Ten years is a long time to run a restaurant. In Repulse Bay, where the survival and success of any eatery can be directly attributed to the amount of sun, heat, and hungry beach-goers coming only in peak season, 10 years means a lot more.
Limewood has begun celebrations for 10 years in business with a refresh of their interior design, seating, and menu, which now takes seaside inspiration from the world’s best beaches and beach clubs – think Hawaii, Jamaica, Mexico, and Thailand.
Any meal at this beach-cuisine restaurant (if that can be a category in Hong Kong; we would like to make it one) must be had sitting as close to the front as possible in order to catch the sun’s rays and views of the golden sand and green hills in the background – no views get better than this. The Limewood guacamole (HKD105), equally, is a pretty sight.
Mixing white onion, avocado, and pomegranate, it is the fruit inclusion that brings out a hearty, sweet touch to the dish. We got strong beachy vibes from this starter.
Another starter that impressed us was the grilled corn (HKD95), slathered in a chipotle sauce and dusted with cotija cheese. The salty and sweet combination strikes well and complements the fresh crunch of each sweetcorn kernel.
The tacos section of our lunch was next, and we enjoyed the halloumi taco (HKD165) and beef brisket “burger” taco (HKD165). I’m a fan of big, punchy flavours, and I wished the halloumi had a spicy hit to it beyond the Limewood taco mix that was dusted over it, but the texture of the cheese and guacamole was appreciated.
The beef tacos were a highlight of the meal. They are topped with a red pepper salsa and pickled relish that, once savoured in a big bite, taste very similar to a juicy burger. That’s a winner in my books.
The salmon ceviche (HKD185) further hammers home Limewood’s new beachy theme in Repulse Bay. The fish dish is zesty and refreshing, bringing in slices of grapefruit and orange to the mix alongside the cuts of salmon for a bright bite.
The final main dish we enjoyed at lunch was the Limewood queso fundido taco set with pulled chicken (HKD220). The special ingredient included in this meaty-cheesy concoction is Mexican oregano, which lends a smoky and cinnamon-strong aroma to the chicken.
The gooey cheese brings a creamy texture to the dish, which is pleasing on the palate. I especially enjoyed the chicken, which is cooked to retain its juicy form. This is a must-order when visiting Limewood.
Our verdict of Limewood
Limewood wins again, entering into their new-and-improved second decade of cooking for Repulse Bay’s weekly visitors. The beach theme, both in terms of the interior design and how the menu has shaped up, hits top marks. The restaurant is confident with its vibrant colours and flavours.
Limewood, Shop 103–104, G/F, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2866 8668, book here
| Order this: guacamole, salmon ceviche, Limewood pulled chicken queso fundido, beef brisket taco Menu: à-la-carte menu for weekday, weekend Price for two: HKD300–450 | Atmosphere: relaxing à la any beach bar found on the coast of Thailand or Hawaii Perfect for: lazy days at the beach with heaps of seaside-inspired food and margs |
This review is intended to offer an individual perspective on the dining experience and should not be considered as a definitive judgement of the restaurant’s overall quality or reputation. The views expressed in this review are solely the author’s and do not reflect the opinions of Foodie.
