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The 50 best restaurants in Hong Kong

Our list of the city's top restaurants to eat at this month

July 2024: Summer is in full swing, and with it comes the vibrant flavours of the season . This month, aside from new menus to try, we’ve updated our pick of the 50 best restaurants in Hong Kong. New on our must-try list includes the latest addition to The Magistracy in Tai Kwun, the Indian restaurant Prince and the Peacock , and the popular Wan Chai Italian restaurant Trattoria Felino , among others. Check out Time Out tips for the latest updates on your favourite venues. 

Hong Kong’s dining scene is constantly evolving. Week after week, a new restaurant joins the F&B industry, so narrowing down where to actually book a table can be daunting. To help you, we created a monthly Time Out Eat List and handpicked the best eateries in the city. From well-seasoned stalwarts to tasty newcomers , here’s a list of restaurants that we think you’ll be glad to try at least once or return to again and again. Read on for our pick of the 50 best restaurants in Hong Kong right now. 

Rankings change every month depending on the latest and most creative offerings , so bookmark this page to keep updated and get some inspiration for where your next meal could be. 

Eaten somewhere on this list and loved it? Know of a restaurant that should be on this list? Let us know! Tag us on Instagram and use the hashtag #TimeOutEatList .  

RECOMMENDED: Looking for bars? Whatever drinking experience you’re after, there's a bar waiting for you to explore in Hong Kong. Click here for our list of the 50 best bars to visit right now .

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Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

50 Best restaurants in Hong Kong

1.  new: prince and the peacock.

What is it: The second phase of Black Sheep Restaurant’s The Magistracy revitalisation, sees the recent opening of the opulent Indian restaurant Prince and the Peacock. Helmed by chef Palash Mitra from New Punjab Club, the new restaurant presents modern interpretations of regional dishes inspired by the royal kitchens of the princely states of India. 

Why we love it: With meticulous decor curation, elegant service, and top-notch hospitality, you'd be surprised to find their offerings in an approachable price range for a venue in Tai Kwun. Dish prices range from $38 to $238, and servings are generous for sharing.  

Time Out tip: Must-tries include the warming spiced soup Rasam ($88), piquant chilli tiger prawns, Tandoori Zafrani Paneer Tikka ($168), Gosht Rogan Josh ($208), and the char-grilled whole white pomfret, Machli Angeethi ($238). Don't miss the side salads, pickles, and indulgent desserts like gulab jamun ($108) with Mysore sandalwood ice cream (+$10). 

Click the link below to see a first look video of the restaurant.

2.  Andō

• Contemporary Global
• Lan Kwai Fong

What is it? Michelin-starred Andō offers a distinctive Spanish-Japanese cuisine. This unique blend is crafted by Argentinian chef Agustin Ferrando Balbi, who merges his Spanish roots with Japanese experiences. This year, the restaurant debuted on  Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.  

Why we love it: The restaurant takes diners on a journey through dishes that evoke a sense of nostalgia and unknown familiarity. 

Time Out tip: Celebrate Andō’s fourth anniversary with their exclusive one-night-only family menu ($2,020/person) on July 10  in collaboration with Estro, Mono, and Leela.

3.  Tate Dining Room

What is it? Tate Dining Room, led by chef-owner Vicky Lau, is a restaurant that blends Chinese cuisine with French finesse in an avant-garde fashion served in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

Why we love it: Tate’s elegant and intimate atmosphere appeals as much to the sophisticated as it does to the adventurous eater. 

Time Out tip:  This summer, check out the restaurant's tea pairing lunch available on Friday and Saturday until July 27, alongside an exclusive pu-erh tea workshop scheduled on July 26. 

4.  Racines

What is it: Located on Upper Station Street in Sheung Wan, Racines is a Michelin-starred French bistro led by chefs Adriena Castillo and Romain Dupeyre. 

Why we love it: The dishes at Racines are crafted using seasonal ingredients and rooted in traditional recipes from Southern France. Classic recipes are given a modern twist and influenced by global flavours, drawing from the chefs' extensive culinary experiences.    

Time Out tip: Follow them on Instagram to catch their occasional collaborations with various establishments in Hong Kong.

5.  Trattoria Felino

What is it: Located along Wan Chai’s Ship Street, Trattoria Felino is the brainchild of chef Marcello Scognamiglio (formerly of Grissini ) and Félix De Arriaga Balanzat (formerly of Zuma ). It is a cosy yet refined restaurant that dishes up quintessential Southern Italian flavours. 

Why we love it: The trattoria seems to have mastered the winning formula for thriving in a challenging location where ventures often close in less than a year. With good food, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and a menu that is approachable to all, it stands out as a gem worth experiencing.  

Time Out tip: Start with their signature hamachi carpaccio to awaken your palate, and make sure to order the 'tubetti' pasta with cuttlefish and squid ragu ($198). End your meal with millefoglie al cioccolato ($118), served with caramelised puff pastry, chocolate ganache, hazelnut praline, and

6.  Embla

What is it: Embla is a contemporary Nordic restaurant helmed by executive chef Jim Löfdahl, offering a fine dining experience in Sheung Wan. 

Why we love it: There aren’t many Nordic offerings in the city, and Embla is one you shouldn’t miss. It’s great for a romantic date or to impress your clients in an intimate fine dining space with a seasonally-driven menu.

Time Out tip: Kick off your dining experience by dipping crisp bread into their indulgent Gubbröra dish, a mouthwatering blend of smoked eel, pickled herring, eggs, dill, and chives, topped generously with imperial Ossetra Caviar and paired perfectly with ice-cold Gustav dill vodka that elevates the umami flavours of the dish. 

7.  Bâtard

• Pan-European
• Sai Ying Pun

What is it? With a name like Bȃtard, which stems from the old French word for bastard, you’re not wrong in assuming that this wine-focused restaurant is a lot less stuffy than other formal French cuisine and wine establishments in Hong Kong.

Why we love it: The restaurant is helmed  by  Singapore native and chef Aven Lau, resulting in brilliantly creative dishes on its ever-changing menu.  And since the restaurant is inside  The Fine Wine Experience , they offer reasonably priced quality wines. Those who want to buy bottles can browse the shop's excellent range of unique wines.  

Time Out tip:  Be sure to book until August 25 before they officially close their Sai Ying Pun location to relocate to their new members-only club in Central’s Pedder Building.

8.  Mono

• Contemporary European

What is it? Mono, helmed by Venezuelan chef Ricardo Chaneton, previously of Mirazur in France and Petrus in Hong Kong, delivers a reinterpretation of Latin American cuisine presented with French technique. 

Why we love it: Chef Ricardo skillfully crafts contemporary versions of South American flavours finessed with the elegance of French cuisine while respecting traditions. Dishes here will bring comfort and nostalgia to those familiar with Latin American flavours and inspire a discovery of something new.

Time Out tip: Chef Ricardo Chaneton also serves as the culinary advisor to The Upper House’s restaurant Salisterra . Explore its Mediterranean menu , a collaborative creation by chef Chaneton and the culinary team at Salisterra, offering a modern take on traditional Mediterranean dishes. 

9.  Feuille

What is it? The restaurant is a collaboration between renowned chef David Toutain (acclaimed for his Michelin-starred Paris restaurant) and ZS Hospitality Group (proprietor of Hansik Goo , Whey , and Ying Jee Club . It recently earned its first Michelin Star and Green Star in the 16th edition of the Hong Kong and Macau Guide . 

Why we love it: The restaurant seamlessly blends the timeless elegance of French cuisine with modernist and avant-garde techniques, resulting in innovative and playful dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients. Think refined yet rustic, with a thoughtful presentation that mirrors the natural surroundings of the ingredients.  

Time Out tip: Follow Feuille's Instagram page to catch the upcoming schedules of their pairing dinners.  

10.  The Steak House

• Tsim Sha Tsui

What is it? Regent Hong Kong's reopening brought back The Steak House, returning with classic menu items and refreshing new dishes. 

Why we love it: The establishment places a strong emphasis on sourcing premium ingredients – especially when it comes to cuts of meat, which come from some of the world’s most famous farms, including Uruguay’s Metzger Frères, Spain’s El Capricho, Japan’s Toriyama, and Australia’s Mayura. 

Time Out tip: From August 23 to 24, Singapore's Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse (#38 World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants) is popping up for a two-night collaboration menu with The Steak House.  

