8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana

Nestled in the heart of Hong Kong’s Central district, 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is a three Michelin-starred Italian restaurant that has been making waves in the culinary world since it opened in 2010. Here’s what you need to know to make your dining experience unforgettable.

The Story Behind the Name

The restaurant is named after Italian film director Federico Fellini’s iconic 1963 movie, “8 ½.” This tribute reflects Chef Umberto Bombana’s passion for Italian lifestyle and art. The elegant atmosphere inside the restaurant is a visual celebration of these elements, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

The Chef

Chef Umberto Bombana is renowned as the “King of White Truffles.” His commitment to honest cooking, using only the best produce, and exceptional service has earned him a reputation as one of the world’s top chefs. His culinary journey began in 1993 at The Ritz Carlton Hong Kong, where he worked until the restaurant closed in 2008. This experience laid the foundation for his future success with 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana.

The Menu

The menu at 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is a culinary journey through Italy. The tasting menu typically starts with a warm lobster salad, followed by homemade ravioli, veal tenderloin in crisp bread crust with mushroom ragout, and the famous baby lamb from Aveyron cooked with aromatic herbs and black olives. Finish your meal with blond cannelloni and bitter chocolate cream, or opt for the lighter choice of sliced strawberries, strawberry sorbet, moscato sabayon, and strawberry jus.

The Experience

Dining at 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. The restaurant is known for its exceptional Italian hospitality. The staff is attentive and gracious, making sure every guest feels at home. The dining room itself is elegantly decorated, with windows offering a view of the surrounding trees, creating a serene ambiance.

Awards and Accolades

8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana has received numerous accolades, including two Michelin stars in the 2011 guide for Hong Kong and Macau, just eleven months after opening. It was elevated to three stars in the following year’s guide, becoming the first and only Italian restaurant outside Italy to receive such high recognition. The restaurant has retained this honor for eleven consecutive years and has been listed in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. It also received the ‘Best Italian Restaurant Outside Italy’ prize from Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino and three forks in the Gambero Rosso International guide.

Branches

Chef Bombana has expanded his culinary empire with branches in Macau and Shanghai. The Shanghai outpost, which opened in 2012, has been awarded two Michelin stars since 2017. The restaurant in Macau has one Michelin star, showcasing the chef’s commitment to quality and consistency across all his establishments.

Practical Information

Location: Shop 202, 18 Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong
Phone: +852 2537 8859
Hours: Lunch and dinner are available from Monday to Saturday.
Average Price: $100 per person
Tasting Menu: From $230
Dress Code: Smart casual

Whether you’re a food connoisseur or just looking for a unique dining experience, 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is a must-visit destination. With its exceptional Italian cuisine, elegant atmosphere, and outstanding service, it’s no wonder this restaurant has become a required dining institution for connoisseurs worldwide.