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Who can say no to steak frites? Certainly not me, so I was keen to check out District 8 (by Woolly Pig HK), which has just opened at ELEMENTS’ charming Civic Square.
The decor is Parisian bistro chic, and there’s great seating, both indoors and outdoors. Inside, the tables are well spaced out and the leather banquettes are super cosy. Outside, the tables face the square, making it a chilled spot for people watching as well as enjoying some bistro-style treats.
So what do they have on the menu? Executive Chef Anthony Hammel has put together some bistro classics with a twist.
We started with some calamari skewers ($35/stick), baby beet skewers ($35/stick) and salted fish croquettes ($90). With its smoky flavour, the calamari was a table-pleaser. The beets were also popular, especially with those who love black garlic.
The roasted bone marrow ($130) was well done, with an anchovy, caper and parsley topping balancing out the richness.
Homemade sausage ($180) is always a treat. If you like fennel, you’ll love the flavour of these pork sausages. They were juicy and full of flavour without being too fatty, nice on their own or with the harissa sauce on the side.
We tried a few steak options, but the crowd-pleaser was definitely the Rangers Valley hanger ($330/380g). This Black Angus and Wagyu cross-breed was tender and juicy, and whatever compound butter District 8 is putting on its steaks is super addictive. I’d come back just for that butter!
District 8 regularly changes up its dessert options, but on the night we went, there was cheesecake, lemon slice, chocolate tart and berry cake ($80 each). These classic choices are served with fresh berries and crème fraiche.
Besides the spiced butter, my favourite part of the meal was the French breakfast martini ($90). It combines buttery, croissant-infused vodka, strawberry marmalade egg white and fresh lemon. It’s not an exaggeration to say this is easily the best cocktail I’ve had all year. You’ll see me again just for this, District 8! The Thyme of My Life mocktail ($75) with raspberry and orange also went down a treat.
Verdict
District 8 is a classic, well-priced steak-frites spot in a great location. The food is solid, and they’re doing really good things with the drink programme. They’re also open late for night owls, until 12:30am Tuesday–Thursday and 1am Friday and Saturday.
Shop R009, R/F, Civic Square, ELEMENTS, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, 2537 755, book online
This write-up is based on a complimentary media tasting provided in exchange for an honest review and no monetary compensation. The opinions expressed here represent the author’s.
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