Authentic regional Italian cuisine – classic cocktails & vermouth bar – newly opened atop Wanchai tower
January 16th, 2015
Launched in December 2014, Pirata introduces an engaging new dining and cocktail bar experience to the increasingly fashionable and progressive dining and design enclave emerging within the rapidly gentrifying Wanchai district of Hong Kong. Occupying a spectacular twin level space at the apex of a recently completed commercial tower, Pirata entices discerning diners with its authentic renditions of regional Italian cuisine, served in the relaxed family-style vibe of a typical trattoria. While on the upper level, an intimate cocktail bar and lounge, with its classic cocktails and Italian vermouth specialties, complements splendidly the dining experience on the floor below. An impressively executed interior design melds a rustic farmhouse dining ethos within an industrial-chic canvas of unpolished concrete floors, vintage light fixtures and aged patina metalwork. Dramatic urban views of the neighbourhood skyscrapers are revealed through the full height glass curtain wall that spans the length of each level.
Entering Pirata through the upper level reception, the striking cocktail bar is revealed behind a row of floor-to-ceiling industrial steel rods. Seating options range from stools at the bar to well-spaced high tables and a semi-private lounge area. An internal staircase descends beneath a dramatic monochrome mural to the lower level restaurant where the cosy atmosphere of farmhouse dining is recreated with rustic furniture and vintage fittings. Diners can take a seat at the compact pasta bar adjacent to the kitchen, or choose from either the long leather banquette that spans the length of the room or other tables settings across the floor space.
Unpretentious cooking of traditional northern Italian cuisine is the specialty of Pirata Chef Stefano Rossi. Hailing from the northern Piedmont farming region of Italy, Chef Stefano brings his deep culinary heritage to the Pirata kitchen, ensuring authentic renditions of the regional cuisine. Best known for its pastas, rich sauces, and meat dishes – the local Piedmont cuisine is admirably represented on the menu with pasta dishes such as the Pappardelle with duck ragu; and meat dishes that include The Butcher’s Cut of tagliata style flank steak; and the hearty M.M.M. (My Mamma’s Meatballs).
Further exemplifying the Italian-themed experience at Pirata, the upper-level bar features Asia’s first specialty vermouth bar – with a selection of over 20 labels of artisanal Italian and international vermouths. Typically served straight as the quintessential Italian aperitif, vermouths also combine perfectly with premium spirits to create the refined classic cocktails that distinguish the drinks list at Pirata – and typified by drinks such as the consummate Vintage Negroni – crafted from Mancino Vermouth Rosso Amaranto, Sipsmith Gin, and Campari Bitters. The well-compiled wine list showcases exclusively regional Italian wines – all at very approachable prices.
Founded by the affable Manuel Palacio, Pirata is the culmination of his extensive international restaurant career and epitomizes his passion for a friendly and personal service experience. Pirata opens daily for lunch and dinner, with the bar serving drinks from 5 pm until late. Table reservations at the restaurant are recommended.
