Joining the Dots: Fashion Editorial with Dorota M

A fashion editorial for Kee magazine - with the incredible and ageless wonder that is Dorota. 

Photography: Leila Cranswick 

Stylist: Stephanie Holding Shah 

Hair and Makeup: Karen Yiu 

Model: Dorota Menard at Models International (HK). 

Producer: P.Ramakrishnan

Behind the label: Melanie Georgacopoulos

Who started it? Half French and half Greek, Melanie Georgacopoulos gained a master of arts degree in jewellery design at the Royal College of Art in London. During a much-travelled youth, she absorbed the artwork, monuments and architecture of Athens and other historic cities across Europe. Although she studied sculpture in Edinburgh, Scotland, Georgacopoulos' interests shifted to fashion and soon she was designing accessories. After Georgacopoulos exhibited her collection during last year's Paris Fashion Week, at the Valery Demure showroom, her multisyllabic name was on the lips of many of the rich and fashionable. Her latest line, the stunning Pearl collection, was inspired by a pearl necklace she inherited from her grandmother.

Why we love it: for taking the classic pearl necklace and accessories and reworking them into a contemporary style. The pearl necklace is no longer solely in the realm of women of a certain age. Georgacopoulos often incorporates pearls with silver and gold. Her rings and necklaces, which come with a creative twist and a flourish of interesting geometry and lines, have an art-deco feel. Impeccable quality adds to the allure and, with the different sizes and shapes of the freshwater pearls used, the price tags vary, too.

What we would pick: the three-in-one Butterfly Shell bangle (below; HK$22,480), studded with white freshwater pearls on gold wire; the "X" bracelet (above right; HK$13,720) with ascending white freshwater pearls and gold-plated silver chains, and the Arlequin pendant (above left; HK$8,730).

Where can you get it? Melanie Georgacopoulos jewellery is available at Hammer Gallery, 8 Tai On Terrace, Sheung Wan, tel: 9166 3757.

Byline: P. Ramakrishnan
December 18, 2011

Fashionistas click their heels and march smartly to new Shoe Library to greet their guru Louboutin: Christian Louboutin in Hong Kong

Footwear fans now have another place where they can splurge on killer heels. Lane Crawford's newly renovated Canton Road store has more than 25,000 square feet dedicated to shoes on a floor styled by local designer Andre Fu. 

The upmarket retail chain invited French shoe designer Christian Louboutin to Monday's grand opening of The Shoe Library. Famous for his signature red-soled, flirty and super-sexy heels, Louboutin is no stranger to Hong Kong, having first visited in 1994. He has also just produced a coffee table book to celebrate 20 years in the trade. 

Some of the city's most stylish women took time out of their busy festive schedules to meet the mastermind. Qiqi Yam, model and wife of veteran actor Simon Yam Tat-wah, has a hectic timetable for the holidays, but wasn't going to miss the chance to greet the man responsible for her shoe racks. 

"Our family and about 20 friends are off to Taiwan for Christmas and to visit Simon on his film set," Yam said. 

Meanwhile, later that same night, at a book signing at The Space, the audible gasp as the dapper Louboutin strutted in could be measured in high decibels as the ever-so-fashionable designer sat for two uninterrupted hours, signing his HK$1,400 book, Christian Louboutin - 20 Years. 

“I don’t design shoes according to country, origin, borders,” he said, between posing for a flurry of i-cams. “I just make shoes to make women feel beautiful. Every time I’ve come to Hong Kong, its been a wonderful experience. The beautiful women of all ages, I feel loved – and I love them back.” 

Among those loved women, we found Marisa Zeman in the melee, “I have several of his shoes and of course I’m a huge fan”, she said, pointing to her own black, pointy-toed, red soled pairs. “I sat next to him at a dinner last year and he’s the most charming man.” 

We saw a phalanx of models, led by the perpetually lovely Jocelyn Luko armed with hubby Anthony Sandstrom and model turned ace travel photographer David Elliot at the event. The gorgeous stylist Tina Leung was seen racing in at the n’th hour, after a long shoot that kept her away, while fashion blogger, the bespectacled Denise Lai was seen trying to grab a quick shot of the man himself. 

The delightful Marina Bullivant was seen chatting with Shirley Hiranand and Reyna Harilela who were there in their bejeweled Indian finery – as they were hosting the event just as the festivities of Aaron Harilela’s wedding had begun on the other side of the island. 

It wasn’t just the women, the ever-fashionable Peter Cheung, from Van Cleef & Arpels, was seen in a black men’s shoe studded with silver dots, “They’re really comfortable too.” 

