Po Chen is the founder of vegan bubble tea brand Mother Pearl, launched in 2020. She spoke to Andrew Sun.
When it comes to food, I really care about the environment and service. My husband always says I don’t care about the food, only the atmosphere. I admit that I like to sit comfortably for a pleasant experience.
Some of my choices for delicious and affordable food include Kin Kao (3 Tai Wong East, Wan Chai. Tel: 2529 3806), which means to “eat rice” in Thai. It’s one of my favourite spots for authentic, casual Thai cuisine. Conveniently located across from my Wan Chai store, this is my go-to for a quick lunch.
I like the papaya salad, steamed whole fish, garlic cabbage and fresh coconut water. My kids adore the boat noodles.
Embla (11 Upper Station Street, Sheung Wan. Tel: 2559 8508) is an outstanding Nordic restaurant known for its exquisite dishes, exclusive ambience and chef Jim Löfdahl’s innovative culinary prowess. Its attention to detail and hidden location create an aura of exclusivity.
Embla is a refined destination combining talent, creativity, and meticulousness for a unique culinary journey.
Artemis & Apollo (9-11 Moon Street, Wan Chai. Tel: 2818 8681) is our weekend spot, especially with the kids. They can’t get enough of the lamb chops and pita with hummus.
What I appreciate most is, even when it’s bustling, it always accommodate us. The team is fantastic, the food consistently delicious – a definite favourite for us.
Roganic (Shop 8, UG/F, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay. Tel: 2817 8383 – closing down on September 15 to move to a new, undisclosed location) has captured my heart with its genuine farm-to-table concept and menu.
Although my kids are too young for the main dining room, it always ensures we have a private space for the full-course tasting menu. Seeing my kids appreciate food preparation is a joy and a valuable lesson in food consciousness. Educating them early on healthy eating is crucial for our future and the food industry.
For visitors, I will bring them to Yat Lok (34-38 Stanley Street, Central. Tel: 2524 3882) for lunch. The roast goose is an iconic must try of the Hong Kong scene. Then for dinner, we would go to Let’s Pot (1/F, David House, 37-39 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai. Tel: 9130 8899). You cannot visit Hong Kong without trying hotpot.
I lived in New York for more than 10 years and returned with my family recently. The city is still so vibrant and full of energy. I have always loved Restaurant Daniel (60 East 65th Street, New York. Tel: +1 212 288 0033) and Le Bernardin (155 West 51st Street, New York. Tel: +1 212 554 1515).
This time, I explored Brooklyn and Aska (47 South 5th Street, Brooklyn, tel: +1 929 337 6792) is a new Nordic gem I found. It’s truly great to see creativity and elegance expanding to this neighbourhood, which has changed so much since I lived there 20 years ago.
