FRANCIS west launches bringing the fragrant spices and smoky flavours of North Africa’s Maghreb region to Soho, Hong Kong.
Celebrating five years of bringing vibrant tastes of Tel Aviv to Wan Chai, Hong Kong, FRANCIS west has opened in Soho to treat diners to the fragrant spices and smoky flavours of the Maghreb.
Consisting of the North African countries Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Morocco, the Maghreb takes its name from the Arabic term meaning “place where the sun sets” or “the land farthest west.” Its rich culinary heritage was created over centuries of exchange between the region’s various cultures and neighbouring countries, resulting in a rich fusion of Mediterranean and African flavours, intermingled with ancient Arab cooking traditions.
Peel Street’s latest eatery is the first of two Middle Eastern ventures being launched this year by restaurateur James Ward, Chef Asher Goldstein, and sommelier Simone Sammuri, with FRANCIS east’s anticipated opening in late 2023, which will be an all day concept inspired by the Levant region, the area along the Eastern Mediterranean shores.
“We are thrilled to be expanding the magic of FRANCIS starting with the new Soho location focused on the exciting Maghreb region. We look forward to introducing diners to the region’s unique and evocative cuisine, not to mention the amazing and affordable wines coming out of the Mediterranean. FRANCIS west is all about the simple, honest pleasures of good food and fine wine enjoyed with great friends. It’s an exciting year all round for the FRANCIS family,” shared FRANCIS west Co-founder, James Ward.
Hailing from Tel Aviv, Chef Goldstein draws on these influences and his own experience crafting contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine to create an array of dishes designed for sharing.
The new menu includes Mashwiya (Tunisian grilled salad), Stone Baked Frena (a Moroccan flatbread), Spanner Crab with Chraime, a spicy sauce made from tomatoes and paprika, and Lamb Merguez. FRANCIS classics including the hummus, cigars, smoked carrots, and knafeh, will also be featured.
Sommelier Sammuri’s quality selection of wines has been sourced exclusively from the coastal regions of the Mediterranean featuring highly regarded historic producers alongside young winemakers.
Guests at FRANCIS west will be welcomed to a warm and vibrant dining space inspired by Moroccan courtyards and southern Spain’s intimate tapas bars and an interior designed by Haig Studio.
Address: Felicity Building, 42 & 44 Peel Street, Central
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