11.  Whey

What is it? A restaurant helmed by Singaporean chef Barry Quek that merges European techniques and Asian flavours with superb skill and finesse.

Why we love it : Inspired by the chef's childhood memories, travels and work experiences in various parts of the world, the tasting menu is truly impressive, with clever layers of ingredients, textures and flavours in triumphant combos. Their menu spotlights local produce as seen in their mouth-watering dishes, like their signature dry curry laksa mee using baby shrimp sourced from Hop Lee Seafood on Lamma Island. 

Time Out tip : The restaurant now serves lunch daily ($588/person). If you're looking for a place to entertain your clients with good food, this is the place to book.

12.  Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic

What is it: Cristal Room is a sophisticated French fine dining restaurant created through a collaboration between French celebrity chef Anne-Sophie Pic and luxury crystal house Baccarat. Situated on the 44th floor of Forty-Five , it offers a luxurious setting designed by the prestigious architecture and interior design studio Gilles et Boissier.

Why we love it: With its stunning panoramic view of Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour, Cristal Room offers a unique combination of a high-end dining experience and breathtaking scenery. The restaurant earned a prestigious Michelin Star within five months of its opening, showcasing the exceptional quality and creativity of its culinary offerings.

Time Out tip: Pair your meal with wine; they offer a great selection of Champagne and biodynamic wines, with a large portion available per glass. Their well-crafted non-alcoholic drinks are also a must-try. 

13.  L'Envol

What is it? Located in the St. Regis hotel, L'Envol serves up high-end contemporary French dishes in an exquisite setting. The restaurant brings Michelin firepower, too, as it's helmed by Olivier Elzer, formerly of L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon and various Michelin-starred restaurants across France and Hong Kong. 

Why we love it : L'Envol is the best place to experience French haute cuisine in the city. A table here is always an elegant affair, complete with impeccable service from their knowledgeable staff and sommeliers led by chef Elzer, who was recently bestowed with the distinction of Knight in the Order of Agricultural Merit of the French Republic for his outstanding contributions to promoting French products in Hong Kong. 

Time Out tip : Must-try dishes include their signature Hokkaido sea urchin starter served in a caviar box that you can scoop up with a mother-of-pearl caviar spoon. Don't leave without having a few bites of cheese from their trolley and savouring the petit fours to end your meal.  

14.  Noi

What is it? Located at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, Noi is a contemporary Italian restaurant by celebrated Argentinian chef Paulo Airaudo, known for his Michelin-starred restaurant Amelia in Basque Country, Spain, which also has its Hong Kong outpost at Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui. This year, Noi was promoted to two stars in the 16th edition of the Michelin Guide for Hong Kong and Macau . 

Why we love it: The venue puts a fun spin on fine dining. Serving modern Italian cuisine with heavy usage of Asian flavours. The dining experience will take you on a journey through chef Airaudo's mind and personal experiences, from the choice of music featuring his favoured tunes from the 80s and 90s and the decor that showcases pop art from his favourite films, video games, and tattoos.  

Time Out tip: Diners can elevate the experience by pairing the meal with a curated selection of wines, but restaurant manager Marco Adreani's delicious options for non-alcoholic beverages are a definite must-try. 

15.  The Chairman

What is it? An ingredient-driven Cantonese restaurant that offers the authentic flavour of Chinese food, thanks to high-quality products, in a beautifully light and delicate cuisine.

Why we love it:  Recognized as one of the world's and Asia's best restaurants , in addition to holding a Michelin-star , chef-owner Danny Yip was recently honoured with the the Icon Award at the latest Asia's 50 Best Restaurants ceremony . Despite over a decade since its opening, the restaurant maintains its popularity. Now situated at The Wellington in Central, it features a refreshed menu and revamped aesthetics while retaining its original team and serving its iconic signature dishes. 

Time Out tip: If there's one thing you must try, go for the old-time favourite – the steamed whole flower crab in aged Shaoxing rice wine and chicken oil served on top of flat rice noodles. 

16.  Ta Vie

What is it?  Acclaimed chef Hideaki Sato’s three Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant centred on melding French techniques with Asian ingredients.

Why we love it: Ta Vie is about sampling a fantastic harmony of flavours that have the power to whisk you away to nostalgic childhood memories, whether it's a walk in the countryside or a gathering for a perfect Sunday roast.

Time Out tip: Chef Sato has been appointed as Maison Mumm RSRV Embassy’s global gastronomic ambassador. Guests can anticipate the RSRV range, an exceptional collection of 100 percent Grand Cru champagnes paired with his exquisite culinary creations at Ta Vie.

17.  T'ang Court

What is it?  T'ang Court is The Langham's legendary three-Michelin-starred restaurant named after the Golden Age in Chinese history, the T'ang Dynasty.  

Why we love it:  Helmed by executive chef Wong Chi Fai, the restaurant serves authentic Cantonese cuisine using only top-tier seasonal ingredients. The extensive menu includes an exquisite dim sum selection and signature dishes like stir-fried lobster with spring onions and shallots and baked stuffed crab shell, and the more expensive bird's nests and abalones. 

Time Out tip:  Try T'ang Court's tasting menu to savour high-quality Cantonese classics, such as braised whole abalone with sea cucumber and baked stuffed crab shell with crab meat.

18.  Bo Innovation

What is it? The two-Michelin-starred restaurant of chef Alvin Leung, aka The Demon Chef, known for his style of cooking called X-Treme Chinese, which combines traditional and new world culinary techniques.

Why we love it: At Bo Innovation, chef Alvin deconstructs traditional Chinese cuisine to its essence and pieces it together in a modern interpretation. The food is infused with humour and meticulously curated down to the cutlery and dinnerware.

Time Out tip: Book a table for four people on Saturdays to experience their course menu at a discounted price of only $ 999  per person.

19.  Wing

What is it? Chef-owner Vicky Cheng’s second venture – located just below his Michelin-starred restaurant VEA – puts a modern spin on the eight great Chinese cuisines. The restaurant recently soared 32 spots in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 rankings, securing an impressive fifth place on the list. 

Why we love it: Wing presents a reimagined take on Chinese classics and offers a well-balanced sensory experience with understated elegance.

Time Out tip: This is one of the toughest tables to book in Hong Kong . Be sure to plan your visit and book at least weeks in advance to secure a seat. They open their online reservations 28 days ahead, and guests may start booking at midnight. 

20.  Amber

What is it? It is The Landmark Mandarin Oriental's contemporary restaurant led by renowned chef Richard Ekkebus. 

Why we love it: Thanks to chef Richard Ekkebus' vision to bring a more progressive cuisine to the forefront, Amber benefits from an innovative menu that is not confined to labels of cuisine and instead celebrates sustainability, produce, flavour and masterful execution. 

Time Out tip: Perfect for business lunches, intimate dinners and special occasions, Amber is the restaurant to be and be seen.

21.  Caprice

• price 4 of 4

What is it? The three Michelin-starred French restaurant at the Four Seasons Hong Kong. 

Why we love it: Chef Guillaume Galliot immerses guests in French gastronomy, using the finest ingredients to craft the most alluring flavours on each plate. Guests can savour a fine meal paired with wines while enjoying impressive harbour views.

Time Out tip: Head to the Caprice Bar  to sip on expertly crafted cocktails or indulge in an after-meal digestif accompanied by a charcuterie board featuring French artisanal cheeses.

22.  Sushi Shikon

What is it: Sushi Shikon, located on the seventh floor of the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, is Hong Kong’s first three-Michelin-starred sushi restaurant.

Why we love it: The team at Sushi Shikon excels in creating culinary magic using fresh, high-end ingredients sourced from Japan. Apart from its exceptional food quality, the two-hour meals served at an intimate eight-seat Hinoki counter provide guests with an up-close interaction with the sushi chef.

Time Out tip: It's hard to secure a seat here, so advance reservations are essential. For group dining, the venue also offers an intimate six-seater private room. 

23.  Leela

• Causeway Bay

What is it? Leela is a new modern Indian restaurant, a collaboration between chef Manav Tuli (formerly of Michelin-starred  Chaat ) and Jia Group. 

Why we love it: It's great to see renowned chef Manav in his element, showcasing his love for Indian cuisine. His new venture highlights dishes from ancient India, specifically from the Mauryan Empire (323–185 BC), the largest Indian empire stretching from present-day Myanmar to Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. At Leela, enjoy hearty Indian dishes with a touch of history.

