Hygge

Address - Shop G33, G/F, Ocean Popwalk, 28 Tong Chun Street, Tseung Kwan O

Phone number - 51729104

Booking website: https://inline.app/booking/-MuT_y8jM17RVXmFZLdi:inline-live-2/-MuT_yJrc7Num0mrWP7s

Instagram page: (@hygge_pizza_crepe) https://www.instagram.com/hygge_pizza_crepe/

Visit date November 2024 | Price range: $200-300 per person

Environment (7/10)

Hygge primarily uses wooden furniture, which complimented their white ceiling drapes, giving out a warm and relaxing atmosphere that reminds me of a cosy winter woods cottage with a touch of camping vibes. Christmas decorations can be seen around the restaurants which contributed to a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

There were a few small flies found on the day of the visit, which might have been caused by the fact that there were plants right outside of the restaurant, and doors remained open sometimes.

Paccheri w/ Slow-cooked Beef Cheek Ragu ($228)

TL;DR: A balanced and flavorful pasta with good texture and strong yet harmonised flavor from the beef cheek ragu. (8/10)

Beef cheek has gained popularity as a cut for ragu ("meat sauce" in Italian). If cooked properly, it offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that remains superior to more traditional cuts such as chuck.

The paccheri pasta is cooked to al-dente, which gives it a pleasing chew and has a mild but pleasant wheat flavor that contributes to the overall fragrance balance of the dish. People who prefer softer pasta might find it tough.

Tomato and reduced red wine can be tasted in the ragu. The seasoning is slightly on the savory side, enhanced by the cheese garnish. However, with the fragrant melt-in-your-mouth beef cheeks, everything comes together in a delicate manner. The portion is surprisingly large, although it may initially appear otherwise!

Pizza Italian Soul ($178)

TL;DR: A flavorful pizza packed with bold flavors, a light crunch, and a fluffy dough that will satisfy your pizza craving and savory tooth. (8.5/10)

Pizza, alongside crepes, is a signature dish at Hygge. The pizza rim here has a thin layer of crunch, followed by a fluffy, bread-like chew. The flour blend they use provides a great balance between texture and fragrance that makes them a standout.

Unlike most pizzas in Hong Kong, there is no tomato sauce on this pizza. Instead, guanciale (Italian cured pork cheek), most known for being the soul of classic carbonara, gives the pizza a greasy, meaty, and savory base, which serves as an excellent foundation for the slight acidity of artichokes and bitterness of rocket to shine. Combined with a layer of cheese and marinated bell pepper, the pizza is very well-balanced in flavor, and rich in texture. I would prefer the garnishing rocket to be lightly tossed in a thin vinaigrette but I respect the chef’s decision.

The pizza might be a shock to those who are used to American pizzas. The flavor profile is uniquely satisfying and it has definitely attracted me to try their other pizzas in the future.

Service (6.5/10)

There are no big flaws when it comes to the service. Although the waitresses looked a bit stressed and did not smile at all, when asked for an extra plate, they still responded swiftly. The whole dining experience would be better if they appeared more friendly and welcoming.

Conclusion

Hygge offers a delightful culinary experience with above-standard food that justifies the price. Both the Paccheri and Pizza are strong contenders in the district, showcasing unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. Despite some minor service and environmental issues, the overall experience is enjoyable, making Hygge a restaurant worth visiting for those seeking flavorful and well-prepared Italian dishes.

Final score: 8/10