Words every designer wants to hear. 

P. Ramakrishnan

* Photos from my cam - the pro shots were in print! Rama

Hold the romance - Shahrukh Khan's back to being a baddie in big-budget Bollywood export

After a string of Bollywood rom-coms over the past decade, Shahrukh Khan returns to form as a ruthless underworld kingpin in Don 2. Khan's rise to the pinnacle of fame in films where be took the role of villainous anti-heros, film producer Ritesh Sidhwani said.

"We remember him as the bad guy in Darr [Fear]," Sidhwani said by phone from Dubai, where he will attend the emirate's premiere. "He was so thrilling to watch. When we started making the movie, we needed someone who had endless charisma on screen - because we wanted the audience to not repel against a lead protagonist who is essentially bad, he kills people, blows up buildings.

"Who else but Shahrukh Khan to play a role that winks at the audience with a 'you know I'm bad, but you still love me' vibe?"

Who indeed. With inspiration from a series of action flicks, and an international crew, location and massive budget, Don 2 is mercifully short. The leads don't break into a jig at the drop of a hat.

"If we made the lead gangster turn good in this movie - like a Robin Hood character that does bad, but for the good of mankind - then, the film doesn't work," Sidhwani said. "We don't explain why this character is bad. He just is."

The film opens simultaneously this week in Hong Kong, India, the United States, Britain and other countries. "We've found distributors from around the world approaching us, as there's a fascination with Indian cinema that's been on a slow but constant rise," Sidhwani said.

Don 2, in Hindi with English subtitles, opens tomorrow at Kowloon's Golden Gateway and GH Whampoa cinemas.

December 21, 2011
Byline: P. Ramakrishnan
E-mail: ramakrishnanp@hotmail.com

Filling the Gap: American behemoth GAP lands in Hong Kong

After a much ballyhooed billboard campaign, which has been staring down over large areas of Central for the past few months, GAP has finally arrived in Hong Kong. 

The soft opening of the brand's Hong Kong flagship store on November 25 created a hard-sell buzz, especially among shoppers familiar with this affordable fashion retailer, which first opened in San Francisco in 1969. 

Within its 15,000 sq ft of retail space, four floors of happy Americana can be found. On offer are the brand's age-specific collections, including Gap for adults, GapKids, babyGap, GapBody and 1969 denim, as well as loads of casual clothes (T-shirts, hoodies, tops, jeans) emblazoned with prominent Gap logos in a wide range of colours. 

Tees (HK$199), knitwear (men's and women's for HK$449 per item) and denim jeans (HK$299 to HK$549) will not break the bank. And with socks, underwear, leggings and undershirts at less than HK$100, the bare necessities seem like the best bargain. 

Gap is at 31 Queen's Road Central, tel: 2885 0789. 

Byline: P. Ramakrishnan

E:mail: ramakrishnanp@hotmail.com

Ride of her life: Fit and Fab Pearl Tam: Health Post feature

Fit & Fab column for South China Morning Post

Ride of her Life: Pearl Tam

Words: P. Ramakrishnan

It's less than five years since Pearl Tam became a triathlete, but the 42-year-old is now one of the sport's keenest advocates in Hong Kong. The physical transformation aside (her waistline is notably slimmer, she says), this regime of swimming, cycling and running has had a host of health benefits, too. 

"I used to have back problems, little health issues were creeping up as I grew older," she says. These days, she no longer has those aches and pains, and is rarely ill. Before her foray into multisport, she used to run just for fun in gyms or outdoors around Sha Tin. Then, in 2007, she joined Titan Triathlon Club and, for the first time, had a proper training programme to follow. 

"I grew more focused. I worked out harder," she says. "I work harder in my office, too, as I'm more focused and goal-oriented." Tam, who lives in Tai Lam, enjoys working out on the trails and riding around the country park in that area. "In a gym, you can run and run, but you're going nowhere. In the countryside, there's a goal in sight, a beginning, middle and end. You feel like you've accomplished something after every run or ride." 

Did a triathlon seem overwhelming in the beginning, especially since you came to it so late? "Maybe, but I'm one of those people who want to meet a challenge head on. When I decided I was going to work out harder, stronger and better, I didn't let anything stop me. It's both a mental and physical challenge, in equal measure. For some people, getting up early to work out is hard as they don't want to get out of bed. I usually train at night because of my day job [at a toy factory] and busy mornings. So even when I'm tired after work, I say to myself: "It doesn't matter; I must work out." And then I take the 10-minute drive to the location, change and go for it. 

