The hottest new openings in Hong Kong, February 16-22

The former La Brasserie on Lyndhurst Terrace makes way for Lala, a brand-new concept from ex-Louise head chef Franckelie Laloum and hospitality veteran Michael Larkin, the mind behind the likes of Artifact and Terracotta Lamma. Here, French bistro classics reign supreme – think parsley garlic frog legs, sweetbread and langoustine vol-au-vent, and Angus beef tenderloin flambé. Meanwhile, the bar focuses on creating perfect pairings with classic continental cocktails.

This artisanal Hong Kong cafe brand continues its focus on craft coffee and caffeine-infused cocktails at its fourth location, in SoHo. Spread over two floors, the cafe offers everything from espresso to single-lot beans, alongside coffee-based cocktails and mocktails, including several riffs on the sacred Irish coffee. Decaf and dairy-free options abound in a win for coffee lovers of all stripes, and those who spend more than HK$300 can try their hand at the cafe’s own gachapon machine.

The Japanese bakeries are coming in thick and fast these days, the latest being this viral Fukuoka imprint. Known for its hours-long queues, the 11-year-old brand has opened a 2,500 sq ft space amid the bustle side of Tsim Sha Tsui. Look for highlights such as the Japanese melon and cheese bun, or the matcha tiramisu melon bun, the latter of which is a Hong Kong exclusive.