Review Wanaka

Nestled in the historic Blue House in Wan Chai, Wanaka offers a delightful vegan dining experience that is both unique and refreshing. The Blue House itself is a heritage building with a rich history, dating back to the 1920's. It has been beautifully preserved and now serves as a cultural landmark, adding a touch of historical charm to the dining experience. 

One of the standout dishes at Wanaka is the Volcano Sushi. This dish is a visual and culinary delight, featuring a a spicy smoky chipotle avocado topping that adds a burst of flavour to every bite. The sushi is not only delicious but beautifully presented, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant. 

Another highlight on the menu is a rich and creamy curry experience that is both satisfying and comforting. The use of fresh, seasonal vegetables in their dishes ensure that every meal is packed with nutrients and flavour.

Wanaka also sells fresh vegetables, which is a great option for those looking to take home some of the same high-quality produce used in their dishes. The commitment to fresh, organic ingredients is evident in every bite and aligns perfectly with the restaurant's vegan ethos. 

However, it is worth noting that the seating at Wanaka is quite limited. The indoor area can accommodate around 17-18 people, with additional seating available in the charming courtyard outside. The intimate setting adds to the cosy and relaxed atmosphere but also means that it is a good idea to arrive early or make a reservation, especially during peak hours. 

Overall Wanaka is a gem in Wan Chai, offering delicious vegan dishes in a historic and charming setting. Whether you are a local or a visitor, it's a wonderful spot to enjoy a healthy and flavourful meal. 

 

Book Review: The Pivotal Generation

The Pivotal Generation: Why we have a Moral Responsibility to Slow Climate Change Right Now by Henry Shue is a compelling and ethically charged call to action. Shue, a prominent ethics scholar, extends his significant contributions to international climate justice by crafting a convincing reflection on the urgency of climate action against the background of justice imperatives (Generation Investment Management & MIT Press).

The book is structured around the moral case for moving to a net-zero world. Shue meticulously argues why today's generation has a profound obligation to address climate change, drawing parallels with historical moments where single generations were pivotal in effecting positive change. He emphasises that the current generation is uniquely positioned due to awareness and technological capacity to mitigate change. 

Even though I found the book quite hard to read, I don't think I have ever read this type of book before, Shue's rhetorical technique is particularly effective. He places himself in the shoes of those who might not feel a moral obligation to combat climate change and then systematically dismantles their arguments. This makes the book deeply persuasive. 

The book also delves into the concept of intergenerational justice, urging readers to consider the long-term impacts of their actions on future generations. This is an urgent matter. One only has to visit a social media site like X/Twitter or any of Meta's platforms to see the staggering amount of denial that still exists in the world. 

After I read Bill Gates' "How to Avoid a Climate Disaster" I had a look at his summer reading list for 2023 and so found this book. Gates praised the book for its clear articulation of the moral imperatives surrounding climate action and its ability to inspire readers to take meaningful steps towards a sustainable future. I must add that the book is very focused on North American readers, which at times might be a tad alienating for people from other countries. 

Overall, "The Pivotal Generation is a must-read for anyone concerned about the planet's future. It combines rigorous ethical analysis with a passionate call to action, making it a powerful tool for climate advocacy. 

Review: Africa Tea and Coffee

Nestled in the vibrant district of Wong Chuk Hang, Africa Coffe and Tea (ACT) offers a unique culinary experience that transports you straight to Africa. This cozy cafe and bar is not just a place to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea; it's a celebration of African culture and flavours, with strong emphasis on sustainability and community support.

I am always looking for new vegan places or places that have vegan options and I was thrilled to discover diverse and flavourful vegan options available on their menu. The menu is thoughtfully curated to cater to plant-based diets without compromising taste or authenticity.

The vegan wrap is a hearty and satisfying option. Packed with a variety of veggies, hummus and a tangy dressing, its the perfect choice for a light meal. I loved the salad too! The wrap is well-balanced, with the crunch of veggies complementing the hummus beautifully.

The East African style Vegetable Stew is a standout dish that showcases the rich and diverse flavours of African cuisine. Made with a medley of seasonal vegetables and aromatic spices, it's the definition of hearty. A comforting dish that is perfect for any time of the year. 

 

Other notable dishes include the pumpkin ginger soup, the bliss balls and the house salad. And whilst not a dish, the ginger latte deserves a special mention. It's a unique twist on the classic latte, with the spicy kick of ginger adding an extra layer of warmth and complexity. 

The ambience is warm and inviting, with decor that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Africa. The cafe's commitment to fair trade and supporting women in African coffee-growing regions adds an extra layer of meaning to every visit. And the views are spectacular. 

This restaurant is a gem in Wong Chuk Hang, offering delightful vegan dishes that are delicious and nourishing. Whether you are vegan or simply looking to explore new flavours, this cafe is definitely worth a visit.