What's been the biggest challenge? 

The hardest part for me was the swimming. I didn't know how to swim front crawl before I joined the triathlon club. The coach gave me some exercises and taught me techniques to conquer the discipline. Now I'm a bit more relaxed about it. I always ran in the past, so that was no problem, and biking is always enjoyable. I used to bike for fun before; now it's more strenuous, of course. 

Can anyone do this? 

Yes, I think anybody can do this. You don't need an expensive gym membership, huge personal trainer fees or designer workout wear - just the will to do it. The most expensive part of this is probably getting a good, light bike, but that's a one-off expense. You can get a cheap bike, too, if you can't commit to the sport and just want to try it first. When you're sure, you'll feel self-motivated to get the best equipment. For running and swimming, your body is the best equipment. 

Did you ever hit the proverbial wall and think you can't do this any more? 

Sometimes I have that feeling, but I say to myself: "It's all or nothing." When I work, I work harder when I feel I'm getting tired; I tell myself to. When I feel bad during a swim, I say to myself: "Keep going." The body won't fail you first. It's your mind playing tricks on you. 

Do you have a role model? 

Daniel Lee Chi-wo, the former Hong Kong triathlon champion who was one of Asia's best. I don't think he competes any more, but he remains in great shape. He has a bike shop, and when I went there to get my bike, I kept stealing glances at him. 

Is there a particular goal in mind? 

I want to do more competitions, like the Kam Sheung Road Duathlon organised by Titan Triathlon two Sundays ago. In Hong Kong, I'm always looking for races I can compete in. The purpose isn't to come first or second, but just to participate. I encourage my friends to just try it. That's another goal, to get more people involved. 

How would you encourage others to join the sport? 

I'd tell them that it's not just for health and fitness reasons, it's a lifestyle choice. And somehow, being a triathlete also makes you do better at everything else, too. It clears your mind and keeps you physically fit. You'll work better no matter what your job is. If you skateboard, do rowing or ride a bike, you'll do those things better, too. 

Is it an individualistic sport? 

It can be. I train by myself and with friends. It's up to the individual. I found it a great way to meet people. It's a very social sport. I have made a lot of new friends. When we see one another running, swimming or riding we always encourage each other. The competitive streak only comes out during races. While we're training we want everyone to do better. We discuss future competitions, common goals and the many amusing things that have happened during races. 

December 20, 2011 

Health Post Pic Caption: Pearl Tam says training for multisport events has sharpened her mind and her body, and helped make her more focused in the workplace. Photo: K.Y. Cheng

Behind the label: Prerna Kumari: Traditional Indian jewellery designer in Hong Kong

Who started it? Indian-born, Hong Kong-bred and London-educated Prerna Chainani launched her exclusive line of Indian-inspired jewellery in New York, in 2003, originally selling exclusively at Neiman Marcus. The name of the brand sets the tone for the authentic bejewelled pieces: Prerna (Sanskrit for "inspiration") and Kumari (Sanskrit for "princess") are indicative of the designer's obeisance to a bygone regal era. The pieces are resplendent with chunks of precious stones of the kind that adorned India's royal dynasties. "[The brand is inspired by] a mixture of items I found in my mother's jewellery boxes, which were more 70s, and the really traditional stuff from a previous century, the inheritance items," says Chainani, who has recently relocated to Hong Kong from the United States. "The idea was to modernise it, to make it more relevant to my life in New York." The brand has been featured in fashion magazines such as W, Surface and InStyle. 

Why we love it: finely crafted, with rose-cut and brilliant-cut diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, rubies and tourmalines all set in 22-carat gold, the jewellery evokes a sense of history, but with a fresh approach. Hand-crafted by artisans and goldsmiths in Jaipur, in Rajasthan state, and Maharashtra, with stones picked from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, the intricate designs are a hybrid of Western-inspired jewellery (chandeliers, cuffs and hoop earrings) with the patterns and styling of Hindu regalia combined with Arabesque swirls. The Asiatic feel of the chunky bracelets, neck pieces and art deco-style cuffs can be mixed and matched with any outfit, be it Occidental or Oriental. 

What we'd pick: the 22-carat gold necklace studded with multicoloured tourmalines, rose-cut diamonds, quartz crystal and hand-painted enamel (above; HK$224,000) should adorn a swan-like neck and makes a stop-and-stare statement piece. Or else, there's the art deco-inspired gold cuff (left; HK$187,000), which glisters with white and coloured diamonds, blue and pink sapphires, peridot, amethysts and citrine stones. 

