Why Hong Kong Can’t Get Enough of Fried Tripe

You won’t believe how much Hong Kong loves fried tripe! Dive into this culinary adventure that blends rustic Italian flavors with local flair.

The Surprising Love for Fried Tripe in Hong Kong

Who would have thought that Hong Kong, a city known for its fine dining and star-rated restaurants, would fall head over heels for something as humble as fried tripe? Yet, here we are, witnessing a gastronomic revolution where locals are queuing up for hearty dishes like chicken gizzards and grilled marrow. The restaurant at the center of this frenzy is Testina, an offshoot of Milan’s famed Trippa. Diego Rossi, the mind behind Trippa, has managed to cultivate a passion for rustic Italian cuisine that focuses on the fifth quarter—those often-overlooked cuts of meat that tell their own delicious story.

My own love affair with these flavors began when I first tasted Testina’s fried tripe. It’s crispy on the outside but tender within—simply irresistible! The sheer boldness of offering such traditional fare in a city that typically leans towards high-end dining sparked my curiosity. How did they manage to pull this off?

A Culinary Adventure Through Tradition and Innovation

At Testina, Marco Xodo heads the kitchen and has created a menu that blends traditional Italian comfort food with local ingredients. When he returned from his culinary stint in Shanghai during the pandemic, he was met with both challenges and opportunities. “We opened at the worst moment in history,” he told me, recounting how initial COVID restrictions forced them to be adaptable.

This adaptability is reflected in their menu, which features classics like fried tripe, pig’s head terrine, and rich pappardelle made from free-range chicken ragù. Each dish tells a story—not just of Italian culinary heritage but also of the shared experiences between cultures.

• Fried Tripe: Crisp and savory.
• Grilled Marrow: Rich flavor bomb.
• Pappardelle: Comforting homemade goodness.

These offerings have created an unexpected connection with locals who are keen to embrace new culinary experiences.

Navigating Challenges in a New Market

One of the biggest challenges faced by Testina is pricing—especially given Hong Kong’s notoriously high cost of living. With an average meal costing around 100 euros (considerably less than many fine-dining options), they occupy a sweet spot between affordability and quality. This positioning allows them to attract diverse clientele—from adventurous locals to expatriates craving authentic Italian fare.

In my chats with Xodo, I learned about their sourcing strategy: many ingredients come directly from Italy. This ensures that every bite maintains authenticity while still catering to seasonal availability. The inclusion of items like black cabbage or seasonal nuts gives the menu freshness while respecting traditional recipes—a balance that’s both delicate and demanding.

Embracing Change: A Shift in Wine Culture

As Testina gains traction, wine culture in Hong Kong is also evolving. Traditionally dominated by French wines showcased in grand displays, there’s now an emerging interest in lesser-known varietals from small producers across Italy—and even natural wines from places like Etna.

Luciano Calabrese, their sommelier, embraces this trend by pairing everyday dishes with exciting wines that elevate the dining experience without overshadowing it. It reflects a broader shift toward accessibility—guests are increasingly interested in exploring new flavors without having to splurge on high-end bottles.

• Natural Wines: Gaining popularity among younger diners.
• Regional Amari: A delightful end to any meal.
• Curated Selections: Tailored pairings enhance meals beautifully.

The goal? To create an environment where guests feel comfortable experimenting with wine choices while enjoying dishes they may not have considered before.

FAQ About Dining at Testina

What should I order at Testina?

You can’t go wrong with their fried tripe and pappardelle! Don’t forget to explore their daily specials too!

Is it kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Their casual atmosphere makes it welcoming for families; just check for any spicy items on the menu if your kids are sensitive!

Do they offer takeout?

Yes! Perfect for those days when you want delicious food at home without cooking yourself.

What’s special about their wine selection?

They focus on lesser-known Italian producers and natural wines—perfect for adventurous drinkers!

How do I get a reservation?

Reservations can be made through their website or by calling directly; it’s highly recommended due to popularity!

Photo by Jose Antonio Gallego Vázquez on Unsplash