Time Out Tip : Guests can enjoy two to four dishes from the Tiffin Box lunch menu (starts at $ 358) inspired by classic home-cooked meals or opt for Leela’s five-course tasting menu featuring chef Manav’s signature dishes like tandoori beef chop and baked Chettinadu duck samosa.

24.  8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana

What is it?  Helmed by renowned chef Umberto Bombana, 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is the first and only three-Michelin-starred Italian restaurant outside of Italy since 2012. 

Why we love it : Dubbed the 'king of truffles', chef Umberto Bombana whips up rustic, truffle-laden Italian dishes while embodying the essence of Italian hospitality through his venues' exceptional service.

Time Out tip:  Voted best restaurant bar in the  Time Out Bar Awards 2020 , 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is also known for its drinks as much as its food. Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or nightcap to complete your evening. 

25.  Forum

What is it?  Forum is a celebrated three-Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant founded by the city's 'Abalone King' Yeung Koon-yat. 

Why we love it : The restaurant puts a luxurious twist on traditional Cantonese cuisine serving a menu of dishes with abalone as the star. The kitchen is helmed by executive chef Adam Wong, and he continues to expand the restaurant's repertoire by collaborating with renowned chefs and  brands . 

Time Out tip : While the restaurant's Ah Yat Abalone dish, named after its founder, remains its iconic signature dish, other noteworthy items on the menu are the sweet and tender braised ox tail and the tender and juicy, crispy fried chicken made with their daily freshly delivered poultry.  

26.  Chaat

What is it? Chaat serves up a fresh take on classic Indian street food and elevates favourites drawn from various colourful flavours, transporting you all across India.

Why we love it: Since its opening, it has been one of the city's toughest tables to book , but Chaat’s warm and lively atmosphere, combined with stunning cross-harbour views and exceptionally well-executed dishes, is worth the hassle of getting a reservation. 

Time Out tip: Chefs Gaurav Kuthari and Dhiraj Kumar are now heading Chaat. Drop by to taste their refreshed menu showcasing new dishes alongside signature best-sellers.

27.  Ryota Kappou Modern

What is it? This Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant is led by chef Ryota Kanesawa, formerly of Zuma and the Michelin-starred La Frasca restaurant in Italy. The focus is on the chef's counter, where Kanesawa and his team prepare and serve seasonal sashimi, sushi, and sophisticated cooked dishes.

Why we love it: They craft their tasting menu based on seasonality, ensuring new dishes await each visit, including fresh takes on signature dishes such as the 'bowl of wonders' featuring sea urchin, wagyu, and squid.

Time Out tip: The venue is ideal for both corporate lunches and intimate romantic dinners. Their four-course kappou lunch is priced at $780 per person, while their signature tasting dinner menu costs $2,080 per person. 

28.  Godenya

What is it? Godenya is a Michelin-starred Japanese omakase restaurant in Sheung Wan by Shinya Goshima. 

Why we love it: Goshima, affectionately known as Goshi-san, is not your typical Japanese restaurateur. While most masters let their craft do the talking, Goshima will personally guide you through their creations and sake with a sparkle in his eye.

Time Out tip: Goshima, was recently awarded the prestigious Sommelier Award at the Michelin Guide ceremony, promising a unique sake pairing experience during your visit.

29.  Sushiyoshi

What is it? The first branch of chef Hiroki Nakanoue's two-Michelin starred Sushiyoshi outside Japan. 

Why we love it: Chef-owner Nakanoue Hiroki is far from your typical Japanese sushi chef. Not only does he sport vibrant and ever-changing hair, ranging from pink to blue, but he also takes a creative approach to his culinary creations. Seamlessly blending Western ingredients and techniques with traditional Japanese cooking, he offers diners a sushi experience that is both playful and exciting.

Time Out tip: Chef Hiroki recently moved back to Hong Kong, allowing diners to witness his mastery firsthand as they indulge in his omakase creations served directly from the counter.

30.  Whisk

What is it? Whisk is The Mira Hong Kong’s French-Japanese restaurant, led by Chef William Lau. 

Why we love it: Chef Lau delights guests with creative dishes featuring the freshest seasonal ingredients. Expect the finest ingredients cooked in simple yet elegant ways. 

Time Out tip: For group gatherings of six to twelve people, check out their Omakase tasting menu, served in a private dining room and crafted à la minute at the dining table. 

31.  Estro

What is it? Estro, which means inspiration in Italian, is focused on Neapolitan cuisine but it's not all spaghetti and pizza here. The restaurant is helmed by Naples-born chef Antimo Maria Merone who has created a fascinating menu directed by his own memories and influenced by Italian history.

Why we love it : The dining experience here feels like a different world. First, the André Fu designed interior reels you in with its Naples-inspired aesthetic nuanced with old-world charm. Then the food, primed with chef's clever interpretations, takes you on a sentimental journey that is full of robust flavours. 

Time Out tip:  The lunch and dinner menus have everything you need including a bread course with a choice of different olive oils. It's worth asking for a little of all four so you can work your way from light to flavourful. 

32.  Rùn

What is it?  The foil to The St. Regis Hong Kong's French fine dining restaurant, two-Michelin-starred Rùn, turns up the heat with top dishes from award-winning executive Chinese chef Hung Chi-Kwong. 

Why we love it: Expect a variety of superb Cantonese fare, skillfully crafted using seasonal ingredients and prepared using traditional cooking techniques but presented in a contemporary fashion. 

Time Out tip: Pair your meal with wine or tea carefully selected and prepared by their expert sommeliers.

33.  Aulis

What is it? Aulis is Simon Rogan's 12-seater chef's table in Hong Kong. Mirroring Aulis in Cartmel and London, the restaurant champions the farm-to-fork movement, spotlighting produce from the finest farmers and suppliers in Hong Kong and the region. 

Why we love it : Watching the chefs prepare dishes with high-precision tweezers is entertainment in itself. Everything on the tasting menu is unique and skillfully crafted and rethinks the conventions of fine dining. 

Time Out tip : The restaurant tries to cater to those with food allergies or dietary restrictions, but let them know at least a week before your reservation so they prepare accordingly. 

34.  Grand Majestic Sichuan

What is it?  As the name suggests, the restaurant serves tongue-tingling Sichuan cuisine with a menu consulted on by Chinese food historian Fuchsia Dunlop, whom you may recognise from Netflix’s hit food series Ugly Delicious .

Why we love it :  Grand Majestic Sichuan’s swanky supper club interior is full of nostalgic glamour. Think velvet booths, plush carpets and gorgeous wallpaper, but the kitchen, helmed by chef Theign Phan, also impresses. Highlights include the  bang bang ji, sweet and spicy pork  wontons, beef with ten year-aged tangerine peel, and gong bao prawns with cashew, along with other fiery dishes with tableside service.

Time   Out tip : Try chef Phan’s latest à la carte additions to the Sichuan restaurant’s menu, such as Jade Tiger Abalone and Wagyu Beef Tongue, or elevated home-style dishes like twice-cooked pork belly.

35.  Roganic

What is it?  Much like the original in London, renowned British chef Simon Rogan brings his celebrated sustainable cuisine to Hong Kong in the form of Roganic. 

Why we love it:  A farm-to-table destination in its own right, Hong Kong's Roganic is made for urban-dwellers who are in need of a more refreshing and less stiff approach to dining. The tasting menus, both long and short, always impress with seasonal and signature dishes. 

Time Out tip:  For a more interactive experience, book a seat inside their chef's table, Aulis , serving an exciting and ever changing tasting menu.

36.  Mora

What is it?  Mora is a soy-inspired French-Chinese restaurant located in Sheung Wan helmed by chef Vicky Lau of two Michelin-starred  Tate Dining Room  together with co-founder Romain Hertebreau and head chef Fai Choi.  In addition to recently earning one Michelin star , Chef Fai Choi of Mora was honored with the Michelin Young Chef award.

Why we love it:  Starring the soybean, which is considered a pillar of Asian cuisine and culture, Mora celebrates this unassuming ingredient in a surprising amount of ways. Expect to be wowed by the many forms, textures and flavours of soy and never look back.

Time Out tip:  Try Mora's Characters of Soy tasting menu available for a five-course lunch ($780) and a six-course dinner ($1080).   

37.  Castellana

What is it? Causeway Bay's famed Piedmont restaurant relocated to a new two-storey space on Ice House Street in Central. Helmed by young Asti-born chef Romeo Morelli, the restaurant prides itself on serving top-notch, authentic Piedmont cuisine using fresh ingredients sourced from the region. 

