Swanky Private Club Vibes and Sumptuous Steaks
If you’re a meat eater, then it’s safe to say you probably love steak. Who can resist a perfectly cooked, seared on the outside and pink in the middle, rich piece of beef?! So of course, I couldn’t wait to try one of Hong Kong’s newest steak houses, Buenos Aires Polo Club by Black Sheep Restaurants.
First Impressions
BA Polo Club is located in the Lan Kwai Fong hotel where their previous restaurant, Boqueria, used to be. However, you would never be able to tell as the interior of the space has been completely transformed. There are new ‘rooms’ clad in dark wooden furnishings and leather, oil paintings strewn all over the walls and antique details scattered throughout – they even have an collection of vintage/antique steak knives for regulars to use! It’s all in the name, as the restaurant recreates that private club vibe with images and reference to polo dotted around.
The Drinks
Before our feast began, we were treated to some exceptional cocktails from the lovely bartender, Axel Gonzalez. As I love gin, I opted for the ‘Bellas’ cocktail ($168), a creative mix gin, strawberry and peppers. I loved the sweet yet refreshing flavour – it was perfectly balanced and made me all the more excited for the food.
The Food
Obviously, steak the name of the game here. Argentinian steak specifically, but more on that later! To whet our appetites we began with a few ‘Entradas’, the first of which was the Provelta Cheese with rustic bread ($128). Oozy hot cheese with bread, you can’t really go wrong! We also sampled the Wood Smoked Bacon with Chimichurri ($168) – thick cut and packed with a deep flavour, this was some of the best bacon I’ve had in a while.
The Chicken Liver Pate with crispy chicken skin and caramelised shallots ($88) had a strong flavour and I was pleasantly surprised by the simple sounding Golf Salad ($148). The baby gem lettuce, hearts of palm and avocado were quite delicious together, especially with the creamy dressing.
Already feeling quite full, it was time to enjoy the main event – the steak! All the steaks are General Pico brand Argentine pure Black Angus grass-fed beef, which has more of a mineral taste. We were lucky to try the Chateaubriand ($598 – for two people); a huge grass-fed steak that’s interestingly served wrapped up in salt and grilled over a hard wood fire. The charred, salty exterior had a more intense flavour than other steaks, and of course it was perfectly cooked and tender.
Out of all the accompaniments to our steak, my favourites had to the be the duck fat ‘Fries Provenzal’ ($98) with garlic and parsely (which were worryingly addictive!) and the Creamed Spinach ($98) with garlic bechamel and grana padano. We also tried the Half Chicken with Chimichurri rub ($258) which was equally delicious, the meat was so succulent and the chimichurri gave it a little kick.
To end our feast we managed to grab a few bites of the wonderful desserts; the most theatrical being the s’mores style marshmallow with our own flames to cook over. The oozy marshmallow was definitely a hit, but the other fruity house sorbets were perfect as palate cleansers and a light end to a big meal.
The Verdict
The attention to detail in the decor and the effort to create an air of exclusivity is evident as soon as you walk into the bar area of BA Polo Club. Think sophisticated and refined, with a sense of tradition. This is where you should come if you’re looking for an elegant night out with hearty food, delicious cocktails and a great wine selection. With two private rooms, it’s also the perfect spot for private parties or dinners. Whether it’s a cocktail and the swish bar that you’re after, or a the full steak and sides deal, it’s definitely worth checking out BA Polo Club if you’re in the area.
Buenos Aires Polo Club, 7/F, Lan Kwai Fong Tower, 33 Wyndham Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong, www.bapoloclub.com