Sabatini, the Royal Garden’s flagship Italian restaurant, enjoys a well-earned reputation that has been carefully cultivated over three decades. Its rustic Roman charm is evident in the faded murals, the porcelain vases lining the window ledges, and the live band serenading diners with classic Italian melodies. Those preferring modern flourishes may prefer Sabatini’s still young sister restaurant in the IFC, but for us, the original is still best. Hong Kong has embraced Sabatini’s take on upmarket Italian comfort food, executed to perfection. Dishes like the quality oven-baked lasagne, the hearty braised ossobuco with saffron risotto and gremolata, and the warming plin agnolotti stuffed with herbs in butter sauce with winter black truffle exemplify this comforting yet refined approach. Plant-based diners will appreciate the dedicated “Go Green” menu, while those with a sweet tooth should save room for the tempting dessert trolley.