In the bustling streets of Sheung Wan, a charming Italian-Mediterranean dining haven has emerged, bringing forth the rich traditions of Southern European cuisine to the heart of Hong Kong.
Named after the Roman goddess of love, JUNO, under the expert guidance of acclaimed chef Jordi Vallés Claverol, promises an exquisite culinary voyage that captures the essence of the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast. This article delves into the enticing world of JUNO, celebrating its soft opening and the glorious Southern European classics it presents.
A Mediterranean Escape in Sheung Wan
Nestled on Wing Lok Street, JUNO has carved out a niche for itself as a leisurely dining sanctuary, offering a cosmopolitan vibe that invites patrons to unwind and savour the pleasures of Southern European cuisine. With a focus on tranquillity, freshness, and sophistication, JUNO promises an authentic culinary journey that transcends boundaries.
Chef Jordi Vallés Claverol, the mastermind behind JUNO, seamlessly blends homely Italian signatures with modern Mediterranean inspirations. From the Costa del Sol to the Italian Riviera, the menu pays homage to the bounties of the sea and the sun-kissed land. Complementing these delectable offerings is an intriguing wine list carefully curated from the region.
The Art of Design and Ambiance
Beyond the culinary delights, JUNO’s ambience is a testament to thoughtful design. Crafted by the Hong Kong-based studio Brash Atelier, the restaurant strikes a harmonious balance between exterior spectacle and interior serenity. The striking frontage, adorned with light-reflecting 3D tiles, beckons diners into a haven of pink and olive tones, with a touch of natural materials.
Inside, a marble-clad kitchen pass stands as a captivating focal point, creating two distinct dining areas, each with its unique charm. Textured plaster walls and elegant travertine wall panels, bathed in the soft glow of backlit arches, offer a timeless backdrop.
The high ceilings, adorned with custom-designed pendant lighting, cast enchanting plays of light and shadow, enhancing the overall ambience.
A Chef with a Distinguished Palette
Chef Jordi Vallés Claverol, Group Executive Chef and General Manager of the Salamanca Group, brings a wealth of culinary experience to JUNO. Having made a mark in renowned Spanish and French restaurants worldwide, Chef Vallés Claverol is a well-known figure in the Hong Kong culinary scene.
To celebrate the soft opening of JUNO, Chef Vallés Claverol presents a tantalizing 7-course evening tasting menu. Additionally, a focused à la carte menu features heartfelt Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. JUNO’s commitment to excellence is evident from the outset, with three kinds of home-baked bread, including the exquisite Roman-style Rosemary Focaccia.
Appetisers that Impress
The à la carte menu opens with “A Mediterranean Affair,” a list of appetisers that embody the charm and flavours of the Mediterranean region. Ibérico Ham, aged for 48 months and served with Chef’s superb rosemary focaccia, is a standout option.
Delightful dips into the Mediterranean include the Fried Seafood “Fritto Misto,” a delectable combination of lightly battered prawns, sardines, whitebait, squid, and cod. Codfish Fritters “Beignet de Morue” feature croquettes of Spanish salted cod with a citrusy mayonnaise dipping sauce.
For seafood enthusiasts, the Seafood Platter is a succulent shared starter comprising half lobster, juicy tiger prawns, and immaculate No.2 fine de claire oysters. It’s a symphony of freshness from the sea.
Mains that Delight
Pasta and rice specialities take centre stage at JUNO. The Juno Truffle Tagliolini, a dish of thin, ribbon-like ‘all’uovo’ (egg) pasta laced with shaved truffles and parmesan, is a simple yet outstanding creation. The Seafood Fideos ‘a la Cazuela,’ a paella-like dish with carabineros and cuttlefish in a traditional Spanish tomato, pepper, and onion sofrito sauce, offers a unique twist.
Among the mains, the Baked Côte d’Azur Seabass stands out, showcasing sustainable French sea bass with an aromatic vegetable garden of fresh tomato, courgette, aubergine, and sage.
Lamb lovers will relish the Ballottine d’Agneau à la Provençale, featuring two juicy cuts of milk-fed lamb from Provence, cooked in different ways. Another highlight is the Crevettes en Persillade Citronée, a delightful combination of tiger prawns pan-tossed with mildly spicy espelette peppers, fried garlic, parsley, and a zesty lemon twist.
Indulgent Desserts
For those with a sweet tooth, JUNO offers a traditional Tiramisu presented in a Champagne coupe, a decadent twist on a classic. The Raspberry Chocolate Coulant, a gooey lava cake paired with luscious raspberry sorbet, is another standout dessert option.
JUNO‘s Tasting Menu is a 7-step journey through many of these delectable signatures. It includes five appetisers to share, featuring Ibérico Ham, Codfish Fritters “Beignet de Morue,” Whipped Feta, Caviar d’Aubergine, and crunchy deep-fried Padron Peppers.
For the main course, diners can choose from Juno Truffle Tagliolini, Ballottine d’Agneau à la Provençale, or Lobster Acquerello Risotto. Dessert options include Tiramisu, classic Tarte Tatin with vanilla ice cream and caramel, and Raspberry Chocolate Coulant.
JUNO also presents an inviting lunchtime menu, priced at HK$180 for a 4-course meal, catering to the discerning palates of the Central and Sheung Wan office crowd. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean coastland, the menu offers a wide array of options to satisfy seafood enthusiasts and meat lovers alike.
The Art of Wine and Spirits
Chef Vallés Claverol’s expertise extends to curating a fascinating wine list, featuring Italian, French, and Spanish discoveries that complement the cuisine perfectly. Diners can explore offerings like Varvaglione 1921 Primadonna Chardonnay and Rosato del Salento rosé.
The restaurant also offers expertly crafted cocktails, including the Aperol Spritz and Peach Me Up. Those seeking non-alcoholic options can indulge in mocktails like Pink Love, Ginger Lemonade, and Peach Ice Tea.
“After months of careful prepping, we are excited to welcome guests for a casual yet chic and affordable dining experience embracing the extraordinary flavours of Italy and the Mediterranean coast,” says Group Executive Chef and General Manager Jordi Vallés Claverol. “We believe JUNO offers something unique and wonderful here in one of the busiest districts of Hong Kong,the amazing food, wine, and leisurely charm of a southern European holiday in a beautiful and blissful setting.”
JUNO is located at G/F, 88 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. It opens Monday to Thursday from 12 noon to 4 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm; Friday from 12 noon to 4 pm and 6 pm to 11:30 pm; and Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm. Experience the magic of Southern European cuisine in the heart of Hong Kong at JUNO.
