Beyond Michelin Stars: Why Amber Still Reigns Supreme
Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
Stepping into Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, is akin to entering a temple of gastronomy where every detail, from the hushed elegance of the dining room to the meticulously crafted dishes, speaks of refinement. Under the guidance of Chef Richard Ekkebus, the Culinary Director of the Hotel, this three-Michelin-starred establishment continues to redefine haute cuisine with its “Full Amber Experience”, a degustation journey that marries French techniques with the finest global ingredients, many sustainably sourced.
The Ambience: Timeless Sophistication
The restaurant’s redesign in 2019 replaced its former golden-hued opulence with a more subdued, contemporary aesthetic think soft neutrals, textured fabrics, and cascading bronze mesh installations that evoke a sense of fluidity. The result is an intimate, almost reverential atmosphere where the focus remains squarely on the food.
The Full Amber Experience: A Culinary Odyssey
The multi-course tasting menu is an exercise in precision and creativity. Highlights included:
Appetizers: A vibrant combination of sweet Alaskan King Crab, complemented by the tang of salt tomato and a delicate kick from Espelette chili, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Aka Uni: A prized delicacy of Aka Uni, paired with velvety cauliflower and lobster, elevated with a symphony of refined accompaniments that highlight the richness of each ingredient.
Normandy Scallop (Exclusive Inside Kitchen Touring): A rare opportunity to witness Amber’s culinary artistry firsthand, this dish features tender Normandy scallops, delicately seasoned with garum and crowned with luxurious Perigord black winter truffle, offering a taste of pure indulgence.
Aka Amadai: Exquisite Japanese tilefish, Aka Amadai, cooked to perfection with a crisp, golden skin and a tender, succulent interior. The dish is complemented by bouillabaisse, kabocha squash, and refreshing mikan for an extraordinary depth of flavor.
Foie Gras: A quintessential indulgence, this modern take on foie gras is paired with an organic KIN egg, rich Madeira sauce, and earthy Asian mushrooms, offering a velvety texture and a sophisticated umami depth.
Roe Deer Loin: A refined expression of game meat, the delicate roe deer loin is paired with the richness of foie gras à la royale, creating a harmonious dish that showcases the tender and earthy notes of the meat.
Wagyu: An indulgent masterpiece of marbled Wagyu beef, complemented by the rich flavors of braised rib cap and oxtail, prepared to perfection for a melt-in-your-mouth experience like no other.
Williams Pear: A delicate and refreshing interlude, where the sweetness of Williams pear is beautifully balanced with the aromatic heat of saffron and the bright notes of yellow bell pepper, creating an elegant and sophisticated dish.
Vao 42% Chocolate: A decadent dessert, showcasing the rich depth of 42% chocolate, perfectly complemented by the refreshing zest of Corsican clementine, creating a luxurious finish to this extraordinary culinary journey.
Amber’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its culinary artistry. Every element, from its elegantly minimalist decor to its curated wine pairings, is designed to create a multisensory journey that lingers long after the last bite. The intimate yet vibrant ambiance, complemented by the restaurant’s dedication to sustainability, makes each visit to Amber an extraordinary experience.
For those seeking an immersive and unforgettable fine dining experience, Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong is a destination like no other. Indulge in Full Amber Experience Menus and savor the extraordinary.
Address: 7th Floor, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Central, Hong Kong
Reservations: +852 2132 0066
Opening Hours: Daily 12.00 – 16.00 / 18.00 – 24.00
Website: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/hong-kong/the-landmark/dine/amber
