Luxury fashion labels branch out to dining scene

Thomas's, Burberry, London. [Photo provided to China Daily Asia]

Fashion and food have always enjoyed a sophisticated friendship, from fashion-themed afternoon teas to luxury label chocolates. This year during the various Fashion Weeks, food pop-ups were all the rage. More permanently, fashion-branded restaurants around the world epitomise the essence of luxury – and are the perfect locations for you to showcase the current season's leading looks.

One of the most established luxury labels with a culinary arm is Armani. Giorgio Armani made his first foray into the world of food and beverage in 1989, and the brand now has restaurants and bars in key fashion cities including Tokyo, Milan and Dubai. In Hong Kong, there's the restaurant Armani/Aqua as well as the Armani/Privé bar and club, which boasts stunning views of Central from its rooftop terrace; the brand also has a delicious chocolate line.

Vivienne Westwood is another top brand with a culinary outlet in Hong Kong: the Vivienne Westwood Cafe in Harbour City, well known for its high-tea sets, is the brand's second branch, the first being in the K11 mall in Shanghai. Also in Shanghai, discerning travellers can drop by 1921 Gucci – the world's first Gucci restaurant, which also features a chocolate bar and a cafe.