Why we love it: There are a lot of Italian restaurants in Hong Kong, but Castellana's Piedmontese dishes can drift you away to the hilly region in northwestern Italy, where the scents of white truffles and earthy mushroom risotto fill the air. 

Time Out tip: Pair your meal with quality vino from Castellana's extensive wine selection showcasing over 400 labels, including bottles of Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera d'Asti, and Timorasso. 

38.  Lai Ching Heen

What is it? The two-Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant Yan Toh Heen changed its name to Lai Ching Heen in time for the reopening of the revamped Regent Hong Kong . 

Why we love it: While a lot has been changing in its surroundings, including its recent renovation, the people behind Lai Ching Heen's exquisite Cantonese cuisine have remained through the years, maintaining consistency in quality and service.

Time   Out tip :  Enjoy delicious Cantonese dishes paired with specialty teas selected and prepared by Lai Ching Heen’s very own tea sommelier.  

39.  Tin Lung Heen

• West Kowloon

What is it? Tin Lung Heen is The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong's sky-high two Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant helmed by chef Paul Lau, an expert in Cantonese cuisine. 

Why do we love it? It's the place to enjoy refined dim sum while being up in the clouds. Chef Lau masterfully blends traditional and contemporary techniques, creating dishes with a deep respect for Cantonese cuisine and fresh produce.

Time Out tip: Chef Lau and executive chef Tang from JW Marriott's Man Ho will collaborate for 'The Homecoming of Legends' - a special two-night Cantonese culinary event on July 18 and 25.

40.  New Punjab Club

What is it? The world's first Michelin-starred Punjabi restaurant. It offers simple, rustic dishes reflecting the Punjab region's humble agrarian roots.    

Why we love it: The delicious food and well-thought-out designs – from the plush leather banquettes, intricately detailed walls with quirky artworks, the gin trolley, and the turbaned man in a military uniform greeting you by the door – make you feel like you are stepping into a different time and place.   

Time Out tip:  Explore chef Mitra’s new creations like tandoor-fired black Angus ribeye steak or malai tikka made with local three yellow chicken served with smoked corn raita and indulgent rum-infused chicken liver chutney. 

41.  House of Culture

• 3 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

What is it: A Sai Ying Pun gem, helmed by chef Gavin Chin (formerly of Brut!), offers creative dishes that blend global influences with the chef's Malaysian and Australian roots.

Why we love it: The menu features a variety of creative and innovative dishes that transcend a single cuisine and use locally sourced ingredients from the Sai Ying Pun area. It's a great spot to hang out with friends or treat your special someone to a delicious meal. With seating for 46, the restaurant also has a bar and an open kitchen where you can peek behind the scenes and see how everything is made. 

Time Out tip: While there are plenty of options on the à la carte menu, their Chaos tasting menu ($658 per person) is a fantastic choice to sample their signature dishes and tasty new additions. 

42.  Jimmy's Kitchen

What is it? It is a historic restaurant that has been serving localised versions of European dishes for nearly 100 years. The Epicurean Group's latest incarnation sees the restaurant relocate from Theatre Lane to the Pedder Building. 

Why we love it: Hong Kong-born chef Russell Doctrove, formerly of Maximal Concepts, revitalises Jimmy's Kitchen with a contemporary touch while still preserving favourites like chicken madras, chicken supreme kiev, Angus beef mince on toast, and more.

Time Out Tip: Be sure to order Jimmy's classic madras curry, served with assorted condiments, a crispy poppadom, and your choice of chicken, prawn, or vegetables.

43.  Magistracy Dining Room

What is it? Black Sheep Restaurants' latest opening in the newly revived The Magistracy in Tai Kwun. Magistracy Dining Room showcases European cuisine inspired by timeless London restaurants. 

Why we love it: The venue transports you to a stately British home that feels like a slice of a bygone era. Complete with crisp white cloth table linens, candelabras, and elegant white crockery, the place exudes a romantic charm perfect for intimate date nights and celebrations. 

Time Out tip: Alyn Williams has been appointed as the new executive chef. Diners can relish a brand-new à la carte menu with traditional British flavours, such as dressed Dungeness crab served on toasted crumpets or poached and roasted three yellow chicken with braised chicken leg pie filling. Also, check out the new Indian restaurant Prince and the Peacock and the sports bar Jack's Racquet Room upstairs.

44.  VEA Restaurant

• Contemporary Asian

What is it?  Vicky Cheng, the visionary chef that puts Chinese-French cuisine to work, is the V in VEA (while celebrated Hong Kong bartender Antonio Lai is the A). The restaurant offers a distinct cuisine that aims to shine a light on Chinese cuisine created with French technique and execution.

Why we love it : Food-wise, there are tasting menus with six or eight courses that change regularly with the seasons. Signatures that do stay on the menu include a sea cucumber with kuruma prawn and fish maw with caviar and quinoa. What seems like odd pairings, is actually extremely well thought out. All the flavours are fine-tuned with finesse, and there's a sense of Hong Kong cuisine in every offering.

Time Out tip : A vegetarian version of the menu is also available upon request, but menus can change without prior notification so make sure to let your dietary requirements known beforehand.

45.  Hong Kong Cuisine 1983

• Happy Valley

What is it? Hong Kong Cuisine 1983, led by executive Silas Li, is an upscale Cantonese restaurant that presents authentic tastes and flavours of local dishes. 

Why we love it: With decades of experience working in fine dining restaurants, plus endless creativity, executive Silas Li and his team serve up quality and well-presented dim sum and other Cantonese dishes. 

Time Out tip:  Indulge in innovative and reimagined Cantonese dishes, such as layered steamed egg white and fresh crab meat served with a hua-diao wine sauce; flaky scallion pancakes, irresistibly deep-fried chicken with crispy skin, as well as chef Silas’ signature dim sum items like steamed black truffle prawn dumpling with foie gras. 

46.  Ho Lee Fook

What is it? Ho Lee Fook opened in 2014 and gained great popularity over the years for its innovative fusion offering rooted in traditional Cantonese cuisine. In 2021, Ho Lee Fook revamped and introduced a new look and a new chef, ArChan Chan.

Why we love it: The dining room's retro fun interior, pumping music, and cool vibe provide an excellent atmosphere for casual dining and delightful celebrations. Chef ArChan's kitchen always pushes the boundaries of Chinese cuisine, serving deliciously innovative dishes yet still honouring heritage.   Time Out tip: Pre-order the restaurant's specials like Ho Lee Duck, their unique twist on Peking duck inspired by Cantonese roast duck.

47.  Odyssee Creative Dining

What is it? Odyssée, located on the 101st floor of ICC, is a French dining establishment that offers awe-inspiring views of Victoria Harbor and the Kowloon Peninsula.

Why we love it: Aside from stunning views, guests at Odyssée can enjoy a new dining experience as it welcomes its new chef Vito Chan, who introduces a farm-to-table approach that harmoniously blends with the restaurant's celebrated French culinary offerings.

Time Out tip: Offering scenic views of the cityscape, this venue is the ideal location to celebrate various occasions.

48.  Belon

What is it?  Belon is a Michelin-starred French restaurant located in an elegant space on the lower side of Elgin Street. Originally spearheaded by chef Matthew Kirkley, Belon recently transitioned leadership to chef de cuisine Jacob Zuidervliet to steer its culinary direction. 

Why we love it: The restaurant moved to its current location in 2021, and anyone who has been to the original Belon will always have a soft spot for it, but Belon 2.0 does something else entirely. More sophisticated in vibe and execution of cuisine rooted in French techniques.

Time Out tip: The signage is so discreet that you may find yourself walking back and forth a few times, so just remember to look up as it’s just above Ho Lee Fook .

49.  Ming Pavilion

What is it?  Ming Pavilion is  Island Shangri-La 's new Chinese restaurant offering Hokkien cuisine. 

Why we love it:  It's a refreshing new restaurant with a poolside view that brings new life to traditional dishes from the Fujian province by incorporating modern culinary techniques.

Time Out tip:  Order the Xiamen-style ‘Popiah’, a traditional dish offering a medley of textures from ingredients like fresh cabbage, carrots, seaweed, pork, shrimp, peanuts, and more encased in spring roll wrappers. Enhance your experience by adding premium Alaskan crab meat to enrich the filling.

Click the link below for a first look video of the restaurant. 

