CulinArt 1862 recently announced at its flagship Towngas store in Causeway Bay that Swiss chef Jacques Kagi has officially taken on the role of Culinary Director, introducing a new “East Meets West” tasting menu that showcases the artistry of open-fire cooking and the charm of aged craftsmanship.
Chef Jacques Kagi’s Culinary Background
Kagi was born in Hong Kong and possesses a dual culinary background from Switzerland and Hong Kong. He received formal chef training in Switzerland and the UK, accumulating extensive experience in several top restaurants in Hong Kong, including Gaddi’s at The Peninsula and Nicolini’s at The Harbour Grand. With his exceptional culinary skills, Kagi has not only been recommended by the Louis Vuitton City Guide but has also received multiple accolades, including the “Most Influential Award in Asian Dining”.
In addition to his achievements in the culinary world, Kagi is well-known for serving as a star judge on TVB’s classic cooking show, “Beautiful Kitchen”, where his professional attitude and humorous style have made him a favourite among viewers.
New "East Meets West" Tasting Menu
The new tasting menu, personally designed by Kagi, blends traditional European craftsmanship with innovative Chinese elements, providing diners with a fresh sensory experience through Towngas’s precise open-fire cooking techniques. Starters include pan-seared foie gras with caramelised fruits and tamarind sauce, or the refreshing and delicate beetroot-cured salmon.
The signature dish, lobster bisque with e-fu noodles, elegantly interprets the essence of a Chinese banquet, with specially treated e-fu noodles absorbing the essence of the lobster bisque for a delightful texture. For mains, Hokkaido scallops paired with Sichuan-style pork belly showcase rich Eastern flavours, while the Iberian secret char siu offers a unique woody aroma that lingers on the palate. For dessert, the strawberry pavlova provides a light finish to the overall meal.
Kagi stated, “I am honoured to join CulinArt 1862 as Culinary Director. Open-fire cooking is the soul of culinary arts, imparting a unique ‘wok hei’ and warmth to the ingredients. Through this menu, I hope to combine my understanding of aged craftsmanship with Hong Kong’s local culinary sentiments, offering guests a familiar yet surprising journey of flavours.”
Looking ahead, Kagi will continue to inject innovative vitality into CulinArt 1862 and plans to launch several limited-time themed promotions and surprise dishes to showcase the collision of diverse culinary cultures.
Restaurant Information
The new “East Meets West” tasting menu is priced at HK$788 per person (plus a 10% service charge) and is available from now until dinner service. For reservations or inquiries, please call +852 2884 2603 or WhatsApp +852 54118610.
CulinArt 1862 is a high-end Western restaurant located in Causeway Bay, dedicated to providing a diverse dining experience while supporting sustainable dining concepts, reflecting its commitment to environmental protection through ingredient selection and interior construction materials.
Official information: CulinArt 1862
See also: MILD Opens in Causeway Bay: A Unique Dining Experience for Pets and Owners