So French, Libertine

When a new restaurant opens in Hong Kong, one of the first questions people ask is, "What kind of food do they serve?" It's a question that reflects the plethora of dining options in Hong Kong. So when new French bistro Libertine opened recently, I wondered: "Why French food and not some other cuisine?"

Located in the Central district on the steep and relatively quiet Aberdeen Street south of Hollywood Road, Libertine is not exactly in the heart of all the action, but it's near enough.

With a rustic interior that features a big dark wood bar area with high ceilings, they are trying to transport the diner to a sleepy French town bistro. The atmosphere is pleasant and welcoming, but felt a little too slick, even with rounds of dark country bread lining the shelves. The entire front of the restaurant is a row of glass doors that open out onto the terrace, which makes it a good place for drinks after work and weekend brunch.