Where can you get it? Prerna Kumari jewellery can be bought online at www.prernakumari.com or by direct appointment with Chainani (e-mail: info@prernakumari.com). 

December 11, 2011 

Byline: P.Ramakrishnan 

Post Magazine, 

The South China Morning Post

Joining the Dots: Fashion Spread for Kee magazine: All gals dream team

Blouse by Bailey 44 at Harvey Nichols
Veil by Maison Michel at On Pedder
Necklace by Louis Mariette at Harvey Nichols

Dress by Antonino Valenti at Harvey Nichols
Belt by Dress Gallery at Rue Madame
Boots by Sergio Rossi
Choker by Van Cleef & Arpels

Blouse by Bailey 44 at Harvey Nichols
Veil by Maison Michel at On Pedder
Necklace by Louis Mariette at Harvey Nichols

Blouse by Gucci
Skirt by Beatrixe at Harvey Nichols
Necklace and earrings by King Fook
Ring by Qeelin

Dress by Diane Von Furstenberg
Bowtie by Ralph Lauren
Cuff by Lanvin at On Pedder
Ring by Van Cleef & Arpels

Dress by Marc Jacobs
Earrings by King Fook

Dress by Antonino Valenti at Harvey Nichols
Belt by Dress Gallery at Rue Madame
Boots by Sergio Rossi
Choker by Van Cleef & Arpels

Blouse and top by Marc Jacobs
Trousers by Sandro at Rue Madame
Boots by Tabitha Simmons at Lane Crawford
Earrings by Van Cleef & Arpels
Ring by King Fook

Credits: 

Photography by Leila Cranswick

Stylist: Stephanie Holding-Shah
Hair & Makeup: Karen Yiu
Model: Dorota M from Models International

'Harry Potter' starlet braves snap-arazzi and charms the VIPs: Emma Watson in Hong Kong: Cityseen column

If there was a miniature tidal wave lapping at the shores of Central this week, blame it on the screaming fans who lined up around Italian restaurant Spasso as Harry Potter star Emma Watson walked in to the Harbour City Mall to be greeted by the squeals of young fans trying to capture her on camera. 

Escorted by eight bodyguards and minders, the snap-arrazi descended upon the young starlet on Wednesday as she launched Lancome’s new line of cosmetics, as the face of the French brand’s new ad-campaign. 

She braved the local press with bewildered amusement as the paps shouted out: “Emma, here! To the Left. Emma! Emma!” 

“I don’t usually wear any lipstick or much make-up,” the young model and recent Vogue cover girl said. “But Lancome’s introduced me to this great line and I’m wearing them all the time now.” 

At the dinner, Tina Leung, the stylish stylist, ran into the event fashionably late, but just in time for the first course. Leung grabbed a quiet moment with the 21-year-old star. “She said to me, she was wearing an Elie Saab dress and Jimmy Choo shoes. Emma’s so lovely but she looked like a frightened little dove – so many people were just hounding her for a picture inside at the dinner!” 

Local supermodel Jocelyn Luko had pleasant things to say about the young spokesmodel. “She’s so cute, And she had no attitude and posed with so many people.” 

Dancer Faye Leung took a break from her sojourn in Macau with House of Dancing Water to perform at the event with her dance partner, while singer Kit Chan also performed two classics, La Vie en Rose and Wind Beneath My Wings. 

CITYSEEN 

P. Ramakrishnan 

Dec 09, 2011

The Arc of a Diver: South African Diver's stellar career as a model in Asia: David Oshry

Fit & Fab: David Oshry 

Health Post Weekly Column

Words: P. Ramakrishnan

Images: Sabrina Sikora 

Years before David Oshry, one of Asia’s top male models, posed in swimsuits, he competed in them. From ages eight to 18, he was a diver, jumping off boards around his native South Africa, where he competed against the best athletes in the region. 

In 1996, he made the Olympic team, but to his dismay, the South African government decided not to send a diving team to Atlanta in the US that year. “It was a political and financial thing,” says Oshry, 30. “I still have my Speedo trunks and a box full of medals in the bottom of a cupboard at my parents’ house in South Africa. There is no way the Speedo would fit me now.” 

