Conjuring images of bearded men chugging pints between arm-wrestling matches, the tavern has come a long way since its medieval origins. Lucques Tavern has swung open its doors in the footsteps of other eateries featuring the boozy suffix. But far from being a rustic hall, the atmosphere here speaks more of simple sophistication than boisterous beer-guzzling.
Considering its space and classic no-frills cuisine, Lucques could become a hotspot for office lunch. Featuring a standard soup entrée and tea/coffee combo, we sample the signature Lucques Burger ($138) and the Lucques Summer Salad ($98) set lunches.
Juicy and seasoned well – thanks to generous portions of bacon and cheddar – and wrapped up in a sweet brioche bun, the burger is a solid success. Also, the lovely thyme-infused apple coleslaw puts the most personality on this plate. The salad, however, blandly underwhelms.
Overall good service and some nice touches like bread, olives and nuts before our meal arrives wipes away any dissatisfaction that the salad may have aroused. May need to check out the beer during dinnertime. Li Meng de Bakker
Lucques Tavern Shop OT315, 3/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, 17 Canton Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2735 6111. Mon-Thu & Sun 10.30am-11pm, Fri & Sat 10.30am-midnight. Lunch for two: about $250.