Thailand is a popular tourist destination for Hongkongers and many know the ins and outs of its well-trodden cities, especially Bangkok. Because of this, Thai cuisine is popular and abundant in our city.
Opening in Tin Hau, Hungry Elephant aims to replicate the kind of local cafés throughout Bangkok that provide simple Western fare alongside Southeast Asian classics and coffee. Grey brick walls are enlivened with colourful decals and potted plants. Combined with high ceilings, the overall design of Hungry Elephant gives off a relax and chilled vibe.
We select the pan-seared shrimp cake ($58) to begin our meal. The patty is seasoned well with herbs and ginger, but it’s neither crumbed nor battered and we would have preferred a crunchier outer layer. Next up we choose the spaghetti carbonara with pancetta ($72). The amount of sauce is perfect for the thinner spaghettini-like pasta. Sprinkled with crispy pancetta, the ham adds interest to every bite. We conclude our evening with a lemongrass ice cream bar ($58). Served with spiced apple and crumble on the side, the refreshing ice cream takes centre stage and we’re pleasantly surprised at how well the aromatic lemongrass works with the classic flavours of apple crumble.
The Thai and café-style offerings at Hungry Elephant are solid. Even if you’re not as ravenous as a beast, you can still spend an afternoon here just sipping coffee and appreciating the ambience. Lisa Cam
Hungry Elephant 93 King’s Rd, Tin Hau, 3105 9600; fb.com/HungryElephant.HK. Dinner for two: $800.