That’s not to say he’s out of shape – it’s because he’s put on about two pants sizes in muscle since he quit diving and starting training in the gym. Sport has always been part of his life. In his younger days he also swam and dabbled in athletics, soccer, tennis, squash, field hockey and chess, “until I realised it wasn’t really a sport”, he laughs. “When you have spent most of your life training really hard, I find it is kind of like an addiction,” says Oshry. “If I miss gym for more than three or four days I get cranky and experience what can only be described as withdrawal symptoms. It’s not that different from giving up cigarettes or alcohol.” 

South China Morning Post: So what does a diver’s workout consist of? 

David Oshry: An average workout would begin with about 45 minutes to an hour of stretching, muscle building and strength exercises. Then it’s either into the water or, if it is too cold, train on the trampoline. The water is the most tiring aspect. It doesn’t sound like hard work, but when you dive over and over again, about 100 times a session, it eventually wears you down. 

SCMP: Were you on a special diet? 

David Oshry: I used to follow a “see food” diet. That is when you see food, you eat it. I just remember being hungry all the time. I used to eat more than all the other members of my family put together. 

Did the training teach you to be disciplined, or were you always that way? 

David Oshry: I don’t think of it as discipline. It’s more like conditioning. I started out at a young age doing things a certain way, over and over again. By the time I was old enough to question whether this was the way I wanted to do things, I already had certain character traits ingrained in my personality. Character traits such as never giving up, no matter how tough a task is physically or mentally, or how distant the reward seems. Or being able to step forward, peer over the edge of a three-storey concrete tower, turn your back to the water, and jump off. 

SCMP: Are you still a competitive person? 

David Oshry: If I try a sport and I am not instantly good at it, I feel like an amateur and I don’t like it. But that’s really just a fancy way of saying that if I can’t win at something, I don’t want to play. 

SCMP: Do you still dive? 

David Oshry: I seldom dive anymore. Diving isn’t like riding a bicycle. I can’t just pick up where I left off. I can still do some very basic things, although not very well. Compared to what I used to be able to do, it is downright embarrassing. 

SCMP: There are many gym fans out there who aren’t as cut as you – so what are you doing differently? 

David Oshry: The single biggest thing that I do differently is that I go to the gym and I work out. A lot of people these days are looking for a magic formula, that new special routine or exercise where they don’t have to sweat, where it doesn’t hurt and they don’t get too tired. Well the truth is, there is no zero-impact, feel-good exercise that lets you eat anything you want and still look great without putting in the effort. It really isn’t rocket science. 

SCMP: Which exercise routine or diet have you found works best for you? 

David Oshry: I like the Body for Life way by the author and celebrity motivator Bill Phillips. He advises things such as eating more small meals through the day instead of three large meals. I also prefer to go to the gym more frequently and work out for a shorter time. If I ever spend more than an hour in the gym, I know that it will get harder to convince myself to go back the next time. And I am a firm believer in taking one day a week off from your diet and gym routine. 

SCMP: Do you have any indulgences? 

David Oshry: I enjoy a beer or three on occasion. The trick is to try to make sure that your off-days coincide with your day off. 

Behind The Label: Titikaka X Johanna Ho: Hong Kong Designer shoes: Post magazine

Who started it? It's a collaboration between Hong Kong designer Johanna Ho and local shoe company Titikaka. The two new collections of fun, funky and fashionable footwear were inspired by the 1980s American sitcom Punky Brewster. This goes some way to explaining why the shoes are sparkling and effervescent with a tongue-in-chic vibe. 

Why we love it: because the shoes are gleeful and girlish, with equal amounts of edginess and femininity. Using materials as diverse as gold-sprayed leather, snake skin and metal studs, Ho hasn't neglected style (see the ankle- length platforms) over comfort (see the simply stitched flats). The designer was also inspired by her children's glitter artwork. The result is a footwear collection filled with mirth - and, yes, a little reminiscent of this season's sparkly Miu Miu shoes. 

What we'd pick: we like the silver almost-flat shoe (below left; HK$2,280) for everyday wear. For evening events, there's the beige stitched platform (below right; HK$3,880) and the more outrageous multicoloured glittery peep-toe platform (below centre; HK$3,880). 

Where can you get it? Titikaka X Johanna Ho is available at Titikaka, 15 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, tel: 2850 8684. 

