Perched on the 38^th floor of the Hotel Panorama by Rhombus in Tsim Sha Tsui, Ava offers stunning views over the water to Hong Kong Island’s renowned skyline. The restaurant is decorated in neutral tones with dark wooden finishes, resulting in a look that is chic and elegant. White cloth tables and gentle lighting create a relaxing atmosphere while quiet background music makes this restaurant feel sophisticated and sedate—good for a date night but perhaps not for large boisterous groups.

Ava offers innovative modern European cuisine using premium ingredients presented beautifully with a creative flair. The complimentary bread was served warm, with an absolutely delicious ‘tricolore’ herbed butter that was incredibly moreish. The amuse bouche were delightful little morsels of delicately flavoured tuna fillet that got the meal off to an exciting start.

The crab risotto starter was well flavoured and intensely creamy, if a little heavy while the beef carpaccio was perfectly oiled and seasoned and came with generous shavings of Parmesan and a lovely, fresh salad. Next up, opt for the light and delicate sea bass dish, which comes with a perfect potato gratin or alternatively the homemade Casarecce pasta with Italian sausage ragout and Pecorino which is intensely satisfying, just the right amount of spicy and does indeed taste homemade. For vegetarians, gnocchi is a reliable and well balanced, if unexciting, option. The green asparagus with truffle butter side dish is however not to be missed. 

For dessert, the chocolate brownie is good but a little heavy handed on the cocoa powder dusting. Best stick to the ice creams that came in interesting flavor combinations and were beautifully presented.

The wine list is composed of a decent selection in its breadth and variety, with options covering different regions and prices. The recommended Perrin Cotes Du Rhone Reserve Blanc 2012 was light and enjoyable.

Service was sporadically attentive. Waits between courses were too long and sometimes the restaurant appeared to empty of staff, while at other moments one felt watched over. While always polite, several of the servers English was not sufficient for nuanced interaction. Dishes were however served with comprehensive explanations and great pride.

This place is definitely an indulgence, but given the setting, creativity and quality of food, the dinner represented fair value, coming up to HK$1,600 for a meal for two, with wine.