Simple Piedmontese Dinner

It's been a while since we last visited Grissini at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, and first time since they went through a brief remodeling and the introduction of a new chef late last year. The new decor featured a more casual design with a feel of a countryside cottage or trattoria, but a few things remained, including the harbor view from one side of the dining area, and the show kitchen at the entrance where the namesake grissini sticks were prepared and baked - and they were just as good as ever with just a light dip of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

We went for the 4-course set dinner menu this time, which seems to have a regional theme of traditional Piedmontese dishes, at least based on the options I chose for a couple of courses. I started off with the Vitello Tonnato - the slices of veal had excellent texture and it's served with caper and tuna espuma piped on top. The sauce was on the creamy side and rather mild, presumably toned down to local taste.

Pasta course was next. I like the bouncy texture of the handmade thick ribbons of pappadelle with generous portion of veal ragu and finished with a simple mix of butter and pasta water as the sauce. Also mixed in were some charred rapini leaves adding to the rustic taste. My choice of main was the beef cheek, done braised in Piedmont Nebbiolo wine and served with a stalk of white asparagus. The meat was juicy and tasty, effortless to cut through and well-infused with the flavor from the wine, and I like the seasonal white asparagus as the side too with crunchy texture and clean flavor.

Love the soft and creamy Tiramisu served from a big salad bowl and spooned carefully into individual portions on the plate in front of us. I found it extra delicious - maybe it's because I haven't had a decent tiramisu for so long? Went easy on wine this time with a single bottle of Prosecco. Lively bubbles and good acidity. Was surprised at the small glass of limoncello served as digestif at the end - love the pleasant aroma and the smooth taste.

This is probably one of the better meals I had here. Should be back more often when we want something nice and easy.

When? May 14 2020
Where? Grissini, Level 6, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
Menu Highlights? Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragout and Broccoletti di Rapa
Drink? Fantinel The Independent Millesimato Brut Prosecco DOC
Web: www.hongkong.grand.hyattrestaurants.com/restaurants-and-bars/grissini/