Byline: P. Ramakrishnan

Behind the label: jac5

Who started it? Former investment banker James A. Christopher, founded the brand, which launched last month, in frustration over the lack of quality and personality in many men's underwear departments. The New Yorker found that while designer undies were luxurious, they were either over-priced or lacked style. In 1996, he co-founded, along with Australian designer Peter Reeve, interior design firm CRD. In 2005, when Christopher and his partner moved to Hong Kong, he decided to harness his collective interests in design, the arts and travel to creating jac5. Using designers and manufacturers in Australia, he launched his premium brand of cosy and fashionable garments imbued with his mischievous sense of humour. The brand name is the founder's initials and the number of Jack Russell terriers he keeps - which also provided the logo for this distinctly cheeky label.

Why we love it: in an industry swamped with pictorials and pectorals of adonises in barely-there undergarments, here's a range of comfortable attire that's both fun and stylish. You won't find the usual assortment of grandpa shorts and dull-as-dishwater colour schemes; instead it's a range of vibrant colours and prints with cheeky taglines sewn into the waistbands (ranging from "loyal" to "supersmart" to "barking mad").

What we'd pick: the "barking mad" black briefs with orange piping (left; HK$225) and the "loyal" Rodney Retro trunk (far left; HK$235).

Where can you get it? Jac5 is at 81 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, tel: 2545 6100.


December 4, 2011
Byline: P. Ramakrishnan

Can't Curry Love: An exclusive chat with Restaurateur Sarika Jhunjhnuwala

The Interview 

Crave Magazine, December 2011

Restaurateur Sarika Jhunjhnuwala explains how lessons learned in her first venture, Veda, helped make Cafe O a success. 

Text by P.Ramakrishnan 

Portrait by Leila Cranswick

Location: Café O, Central 

Elegant, enigmatic and a total foodie, despite her delicate frame, businesswoman Sarika Jhunjhnuwala  owns several eateries in Hong Kong, including five Café Os, Spice Box and the now-closed Indian restaurant, Veda - a favourite of any connoisseur of high-end Indian food. 

For Jhunjhnuwala, restaurants should be a feast for all the senses, with the aesthetics and textures of the décor, the choice of music and the aromas wafting from the open kitchens as important as the flavour of the food itself. 

“Food is not just the art of eating, it’s an experience, a multi-sensory experience,” she says. “When I look back to my earliest, fondest memories, I think of food from my mum’s kitchen. It was simple vegetarian Indian food – my family was very orthodox Hindu – the vegetables were all grown organically using cow dung in our backyard. I still have those flavours in my soul, my mouth.” 

Raised in a palatial house in Hisar, in the northwestern Indian state of Haryana, Sarika made an arranged marriage to Girish Jhunjhunwala, a watchmaker turned Hong Kong property magnate who owns the Ovolo group of hotels and serviced apartments. She swapped Hisar for Pok Fu Lam, ramping up the luxury levels in the west Hong Kong Island suburb with glittering Diwali soirees, serving exquisite dishes on silver platters.

That combination of glamour and delicious food evokes the glory days of Veda, once one of the most fashionable and highly rated Indian restaurants in Hong Kong. 

“I have all the press clippings of every review of Veda,” she says, when we meet at Café O’s Central flagship. “And I’m still deeply touched by it. Veda was a dream project of mine and it was a hard decision to close it.” 

The shutters might have come down on Veda two years ago, but the memory, like the aroma of a succulent chicken makhani, lingers. “When I look back on it, I am still proud of it. We got great write-ups and had genuine fans. But I learned from the closure of Veda. Price point and location are key. And Indian food was seen as an indulgence; Western and local palates didn’t come for Indian cuisine on a daily or regular basis. “Perhaps the restaurant [on Arbuthnot Road] was a little too hidden away from the hustle and bustle of Central, and our prices a fraction higher than what’s expected for an Indian dish,” she says now, twirling the straw around her smoothie. “But the quality was vastly higher. We had fresh, organic vegetables; we had healthy options. Meals were freshly made – there was no storage of old items, even the spices and mixtures were freshly ground in the kitchen for the day, for that authentic feel. With our open kitchen, anyone could see the quality and effort on every plate.” 

As for the food – which included an intoxicating paneer and spinach curry that still makes the mouth water – for that, she credits someone else. “Chef Rajiv Gulshan is my favourite chef,” Jhunjhunwala declares. “His passion and knowledge I have yet to see in any other chef I have met or worked with.”

But there has been life after Veda. What started as a footnote has opened a whole new chapter. “The buildings my husband owned needed something at street level that was elegant, warm and welcoming. When we first opened Café O, it was a novel concept: a hybrid of a café and a restaurant that served healthy, quick dishes.

