PALCO

How about Italian food in Chai Wan? I kid you not, Chai Wan, where the MTR Island Line terminates.  Take Exit A, look for Youth Square, the tallest building at the heart of Chai Wan, take the lift up to the 4F and there it is.

We had the same 'are you sure' expression when we were told but after our first meal, dinner on a Friday, we became fans.  It is clear why Palco, without the baggages and pretenses of most theme restaurants, has a following. The young Chef Ken Lau hails from Gaddi's at the Peninsula, and his interpretation of Italian classics is a definite thumbs-up. In the picture Ken was preparing his signature pasta ... using a wheel of aged Parmesan as his wok.  Torching and then scraping that renown cheese directly from the wheel, the end product was deliciously creamy in a thick sauce reinforced by splashes of Bacardi rum, stock and truffle paste.  A must!

We were a group of 16 and ordered a 'top value for money' tasting menu of :

* Open Grilled Scottish Razor Clams
* Smoked Eel on Arugula  
* Mushroom & Black Truffle Pizza
* Fettuccine Carbonara .. another Ken Lau interpretation
* Lobster Risotto
* Ox Tail braised in Red Wine
* Dessert Trio .. Tiramisu / Ginger Souffle / Mousse

The wine list of affordable Italian Prosecco & Lambrusco was very complementary and the young service staff, though slightly overwhelmed, was pleasant and helpful.  Eva the Supervisor and Aaron the Manager were extremely efficient, one feels like one is dealing with a star rated restaurant. I believe they are open 7-days a week but I suggest you go for dinner, and book early.

The only thing I would fault Palco is their soups, which need improvements.

PALCO @ 4F Youth Square 238 Chai Wan Road - 2618 8383