There’s a space under the escalator on Hollywood Road which appeared to be toxic for new restaurants. I live nearby and have personally witnessed around three restaurants open and close in that particular spot during a period of two years. So about six months ago I noticed that a new restaurant had opened in that same spot: French American Bistro or F.A.B.
Initially I didn’t want to give it a try. There were a couple of reasons: firstly, from the outside it looked more like a bar than a restaurant (since then I have found out there are a fair number of seats hidden at the back); secondly, it wasn’t cheap – a steak at this place could set you back 400 dollars.
In the end I ended up going with a friend and discovered that F.A.B’s owner really seems about his restaurant’s food. In short – the food is good. Also the owner seems to be there most nights. At least I think it’s the owner. Otherwise, it’s just an unshaven Frenchman who has taken it upon himself to thank me for coming each time.
In total I’ve been to F.A.B about 3 times. These are the dishes I’ve tried:
Homemade marinated salmon – 88 dollars
Who doesn’t like a plate of salmon? It was tasty, served with 4 slices of toast (toasted to perfection), a large squeezable lemon and a mysterious dip/spread for the toast. The presentation was decent and the price didn’t make me want to cry. I liked it and would order it again.
Prime Cheeseburger - 158 dollars
I’m going to go on the record and say that this is the BEST CHEESEBURGER I’ve ever had in Hong Kong. The secret I believe is the meat – I think they mince their own steak to create the burger. They season it perfectly and serve it on a sesame seed bun with the usual garnishes.
One thing to note – This being a French/American restaurant, the burger itself is Frenchified. Side note – some of my American friends who hate onions did not like the inclusion of sautéed onions with the burger. Additional side note – people who do not like sautéed onions in burgers are no longer my friends.
I think this burger is fantastic. I’ve seen single men and women go to F.A.B and sit at the bar alone and eat the burger: it’s that good.
BBQ Ribs 187 dollars
These were quite tasty. You get a ¾ slab of ribs with a sweet/tangy sauce and some potatoes and sautéed onions. The sauce was a little too sweet for my taste, but I cool tell that this was a good dish and that for others the sauce would be just right.
Strawberry Liegois 60 dollars
What is a Strawberry Liegois?
Apparently it ice cream, whipped cream, strawberry pieces, almonds and strawberry syrup. And it’s quite tasty.
Conclusion
This is a great place to go get a meal.
The food is good and in some cases great.
The service is decent.
And the atmosphere is fun and friendly.
Sure, it is a little pricey. But then again, you get quality and nowhere in Soho is cheap these days.