HOUSE SPECIALITIES The most striking feature you will find as you enter the restaurant is the line-up of large Chinese opera masks hanging from the ceiling, smiling like Cheshire cats to welcome you into their humble abode. And, humble it is. Hidden among many five-star hotels, Mask is an understated restaurant often overlooked by passersby but treasured by those in the know.
The restaurant, which has been open since 2005, managed to ride the economic crisis and emerge unscathed due to the quality of the food and reasonable prices: a fact that is more than evident from the constant stream of customers – both new and return – every day. The restaurant is large enough to fit 150 people with several seating options ranging from two-seater booths to VIP private rooms at the far end that can be booked for larger groups.
THE FOOD Eleven chefs in total cook up traditional and fusion Chinese dishes from Sichuan and Beijing, which are generally spicier than traditional Cantonese cuisine prevalent in Hong Kong. There is a wide variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, such as chicken with chilli pepper, assorted mushrooms and bean curd with chilli in hot stone pot or the deep fried prawns in sweet and spicy sauce. As a vegetarian myself, I come here often as it’s one of the few places where I don’t feel deprived.
DRINKS As with the food, the drink list is also extensive, with selection ranging from Veuve Clicquot Brut to traditional Chinese teas and wines. There are wine options from from both the Old and New Worlds.
SERVICE Attentive; the waiters keep in mind your preferences and dietary requirements and make helpful suggestions.
Alisha Haridasani
Fact File
Prices A meal for two without drinks starts from HK$300 (US$38.65). The same menu is available for lunch and dinner.
Location No 33, G/F Tsim Sha Tsui East Station, Tsim Sha Tsui. For reservations, call +852 2311 9233
Opening Hours 1200 till 1530 for lunch and 1730 till 2300 for dinner.
Verdict
This is a restaurant that you can’t have enough of, with its cosy ambience, thoughtful menu and friendly staff.
