A striking new modern Cantonese restaurant has landed in Taikoo Shing, blending宋代-inspired design with a cherished Hong Kong dining tradition that had nearly vanished. Canto Jade (八玥翡翠) opened its doors this month at Cityplaza, bringing back the beloved dim sum trolley service while offering an inventive menu of contemporary Chinese classics.
A Dining Space Inspired by Classical Beauty
Located on the fifth floor of Taikoo Shing’s Cityplaza, Canto Jade transports diners into a refined atmosphere shaped by Song Dynasty aesthetics. The interior balances understated luxury with warmth, featuring window-side seating for casual meals and a private room capable of hosting up to 24 guests. The design philosophy prioritises subtle elegance over ostentation, creating an environment where food takes centre stage.
The Return of the Dim Sum Cart
Perhaps the restaurant’s most compelling feature is its revival of the traditional dim sum cart—a fixture of Hong Kong tea houses that has become increasingly rare across the city. Instead of ordering from a static menu, guests can personally select freshly steamed, handmade dim sum as trolleys glide past their tables. This approach rekindles the interactive, communal spirit of classic yum cha, where the clatter of cart wheels and the aroma of bamboo steamers signal another round of delicacies.
Six Signature Dishes That Dazzle
The culinary team, led by experienced chefs, marries time-honoured techniques with contemporary flair. Six signature creations anchor the menu:
- Flame-charred Black Char Siu (HK$168) : Sourced from pork belly with a precise 30% fat-to-meat ratio, the char siu arrives tableside where a pour of whisky is ignited, caramelising the exterior into a smoky-sweet crust.
- Volcanic Rock-grilled Crispy Eel (HK$228) : Served on sizzling volcanic stones, the eel locks in aroma while achieving a crackling skin and tender interior—an ideal companion for drinks.
- Steamed Crab Cake with Hand-chopped Pork (HK$438) : Seasonal female crabs laden with roe rest atop a delicate pork patty, their juices infusing every bite with oceanic sweetness.
- Fennel, Cheese, and Tomato Baked Beef with 16-inch Fried Dough Stick (HK$198) : An East-meets-West creation pairing a giant, puffy youtiao with a rich, tangy sauce.
- Slow-brewed Morel Mushroom Soup with Minced Pork and Egg (HK$78) : Simmered for four hours, this clay pot soup delivers deep umami in every spoonful.
- Canto Jade Birdcage Dim Sum Platter (HK$238) : An ornate cage presents six精致 items including水晶鲜虾饺, black truffle siu mai, and abalone chicken tartlets.
Sweet Endings and Seasonal Teas
Before departing, guests should visit the “Canto Sweet” takeaway counter, styled like a traditional Chinese medicine cabinet. Highlights include:
- Chessboard-style Steamed Rice Cake with Custard (HK$58) : Playful and photogenic
- Fermented Rice Mochi with Phoenix Milk (HK$42) : Rich egg custard with a boozy kick
- Lotus Seed and Peach Gum Supreme (HK$50) : Light and refreshing
The restaurant also offers a 24-seasonal tea menu aligned with traditional Chinese calendars, alongside a Jin Jun Mei black tea latte.
Opening Promotion: Free Crispy Chicken
To celebrate its launch, Canto Jade is running a limited-time offer from now until September 11th. Diners who book dinner for four or more guests and spend a minimum of HK$800 can receive a complimentary half portion of Jade Scallion Oil Crispy Chicken (value HK$208) . The dish features succulent San Wong chicken fried until paper-thin and crisp, topped with a vibrant green scallion oil simmered for eight hours and red shallot mushroom sauce.
Key terms:
- Must request the offer when making reservations
- Valid for dinner dine-in only
- Daily quota applies; first-come, first-served
Practical Information
Canto Jade (八玥翡翠)
- Address: Shop 506, 5/F, Cityplaza, 18 Taikoo Shing Road, Tai Koo
- Phone: 9075 9087 (WhatsApp)
- Hours: Monday–Friday 11:00–22:30; Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays 09:00–22:30
- Instagram: @cantojadehk
- Facebook: @cantojadehk
Prices and promotions are accurate as of publication date. Offers are subject to change; please confirm with the restaurant before booking.