Thomas Caro, executive chef of Rex Wine & Grill, now rebranded as a French steakhouse, shares insights into his eating habits and favorite dining spots. He describes his approach to food as polarized—either very regimented and healthy or entirely for pleasure and comfort. Growing up in the French countryside, Caro recalls walking to the village farm with his father to buy fresh eggs and milk, and picking cherries, Reine Claude plums, and apricots at his grandparents’ home. His grandmother, Geneviève, was a talented cook who prepared classic middle-class French dishes every Sunday, while his grandfather Jean cultivated Caro’s love for food by making endless batches of homemade jam and treating him to dishes like sole meunière at local brasseries.
Caro’s culinary preferences are rooted in southern French cuisine, especially during summer. Among his favorite casual spots is Fiata Pizza in Central, where he adores the fresh bread and heavenly dough—so much so that he could happily eat the crust alone. For a quick and delicious lunch, he recommends Nove at Galleria for dim sum. When it comes to dinner, New Punjab Club in Central is a top pick, offering flavorful dishes and a tempting gin and tonic trolley, making each visit lively and enjoyable.
For late-night cravings, Caro turns to Maison Libanaise for falafel, hummus, grilled chicken, and fresh bread, appreciating its late hours and satisfying food. He also praises Louise at PMQ for fresh French-style pastries and Vission Bakery in Central for indulgent cakes that appeal to his sweet tooth, despite its busy atmosphere.
For newcomers to Hong Kong, Caro suggests an evening tour of Central. Leaf Dessert on Elgin Street holds special meaning as the place he discovered upon arriving in the city. Sing Kee on Stanley Street is another favorite, offering Cantonese classics like salt and pepper squid and sweet and sour pork in a lively, authentic setting. To end the night, he recommends Tsim Chai Kee for wonton noodles and fish ball soup, or Wah Fung for Hainan chicken and char siu.
For a splurge, Tate Dining Room in Sheung Wan offers spectacular food with a unique, home-like atmosphere. Another exceptional experience is Kappo Rin in The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, where dishes are cooked to order in front of diners, showcasing diverse techniques and ingredients that leave a lasting impression and inspiration for Caro.
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