It’s true that you can’t call yourself a real local until you’ve enjoyed a session at dragon-i. The fun late-night dancing and drinking institution is the flashiest see-and-be-seen spot for Hong Kong’s hip high society. While dragon-i’s reputation as a nightlife destination is unparalleled in Hong Kong, the kitchen is sometimes overlooked. -Flavours of Hong Kong
But come here a bit earlier and with an appetite, and you’ll be amply rewarded. The sleek restaurant not only embodies one of the trendiest dining destinations in town, it also happens to serve up world-class fare, offering a sophisticated blend of Chinese and Japanese cuisine. This vision of blending the two cuisines together stems from dragon-i founder.
The vision of a chic, high-end Asian nightclub, the interiors are sophisticated and sleek, with black walls and leather banquettes accented by red hanging lanterns and oriental style birdcages. The versatile space allows it to transition effortlessly from a dining destination to the hottest nightclub in town – the first stop for the international jet-setting crowd.
While the set lunch is always a popular option for busy executives, it’s at night when guests can get the full experience of rubbing shoulders with high society while feasting on chic, cosmopolitan bites. To start the evening off on a truly indulgent note, head in early to take advantage of the Champagne and oyster happy hour, with bottles of Moët & Chandon Ice Imperial paired with all-you-can-eat platters of fresh oysters and decadent caviar.
When you’ve had your fill, turn your attention to Executive Chef Ryan Chui’s exciting dinner menu. Ryan is a seasoned chef who built up his resume with a number of high-end hotels, including Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London and Marco Polo Hotel in Hong Kong. His artistic vision, combined with skills rooted in classical European cooking and love for Asian ingredients, sets the stage for a unique and truly global menu.
There’s Kobe beef tartare decorated with gold leaf, tender Sichuan-style beef slices and sun-dried scallops served wading in a bamboo pith soup.
A seafood san choy bau with diced shrimps is a hearty option for seafood lovers, while teppanyaki-style sirloin steak should please any carnivores, dripping in juices in a sumptuous soy-based marinade.
If you’re a fan of dumplings, dragon-i’s assorted mushrooms, garlic and chrysanthemum veggie dumplings are a must order, boasting a meaty and well-seasoned filling tucked inside a thinly pleated wrapper. To end the meal with a hearty dose of carbs, tuck into the Pregnant Women’s Fried Rice, crispy day-old rice that’s been wok-fried with asparagus, dried shrimp and green onions in a dark and sticky soy sauce.
Naturally, the drinks here are top-grade: top-shelf liquors are mixed into a selection of craft cocktails, while an extensive selection of wine and Champagne should keep the night well oiled, whether you’re heading home post-dinner or continuing the festivities on the dance floor.
If you’re looking to be in the thick of the action amongst Hong Kong’s movers and shakers, dragon-i should be your first and last stop of the night. With its international music line-up, cosmopolitan party crowd and fine gastronomy, the age-old institution feels as fresh and modern as ever, ticking all the boxes for a rousing night out on the town.