“There are no trans-fats; we have fresh ingredients, simple dishes like a quick thin-crust pizza or a take-away samosa. Now there are five more Café Os all around the city. Honestly, I didn’t think it would be such a big hit so quickly. But life is full of surprises.” It comes as no surprise, however, to learn that she enjoys cooking herself. “I love to cook if my time allows. I am not much of a recipe person, I like to just mix things from my pantry and create whatever comes out of it. It is relaxing and very satisfying,” she says. “I’m one of four brothers and five sisters and coming from a traditional family, all of us sisters learned to cook.” 

Any disasters? “This one time, my father bought a strange novelty gadget from a city and I got electrocuted when I tried to make a dish. Got the shock of my life. The entire thing, which must have been quite expensive, was thrown out. Cooking-wise, no major disasters. But electronically, yes!” 

Pick up Dec 2011 issue of Crave Mag NOW! On newsstands as of last week!

My Favourite Things with Sarika Jhunjhunwala 

Crave: What’s always in your fridge or pantry? 

Sarika: Lots of fruits and homemade chilli chutney, which I have with every meal – I carry it with me when I am travelling. There are very few dishes that go with everything, but this one does. 

Favourite Indian dish? 

Although I’m a vegetarian, I would recommend spicy lamb vindaloo or a mild chicken makhani [butter]. For vegetarian kaali daal (black lentil curry). 

Favourite drink? 

Lassi flavoured with ginger and honey. Or freshly squeezed lemonade with a touch of green chilli. Try it, just that little touch gives a simple drink a kick. 

Favourite savoury dish? 

Baked samosa or wholewheat pizza from Café O, of course. 

Top five restaurants in the world? 

Asia de Cuba in Los Angeles, Nobu New York, Otto in Hong Kong, Cinnamon Club in London, Bukhara in Delhi and La Lucciola in Bali. 

Favourite food destination? 

I have had the best time eating in Sydney. There are some very creative chefs Down Under who are challenging the way we make traditional dishes. And when I went to Bali recently, I had a great dining experience and found again that they were Aussie chefs.

The Goods, November 2011

The bright side

This winter, avoid getting SAD (seasonal affective disorder) with a shot of colour from Bottega Veneta's sapphire cashmere caban (HK$33,500), matching garnet wool jumper (HK$6,180), Nero cords (HK$3,280), vintage calf fuzzy suede tote (HK$22,500) and calf ankle boots (all right; HK$8,380). For laid-back elegance, there's the anthracite alpaca wool cardigan (HK$11,100), pyrite melange canapa wool lapel scarf (HK$6,680) and espresso cotton-wool T-shirt (HK$3,880), which mingles well with the Nero calf ankle boots (same as before) and Corniola cords (all far right; HK$3,280). Bottega Veneta is in The Landmark, Central, tel: 2973 0882.

The pleasure of leather

A good leather belt or shoe is one that can mould itself to suit any outfit and occasion. So, if you're planning to invest wisely in your wardrobe, head to Hermes. We are loving the simplicity and elegance of the brand's black suede and leather slip on (top; HK$6,900) while the classic brown leather shoe (above; HK$8,500) is a timeless staple. Hermes is in Pacific Place, tel: 2522 6229.

Keep your hat on

To warm cold ears this winter, head to American Eagle Outfitters' new store in Tsim Sha Tsui's Miramar Shopping Centre (tel: 2375 3922). Striped shirts and tees make up the brand's signature items, but we were greatly amused by the faux hawk of the Juno Mohawk Trapper hat (above right; HK$340) and the toasty-looking Navajo Knit Trapper hat (above; HK$340).

Rib tickler
If you're looking to stand out from the madding crowd, head to Jean Paul Gaultier to amp up and vamp up your designer duds. The glistening full-sleeve top (below; HK$26,980) has just the right amount of sparkle while, for the brave, there's the black rib jacket (left; HK$49,980). Jean Paul Gaultier is in Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2918 0374.

-- Nov 27, 2011


Back with a bang

Dr Martens has been relatively quiet since its heyday in the 1980s, but the British brand is back in the limelight thanks to a gorgeous campaign led by androgynous beauty Agyness Deyn and male model Ash Stymest. You know it's a hit when a fashion blog gushes: "This boot is Dr Martens at its best. It's tough enough to take a beating, yet stylish enough to be versatile." We're not sure about the Swarovski-studded eye boot (left; HK$6,800), but it had its fans during the Hong Kong preview. For a dash of colour, try the downy Pascal boot in cherry red (below left; HK$2,300). Dr Martens is in Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2377 9387.

