HONG KONG

Youthful makeover

Japanese restaurant Taku in SoHo has revamped its dining area adding colors and patterns to the traditional decor. The youthful vibrancy and playful contradictions of the decor are reflected in the new menu, which features an array of classics that honor Japanese traditions while incorporating modern ingredients, preparation methods, and garnishes of micro greens and edible flowers. The negitoro tofu taquito, the hamachi ceviche with tomato vinaigrette, the stacked Angus beef rib eye with roasted garlic and teriyaki sauce and scallop carpaccio are just a few of the signature dishes on the a la carte menu.

35 Elgin Street, SoHo, Central, Hong Kong. 852-2545-9966.

－DONNA MAH

Catalonian bites

Chef David Izquierdo dishes up a variety of tantalizing tapas from different parts of the Catalonia region of Spain at Boqueria. From September to November a number of shared dishes will be offered to celebrate autumn. "Food tastes better when it is shared," says Izquierdo. Indulge in fresh Spanish artichoke and cuttlefish paella for HK$488 ($63) and hearty wood-fire roasted Spanish artichokes with Iberico ham (HK$288), or for something more meaty, such as the sauteed chorizo sausage in rioja wine reduction (HK$138) and the roasted suckling pig Segovia style (HK$388). Wash everything down with a few glasses of Spanish wine from Boqueria's list of fine wines.

7/F, LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham St, Central, Hong Kong. 852-2321-8681.

－DONNA MAH