Tucked into Nan Fung Place in Central, the FRANCIS crew—chef Asher Goldstein, James Ward, and sommelier Simone Sammuri—has opened Carmela. This spot draws from the sunny vibes of Greece and Italy, building on their hits: the original FRANCIS in Wan Chai (2018, Tel Aviv style) and FRANCIS West in Soho (2023, North African focus). It's a relaxed yet polished place with warm lighting, simple wooden tables, and chill music that makes you feel like you're on a coastal getaway, not in Hong Kong's hustle.

The Menu: Straightforward, Flavor-Packed Classics

The à-la-carte lineup focuses on fresh, homemade basics: breads baked in-house, hearty pastas, and grilled meats or seafood. Nothing fussy—just good, bold tastes. Early favorites include the whipped mackerel "tarama" (HKD78), a smooth, salty fish roe dip with fresh herbs on crunchy bread—super fresh and addictive. House-smoked sardines (HKD178) come plump and oily, served with a light fennel salad that balances the richness. The linguine with seared tuna, tomatoes, capers, and chili (HKD198) is spot-on: chewy pasta in a bright, spicy sauce with chunks of tuna that melt in your mouth. Don't skip the grilled octopus (HKD238) with a herby glaze or lamb chops (HKD288) on a bed of grains—they're juicy and full of smoke. Simone's wine list has 150 options, from crisp Greek whites to Italian reds, perfect matches for the food. Finish with baklava layers filled with pistachio cream (HKD88) or espresso over gelato—simple and satisfying.

The Vibe: Easy and Inviting

Carmela feels cozy and welcoming, like a neighborhood spot abroad. It's great for a quick lunch or lingering dinner.