Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other? Look no further than Aera, the new contemporary restaurant in Wan Chai that offers a unique twist on New Nordic cuisine. With a focus on sustainability and ethical food production, Aera’s young and talented Hong Kong chefs are redefining traditional Nordic cooking techniques with locally-sourced ingredients.

Look & Feel: As you step into Aera, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to honoring the past while embracing the present. The sleek and modern design is complemented by natural wood accents and soft lighting, creating an ambiance that is both intimate and welcoming. The main dining hall can seat up to 26 guests, while the Chef’s Table in the open kitchen can hold between 4 to 6 diners. Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner with friends or a special celebration, Aera offers a dining experience that is as unique as it is unforgettable.

On the Menu: Aera’s menu is a testament to the creativity and innovation of its young culinary team. Drawing inspiration from traditional Nordic cooking techniques, the team elevates locally-sourced ingredients through pickling, smoking, air-drying, and fermentation. The ten-course Tasting Menu is a must-try, featuring dishes such as Honey Pea/Gardenia/Pear, a delightful blend of honey peas and oil extracted from locally picked Gardenia flowers, and Rice/Sea Urchin/Garlic, where the rice is mixed with homemade Japanese red shiso vinegar and stuffed with Australian dried prunes. The dish is then topped with fresh sea urchin covered in garlic oil and clam soup foam, taking the flavors to the next level.

For the main course, guests can choose between two options: the A3 Wagyu/Truffle/Beef Jus. Chef Yau selects Japanese Wagyu sirloin steak to be paired with freshly harvested Australian winter black truffles. Savor the perfect balance of tangy and spicy aroma in the Japanese mizansho pepper, which has been fermented for seven days to achieve its unique taste profile. The dish also features sliced Japanese daikon, stewed to perfection in homemade white brine, adding a subtle and savory element to the dish. End your gastronomic journey on a high note with the Grapes/Bay Leaf/Olive Oil, featuring rich and flavorful French olive oil paired with sweet Australian green grapes.

But Aera isn’t just for dinner. The restaurant also offers lunch sets starting at $178 per person. Be sure to try the fresh and delicious Chitarra, prepared daily and served with sea urchin, garlic, and chili peppers. Another must-try is the Maltagliati with sansai, Italian sausage, and Cacio e Pepe sauce, which perfectly showcases the team’s unique blend of classic and creative flavors exclusive to this restaurant.

In addition to its fantastic food, Aera also offers an extensive wine list, carefully curated to complement the flavors of the dishes. Guests can opt for the wine pairing option with the Tasting Menu, which includes five glasses of carefully selected wines that perfectly complement the menu.

Great For: Aera is the perfect destination for foodies and culinary enthusiasts who are looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant is ideal for intimate dinners, special occasions, and private events. With a menu that is both creative and delicious, Aera is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. The main dining hall of Aera seats up to 26 guests, while Chef’s Table in the open kitchen can hold between 4 to 6 diners. The restaurant also warmly welcomes private events and parties with up to 50 people.

Aera is a hidden gem in Wan Chai that offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. With a commitment to sustainability and ethical food production, the young culinary team is redefining traditional Nordic cooking techniques with locally-sourced ingredients.

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This write-up is a news piece and was not based on a restaurant visit. The Loop HK will update this post once we’ve visited in person.