Michelin-starred Guest Chef Vincenzo Guarino
Brings a Taste of Authentic Neapolitan Cuisine to Cucina
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel
Dining, 21 February 2024
Born in Naples, Chef Vincenzo fell in love with cooking at the tender age of 14. After graduating from the Roccaraso Hotel Institute in 1998, he undertook internships around Europe with renowned chefs, such as Gualtiero Marchesi in Capri, Peter Wyss in Gstaad and Nazzareno Menghini in Rome.
In 2009, Chef Vincenzo obtained his first Michelin star while working as the executive chef at I Salotti in Hotel Il Patriarca in Tuscany, Italy. He went on to become the executive chef at the Michelin-starred restaurant L’Accanto in Naples from 2012 to 2016. He then worked at restaurant Il Pievano at the Castello di Spaltenna, an exclusive Tuscan resort and spa in Chianti, where he scored yet another Michelin star.
Chef Vincenzo honed his culinary craft at these esteemed Michelin-starred establishments, where he specialised in recipes from both the north and south of Italy. Drawing from his illustrious journey, Chef Vincenzo brings a wealth of experience and innovation to diners’ tables.
A highlight from Chef Vincenzo’s unique creations at Cucina is the Seared Scallop, Cauliflower in Two Versions, Beluga Caviar, Arugula Chips (HK$328). Chef Vincenzo matches the seared scallop with cauliflower to enhance its sweetness. Topped with Beluga caviar and accompanied by crispy arugula chips, this starter delivers a harmonious combination of oceanic sweetness, contrasting textures and a touch of opulence.
Another not-to-be-missed delight is the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio & Fassona Beef Tartare, Parmesan Cheese Sauce, Mustard Mayonnaise, Marinated Egg Yolk, Shaved Black Truffle (HK$298). This exquisite dish showcases the exceptional quality of two varieties of beef, while the mustard mayonnaise, parmesan cheese and egg yolk impart rich and velvety flavours that create a lasting impression.
Guests are also sure to delight in the Carnaroli Risotto with Smoked Provolone Cheese, Broccoli Cream, Italian Sausage, ‘Nduja Powder (HK$348). This decadent creation features the richness of carnaroli risotto elevated with the smoky flavours of provolone cheese and the velvety texture of broccoli cream. It is further enhanced by the savoury notes of Italian sausage and a sprinkle of ‘nduja powder, creating a symphony of flavours that will tantalise all taste buds. Meanwhile, the Slow-cooked Pork Cheek and Glazed Eel in Yakitori Sauce, Ginger & Carrot Purée, Wasabi Chips (HK$428) is a beautiful West-meets-East culinary masterpiece that features tender and succulent pork cheek complemented by the delicate sweetness of glazed eel and the bold flavours of yakitori sauce. A velvety ginger and carrot purée adds a touch of brightness, while the crispy wasabi chips provide a delightful crunch.
For the sweet finale, Chef Vincenzo presents a delicate dessert inspired by the beautiful seaside town of Sorrento in Southern Italy. The Back to ... Sorrento, Lemon Mousse with Lemon Curd Heart (HK$128) is a refreshing dessert that captures the essence of the town by showcasing a velvety lemon mousse with luscious lemon curd. Its charming presentation in the shape of a lemon adds a touch of whimsy, making it a delight for both the eyes and the palate.
Chef Vincenzo’s guest menu at Cucina is available from 6 to 10 March. A tasting dinner menu (HK$888 per person) and à la carte menu is available during both lunch and dinner periods during this period. An exclusive wine-pairing dinner menu (HK$1,388 per person) is available to book on 6 March and will feature exquisite wines from esteemed Campanian winemaker Mastroberardino. Meanwhile, wines by the glass will be available throughout Chef Vincenzo’s five-day visit.
Seats are limited. For bookings, click here.
Cucina – 2024 Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star restaurant
Address: Level 6, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
T +852 2113 0808 E info@cucinahk.com Website: www.cucinahk.com
About Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel
EXPLORE DISCOVER EXPERIENCE
Situated in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, which earned the 2024 Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Award, is part of Harbour City. The hotel comprises 605 luxurious guestrooms and suites, many with breath-taking views of Victoria Harbour. Within walking distance, guests can explore notable landmarks such as the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and 1881 Heritage. The hotel is also on the doorsteps of the Star Ferry terminal and MTR stations.
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel features a lobby lounge; the all-day dining outlet Cafe Marco, which features a wide variety of gourmet cuisines from all over the world; and our 2024 Forbes Travel Guide 4-star Italian restaurant, Cucina. The hotel has 14 function rooms, the largest of which can accommodate up to 430 guests, as well as a dedicated and professional Banquet Services Team.
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel is part of Wharf Hotels, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Ltd Other Wharf Hotels properties in Hong Kong include the Gateway Hotel and Prince Hotel. Further details on Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel are available at marcopolohotels.com.
About Marco Polo Hotels
Inspiration in the Heart of the City
Marco Polo Hotels’ 11 premium hotels in Hong Kong SAR, mainland China and the Philippines reflect the adventurous ethos of the brand’s namesake – Marco Polo. Located in key destinations, each property is active in their community, committed to sustainability and a central hub for gatherings and meaningful local experiences. The brand is part of Wharf Hotels’ portfolio and a member of Global Hotel Alliance, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. For more information, please visit marcopolohotels.com, Instagram or LinkedIn.
About Global Hotel Alliance
Launched in 2010, GHA DISCOVERY is the world’s largest loyalty programme for independent hotel brands, featuring more than 800 hotels, resorts and palaces across 40 brands. Members enjoy VIP recognition, thoughtful benefits and generous rewards at home or away. GHA DISCOVERY members earn and spend DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), an exclusive rewards currency. They also enjoy member-only Experiences curated by each hotel and have access to properties close to home, without a stay, through member-only Local Offers. For more information about GHA DISCOVERY or to join, visit www.ghadiscovery.com or download the GHA DISCOVERY mobile app. Travellers can also connect with GHA DISCOVERY on Instagram and Facebook.
Press Release Downloads
DownloadMs Anissa Wong
Director of Communications
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel | Gateway | Prince
3 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui,
Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
T +852 2118 7281
E anissa.wong@marcopolohotels.com
Ms Queeny Iu
Assistant Communications Manager
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel | Gateway | Prince
3 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
T +852 2113 7316
E queeny.iu@marcopolohotels.com
