The Mistral’s basement location in the InterContinental Grand Stanford in Tsim Sha Tsui is the only setback if you’re looking to enjoy an authentic Italian trattoria atmosphere. The lack of natural light makes the restaurant quite dim, but its white rustic styled walls, terracotta tiles and wooden beams on the ceiling gives a warm and friendly neighbourhood feel.

The Mistral’s menu draws from traditional Tuscan fare, and its emphasis on using the freshest ingredients makes it truly authentic. Grilled meats and fish, bean soups, and cured meat antipasti served with raw orchard vegetables are the focus, complemented by a sound selection of pastas and thin-crust, make-your-own pizza. In true Italian form, the simplest dishes are made extraordinary by quality ingredients. Case in point: the creamy Italian burrata cheese, speck ham, mesclun salad and semi-dried cherry tomatoes (HK$228) is a delightful combination of cheese, salty ham and tomatoes that make for a great light starter. The appetisers do not come with a large portion of vegetables, but diners can always order a bowl of assorted leaves, asparagus shavings, candied cherry tomatoes and sprouts (HK$150). The signature pasta dish, the spaghetti Cavalier Cocco with Boston lobster and cherry tomatoes (HK$398), is a flavourful mix of herbs, juicy tomatoes, and sweet, succulent crustacean, on top of pasta cooked al dente. For meat lovers, the chef’s recommendation for the main course is the perfectly cooked and tender braised wagyu beef cheek in red wine, celery root mousseline and black truffle (HK$428). For those still left with an appetite for dessert, look no further than the soft-centred dark chocolate cake with saffron ice cream (HK$118), which is essentially a lava cake with a magnificently gooey centre. The saffron-flavoured ice cream is a must-try for its unusual, somewhat savoury taste.

The selection of Tuscan and Umbrian wines is extensive, and the restaurant offers two options for white and red house pours. Prosecco and champagne by the glass are also available.

At the busiest hours, the restaurant is bustling and one may find it difficult to get a waiter’s attention. Though generally, the staff are courteous and efficient.

A three-course meal for two with antipasti, main, and dessert costs about HK$1,500, excluding wine. This is good value for money considering the premium ingredients used in the consistently well-executed dishes.