Case by case

Thank goodness there's more to Louis Vuitton than its much-copied embossed leather goods. Louis Vuitton's Taiga iPad case (below; HK$6,900) and iPhone cover (left; HK$2,950) have all the polished sheen and subtle perfection that the French house is renowned for. Louis Vuitton is in The Landmark, Central, tel: 8100 1182.

Tough guys
Loewe's nappa leather jackets from its autumn-winter ready-to-wear collection should prove to be sizzling hot this winter. In addition, its range of tops, duffel coats, jackets and parkas have fans whipped into a frenzy. We'd choose the detailed and sophisticated leather Parka jacket (right; HK$48,200) or, for a sportier look, the M-65 jacket (above far right; HK$33,300). Loewe is in The Landmark, tel: 2522 0996.

-- Nov 20, 2011




Positive energy

The name of the latest perfume from Paul Smith reflects the British designer's attitude to life. The Optimistic fragrance for men (right; HK$588/100ml) has fruity, woody and floral notes that will leave you feeling fresh and energetic. Paul Smith is in The Landmark, Central, tel: 2523 5868.

Rebel with a cause

Ethical fashion label Edun is now available in Hong Kong. Founded by Irish rocker Bono and his wife, Ali Hewson, in 2005, the label markets itself as a "for-profit business with the aim of ... making beautiful clothing whilst committing to developing trade with Africa". The brand's latest collection features trendy, comfortable clothes, such as the black and white checked shirt (HK$1,890) and grey trousers (both above; HK$2,890) as well as the more sophisticated black blazer (HK$6,450) and matching trousers (both left; HK$2,890). Edun is available at Harvey Nichols, Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 3968 2668.

Tough guise

The autumn-winter line by Italian label Henry Cotton's has a lot of wearable jackets but it's the leather items that are grabbing our attention. The leather jacket (above right; HK$8,990) oozes James Dean cool, but, should it get very chilly, the down jacket (above left; HK$5,290) would be a more practical option. Henry Cotton's is in The Landmark, tel: 2147 3663.

Cipher code

It's perplexing to see women enduring torturous footwear in the name of style. Thankfully, men have cushier options, such as the ones being churned out by the folks at Cipher. The designs are super cool yet comfortable. We're loving the sleek and sexy white Alpha shoe (above; HK$2,643) and are absolutely gaga for the black and white Radial shoe (left; HK$2,915). Cipher is available at www.cipherism.com/shop.

-- Nov 13, 2011


Heavy metal

Those who like their jewellery to be discreet should take a look at Emporio Armani's latest accessories collection. We've got our eye on the stainless-steel necklace with black onyx pendant (far right; HK$1,400) and the subtly branded silver ring (right; also HK$1,400). For a bit more macho oomph, there's the black ceramic and stainless-steel bangle (below; HK$2,550). Emporio Armani is in Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2175 5828.

Sporty spice

Eschewing the loud neon colours and prints seen on most winter sportswear, Ermenegildo Zegna's sporty line is full of sophisticated sartorial options. Have a look at the red micro-fleece jacket (HK$3,600) worn with grey printed cotton T-shirt (HK$1,500), light grey scarf (HK$1,900) and charcoal grey trainers (all above left; HK$4,050). Another classy look is the navy Idro nappa jacket with honeycomb pattern (HK$18,900) worn with a black cotton polo (HK$2,200), black Merino wool zip mock top (HK$2,800) and classic black jeans (all above right; HK$3,000). Ermenegildo Zegna is in IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2295 0828.

Scotland Yarn

Before the season of cartoon-print jumpers hits, trot along to Pringle of Scotland to pick up one of the brand's classic pieces. Harris tweeds have been deconstructed into rugged textured knitwear, creating the feel of an "urban gamekeeper", according to designer Clare Waight Keller, who recently left the label. Our favourites include the Henley grey jumper (below right; HK$10,400) and the knitwear as outerwear jacket (below left; HK$25,400), with its unusual pattern and leather-strap sides. Pringle of Scotland is in The Landmark, Central, tel: 2537 7676.

Keep your hat on

To pull off a beanie, you need confidence, the right attitude and a well-shaped head. Quirky American brand Feal Mor has pulled off the look with its Bonnet hats (above; HK$580 each) in brick and navy chine. Feal Mor is available at Sailor, K11 Art Mall, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 3122 4113.

-- October 30, 2011 


UPDATE: 

American Eagle jacket. Test shoot with photograph Sam Salvador and Mathew T
Pants from COS
Thank you to MOXIE PR in HK.

Below: Pants from COS