Mediterranean Hideaway: When PMQ design hub opened two years ago, plenty of restaurants snapped up spaces inside. One of them is Mediterranean-style Isono Eatery and Bar, which has a little something for everyone — whether you’re looking for an extensive selection of gin, top-notch tapas, or a hearty meal.

Look & Feel: It’s rare to find such a vast, beautifully decorated space in SoHo. The double-height space, shared with fine-dining sister establishment Vasco upstairs, has a gorgeous open plan with roomy seating, communal tables, private dining rooms and a metallic sheen throughout.

On the Menu: Specializing in Spanish-centric, Mediterranean-style dishes, Isono serves up tapas (think 60-month Iberico ham, pata negra ham croquettes) alongside heartier meat and seafood dishes. The bar is a gin lover’s heaven, offering a worldwide selection that includes varieties from the UK, Spain, France and more. Check out the plankton menu, featuring three dishes made from the algae: seafood paella (HK$318), carbonara di mare ($328) and green ravioli (HK$328).

Service: Warm, friendly and attentive. Ready with recommendations if you ask.

Jeng: There’s a great variety of booze and food to choose from, and we love the attention to gin. An enthusiastic bartender will talk spirits with you and recommend a cocktail based on your personal preferences. Aside from the gins, there’s an extensive wine list with some lesser-known labels. We highly recommend the Isono tiramisu ($HK80), a satisfying sweet and salty treat to round out the meal.

Not So Jeng: Isono is probably not the most wallet-friendly place to dine. Cocktails are HK$120 and up, while regular-sized cold appetizers start at HK$108. With most mains hovering around the HK$250-300 mark, it’s better value to get a group together and share.

Great For: Drinks and light bites; all-out sit-down dinners.

FYI: Looking for a more intimate evening? Ask about the intimate outdoor terraces with one table each.

This writeup was based on a complimentary media tasting. The Loop doesn’t guarantee/sell restaurant review coverage. See our editorial policy here.