The restaurant interior of Italian restaurant Spasso is relatively unimpressive; it is brightly lit and has low ceilings. What the interior lacks, however, the large alfresco terrace (overlooking the water alongside Ocean Terminal and southern Tsim Sha Tsui) makes up for. Although the area mostly consists of well-spaced dining tables, there are a few sofas for chilling out pre- or post-dinner. Fixed, triangular sun canopies offer protection from the sun, while fans are on hand to keep diners cool. Ambient music plays at just the right volume in the background and the restaurant has an upbeat vibe making it suitable for group meals without alienating those seeking a romantic interlude.

The menu is extensive and offers something for everybody. From the appetiser selection the timbale of eggplant, buffalo mozzarella and light tomato sauce is worth the 15-minute order time; the generous parcel of thick gooey mozzarella works well with the eggplant wrapping and the tomato sauce. It’s a flavoursome combination and a great vegetarian option. The homemade saffron scented ravioli filled with blue crab meat laid on light green pea fondue is not such a success. The crab is dry in texture and lacking in taste. The pea puree provides the primary flavour to this somewhat bland dish. Risotto with braised quail and black truffle is much better, a rich, full-flavoured dish, although the rice is perhaps a little too al dente. If none of the 13 pasta dishes on offer take your fancy, opt for one of the many meat, (the “luxury selection” offers dishes using premium ingredients such as wagyu beef) fish or pizza choices. There is also a selection of sharing dishes. The dessert menu offers a seasonal selection and an “evergreen” year-round selection that includes a decadently rich and creamy tiramisu that is easily large enough to share.

Bottle prices range from HK$280 up to HK$6,800 (an option within the ‘connoisseurs recommendation’). Italian wine, unsurprisingly, gets the most representation but French and new world offerings are also decent. Offerings by the glass are plentiful.

Although it can take a little while to attract the attention of staff due to the amount of tables the service is mostly efficient, if a little perfunctory, when it comes to delivering the meal. Key staff are helpful and able to offer menu advice, though.

A three-course meal for two without wine will cost about HK$700, although if you order from the “luxury selection” you should expect to pay this per person.