Seoul’s beloved Eatanic Garden and Hong Kong’s ESTRO came together for an exceptional event.
In the ever-evolving world of fine dining, where boundaries between cuisines and cultures continually blur, a collaboration dinner often stands as a testament to innovation and mutual respect between culinary artists. On a recent evening, Seoul’s beloved Eatanic Garden and Hong Kong’s ESTRO came together for an exceptional event, offering a gastronomic experience that transcended both expectation and tradition.
The Collaboration: A Perfect Fusion
The evening’s collaboration marked the third time Chefs Jongwon Son and Antimo Merone have worked together, and this shared history was evident in every dish that emerged from the kitchen. Far from the standard format of alternating dishes from each restaurant, this collaboration was a true partnership—one that displayed not just the chefs' individual strengths, but their deep understanding of each other’s culinary visions.
Salt&Herb-baked Lamb Chop with Biondi-Santi Lamb Jus sauce
What set this dinner apart was the fact that every course was uniquely crafted for the event. None of the dishes were simply lifted from the existing menus of either restaurant. Instead, both chefs brought their creative genius to the table, crafting dishes that represented the fusion of Korean and Italian influences in ways that felt fresh and entirely new.
For instance, after a visit to Seoul’s local markets, Chef Merone infused his Italian culinary roots with Korean ingredients, resulting in dishes that tasted familiar yet surprising. The way Korean flavors blended effortlessly into Italian tradition was nothing short of remarkable. The menu was a reflection of careful planning, creativity, and respect for both cultures—a culinary symphony performed by two masters.
A Night of Refined Elegance
At Eatanic Garden, the restaurant’s signature elegant service enhanced the evening’s experience. Known for its seamless balance of warmth and professionalism, the staff delivered each course with grace, complementing the intricate dishes with thoughtful wine pairings. The sommelier’s choice of Italian wines was another highlight, offering a harmonious pairing that elevated the flavors on the plate while showcasing the diversity of Italy’s wine regions.
As the night unfolded, it became clear that this was not just another collaboration dinner. It was an event where both chefs pushed the boundaries of their respective cuisines, creating a menu that could only be experienced in that moment. From start to finish, each dish told a story of creative synergy—a testament to the possibilities that emerge when two brilliant minds unite.
Click photos to view closely
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Culinary Collaborations
In an era where diners crave not just great food but memorable experiences, this collaboration between Eatanic Garden and ESTRO sets a new standard. It demonstrated how fine dining can be a bridge between cultures, using food as a universal language. The meticulous attention to detail, the deep respect for ingredients, and the willingness to take risks all contributed to a dining experience that was truly one-of-a-kind.
As collaboration dinners continue to grow in popularity, it will be exciting to see how these two renowned restaurants evolve in future partnerships. For now, those who were fortunate enough to attend this extraordinary event will carry with them the memory of a night where Korean and Italian cuisines danced in perfect harmony—a night that redefined what is possible in the world of fine dining.
The collaboration between Eatanic Garden and ESTRO is more than just a highlight on the culinary calendar. It’s a bold reminder that great food transcends borders, bringing people together through a shared appreciation of creativity and craftsmanship. The evening was a resounding success, showcasing not only the talents of both chefs but also the future of collaborative culinary artistry.
For those who missed it, this dinner may never be replicated in the same way. But as both restaurants continue to push the envelope, one thing is certain: their future collaborations will be eagerly anticipated by food lovers worldwide.
Eatanic Garden: Where Nature Meets Elegance
Nestled in the heart of Seoul, Eatanic Garden is renowned for its nature-inspired cuisine, led by Chef Jongwon Son. The restaurant emphasizes sustainability, sourcing ingredients directly from local farmers, creating menus that reflect the seasons and the natural bounty of Korea. Eatanic Garden’s cuisine is modern yet grounded, seamlessly integrating elements of traditional Korean ingredients with contemporary techniques. With a serene atmosphere and impeccable service, this restaurant is a culinary oasis that champions Korea’s rich food culture.
ESTRO: A Taste of Italy with a Modern Twist
On the other hand, ESTRO in Hong Kong, under the direction of Chef Antimo Merone, is known for its contemporary Italian dishes that pay homage to Italy’s culinary heritage while also reimagining it for the modern palate. Chef Merone brings to life the soulful flavors of his homeland, particularly from the southern regions, by combining age-old techniques with avant-garde presentations. His menus offer a journey through Italy’s varied terroirs and traditions, making ESTRO a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience Italy through a new lens.
Comments