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Lotus

Don’t maintain too rigid a focus on your final destination at Dan Hong’s Lotus or you’ll miss some of the journey’s myriad high points. Agreed, “The Cheeseburger” is a small, almost perfectly formed treasure you must try, wowing with its buoyant sesame-seed bun, beef-brisket patty, pickles, bacon and tomato sauce. But there’s plenty to savour en route to that addictive finale, including the light-as-air and tangy flavours of scampi ceviche – South America by way of Hanoi – or the contrasting textures of calamari with chorizo, peas, ricotta and lime. Start in the glossy-glam backroom cocktail bar before sliding onto the banquette among the beau monde in the dining room. Hong’s confident way with flavour, whimsical touches – oversized choc-chip cookie for dessert, anyone? – and savvy floor team elevate Lotus from a casual, if super-cool, local bistro to destination-diner in its own right. THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW CLOSED FOR BUSINESS.