New menu review: MEATS by Pirata Group in Soho, Hong Kong

Flavour-packed new dishes at MEATS, a meat-focused Pirata Group restaurant

While places in Soho come and go, MEATS has remained popular since it opened in 2017. The vibe is casual yet chic, a great spot for dates, group dinners, and definitely for happy hour (on 7 days a week) where cocktails and bar bites start from just $40. I visited twice when it first opened and thought it was OK. Quite good but only one or two dishes really stood out.

Having recently gone back to check out their new menu, I think the restaurant has matured well and the dishes are better than ever.

This probably doesn’t need to be said but, in case there’s any doubt, MEATS really lives up to its name. If you’re a meat lover, this is definitely a restaurant you don’t want to miss.

Chicken Liver Pate ($95)

The pate had an airy texture and spread easily on the toasts. It also came as a very generous portion which allowed us to pile it on! Flavour-wise, it’s quite light and candied pecans and onion jam complemented it well.

Wagyu Carpaccio ($120)

Just look at these slices of Wagyu. This was one of my favourite dishes of the night. The quality of the meat was great, fragrant and tender, and the accompanying ‘nduja oil, burrata and mustard seeds added real depth. A must order.

U.F.C. aka Ultimate Fried Chicken ($90)

Who can resist nuggets of chicken thigh coated in Doritos? The meat was very moist and tender though the seasoning itself was a little plain. Definitely good to dunk this one in the accompanying tangy ‘comeback’ sauce (reminds me of chipotle sauce). This is also on the Happy Hour menu for just $50.

BBQ Beef Ribs ($230)

These slow cooked beef ribs are fab. Smokey, tender and with a creamy yet tangy BBQ sauce.

Pluma ($190)

Pork is one of my favourite meats and I thought this pluma was excellent. Each bite was delicious with the edges giving excellent crispy, fatty flavour. Delicious on its own, more refreshing with the juicy pineapple salsa.

Truffle Mac & Cheese ($90)

Loved the fragrant cheddar bechamel sauce with hints of black truffle paste and topped with panko. Sometimes I think mac and cheese dishes can be a bit bland but no such worries with this one.

Verdict

Since my last visit, I feel the recipes and quality of the meat has improved. And yet the prices remain super affordable. There’s a lot to love on the new menu so I definitely hope to come back soon whether for brunch, dinner or the amazing happy hour deals.

G/F Soho, 28-30 Staunton St, Central, 2711 1812