Bringing the Vibrancy of Tel Aviv to Wanchai
The new neighbourhoodhangout FRANCIS offers Middle Eastern
inspired fare and a unique approach to Wines
(Hong Kong, 22 January, 2018) FRANCIS, the first venture for a trio of young restaurant entrepreneurs, is now open in Wanchai’s lively quarters on St. Francis Street, just off Star Street - one of Hong Kong’s popular new dining districts.
The new place is set to be the next great neighbourhood hangout, with an appealing combination of well selected and well-priced wines, along with an inspired menu of mezes with flavours of the Middle East and a strong focus towards the vibrant street food of Tel Aviv, the chef’s hometown.
The project is led by James Ward, former restaurant manager at several successful venues in Hong Kong including Aqua and Zafran for the Aqua Restaurant Group and The Ocean in Repulse Bay. His partners in the venture are Israeli-born chef Asher Goldstein and sommelier Simone Sammuri.
Goldstein, a native of Tel Aviv, has drawn inspiration not only from his home city, but also his travels to southern Europe, North Africa, Greece, and Italy. The result is an exciting seasonal menu of shared plates that highlight the vibrant street food of his hometown using organic produce in addition to the freshest seafood and vegetables.
This includes temptingmezes such as hummus with chickpea and lamb neck ragu ($80), baked halloumi with pomegranate molasses and wild oregano ($120) or grilled octopus with harissa and burgul potato cake ($140).
Other menu highlights include the succulent spring lamb and beef kafta, grilled onion, tahini ($160),a great vegetarian option of smoked carrots with almond and spiced honey ($90),and a sweet plate knafeh(a traditional cheese pastry) with mozzarella, orange blossom and pistachio ($80).
As important as the food, is the curated wine list from sommelier Simone Sammuri. The passionate wine aficionado is known for focusing on wines from small producers that have maximum respect for the environment.
While the wine menu will continually change, it will highlight 50 wines to include both old world and new. Uniquely, all bottles are accessibly priced at either $350 or $600 with a strong selection for wine by the glass and half bottle.
In addition, there is a “Black Book” that features premium wines from the world’s best private cellars and wineries, which will be rotated regularly.
Complementing the food and wine is the 30-seater hangout’s modern and airy décor and relaxed ambience, featuring a communal table ideal for groups to gather around, and an intimate bar that accommodates 8 persons.
“Named after the location on St. Francis Street (Wanchai), FRANCIS has been designed to be a neighbourhood hangout with a community feel. “We are excited to present authentic and creative Middle Eastern fare, paired with serious wines at non-serious prices” says manager and founder, James Ward. “We want this to be a place you can come for a quality meal and wine any day of the week – without breaking the bank” he said.
FRANCIS
Add.: G/F, 4 & 6, St. Francis Street, Wanchai
Tel.: + 852 3101 9521
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/francishkrestaurant/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francishongkong/
Link to high res images: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/15khwjqewuqrcdm/AABx3gH2YiCih7ZQuQ8LuM1Ga?dl=0
PRESS CONTACT
Issued by GHC Asia on behalf of FRANCIS
To request the press kit, for media enquiries or further information please contact:
Annette Wong | 3163 0123 | [email protected]
Catherine Yuen | 3163 0116 | [email protected]
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