The Nile Egyptian Flavours (O)

Hong Kong is already blessed with two premium restaurants where the penetrating flavours and aromas of Arabic cuisine can be savoured thanks to Sahara and Le Souk. Over in Central, the culinary masterminds behind these two well-established venues have once again struck a chord, this time offering a menu resonating with the specific gastronomic characteristics of Egyptian cuisine, served mezze style in surroundings every bit as opulent as such Pharaonic food would suggest. Find The Nile and an abundance of Egyptian flavour and atmosphere on the cusp of Soho down Hollywood Road, close to the corner with Shelley Street and the Mid-Levels escalator.

Stepping into The Nile’s Hollywood Road restaurant is to be transported from Central Hong Kong to Egypt and the lower reaches of the mighty, eponymous river, and it’s not long afterwards that you find yourself taken on a journey through North and East African cuisines to the mythical headwaters in the Sudan. The food is pan-Arabic in character, acknowledging the long history of the region that this monumental body of water straddles, with dishes that understand the complex culinary traditions that underpin the region. Generally served mezze style, The Nile is an ideal location for a larger gathering of friends and family, but it’s cosy character is also perfect for a romantic getaway.

Be lulled into an Arabic trance with belly dancers and flavourful shisha while you choose from The Nile’s carefully assembled menu. Those up for a lavish banquet might want to try the restaurant’s house specialty – The Egyptian Meat Feat for two or four people. Otherwise, pick and choose from specialty hummus dishes, the chef’s own sizzling hot plates and salads that take in traditions stretching from North Africa to the Levant, or opt for a number of Egyptian mezze plates to share. While mouthwatering meat and fresh seafood dominates, there are plenty of vegetarian options to choose from at this top Hong Kong Arabic restaurant. With a prime location in Central, it’s strongly advised that you book a table well in advance, especially for larger parties.