50.  Hansik Goo

What is it?  It is chef Mingoo Kang's – the chef behind two Michelin-starred Mingles in Seoul – first venture outside of his native Korea, bringing the essence of refined Korean cuisine to Hong Kong.

Why we love it : Hansik Goo is a window to the diverse Korean culinary culture. It offers a well-designed tasting menu with bold, creative renditions of traditional Korean dishes. 

Time Out tip : Hansik Goo recently unveiled a new menu to coincide with the appointment of chef Seung Hun Park as the head chef, succeeding chef Steve Lee, who departed Hong Kong in 2023. Try the new executive lunch set incorporating traditional Korean flavours with modern culinary techniques, featuring dishes such as abalone-wrapped dumplings in a rich beef broth.

Looking for Hong Kong's best bars too?

50 best bars.

We’ve put our livers on the line to deliver you a definitive list of the best bars to visit in Hong Kong

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30 Best Restaurants in Hong Kong

Luring chefs from all over the world, Hong Kong is a wonderland for food-obsessed travelers. In between dim sum and Chinese traditions, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to international flavors. Choose from Lebanese sharing plates and Sri Lankan cuisine, numbing Sichuan or Japanese-Nordic creations. Hong Kong’s international menus are only matched by the diverse atmospheres, from 1950s cha chaan teng diners to speakeasy-style finds, sky-high Cantonese fine-dines, and traditional tea houses. Our list of Hong Kong's best restaurants has it all—and you won't be disappointed.

Lung King Heen Arrow

Three-Michelin-starred Lung King Heen is perpetually booked out, and securing a table at this Cantonese fine-dine feels like winning the lottery. The restaurant features warm woods, silver accents, and a wall full of windows framing Hong Kong’s spectacular Victoria Harbour. And If you’re lucky enough to secure a reservation, Lung King Heen will spoil you with dainty dim sum, succulent roast meats, crispy pork ribs and a roving Champagne cart.

Duddell's Arrow

Whether you’re lounging on the secret garden terrace or pausing for a power lunch in the main dining room, Duddell’s masters the art of hospitality. Executive chef Fung Man-Ip is a specialist in traditional Cantonese cuisine and composes classic dishes with meticulous attention to detail and only the best ingredients. Come for the heartfelt Cantonese dishes, stay for the surprising wine pairings and revolving art exhibitions.

Caprice Arrow

Located in a secluded corner of the Four Seasons Hong Kong, the experience at two-Michelin-starred Caprice begins with a grand entrance: picture sky-high carved doors and a long hallway, opening into a glamorous French dining room. On the left, a mesmerizing open kitchen showcases dozens of chefs at work. The acclaimed French restaurant recently welcomed chef de cuisine Guillaume Galliot, who took up the reins in 2017. Chef Galliot brings with him a world of inspiration from his travels through New York, the Caribbean, China, Singapore, and Macau. The result? An untucked version of classic French food.

Rōnin Arrow

Ronin is a seafood-centric Whisky wonderland, and it exudes sophistication with warm lighting, a long wooden bar, and retro-inspired leather stools. Ronin specializes in Japanese whisky and the 100-plus collection is certainly something to swoon over (with plenty of wine and sake on order as well). Ronin’s food menu is organized into three distinct sections: Raw, Smaller, and Bigger. We’d recommend ordering roughly two dishes from each section of the menu, more if you’re particularly hungry. And a tip—this tiny place hardly fits 15 to 20 diners at a time, so be sure to book ahead.

Tin Lung Heen Arrow

Floating high above Hong Kong harbor—on the 102nd floor of the The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong—Tin Lung Heen has become synonymous with exceptional Cantonese cuisine. The decor centers around a contemporary red palette with marble columns, white tablecloths, and a wall full of windows. Chef de Cuisine Paul Lau Ping Lui crafts no shortage of praise-worthy dishes but the Iberico char siu—barbecued pork covered in a subtle osmanthus honey—is a dish you’ll dream about for years to come. It’s hard to beat the top-of-the-world views and consummate culinary skills at Tin Lung Heen, where you’ll want to savor every last bite with friends, family, or a prospective client.

Amber Arrow

On the seventh floor of the Landmark Mandarin Oriental hotel, the two-Michelin-starred Amber glows with warm woods, bronze accents, and an entire wall of windows showcasing the buzzing city below. In the center of the main dining room is the pièce de résistance: a glittering sculpture made with 4,320-pieces of amber. From the inventive cuisine, combining choice Japanese ingredients and concepts with exacting French technique, to the exceptional wine list, Amber ranks among the world’s top restaurants.

Samsen Arrow

You’ll likely hear this boisterous restaurant before you see it. Built inside an old Chinese shophouse, right by the historic Blue House in Wan Chai, this busy Thai noodle restaurant overflows with hungry diners, keen to try the savory Bangkok-style noodle dishes. Long lines of diners come for the famous beef boat noodles—which more than make up for the no-reservations policy—and stay for the open-air layout, shabby-cool furniture and social atmosphere.

Luk Yu Tea House Arrow

Dating to the 1930s, Luk Yu Tea House is one of the most historic restaurants in Hong Kong’s Central District. The institution comes dressed up in antique wooden furniture, stained glass windows, white tablecloths and Shanghainese-art deco details. Dim sum is an art at this Michelin-recommended tea house, and a welcome procession of bamboo baskets contain steamed beef balls and tofu sheets, char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), har gow (shrimp dumplings), and fried prawns on toast. The atmosphere and classic Chinese dishes provide a fascinating peek into old Hong Kong.

12,000 Francs Arrow

Located on Elgin Street, right next to Belon restaurant in SoHo, 12,000 Francs stretches across an open room with an enormous communal table up front (set with eye-catching brass pig containers that double as ice trays), a few four-tops, and cozy booths towards the back. Chef Conor Beach champions age-old preservation techniques, so you’ll see a lot of fermented, pickled, cured, salted, and smoked ingredients throughout the menu, alongside some of the best-priced wines by the glass in Hong Kong—particularly given these aren’t mainstream bottles.

Little Bao Arrow

Little Bao oozes cool both inside and out, but you’ll be surprised at the tiny space—just about 10 seats at the bar and another 10 off to the right. Designed by Hong Kong creative Sean Dix, the tiled floors, white-tiled walls, shiny stainless steel, bar stools and pictures of vintage Hong Kong mailboxes create a modern diner vibe. Chef May Chow puts as much thought into the food as she does the atmosphere, offering delicious, creative, and very popular baos and sharing dishes. But a word of warning: Don’t visit Little Bao if you’re on any kind of diet.

The Chairman Arrow

When The Chairman opened in 2009, it was one of the only Cantonese restaurants in the city to offer fresh, local ingredients in a modern setting. Nearly 10 years later, the restaurant still draws a loyal following for its classic cuisine, so enticing that hardly anyone looks up from their meal once the food starts flowing. Basically—The Chairman is packed every night for a reason. The stalwart favorite promises an upscale atmosphere, locally sourced ingredients, and an earnest dedication to traditional Cantonese flavors using time-intensive techniques.

Rech by Alain Ducasse Arrow

One of the latest restaurants to join the fold at InterContinental Hong Kong hotel, Rech by Alain Ducasse promises a front-row seat to Hong Kong’s Victoria harbor. Walking into this fresh address, you’ll encounter nuanced nautical design details at every turn, from the champagne and sea-mist palette to driftwood-esque furniture. Rech’s subtle nautical atmosphere pairs perfectly with the seafood-centric menu, which you can enjoy with a choice of more than 2,000 bottles of wine—perfect for date night.

8-1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana Arrow

Holed up in one of Hong Kong’s most luxurious malls, three-Michelin-starred 8-1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana is a vision of fine woods, leather, and crisp white table clothes. Guests enter through the Japanese-inspired bar, where you might want to stop for an aperitivo before venturing into the main dining room, where Chef Umberto Bombana (formerly of The Ritz Carlton Hong Kong) specializes in contemporary Italian made with top-notch ingredients. His Italian heritage and meticulous craftsmanship shine in each dish at this warm, refined, three-Michelin-starred spot.

Hoi On Cafe Arrow

Lovingly restored by the second-generation owners, Hoi On Cafe is a stalwart neighborhood favorite marked by a white facade with bright red Chinese characters. Inside the cha chaan teng (1950s-style Hong Kong diner), traditional floor tiles, rustic red-wood booths, and plastic plates will transport you back in time. It’s perfect for a quick afternoon tea and a cheeky pastry, or a casual breakfast on the weekends.

