Fireside: Hong Kong’s Open-Fire Culinary Masterpiece
In the heart of Hong Kong’s bustling Central district, a primal yet sophisticated revolution is taking place.
Fireside, a modern steakhouse located in the H Code building, has captivated the city’s most discerning foodies by stripping away the gimmicks of modern kitchens and returning to the most fundamental element of cooking:
fire.
A Global Ranking of Excellence
Fireside is not just a local favorite; it has earned international prestige by securing the
#50 spot in the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2024/2025. More impressively, it currently holds the title of the
#1 steakhouse in Greater China. This accolade acknowledges its commitment to sourcing the world’s finest heritage breeds and executing traditional techniques with modern finesse.
The Art of the Open Flame
Led by Executive Chef
Jaime Ortolá, Fireside rejects gas stoves and electric ovens. Instead, the kitchen centers around a custom-built open-fire grill fueled by
Spanish Binichotan charcoal and
aromatic Oakwood. This method infuses every cut of meat with a distinct smokiness and a perfectly seared crust that cannot be replicated by conventional means.
The restaurant is famous for its
dry-aging room, where rare cuts are matured to enhance their flavor profile. Unlike typical steakhouses that focus solely on USDA Prime or standard Wagyu, Fireside specializes in “retired” cows and heritage breeds, such as the legendary
Spanish Rubia Gallega (aged up to 9 years) and the world-renowned
El Capricho beef.
Beyond the Steak
While the beef is the star, the “fire-focused” philosophy extends to the entire menu. The
Ma Yau (Threadfin), a local favorite, is dry-aged for several days before being grilled to achieve crispy skin and buttery flesh. Even the vegetables and desserts are kissed by smoke, creating a cohesive dining experience that celebrates the versatility of the flame.
Sophisticated Atmosphere
The interior of Fireside strikes a balance between
industrial chic and
rustic warmth. The open kitchen serves as a theatrical
tigris grill centerpiece, allowing diners to witness the intense heat and craftsmanship behind their meal. For those looking for a more relaxed vibe, the outdoor terrace offers a rare al fresco dining opportunity amidst the skyscrapers of Pottinger Street.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you are visiting for a high-value
Executive Lunch (starting around HK$398) or a lavish multi-course dinner, reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant’s limited seating and soaring popularity.
- Location: 5/F, The Steps, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong.
- Reservations: Official Fireside Website
Fireside is more than just a steakhouse; it is a testament to the beauty of slow, intentional cooking. For any meat lover visiting Hong Kong, it is an essential pilgrimage to experience the pinnacle of fire-grilled gastronomy.
