Francis Presents A Taste of The Middle East In Wan Chai

The latest addition to the Star Street precinct showcases contemporary Middle Eastern plates and features a strong focus on wines

Joining the vibrant array of dining establishments in the Star Street precinct (from Le Garcon Saigon, Beef & Liberty to Morty’s), Francis, set along the start of the slanting slope of St. Francis Street, will offer their contemporary take on Middle Eastern cuisine with a strong focus on affordable wines.

Above (L-R) James Ward, Asher Goldstein, and Simone Sammuri collaborated in Francis (Photo: Francis)

The new 30-seat restaurant is operated by three young restaurant entrepreneurs, among them executive chef Asher Goldstein, sommelier Simone Sammuri and James Ward, a seasoned front of house veteran in the local food and beverage industry. The trio came up with the concept a year ago, foreseeing a budding interest in Middle Eastern cuisine and wines to match. The new establishment draws inspiration from Tel Aviv, Goldstein’s hometown, as well as ideas gathered through his travels from Southern Europe to North Africa, Greece, and Italy.

Above Hummus with chickpeas and lamb neck ragu, one of Francis' signature meze (Photo: Francis)

The restaurant’s menu highlights organic produce, seafood, and a vibrant array of seasonal vegetables, showcased in signature mezes such as hummus with chickpeas and lamb neck ragu, baked halloumi with pomegranate molasses and wild oregano, and curd with dukka and preserved lemon, as well larger main courses with the likes of snapper with leeks, pistachio and Persian lemon, and wagyu skirt steak with Jerusalem artichoke and smoked tomatoes.

Above Francis' grilled octopus with harissa and bulgul potato cake (Photo: Francis)

One of Francis’ highlights is its extensive wine list, featuring 50 varieties ranging from old to new world. A special premium section is also available from the restaurant’s specially designed ‘black book’ where exclusive labels are personally selected and curated by Sammuri.

Francis, G/F, 4 & 6 St. Francis Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong; +852 3101 9521

Topics

Francis new opening restaurants Middle East St. Francis Street Starstreet Precinct Wan Chai

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Francis Presents A Taste of The Middle East In Wan Chai