Every now and then in a city like Hong Kong you come across a place that makes you want to shout about it from the rooftops, or hide it away and make it top secret because its just that great you don't want to share it. AMMO is one of those places. I was lucky enough to be invited to a launch party of sorts last night. Having just moved house and office space the day before (more on that later), I almost didn't go. I'm so glad I did.
First off, AMMO is named after its location amongst the heritage ammunition storage buildings in Admiralty, now run by the Asia Society. The setting is incredible. Lush tropical mountain side, and yet so central. The heritage buildings have been restored and preserved beautifully. Old magazines have been turned into art galleries, mini theatres, and private function rooms. Its so nice to see heritage restoration done well in Hong Kong for a change.
But back to AMMO. The interior, which is absolutely stunning, was designed by ridiculously young, and ridiculously nice local but international designer, Joyce Wang. Having just completed the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, she certainly is one to watch. Well, not if you want to be feeling like an under achiever, as I was after meeting her... The interior was inspired by French Sci-Fi movie 'Alphaville' by Jean-Luc Godard which portrays what a dystopian future looked like in the 50's. Think industrial luxe with a bit of 50's futurism thrown in. Everything was custom made for the space, and the furniture is beautiful, not to mention those fantastic chandeliers in the centre (yes, those are actually lights!)
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And now, for the best and most important part....the food! My husband and I are big fans of the sister restaurant, The Drawing Room, so if you have eaten there and liked it, you will love AMMO. Local celebrity chef and restaurateur Tony Cheng, together with his mentor, Chef Roland Schuller from The Drawing Room had a vision to serve simple, elegant and affordable cuisine with unpretentious service. They want guests to enjoy the salubrious surroundings without the fussiness and stuffiness associated with other fine dining establishments. I think they have succeeded!
We were served a selection from the Tapas menu and everything was amazing. We went back for 2nds, 3rds, and after that it just got embarrassing but we went back for more anyway. I'm not normally a fan of Foie Gras, but even than was delicious.
All I can say is, I'm glad my birthday is coming up soon so I don't have to wait too long for an occasion to go back. Its just that good.
