As a professional food critic who's dined across Hong Kong's ever-evolving Italian scene—from Michelin-starred heavyweights to hidden neighborhood gems—Dieci stands out as one of the most refreshing and authentic openings in Central this year (early 2026). This intimate new-wave Italian trattoria, tucked away on the basement level of 29-31 Gough Street (歌賦街29-31號地庫), brings a genuine slice of central Italy's Lazio region right into the heart of Hong Kong's Soho/Mid-Levels border. Named "Dieci" (Italian for "ten"), the restaurant revolves around a beautifully simple yet disciplined concept: a monthly rotating selection of exactly 10 seasonal dishes, ensuring every visit feels fresh, focused, and tied to the rhythms of nature and tradition.

Behind the stove is chef Paolo Olivieri, a native of Villa San Giovanni in Tuscia, a rural pocket of Lazio known for its rolling hills, abundant harvests, wild game hunting, and deeply rooted family cooking. Paolo partners with Hanna (from a hospitality background at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental), and together they've created a space that feels like stepping into a warm 1970s Lazio family home—cozy, unpretentious, and full of heart. The interior, designed by dix design+architecture (with roots in Milan and Hong Kong), masterfully blends retro Italian charm with sleek minimalism: soft ambient lighting, simple black shelving lined with thoughtful details, custom wooden tables, and an open island kitchen as the centerpiece. Here, Chef Paolo and his small team cook, plate, and even chat directly with guests, especially those at the round tables circling the kitchen. It fosters that rare communal vibe—like being invited to nonna's Sunday pranzo—where the chef's stories about each dish add layers of meaning to every bite. What sets Dieci apart in Hong Kong's crowded Italian landscape is its commitment to "less is more" authenticity. No sprawling à la carte menu or over-the-top fusion—just honest, story-driven regional home cooking inspired by Paolo's grandmother's recipes, Tuscia's hunting heritage, local market bounty, and seasonal peaks. The menu evolves entirely each month, spotlighting peak ingredients and lesser-seen dishes that transport you beyond standard red-sauce joints or touristy pasta spots.

Standout current highlights (subject to monthly change) include:

Pasta Mista ($238): A nostalgic "mamma's Sunday" classic using a clever mix of leftover pasta shapes simmered together for comforting, hearty depth. Wild Boar Ragù Pappardelle ($218): Slow-braised wild boar sauce rich with gamey flavor, paying homage to Tuscia's traditional hunts.

Crispy Lamb Chop ($298): Breaded and fried to golden perfection with a tender interior, served alongside slightly bitter broccoli rabe (gai lan) and vibrant wild Roman mint juice—a direct family recipe from Paolo's childhood, bursting with herbal freshness and texture contrast.

Braised Veal Shank ($278): Succulent veal with melting bone marrow, traditionally paired with saffron risotto but here innovatively atop creamy polenta and garlicky sautéed chicory for earthy richness.

Sbrisolona ($98): A deconstructed Lombard nut cake dessert layered with fresh ricotta, cinnamon-poached pear, and house-made chocolate gelato—sweet, crunchy, and indulgent.

Meals kick off with complimentary sourdough bread (refills welcome) drizzled in premium organic olive oil from San Giovanni (Paolo's hometown) and thin slices of Tuscan lardo di Colonnata—simple, elevated touches that speak volumes about quality. Pricing remains approachable for Central ($98–$298 per dish), making it one of the city's best-value spots for genuine regional Italian fare without pretension.

Located at G/F (though listed as basement in some sources), 29-31 Gough Street, Central, it's super convenient—steps from Mid-Levels escalators, Soho buzz, and major MTR exits.

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 12:00–15:00 for lunch and 18:00–23:00 for dinner (closed Sundays & Mondays).

As buzz builds (it's already popping up in 2026 "new openings" roundups from Tatler Asia and others), reservations are smart—especially for counter seats near the action.

For locals craving something personal and seasonal, or visitors tired of cookie-cutter Italian chains, Dieci delivers an intimate, flavorful escape that feels like home in the heart of the city. It's not flashy, but it's profoundly satisfying—the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.