Zuma

When we want something jazzed up, something showy, we head to Zuma for Japanese food with an international feel.

Chef Matt Abergel, formerly of New York's Masa, oversees Zuma's three open kitchens. He also ensures all the dishes come out looking sexy.

Zuma's casual atmopshere is inspired by izakayas -- tableware is minimal and rustic, chopsticks are disposable -- but more than a few diners dress up for the occasion. This is one of Hong Kong's most check-me-out venues and many patrons inspect each other more than they do the menu.

That's a pity.

Zuma serves everything from sushi to lamb chops and the presentation is stunning, inspired by kado.

Bowls of flown-in-this-morning sashimi glow like gems on beds of ice. The dessert platter is like a model of a city built with sorbets, cakes and exotic fruits.