**Lala: A New French Dining Experience in Hong Kong**
Lala, a new restaurant in Hong Kong, opened in early February under the direction of chef Franckelie Laloum, known for his work at the one-Michelin-starred Louise. The restaurant aims to provide lighter and more accessible French dining staples. Located in the Lyndhurst Terrace space previously occupied by La Brasserie, Lala retains a similar interior aesthetic.
### Service Experience
During a recent visit with three guests, the service exhibited some growing pains. Our waiter appeared overwhelmed and forgot to serve sauces with the main course. Additionally, the sommelier primarily recommended the most expensive wine options, which one of my guests found indicative of insincere hospitality.
### Culinary Highlights
Despite the service hiccups, the food at Lala was exceptional:
– **Grenouilles (Frog Legs)**: A standout dish, bursting with juicy and vibrant flavors.
– **Macaroni and Cheese**: Surprisingly subtle, even with black truffle sauce.
– **Langoustine Entrée**: Unfortunately, this dish missed the mark, tasting reminiscent of thousand island dressing.
The maitre d’ graciously addressed our feedback and comped the delightful patisserie desserts by chef Natalie Leung, also a Louise alumna.
### Pricing and Atmosphere
The total bill was HK$1,163 ($150) per person, which is reasonable considering we shared four entrees, a cote de boeuf (HK$1,128), and two bottles of wine. The restaurant features a spacious layout, including a large bar area and a patisserie display. The trendy interior design, characterized by cerulean walls and spherical sconces, sets it apart from other eateries in Sheung Wan. Lala was bustling on a Friday night, and reservations may become more challenging as its reputation grows.
### Private Meetings
Lala is suitable for private meetings, offering enough space between tables to maintain privacy. The lighting is adequate for reading documents, unlike some other popular venues.
### Recommendations
– **Must-Order Dishes**: Frog legs (HK$188) and seriole (HK$158) are highly recommended.
– **Macaroni and Cheese**: Priced at HK$288, this dish redefines expectations for pasta in a French restaurant.
**FAQ: What are the standout dishes at Lala?**
The standout dishes include the frog legs, which are flavorful and juicy, and the well-balanced seriole. The macaroni and cheese also impresses with its unique take on a classic dish.
**Meta Description**: Discover Lala, a new French dining experience in Hong Kong, offering lighter dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
**Primary Keyword**: French dining
**Secondary Keywords**: Lala restaurant, Hong Kong dining