Belon Arrow

An all-wood facade stands out from the concrete walls on Central’s busy Elgin Street. Behind a pair of heavy wood doors, a fresh and inviting bistro transports you to Paris’ artsy 11th arrondissement with low blue-leather booths, quirky globe-like lighting fixtures, and retro-looking French cafe tables. When it comes to pours, Belon’s known for two things: Fantastic cocktails and beautiful French wines. And when it comes to food, Chef Daniel Calvert aims to let his premium ingredients shine—and shine they do. The vibe and dining make Belon an idyllic date spot.

Gough's on Gough Arrow

Gough opens into a marble- and gold-clad lobby where a quirky aquarium (complete with a life-size prop scuba diver) sets the tone for a whimsical evening. The menu changes seasonally, but a few signatures should stand the test of time: the perfectly textured Australian beef tartare; a warming guinea fowl with chestnut, squash and cherry; and wild Hereford beef that’s been braised in a hearty, handsome English ale sauce. Show-stopping surrounds, classic cocktails, and a modern British menu that’s at once nostalgic and forward-thinking mean Gough’s on Gough has a little something for everyone.

Above & Beyond Arrow

On the top floor of Hotel ICON in the Hung Hom district, Above & Beyond opens into a relaxed, residential-style lounge and bar with striking harbor views. Executive chef Paul Tsui dabbles with both classic and contemporary dishes, delighting multiple generations of diners. A few dishes stand out from the pack, including the indulgent crispy chicken. Prepared like a suckling pig, the crispy skin cracks with each bite, while juicy meat provides a contrasting texture. For dramatic harbor views and contemporary Cantonese cuisine, Above & Beyond certainly lives up to its name.

TATE Dining Room and Bar Arrow

Hong Kong’s busy streets seem to fade away behind you as you ascend the white marble staircase at TATE Dining Room & Bar. The brainchild of award-winning chef (and former graphic designer) Vicky Lau, TATE’s “edible stories” concept pays homage to Pablo Neruda’s All the Odes collection. Just as the Chilean poet dedicated each of his 225 odes to a memory or a sense, Lau has designed each of the eight “chapters” on her evocative tasting menu as an Ode. It’s the kind of meal that will make you think about food as much more than sustenance.

Happy Paradise Arrow

Opened in early 2017, Happy Paradise is the latest eatery from Hong Kong chef May Chow, who is also behind Little Bao and Second Draft. The award-winning chef takes her neo-Chinese style to a new level with Happy Paradise, which is hidden up a flight of stairs along Aberdeen Street behind a banana-patterned door. As you enter the second-floor space, you’re instantly hit with pink and blue neon lighting, a retro-esque bar, and diner-style booths that recall 1980s America.

Second Draft Arrow

Located next to the 19th-century Lin Fa Temple in the quiet Tai Hang neighborhood, Second Draft instantly makes you feel at home. As you walk inside, an enormous U-shaped bar takes up about half of the room, while tables and wooden booths fill out the rest. The gastropub specializes in beer—very, very good beer—curating a refreshing mix of international artisans and local purveyors, and it’s just as serious about the food. That’s why the owners brought award-winning May Chow on board to design the menu.

Sijie Sichuan Private Kitchen Arrow

You’ll know you’re at the right place when the aroma of palate-numbing Sichuan cuisine hits you. Sijie, which has room for about 30 diners at a time, is a spice lover’s dream in a casual, homey setting, complete with old-school metal chairs, circular tables, and retro tableware. Come enjoy a cold Tsing Tao and a spicy ma po tofu with a few friends—just make sure they’re spice lovers, too.

Frantzen's Kitchen Arrow

It’s easy to walk right past Frantzén’s Kitchen, the first international outpost from Michelin-starred Swedish chef Björn Frantzén. Located on a quiet corner in the artsy Tai Ping Shan district—just west of Central—an unassuming facade belies the exciting cuisine that lies within—think Swedish heritage meets Japanese ingredients, with French techniques. Through a sliding door, you’ll enter an intimate space with a few standalone tables. The hottest seats in the house surround an open kitchen, where you can watch the delicate preparation and plating of each dish.

BlackSalt Arrow

Tucked down a little lane in Sai Ying Pun—about two metro stops west of Central—BlackSalt is hardly bigger than a postage stamp. Awash in fresh white paint, the shabby-chic interiors and candle lit space feels eclectic and homey with a dash of wanderlust. Bringing together influences from India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Nepal, the main sharing dishes are clearly organized by Veg, Meat, and Seafood—and about half the menu is vegetarian-friendly. BlackSalt definitely earns its hype.

As one of the largest and busiest malls in Hong Kong, Harbour City seems an unlikely spot for one of Hong Kong’s best restaurants. But walk through HAKU’s curtain and you’re instantly transported to a calm, dimly-lit oasis. A contemporary izakaya (Japanese gastropub) concept from culinary star Hideaki Matsuo, who runs three-Michelin-starred Kashiwaya in Osaka, the Japanese space includes a handful of intimate tables and about 12 coveted seats at the chef’s table on the left. The best way to experience HAKU’s Japanese-inspired cuisine is with the chef’s eight-course tasting menu ($175 per person), which changes with the seasons.

Maxim's Palace Arrow

It’s a little tricky to find Maxim’s Palace, which is located on the second floor of Hong Kong’s City Hall in Central. But as you ascend the escalator, the noisy crowds waiting to be seated should give it away. Established in 1980, Maxim’s is among Hong Kong’s most famous dim sum halls , decked out with elaborate pillars, dragon motifs, and glitzy chandeliers. Fair warning: The high-end address doesn’t take reservations, so it’s common to queue for at least 30 minutes if you come at peak hours, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m on weekends. But for an old-school dim sum feast, Maxim’s delivers in spades.

Yardbird Arrow

One of the first independent restaurants to really cause a stir in Hong Kong, Yardbird takes inspiration from Japanese yakitori (skewers) and always delivers a high-voltage night out. The food is not nearly as low-key or as cheap as what you’d find on the streets in Japan (in fact, the prices verge on ridiculous), but you can always count on a buzzing atmosphere, bumping music, and premium ingredients at this institution of cool.

Maison Libanaise Arrow

Maison Libanaise’s entrance can feel a little chaotic due to people waiting for takeout, but upstairs you’ll discover a lovely space: a residential-style atmosphere, mosaic-tiled floors, high ceilings, and a friendly vibe. But the best part is the food—Maison makes its yogurt labneh, hummus, and baba ganoush in-house, ditto the pillowy, smokey pita. It’s perfect for date nights or as a place to sit around and catch-up with friends.

Tung Po Arrow

Hidden inside the Java Road Wet Market in the North Point district, east of Central, Tung Po Seafood Restaurant draws a lively crowd every night of the week, here to sip chilled beer out of little blue-and-white bowls and watch hilarious restaurant owner Robby Cheung moonwalk around the room in white boots. Grab a plate of the crispy garlic chicken (called wind-sand chicken) or squid ink spaghetti with cuttlefish and a Tsingtao and enjoy the atmosphere.

Arcane Arrow

You have to know where you're going to find Arcane. The one-Michelin-starred European fine-dine sits pretty inside a tower in Central, right by Hong Kong’s famous Lan Kwai Fong nightlife district. The first thing you see when entering the restaurant? A glass wine cellar, straight ahead—a promising sign for oenophiles. The restaurant brings together a few of the best things in life: gorgeous design, freshly baked bread, hard-to-find French wines, and simple yet refined European cuisine using quality ingredients (sourced from Japan, France, Australia and the UK).

Ho Lee Fook Arrow

You can easily spot this popular underground restaurant on busy Elgin Street—just look for the open kitchen and a wall full of gold "Chinese lucky cats," waving in unison. Meaning “good fortune for your mouth” in Cantonese, Ho Lee Fook is impossible to stick inside a box. Taiwanese-born, Sydney-trained chef Jowett Yu (of Mr Wong fame in Sydney) combines Aussie-style Chinese dishes with a few updated cha chaan teng (1950s diner) classics. Well-designed and abuzz with energy, Ho Lee Fook might taste a little nostalgic for Australian and Chinese diners—and just plain interesting for everyone else.

