When asked about the “It” cuisines in recent years, Korean is likely to top the list of many forward-looking gourmands. Its emphasis on seasonality and balance of nutrition is much in line with the modern philosophy of healthy dining. This October, selected restaurants at Conrad Hong Kong cover everything Korean from local favourites to the cutting-edge, at which diners can get down to the very heart of this mesmerizing food culture.
Doubling as a continuation of the hotel’s silver jubilee celebration, the Korean food festival is anchored by the guest appearance of Jung Sik Yim at Brasserie on the Eighth. Chef Jung Sik is the mover and shaker among a new generation of Korean chefs who revolutionalise their national cuisine. Introducing hints of molecular cooking and a whole new way of presentation to traditional ingredients, his eponymous New York venture takes the city by storm and proudly holds two coveted stars in the latest Michelin guide, while its sister outlet in Seoul is named the best restaurant in South Korea in 2015 by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Chef Jung Sik’s collaboration with Conrad Hong Kong will be underway from the promotion launch cocktail at Pacific Bar on 15 October followed by lunch and dinner services through 17 October. Available for $1,688, the eight-course degustation dinner, like contemporary takes of ancient Korean art, crystallizes the spirit of the nature on picture-worthy creations.
Dishes inspired by the sea (snapper with anchovy and pepper), land (beef tenderloin and sancho jjangajji, or pickled native peppercorn) and street staples (pork belly bossam with dwenjang bean paste and rice) all make their way to the menu. The captivating feast culminates in the ending, as zesty green tea mousse comes as a statue of dolhareubang. Pervasive in Jeju Island and considered the god of protection and fertility, this folk icon is decoratively arranged on the plate to exemplify the rich cultural legacy of Korea and the attachment of Chef Jung Sik to his country.
Guests seeking an additional fix of Korea will be excited to find the lunch and dinner buffet featuring chefs from Conrad Seoul. Running from October 5 to 12, it transports the best food from bustling Dongdaemun and Gangnam to the relaxing setting of Garden Café. Highlights include fresh water seafood delicacies such as abalone salad with chilli paste sauce, stewed Jeju halibut and octopus, and a live grilling station which turns out authentic Korean barbecue for carnivorous patrons. Accompanied by exotic pastries and classic Jinro soju, a night of sumptuous flavours and vibrant entertainment is guaranteed.
Brasserie on The Eighth – Star Series by Jungsik
Period: 15 – 17 October
Price: HK$1,688 per person
Reservation: Visit ConradDining.com or on (852) 2822 8803
Garden Café – Korean Themed Buffet by Conrad Seoul
Period: 5 – 12 October
Price: Lunch Buffet: Adult HK$368 / Child HK$258 (Monday – Friday)
Adult HK$418 / Child HK$298 (Saturday & Sunday)
Dinner Buffet: Adult HK$558 / Child HK$378 (Monday – Friday)
Adult HK$638 / Child HK$398 (Saturday & Sunday)
Reservation: Visit ConradDining.com or on (852) 2822 8890