Hong Kong’s culinary map has gained a refreshed star as LucAle, the Michelin-recognised Italian restaurant in Sai Ying Pun, reopened its doors on March 12 at a new location just steps from its original site. The relocation at 28–32 Pok Fu Lam Road marks a strategic upgrade for the popular eatery, which continues to offer authentic handmade pasta and creative dishes at approachable fine-dining prices. Chefs Luca and Ale have unveiled a completely revamped menu that balances Italian tradition with unexpected flourishes, from carbonara-stuffed ravioli to a Sichuan-spiced citrus mille-feuille.
A Fresh Start in a Familiar Neighbourhood
The move to a larger, more flexible space allows LucAle to accommodate both intimate dinners and private gatherings. A modular private包厢 (VIP room) can be configured for parties or business meals, adding a new social dimension to the dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to quality remains unchanged: every pasta is still crafted by hand, and the wine list continues to feature carefully sourced Italian labels.
“We wanted to bring the same heart and soul to the new venue, but with room to experiment,” said Chef Luca in a statement shared with U Food. “The new menu is a conversation between our roots and the flavours we’ve discovered along the way.”
New Menu Highlights: From Bursting Ravioli to Fiery Mille-Feuille
U Food’s editorial team conducted an early tasting, and several dishes stood out for their innovation and execution.
Appetisers
- Japanese Raw Shrimp ($328) – Springy prawn meat layered with squid ink jelly and yoghurt, topped with 10 grams of luxury caviar. A refreshing, layered start.
- Parmesan & Cream Ravioli ($228) – Inspired by carbonara, this pillow‑like ravioli bursts with creamy cheese sauce. A must‑try for pasta lovers.
Pasta
- Clams & Baby Squid Linguine ($318) – Vibrant green pasta (coloured naturally) tossed with tender clams, baby squid, and porcini mushrooms. Both visually striking and deeply savoury.
Mains
- Pan‑Fried Monkfish Wing ($358) – Served with spinach, capers, and olives; each bite offers contrasting textures.
- Australian Mayura M9 Wagyu Steak ($608) – Accompanied by raspberry, fig, and cauliflower purée, the beef is exceptionally tender and juicy.
- Italian‑Style Chicken Cordon Bleu ($328) – Crispy, golden‑brown chicken cutlet stuffed with cheese and sautéed porcini mushrooms. The cheese pull is almost theatrical.
Desserts
- Classic Tiramisu ($108) – A caramelised sugar crust must be cracked open to reveal mascarpone, coffee jelly, hazelnut crumble, and moist ladyfingers. Pure comfort.
- Sichuan Citrus Mille‑Feuille ($108) – Layers of flaky pastry meet Sichuan pepper cream and citrus sorbet. The initial warmth of the pepper gives way to a bright, cooling finish – a conversation starter on any table.
Affordable Fine Dining for All
Despite the Michelin nod and premium ingredients, LucAle maintains prices that undercut many Hong Kong fine‑dining establishments. The restaurant operates from 6 pm to 11 pm Monday to Friday, and from noon to 3 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm on weekends, making it accessible for both lunch and dinner.
For diners seeking a full experience, the restaurant recommends ordering a selection of starters and pastas to share, finishing with the Sichuan mille‑feuille. Reservations are advised, especially for the private dining room.
The Broader Impact on Sai Ying Pun’s Dining Scene
LucAle’s reopening reinforces Sai Ying Pun’s reputation as a hub for quality, independent dining. The area already boasts BakeOut’s artisan sandwiches, Wharton Bakery’s nostalgic lyric‑inscribed cakes, and Tao Tao Dessert’s hand‑ground nut soups. LucAle adds a polished Italian option that bridges casual and celebratory meals.
As Hong Kong’s restaurant scene continues to evolve, venues like LucAle demonstrate that Michelin‑calibre food doesn’t have to come with a sky‑high price tag. Whether you’re a pasta purist or an adventurous eater, the new menu offers something to remember.
LucAle
- Address: Shop 5–8, G/F, Heng Fai Building, 28–32 Pok Fu Lam Road, Sai Ying Pun
- Phone: 3611 1842
- Hours: Mon–Fri 6 pm–11 pm; Sat–Sun 12 pm–3 pm & 6 pm–11 pm
All prices are in Hong Kong dollars and subject to change. Images and information courtesy of LucAle and U Food.