizers
Large Seafood Platter – Oysters, Scallop, Langoustine, Cherry Stone Clam, Blue Shrimp, Red Shrimp, King Crab Leg & Pink Shrimp (HK$888)
Hokkaido Scallop Ceviche – Apple, Greens & Lime Vanilla Dressing (HK$198)
Tuna Tartar with Capers & Olives (HK$208)
Given that we were at a seafood restaurant, we were ready to get our hands messy with some fresh-from-the-ocean delicacies. To start, we ordered the Large Seafood Platter (HK$888) with an obscenely beautiful array of oysters, scallop, langoustine, Cherry Stone clam, King Crab Leg, and blue, pink, and red shrimp. Aside from the fact that this dish caused our jaws to drop, we were blown away by how incredibly fresh the seafood was. We also tried the Hokkaido Scallop Ceviche (HK$198), which had an interesting balance of textures due to the apple and greens, and was coated in a lime vanilla dressing. Lastly, we ordered the Tuna Tartar (HK$208) with capers and olives, and were surprised at how much we loved this dish – the flavours and textures matched perfectly without being too bold.
Mains
Mixed Grill Seafood – lightly breaded shellfish & seafood (Large [for 4 or more] – HK$888)
Giant Macaroni Lobster with Brandy Tomato Sauce (HK$588)
Whole Dover Sole – Pan Fried Meuniere (HK$368 per kg)
Sustainable Salt Baked Seabass from Orbetello, Italy (1.3kg) (HK$768)
Sustainable Salt Baked Seabass from Orbetello, Italy (1.3kg) (HK$768)
Moving onto the mains, we began with an incredibly large Mixed Grill Seafood (HK$888), of which we could not get enough of the octopus. We then all shared a bowl of Giant Macaroni Lobster (HK$588) with Brandy Tomato Sauce. Though the presentation could use some work, the macaroni was cooked al dente, and the lobster was fresh and plentiful. That being said, I would personally prefer if it was de-shelled to make eating it a little easier and less messy. Since I don’t often order whole cooked fish when I eat out, I was delighted to try the Whole Dover Sole (HK$368 per kg), which was perfect; not too oily and full of flavour. We most certainly ended our main courses on a high note as Chef Gianni saved the star of the evening for last: the Sustainable Salt Baked Seabass (HK$768), served table side. If you’re dining out with a group of four or more people, this is a must-order dish.
Dessert
White Chocolate Pannacotta (HK$98)
Chestnut Creme Brulee (HK$88)
Tiramisu Martini (HK$128)
To finish off our over-indulgent meal, we shared a few desserts and a cheeky after-hours beverage. The White Chocolate Pannacotta (HK$98) was so smooth and creamy, contrasting well with the toasted almond slices, and the dollops of cherry sauce added a punch of flavour throughout. You can never go wrong with a creme brulee, so we figured we should try Fishsteria’s take on the classic with the Chestnut Creme Brulee (HK$88). Simple, yet delicious, this will not disappoint creme brulee fans. To go along with our dessert I ordered a Tiramisu Martini (HK$128), which I could not get enough of. I might even take it so far as to say this was the best dessert martini I’ve ever had!
Verdict
Whether you’re looking for a casual drink and some bar bites, a fancy dinner (without being pretentious), or anything in between, Fishsteria is a great spot to try. Though the service was slightly slow (it was a busy night), when the waitstaff did come by, they were very friendly and helpful. The food was fresh, flavourful, and simple, ultimately making Fishsteria a must for all seafood lovers.
Fishsteria
111 Queen’s Road East
Wan Chai
Hong Kong
852 2343 8111
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