Russia-born creative director Maria Mayorova’s new cabaret spectacle, Becoming Her, starts on May 7 at Maggie Choo’s in Hong Kong’s Central district. She spoke to Andrew Sun.

I grew up in St Petersburg with hearty Russian comfort food. Game was a big thing, especially deer. My grandma’s minced deer meat dumplings, served with sour cream, were pure happiness.

To lose weight, I stopped eating meat. For years, I was a pescatarian. Only recently did I start eating chicken occasionally. These days, I see food as fuel and energy. I still love eating, but I’m drawn to the clean, natural flavours of simple ingredients.

For dinner, I’m a long-time regular at Tokio Joe (16 Lan Kwai Fong, Central. Tel: 2525 1889). I’m a huge sushi fan. Their team makes every visit special and homey. It’s a reliable spot that never disappoints.

Lunch-wise, I love a proper feast at Spiga (3/F, LHT Tower Podium, 31 Queen’s Road Central. Tel: 2871 0055). The lunch buffet offers fantastic value, with loads of fresh veggies, salads and great bread. You can even sit outside on their spacious patio and soak up some sunshine – such a treat in a busy city.

My go-to brunch is Aqua (17/F, H Zentre, 15 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Tel: 3427 2288). The harbour views, the music, the chic modern vibe – it’s all so stylish and fun.