New restaurant review: Pizza and more at Emmer, Pacific Place, Hong Kong

Introducing my ‘it’s so good I almost don’t wanna tell you’ new favourite pizza joint

Welcome, Emmer! The people behind popular burger chain Beef and Liberty (which is still my favourite burger place in town) have brought us a new pizzeria / cafe. What’s on offer?

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Defining Emmer

Emmer is an ancient, organic heritage grain, which the restaurant blends with rye and good Italian flour. These hand-selected grains are lower in gluten, and higher in nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. This makes it high in fibre and easier on your stomach … but what you probably want to know most is that it’s a great combination of crisp and chewy, thin and thick, and poofy in just the right places.

Appetizers

We tried the Emmer Caprese ($68), the Charcuterie Board ($88), and the Eggplant and Parmesan plate ($88).

Rather than fresh mozzarella, this Caprese is made with whipped ricotta and then topped with cherry tomatoes and basil pesto. Fresh and vibrant flavours at a great price.

The Charcuterie Board features ‘Today’s selection.’ But to give you an idea, I’ve had it twice now and both times included salami, capicola, mortadella, house pickles and marinated mini peppers. But the first time also included some lardo which was insanely delicious (keep your fingers crossed for some on your visit). Definitely a must order.

While I’m not sure this Eggplant and Parmesan plate counts as healthy, it is delicious. The eggplant has a nice maple balsamic marinade and is topped with rocket, pine nuts and parmesan shavings.

Pizzas

Each pizza’s dough is cut individually, hand-stretched to order, and then baked in a Morello Forni oven. All are 11 inches sliced into 6 pieces.

As for which ones to choose? It’s really hard to pick a favourite. The Coppa Ham and Egg pizza ($148) was an evening special and our table favourite.

But my favourite was the D.O.P Quattro Formaggi ($168). Usually I find cheese-only pizzas a little much but the combination of cheeses (D.O.P fontina, mozzarella, truffle pecorino romano, taleggio) made it addictive rather than overwhelming.

Spice lovers may want to try the Diavola ($148) which has salami, basil, and lots of red chilli. It’s not too, too hot and has a nice sweetness.

And lastly we tried the Funghi ($138) which has a generous amount of portobello.

Verdict

Head over and enjoy Emmer almost any time as it’s open for breakfast, lunch, happy hour (drinks start at $38), dinner and for weekend brunch. But be warned, this one won’t stay a secret for long…

Shop no. 407, Level 4, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 2780 1110