CHEF LEE IS BACK

I am sure those of you who have been to Home Wanchai must be wondering what has happened to it since they closed their doors in March. I bring good news! This little gem of a private kitchen has reopened on October 2nd under the new name 'Fullka' or 'Wealthy Family' as a loose translation. Chef Lee Yue Ching - of 'Ah Yat Abalaone' fame - is back, with his battle tested kitchen crew. Fullka is a truly Cantonese restaurant, its menu brings back fond memories to us old-timers who grew up in the 50s-60s, who might even had the luxury of a family cook.

For newcomers the best orientation to Chef Lee's magic is to order 'Mrs Wong's Special Menu' which comes in either $300 or $500 per head. Mrs Wong is an ardent fan of Home Wanchai like us, whom the restaurant honors by naming 'tasting menus' under her name. Needless to say, they are sumptuous with 12-13 courses respectively, all signature dishes. The must-haves include : Braised Giant Garoupa Fin, Top Soya Sauce Chicken, Stewed Pomelo Skin in Abalone Gravy, and for the anti-environment types who still worship Sharks Fin, the Chef will pan fry them for you. Shameful, yes, but its taste and texture are simply unmatched. For me, I would not leave until the House Fried Rice is served ... try it, and you will know why. Most admirable is the Chef's executive order to keep the much talked about lunch menu, another offer one cannot resist. This collection is 50 of the most favorite classic Cantonese home style lunch dishes @ $88 each ... which comes with soup de jour, vegetables, rice, dessert & tea. Now who can beat this in today's economy? BTW new dishes will be launched soon, once the crew gets their footing, as I salivate with panting breaths.

Without question 'honesty' is the best word to describe Fullka, the reincarnated Home Wanchai. Chef Lee is extremely honest, and that extends into his cooking, his menu, his presentation, his decor, his staff, his prices etc You cannot find the slightest tinge of fancy footwork, not here.

FULLKA : 1/F 'Butterfly' on 39 Morrison Hill Road CWB (2834 8378) ask for Money Kan the Relationship Manager ex-Ah Yat Abalone as well who will book for you ... enjoy!