We called it. When we caught wind of a new opening named Carbone in LKF Tower, we had two theories: that it would either be an opening by chef Enzo Carbone of 208 Duecento Otto, or that a mighty restaurant from the East Coast would be touching down on our shores. Incredibly, it turns out that the second wild guess was right.

Sinclair Communications revealed today that they would be supporting the NYC-based restaurant – on behalf of Black Sheep Restaurants – when it sets up here, on the ninth floor of LKF Tower, the space previously occupied by Bisous.

The original Carbone, located in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, has a string of accolades – not least being the three stars bestowed upon them last June, from the famously discerning New York Times. Chefs Rich Torrisi and Mario Carbone previously cut their teeth with culinary bigwigs Mario Batali and Daniel Boulud, and it’s likely that their opening here will shake things up on the Italian dining front.

One thing we shouldn’t expect is sterile fanciness – famed for its “red sauce Italian” style of cooking, Carbone is a master of hearty portions and unabashed flavours, served with a slightly old-fashioned, Godfather-tinged swagger.

Check back soon as we find out more about the operations. Carbone is set to open in August.

UPDATE JULY 23, 2014 – We at Hong Kong Tatler Dining have been to preview the space, and it's certainly impressive. Elements hark back to the original Carbone in NYC, but there's added style thanks to designer Sean Dix, and plenty of fascinating artwork to appease culture vultures. We won't reveal too much before the grand opening, but Mario Carbone himself is extremely excited for the first person who has dined at the original to try out the food – there will be signatures from the New York branch (and the menu will be identical), but given the incredible access he has to Asian and Australian produce, expect a few new twists to several classic Carbone dishes. Think fresh green peppercorns, local chillies and seafood. 

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Carbone, 9/F LKF Tower, Central, +852 2593 2593

Photo from Carbone NYC