Head chef Vicky Cheng at Hong Kong's VEA Restaurant & Lounge seems to have suddenly gone mad about strawberries. The fruits are plump and sweet at this time of year, and Cheng has chased 11 varieties of the seasonal treat from top-quality markets in Japan (eight), South Korea (two) and even faraway Mexico (one). Some are not available every day. Replacing the post-dinner tradition of a cheese or dessert plate, the fruits are being served up on a silver platter as the perfect alternative palate cleanser.

Options include many red varieties as well as novelty white strawberries originating from Japan. Priced from HK$80-HK$150 (about $10-$19) per piece, Cheng offers guests a chance to sink their teeth into these "white jewels" as supplements to their meal. The red strawberries have also been incorporated into a seasonal dessert. Inspired by Macao's traditional almond cake, the sweet is re-invented by Cheng as a crumble with green-bean powder.

29-30/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central district, Hong Kong. 852-2711-8639.

- Mike Peters