Words by Aude Camus
Before I dive into why I adore 22 Ships (I loved it at its old spot, and I’m even more in love now that it’s just a few steps away from my place—and yes, you can finally make reservations), I have a confession: I’m not a big Spanish food enthusiast. I don’t crave it often (ever), and I’m not a fan of paella or tortilla. But as the saying goes, only fools and dead men don’t change their minds, and 22 Ships is the one place that consistently has me reconsidering my lukewarm attitude towards Spanish cuisine every time I visit.
As some of you may know, the restaurant’s name pays homage to its original 2012 location on 22 Ship Street in Wan Chai. Though the beloved bodega has recently relocated to PMQ Central, the name remains - a testament to its legacy. And in Hong Kong's ever-changing culinary scene, a decade-long legacy is definitely worth celebrating. While the move has nearly tripled the seating capacity from 25 to 60, the buzzing, casual atmosphere that defined the original space hasn’t been lost in the expansion. If anything, the lively spirit is still as vibrant as ever. And the best news? You can now book a table - something that wasn’t possible before. Oh and there’re introducing a weekend brunch!
Before I dive into why I adore 22 Ships (I loved it at its old spot, and I’m even more in love now that it’s just a few steps away from my place—and yes, you can finally make reservations), I have a confession: I’m not a big Spanish food enthusiast. I don’t crave it often (ever), and I’m not a fan of paella or tortilla. But as the saying goes, only fools and dead men don’t change their minds, and 22 Ships is the one place that consistently has me reconsidering my lukewarm attitude towards Spanish cuisine every time I visit.
As some of you may know, the restaurant’s name pays homage to its original 2012 location on 22 Ship Street in Wan Chai. Though the beloved bodega has recently relocated to PMQ Central, the name remains - a testament to its legacy. And in Hong Kong's ever-changing culinary scene, a decade-long legacy is definitely worth celebrating. While the move has nearly tripled the seating capacity from 25 to 60, the buzzing, casual atmosphere that defined the original space hasn’t been lost in the expansion. If anything, the lively spirit is still as vibrant as ever. And the best news? You can now book a table - something that wasn’t possible before. Oh and there’re introducing a weekend brunch!
The new space is rustic yet chic, inspired by traditional bodegas and Mediterranean eateries. It’s thoughtfully divided into three dining areas, including private rooms, a bar, and a small terrace. Speaking of the bar, the spotlight is on Spanish wines, with around 50 selections carefully curated by the team. In true bodega style, there are also artisanal beers, sangrias, and vermouth-based cocktails to keep you refreshed. ¡Salud!
Now, onto the main event—the food! The kitchen has been helmed by Madrid-native chef Antonio Oviedo since 2020. His passion lies not only in delighting your taste buds but also in sharing the lively social customs of his homeland. The new menu is an expanded version of what was offered in Wan Chai, featuring dishes from all over Spain, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients sourced directly from small producers whenever possible. Think rare Andalusian olive oil, jumbo-sized deep-sea carabineros, and an exclusive range of Jamón Ibérico. While the plates may appear simple and small, they pack a punch when it comes to flavours and presentation.
Now, onto the main event—the food! The kitchen has been helmed by Madrid-native chef Antonio Oviedo since 2020. His passion lies not only in delighting your taste buds but also in sharing the lively social customs of his homeland. The new menu is an expanded version of what was offered in Wan Chai, featuring dishes from all over Spain, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients sourced directly from small producers whenever possible. Think rare Andalusian olive oil, jumbo-sized deep-sea carabineros, and an exclusive range of Jamón Ibérico. While the plates may appear simple and small, they pack a punch when it comes to flavours and presentation.
Here are some dishes I tried and loved:
Ajoblanco (New on the menu) – HKD 98
An almond soup with figs and blue belly prawns, this dish is smooth and comforting yet surprisingly refreshing, with an extra shot of freshness from the raw prawns.
Gambas Al Ajillo – HKD 148
These red prawns bathed in garlic oil are best enjoyed with the homemade sourdough—finger-licking delicious.
Marmitako (New on the menu) – HKD 178
The contrast between the firm, rich mackerel and the creamy, almost sweet red pepper sofrito is divine.
Percebes (new on the menu)
I’ve seen gooseneck barnacles before but never dared to try what looked to me like baby dinosaur feet. Being the proud French girl that I am, I couldn’t admit that to the Spanish chef and decided to give them a go - and I’m so glad I did. If you’re a seafood lover like me, you’ll adore these crustaceans, whose taste is reminiscent of razor clams. Someone at our table even suggested a free-flow percebes happy hour, and I was all for it.
Carabineros – HKD 1,198 (for sharing)
The large red prawn paella made me rethink my rocky relationship with paella.
Make sure to save room for the Burnt Basque Cheesecake (HKD 98), made with smoked Idiazabal cheese - it’s an indulgent treat worth every bite.
22 Ships
https://www.22ships.hk/
S109 - S113, Block A, PMQ, Central (Entrance at Staunton Street)
Ajoblanco (New on the menu) – HKD 98
An almond soup with figs and blue belly prawns, this dish is smooth and comforting yet surprisingly refreshing, with an extra shot of freshness from the raw prawns.
Gambas Al Ajillo – HKD 148
These red prawns bathed in garlic oil are best enjoyed with the homemade sourdough—finger-licking delicious.
Marmitako (New on the menu) – HKD 178
The contrast between the firm, rich mackerel and the creamy, almost sweet red pepper sofrito is divine.
Percebes (new on the menu)
I’ve seen gooseneck barnacles before but never dared to try what looked to me like baby dinosaur feet. Being the proud French girl that I am, I couldn’t admit that to the Spanish chef and decided to give them a go - and I’m so glad I did. If you’re a seafood lover like me, you’ll adore these crustaceans, whose taste is reminiscent of razor clams. Someone at our table even suggested a free-flow percebes happy hour, and I was all for it.
Carabineros – HKD 1,198 (for sharing)
The large red prawn paella made me rethink my rocky relationship with paella.
Make sure to save room for the Burnt Basque Cheesecake (HKD 98), made with smoked Idiazabal cheese - it’s an indulgent treat worth every bite.
22 Ships
https://www.22ships.hk/
S109 - S113, Block A, PMQ, Central (Entrance at Staunton Street)
This article is based on a complimentary dinner tasting hosted by 22 Ships. No money has been paid to publish this review which is entirely based on the genuine opinion of its author.