The Continental, Hong Kong, China

With restaurants in Hong Kong continuing to launch at a frantic pace, competition for distinction is key. The newest opening however was destined for success, thanks to a faultless collaboration between local group Swire Hotels, British super chef and food writer Rowley Leigh and UK-based interior firm David Collins Studio. Housed in a Thomas Heatherwick-designed space, perched atop Pacific Place shopping mall, the interiors are inspired by the grand cafés of Europe, with an elegant entrance – that doubles as a bar – opening into a large dining room and outdoor dining terrace. Anchoring Heatherwick’s original undulating ceiling, is a crisp mix of emerald green hand glazed Italian ceramics, cosy leather banquettes, glossy white marble, textured oak panels and the studio’s bespoke seeded glass pendant lighting. Unusually for Hong Kong, The Continental is an all day affair, serving up breakfast classics from kedgeree to pastries, followed by a range of modern European fare, such as griddled scallops with chestnut purée, shiso and lemon. ‘Europe’s grand cafés have always been a place to eat, drink and socialise all day and into the evening,’ says DCS creative director Simon Rawlings. ‘It’s a perfect fit with Hong Kong’s sociable lifestyle.’