As someone who has always been captivated by the stories that food can tell, I’ve been fortunate enough to dine at some of the world’s most extraordinary restaurants. Two of the most remarkable meals I’ve experienced were at Lung King Heen in Hong Kong and Mikla in Istanbul. Both offered me an unforgettable journey through the tastes and traditions of their cities, but each provided its own unique twist, blending the classic with the contemporary in ways that left me utterly enchanted. Here’s a glimpse into my memorable dining experiences at these two incredible restaurants.
Lung King Heen, Hong Kong: A Journey Into Cantonese Excellence
Nestled in the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Hong Kong, Lung King Heen is a three-Michelin-star restaurant that offers a refined take on Cantonese cuisine. The moment I entered the restaurant, I was immediately taken by the serene elegance of the space—soft lighting, dark wood panels, and breathtaking views of the Victoria Harbour. It felt like a place where culinary mastery met tranquility, setting the stage for a truly exceptional dining experience.
As soon as I sat down, I was greeted with a sense of hospitality that immediately made me feel at home. I chose the signature tasting menu, which promised a journey through the very best Cantonese ingredients and cooking techniques. The first course—barbecued Iberico pork with honey—was a perfect introduction. The pork was tender with a beautifully caramelized glaze that balanced sweetness and savory richness, showcasing the elegance of Cantonese flavors.
One of the highlights of the meal was the steamed fish maw soup with chicken broth. The delicate fish maw, known for its silky texture, was complemented by a rich, aromatic chicken broth that had been simmered for hours to extract the deepest flavors. The depth of the soup, combined with the luxurious texture of the fish maw, was a sublime experience. It felt like a warm embrace, each spoonful rich with tradition and technique.
But perhaps the most impressive dish of the evening was the Lung King Heen dim sum. Known for its delicate, artful presentation, these dim sum were far from your typical experience. Each dumpling was a masterpiece, from the plump and juicy shrimp dumplings to the tender and flavorful pork buns. The freshness of the ingredients and the finesse with which each dumpling was prepared was evident in every bite. It was clear that Chef Chan Yan Tak and his team were not just cooking—they were crafting a story in each dish, one that honored the rich culinary heritage of Cantonese cuisine while embracing innovation.
The meal at Lung King Heen was not just about eating; it was about appreciating the art of fine dining, the mastery of technique, and the use of high-quality, often rare ingredients. As the meal came to a close with a delicate Mango pudding with coconut dessert, I couldn’t help but reflect on how each course had been an exploration of texture, flavor, and tradition. The service, as one would expect from a Michelin-starred restaurant, was impeccable—attentive, knowledgeable, and warm without being intrusive.
Mikla, Istanbul: A Modern Turkish Feast with a View
From Hong Kong, my culinary journey took me to Istanbul, a city where East meets West, and where flavors from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia converge. Mikla, perched on the rooftop of the The Marmara Pera Hotel, offers an equally stunning dining experience, blending contemporary Turkish cuisine with international influences. As I made my way up to the restaurant, I was greeted with panoramic views of Istanbul’s iconic skyline, including the Hagia Sophia and Bosphorus Bridge—a view that immediately set the tone for an unforgettable meal.
The interior of Mikla is sleek and modern, with soft lighting and an open kitchen that allowed me to see the chefs at work. The atmosphere was lively but intimate, and I knew I was in for a unique experience. I chose the degustation menu, and from the very first bite, I realized that Mikla was not just about showcasing Turkish food—it was about transforming it, offering a modern and creative twist on the classics.
The meal began with a delicate kavurma with Turkish spices. The tender lamb, infused with a blend of traditional Turkish spices, was served with a side of tangy yogurt that provided a perfect contrast to the richness of the meat. The dish immediately transported me to the heart of Turkey, yet the refined preparation was distinctly modern.
Next came a beautifully plated slow-cooked octopus with fennel and olive oil. The octopus was tender and perfectly seasoned, while the fennel added a delicate sweetness that balanced the richness of the octopus. It was a fusion of Mediterranean and Turkish flavors, executed with elegance and precision.
One of the most memorable moments of the meal was the grilled sea bass with citrus and pomegranate. The fish was cooked to perfection, crispy on the outside yet moist and tender on the inside. The citrus and pomegranate brought an unexpected burst of flavor, making the dish feel fresh and light while still deeply satisfying. The combination of traditional Turkish ingredients with international techniques made each bite a revelation.
To end the meal, I indulged in a dessert that was as playful as it was delicious: Baklava with chocolate sorbet and pistachio. Mikla’s twist on this classic Turkish dessert was a creative blend of textures and flavors, and it was the perfect way to close a meal that had been both exciting and indulgent.
The service at Mikla was flawless, with the staff providing thoughtful recommendations and explanations for each dish. The combination of excellent food, stunning views, and impeccable service made Mikla one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve ever had.