Murray Lane — Restaurant in Hong Kong Island

Nestled within the opulent confines of The Murray, it has contemporary ambiance, combining sleek design with a touch of elegance. The chic and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for a relaxed meal or a lively gathering with friends. Whilst most guests flock here for its afternoon tea or delightful libations, I find the lunch offerings equally enjoyable. The semi-buffet lunch features a flavourful array of appetisers, tapas, desserts, etc.

APPETISER & TAPAS Mussel escabeche Marinated anchovies Smoked salmon Cold cuts & cheese Pan con Ttomate Gambas ajillo Padron peppers Spicy brava Fried chorizo Out of the variety of tapas, fried chorizo and gambas ajillo were my personal favourites. The fried chorizo had slightly charred exterior with succulent meat infused with smoky paprika flavor. The gambas ajillo consisted of plump shrimp enhanced but not overwhelmed by the lively, lingering warmth of the garlicky oil.

MIDDLE Gourmet Spanish paella (5/10) The paella had some promising elements but failed to achieve an ideal balance. The use of squid ink lent a pleasant briny flavour. However, there was too much broth, leaving the rice soggy instead of separate grains. While it featured an appropriate assortment of seafood, they lacked seasoning, imparting a faint taste.

MAIN Seared Barramundi (6/10) Grilled Angus Beef Tenderloin (8/10) The highlight was the grilled Angus beef tenderloin, expertly cooked to medium-rare. The tender cuts had a pleasing pink flesh that melted in the mouth. It was paired with a decadent foie gras that lived up to high expectations. As the butter-soft foie gras coated the palate, its rich aroma and melt-away texture stood out as not overly greasy, in perfect balance.

DESSERTS Crema Catalana Homemade Pastries Two standouts were the crema catalana and chocolate mousse cake. The crema catalana delivered an interplay between the silky custard and caramelised sugar topping. However, the mousse cake truly impressed with its intense yet well-balanced chocolate flavor, and the texture was sumptuously silky that each bite seemed to dissolve on the palate rather than be consumed, definitely deserves the highest praise.

Date: Aug 2023...

It is very good to see the positive changes that have been made since the below average service I experienced from the various outlets during my birthday staycation last November; the cake made by my friend as a surprise still in its box (and later found to be half melted due to poor refrigeration) plonked down by a waiter in front of me is one of the many awful examples). I popped into Murray Lane for some drinks and was very impressed by the attentive service l received by the bar staff especially the amazing Mr Louis Yu, their Head Mixologist. His friendly, genuine and unobtrusive yet attentive demeanour was pleasantly unexpected not to mention his mixing skills. I ordered a Martini with a lemon twist, followed by a dirty Martini (both stellar) and gave him carte blanche to make me a third cocktail. I was duly impressed with his choice the "Roll Royce" which was simply out of this world! Without prompting, he even brought me a plate from the Aperitivo bar in case I was feeling peckish! I've not experienced such considerate service in many years - simply impressive!! Hopefully, he is not an exception in the hotel and that when I visit the other outlets again the level of service has indeed improved. If the other hotel staff are half as attentive as he was, I will definitely be visiting the hotel...

I visited the Dim Sum branch buffet at this restaurant, paying around 500 per person, but unfortunately, the experience was disappointing. The food did not meet expectations; many of the dim sums tasted like pre-packaged items from the supermarket, and some were served lukewarm.

A traditional Dim Sum meal is incomplete without good tea, but here, the tea had a subtle flavor that lacked depth.

Additionally, the service was unsatisfactory. The waiter frequently missed our orders, and some items were never delivered. It was also difficult to get the waitstaff's attention; I often had to raise my voice to be noticed.

Overall, I left feeling let down by both the food and...