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50 Best Restaurants You Need To Try At Least Once In Hong Kong (For Every Budget)

Hong Kong is a city that takes its food seriously. With a rich culinary history and influences from around the world, it’s no surprise that the city has become a global food destination. From humble street food stalls to more exclusive restaurants, the city offers something for every palate and budget. To pay tribute to the deep Hong Kong food culture, we’ve curated a list of 50 amazing restaurants in Hong Kong, with Michelin-starred restaurants (19), Michelin Bib Gourmand (16) awarded restaurants and our own list of favourite restaurants, namely, The HK Hub’s Picks (15). Restaurants are listed by alphabetical order. The guide aims at covering the best food options available in various types of restaurants across the city. From fine dining to street food, from Cha Chaan Teng to hot pots, from Western to Asian restaurants, you will find here countless options in Central, Jordan, Sham Shui Po, Lamma Island, Sai Kung or Tsim Sha Tsui. So, are you ready to find your best restaurant in Hong Kong?

8 1/2 Otto E Mezzo Bombana — Central

8 1/2 Otto E Mezzo Bombana, situated in the bustling financial hub of Central, is a three Michelin-starred restaurant named after Chef Umberto Bombana’s favourite film, “8 ½” by Federico Fellini. Experience an exquisite blend of Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist, featuring signature dishes such as the delectable black truffle risotto, blue lobsters, and house-made pastas. The cinematic ambiance is enhanced by subdued lighting and a low mirror ceiling, overlooking the dynamic street view. With branches in Macau and Shanghai, this restaurant remains a mainstay in the fine dining scene. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Italian – Michelin Three Star Location: Shop 202, 18 Chater Road, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2537 8859

Amber — Central

Awarded for 16 consecutive years two Michelin stars and The Michelin Green Star since 2022, it’s no secret that Amber is one of the top contenders in town. Led by renowned Dutch-born chef Richard Ekkebus, this French fine dining restaurant offers only prix-fixe menus, including a dairy- and gluten-free vegetarian option with reduced salt and sugar. In 2018, the award-winning restaurant underwent a revamp by acclaimed New York designer Adam Tihany, featuring a bright, gold, and beige palette. The new menu highlights the natural flavours of ingredients, with an emphasis on vegetables, including homemade tofu with Fukuoka tomatoes and amadai (tilefish) with rice and sake lees (leftovers from sake production). Price Range: $$$$ Type: French – Michelin Two Star Location: 15 Queen’s Rd Central, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2132 0066

An Choi — Sheung Wan

An Choi serves “No bullshit” Vietnamese cuisine, offering daily freshly baked bánh mì, phở, and special ăn ốc (snails & seafood) dishes like Lã Vọng grilled fish, bringing the true flavours of Vietnam to the city. Recently awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024, its bright yellow exterior and down-to-earth attitude mirror Vietnam’s lively street food culture, constantly attracting a long queue during lunchtime. Price Range:  $-$$ Type:  Vietnamese – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location:  15-17 Mercer Street, Sheung Wan Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 5286 1517

Andō — Central

Andō is where Chef-Founder Agustin Balbi brings his Spanish-Argentinian roots and Japanese training together in a fusion of flavours. The innovative tasting menu defies labels and takes diners on a personal journey, combining ancestral flavours with Japanese techniques in a minimalistic dining room. Don’t skip the caldoso rice dish Sin Lola – it’s a tribute to his grandma and an absolute must-try! Price Range:  $$$$ Type:  Innovative – Michelin One Star Location:  1F, Somptueux Central, 52 Wellington Street, Central Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 9161 8697

Australia Dairy Company (澳洲牛奶公司) — Jordan

Australia Dairy Company is one of the most popular cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe) in Jordan. This beloved diner is renowned for its classic local breakfast dishes, including rich and buttery thick toast, comforting macaroni soup with BBQ pork, and, of course, the signature silky smooth scrambled eggs. Don’t be put off by the long queues – the no-nonsense service and bustling atmosphere are all part of the experience. The restaurant’s old-school decor and no-frills approach transport diners back in time to a simpler era, making it a true Hong Kong gem. Just be sure to study the menu beforehand, order quickly, eat heartily, and make way for those eager to try this favourite. Price Range: $ Type: Cha Chaan Teng – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: 47 Parkes Street, Jordan Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 2730 1356

Belon — Central

Belon is a Michelin-starred neo-Parisian restaurant helmed by the talented Chef Matthew Kirkley. Moved into its new location on Elgin Street in Soho back in 2021, this eatery offers a contemporary menu of elevated French cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The stunning menu includes the famous whole roasted chicken, the decadent foie gras tartlet with sauternes wine, alongside reimagined French dishes are a feast for the senses. The restaurant’s sophisticated design features kitchen counter seats for a front-row view of the culinary magic. Price Range: $$$$ Type: French – Michelin One Star Location: 1st Floor, 1-5 Elgin Street, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | +852 2152 2872

Big JJ Seafood Hotpot (珍姐海鮮火鍋飯店 ) — Central

Nestled in an alley close to Lan Kwai Fong, Big JJ Seafood Hotpot is a social media sensation that’s loved by locals and tourists alike. This popular restaurant is renowned for its signature seafood hotpot, featuring locally-slaughtered yellow beef, the catch of the day seafood platter, and signature soup bases with zero artificial flavoring or MSG. Their loud Cantopop music and friendly staff perfectly embody their tagline, “Noisy, rude, and overrated.” If you’re in the mood for wine, ask their friendly sommelier for a recommendation, or bring your own with a surcharge. While the hotpots are only served at night and advanced booking is a must, their lunch menu boasts must-try dishes like Pratunam Chicken Rice and Prime Beef with Scallion Oil & Soy Noodle. Price Range: $$ Type: Hot Pot – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: G/F, Wo On Building, 9 Wo On Ln, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2388 6982

Caprice — Central

Caprice, located in the iconic Four Seasons Hong Kong, is a three Michelin-starred restaurant that delivers French haute cuisine at its finest. With Executive Chef Guillaume Galliot at the helm, the menu showcases the freshest ingredients and highlights the best of French culinary techniques. The ‘Menu Connaisseur’ allows guests to indulge in all of their specialities at once, including its signature Crabe Royal d’Alaska, and the inspiring desserts by pastry chef Nicholas Lambert, who was the youngest recipient of Asia’s Best Pastry Chef in 2018. The restaurant’s glamorous design and outstanding Victoria Harbor views perfectly complement the concept of French luxury dining. Price Range: $$$$ Type: French – Michelin Three Star Location: 8 Finance Street, Sheung Wan Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3196 8882

Chaat — Tsim Sha Tsui

Chaat, which means “to lick” in Hindi, is an Indian fine dining restaurant located at Rosewood Hong Kong. Headed by Chef Manav Tuli, the restaurant was awarded Michelin One Star since 2022. Chaat offers a unique and imaginative take on Indian street food, with a menu that showcases bold and flavourful dishes. The restaurant’s Tandoori menu is particularly impressive, featuring standout dishes such as the Lobster Tikka and Brandt Ranch Tomahawk, both cooked to perfection in the custom Tandoor oven. These dishes are best enjoyed with Chaat’s spice-influenced cocktails and wines. The vibrant and colourful decor features a glass-clad Masala room filled with fragrant spices, and an outdoor terrace overlooking Victoria Harbour. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Indian – Michelin One Star Location: 5/F Rosewood Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3891 8732

Cristal Room By Anne-Sophie Pic — Central

Part of the city’s most thrilling lifestyle hub, FORTY-FIVE, Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic is a partnership between French celebrity chef Anne-Sophie Pic and luxury crystal house Baccarat. The French fine dining restaurant offers not only jaw-dropping views of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline but also a delightful and innovative menu using local ingredients. No wonder it was recognized with a Michelin Star within five months of opening. Price Range:  $$$$ Type:  French Contemporary – Michelin One Star Location:  Forty-Five, Gloucester Tower Landmark, Central Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3501 8580

Dragon State Kitchen (龍邦燒味小廚茶餐廳) — Sheung Wan

Dragon State Kitchen is tucked away on a street corner in Sheung Wan, offering authentic Cantonese BBQ. This gem is renowned for its succulent selection of roasted meats, from the flavourful barbecued pork and roasted duck to the crispy skin chicken and everything in between. If roasted meat isn’t your thing, fear not – the menu also features Cantonese rice and fried noodles, making it a bustling cha chaang teng for lunch. And for those on the go, Dragon State Kitchen also offers take out options. Price Range: $ Type: Cha Chaang Teng – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: 38 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan Contact: Facebook | +852 2342 3189

