Yardbird: Soho Yakitori Spot is Hong Kong’s Hottest New Restaurant
We have a chat with Beverage Manager Elliot Faber.
The first solo project Yardbird by Matt Abergel of Zuma and New York City’s Masa has recently opened its doors in Sheung Wan.
Chances are you’ve already heard of it, as according to CnnGo and hordes of satisfied diners it is Hong Kong’s newest “it restaurant.” The concept is simple and refreshingly so. Good chicken parts on a stick yakitori done right along with some Izakaya favorites and all served up in a casual, fun atmosphere. However, simplicity aside, these guys take yakitori very seriously. That and the whole experience is elevated by an impressive wine list including Sake, Shochu and yummy cocktails.
We sat down with Beverage Manager Elliot Faber to discuss the pleasures and pitfalls of finding the perfect wine for yakitori.
Hi Elliot, tell us a little about yourself.
Matt Abergel and I are childhood friends from Canada and we have always wanted to work together. Where Matt was into food, I immersed myself into the world of wine. I ran an Italian wine store for three years, as well as put on an international wine festival, coordinated wine events and even developed wine and dining packages for Visa.
What is the concept behind Yardbird?
The concept is simple: essentially modern yakitori. We all have a lot of experience with traditional Japanese izakayas and yakitori places, and we all have a passion for Japanese food and culture. Our chickens are sourced fresh from the most eco-conscious farmers in Hong Kong and slaughtered for us everyday. Even the charcoal is sourced especially from a specific tree in Japan.
What are the challenges of pairing wine with yakitori?
First, yakitori makes up about 50% of the menu at Yardbird. Japanese flavours tend to be very simple and obvious: sweet, sour, umami, maybe a little bitter. So, I tend to select wines that are very simple and can really set the stage for the food. Although I have a passion for Italian wines first and foremost, I come from a North American wine perspective and, as such, want to use more and more wines that are difficult to find elsewhere in Hong Kong. Also, I include lots of Sakes and Shochu (rice liquor).
One of the most fun parts is the Sake and Shochu. I’ve been to Japan so many times, and I worked as a brand manager for an artisanal Sake maker in Canada, so I love the opportunity of educating people about the world of Sake and Shochu.
So, what can we expect from a drinking experience at Yardbird?
You’ll get a very casual, friendly and informal education. After all, that’s what it’s all about.
- Yardbird is open Monday- Saturday from 6 until late.
- Yarbird, 33-35 Bridges St.Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Tel: 2547 9273
- Or, find them on the web.
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