Eng Kee Noodle Shop (英記麵家) — Sai Ying Pun

Eng Kee Noodle Shop is a family-run restaurant located in Sai Ying Pun that has been serving up Cantonese-style noodles since 1994. The Michelin-recommended restaurant is famous for its signature dish – the beef brisket – which is braised overnight and steeped in a spiced marinade for maximum tenderness and flavour. The oven-grilled char siu, made with pork shoulder and pork neck, boasts a juicy and springy texture thanks to the fine marbling. This little shop offers both dine-in and takeout options, making it the perfect joint for a quick and satisfying meal. Price Range: $ Type: Chinese Noodles – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: GF, 32 High Street, Sai Ying Pun Contact: Website | +852 2540 7950

Estro — Central

Helmed by Naples-born Chef Antimo Maria Merone, Estro ain’t your typical Italian joint. With a focus on elevating Neapolitan flavours through modern techniques, the restaurant’s refined tasting menus reflect Antimo’s childhood memories and global perspective, offering ingenious creations like handmade bottoni pasta stuffed with parmesan emulsion and red prawn panna cotta topped with caviar. Price Range:  $$$$ Type:  Italian – Michelin One Star Location:  Level 2, 1 Duddell Street, Central Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 9380 0161

Forum (富臨飯店) — Causeway Bay

For over 40 years, Forum has been a beloved eatery, attracting tourists from around the world with its Michelin-starred cuisine. The restaurant’s signature dish, Ah Yat braised abalone, is named after Forum’s founder and master Chef Yeung Koon Yat. Premium abalone is slow-cooked in a flavourful broth for days and served with the option to add toppings like goose web, dried seafood or fish maw. Today, under the guidance of Executive Chef Adam Wong, Forum continues to deliver the finest Cantonese cuisine with top-quality ingredients. Don’t miss the sweet, tender braised ox-tails, or the aromatic and delicious Ah Yat fried rice, made with fresh shrimp, BBQ pork, and finished with ham sauce. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Dim Sum – Michelin Three Star Location: 1/F, Sino Plaza, Causeway Bay Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2869 8282

Hansik Goo — Sheung Wan

Led by Chef Mingoo Kang, who is also responsible for the acclaimed Mingles in Seoul, Hansik Goo is a Michelin-starred Korean restaurant that celebrates authentic Korean flavours with a creative twist. Offering just one tasting menu with add-on options available, the creative courses draw inspiration from the variety of Korean cooking traditions. The standout dish, samgye risotto 2.0, is a modern take on the beloved Korean chicken soup dish, samgyetang, featuring a chicken and duck roulade stuffed with song-yi mushroom and drizzled with ginseng chicken and rice soup. The contemporary design is inspired by the old Korean kitchen and hearth, known as Bu-Eok, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere that highlights the restaurant’s Korean heritage. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Korean – Michelin One Star Location: 1/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Sheung Wan Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2798 8768

Hop Sze (合時小廚) — Sai Wan Ho

From the outside, you may assume this is just another Cantonese restaurant; but no, Hop Sze is a local favourite with a waiting list up to months. Led by Chef Wong, this Cantonese gem offers homestyle dishes that pack a punch with unique flavours and top-notch ingredients. Signature dishes like shrimp toast and soy sauce chicken showcase Wong’s dedication to freshness and quality. Sure, it’s a bit pricier than your average spot, but trust me, it’s worth every penny – plus, they’ll soon be moving to the new Club Bâtard in Central’s Pedder Building. Price Range:  $$ Type:  Cantonese Location:  39 Shau Kei Wan Rd, Sai Wan Ho Contact:   Facebook | +852 2569 0862

Hop Yik Tai (合益泰小食) — Sham Shui Po

Sham Shui Po is home to numerous delectable eateries, and the always busy Hop Yik Tai in Sham Shui Po is all about authentic Hong Kong street food. Celebrated on the Michelin guide, this joint is always buzzing with activity, serving up freshly made cheong fun, or rice noodle rolls, that are velvety and paired perfectly with sweet sauce, sesame sauce, and soy sauce. Whether you’re grabbing it to go or snagging a seat in this cozy shop, you won’t want to miss out on their other mouth-watering street food, like fish balls, pork skin, and braised radish. Price Range: $ Type: Street Food – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: 121 Kweilin Street, Sham Shui Po Contact: Website | +852 2720 0239

Kam Wah Cafe (金華冰廳) — Mong Kok

Kam Wah Cafe, located in Mong Kok, is renowned as one of the best Pineapple bun makers in the city. This humble cha chaang teng serves up traditional Hong Kong-style breakfast fare, with dishes like pork chop noodles and creamy scrambled eggs with soft white bread, paired with a cup of rich and smooth milk tea, crispy and buttery pineapple buns, and fluffy egg tarts. While you may have to share a table with strangers, it’s quite common with local eateries. The menu is thoughtfully provided in both English and Chinese. Price Range: $ Type: Cha Chaan Teng – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: 45-47 Bute Street, Mong Kok Contact: Instagram | +852 2392 6830

Kam’s Roast Goose (甘牌燒鵝) — Wan Chai

Kam’s Roast Goose in Wan Chai is the place to go for its mouthwatering Cantonese roast goose. Founded by the third generation of the Kam family, whose grandfather was the founder of the infamous Chinese restaurant Yung Kee, this restaurant offers a simple yet delicious menu centred around their signature dish, the succulent roast goose. The goose is roasted to perfection, with a crispy skin and tender, juicy meat that is enhanced by the restaurant’s secret marinade. Don’t miss the creamy, melty goose blood pudding or the decadent blanched noodles tossed in goose fat. The cosy design allows guests to savour the restaurant’s Cantonese dishes in a warm and family-oriented environment that. Price Range: $$ Type: Cantonese – Michelin One Star Location: 226 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2520 1110

Kau Kee (九記牛腩) — Central

Recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide, Kau Kee is a restaurant in Central famous for its succulent and flavor-packed beef brisket. Since its humble beginnings in the 1930s, Kau Kee has been serving up Cantonese-style noodle soup with a variety of noodles and cuts of meat in both clear broth and rich, spicy curry soup. The restaurant’s delectable offerings have attracted a massive following, with lines often stretching out onto the street. Be prepared to cosy up with strangers at a crowded table and navigate the slippery floors, but the hearty and satisfying flavours of Kau Kee’s dishes are sure to make it all worthwhile. Price Range: $$ Type: Chinese Noodles – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: Ground Floor, 21 Gough St, Central Contact: Website | +852 2850 5967

Kung Wo Beancurd Factory (公和荳品廠) — Sham Shui Po

For over 70 years, Kung Wo Beancurd Factory has been a staple in the vibrant neighbourhood of Shum Shui Po, renowned for their wide variety of classic soy products, which earned them a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide. Using locally sourced non-GMO soybeans, this iconic old-school store has become popular for their signature silky smooth tofu pudding, a beloved iconic dessert in Hong Kong, as well as their bean curd puffs, deep-fried tofu, and homemade sugar-free soy milk, all made fresh daily. Kung Wo Beancurd Factory is renowned for its ability to bring out the rich, savoury flavour of soybeans, which make it a mainstay in the local food scene. Price Range: $ Type: Street Food – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: G/F, 118 Pei Ho Street, Sham Shui Po Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 2386 6871

Kwan Kee Claypot Rice (坤記煲仔小菜) — Sai Ying Pun

For over 30 years, it is no secret that Kwan Kee Claypot Rice in Sai Ying Pun has been a beloved destination for authentic Hong Kong-style clay pot rice dishes. The Michelin-recommended restaurant uses a unique three-rice blend that gives it a chewy and fragrant texture, with a perfectly crispy crust at the bottom that’s expertly scorched from the right amount of heat and time. Popular items to pair with include white eel, Chinese sausage, beef, chicken and more, all perfectly made with excellent wok hei. Keep in mind that clay pot rice is only served at night and takes time to prepare, so order it as soon as you’re seated. Price Range: $$ Type: Cantonese – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: Shop 1, G/F, Wo Yick Mansion, 263 Queen’s Road West, Sai Ying Pun Contact: Website | +852 2803 7209

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon — Central

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, situated in the heart of Landmark Hong Kong, is a French culinary masterpiece that has earned three Michelin stars for an impressive 11 consecutive years since 2012. The contemporary chic design features its signature red velvet and dark decor, and an open kitchen where culinary magic happens before your eyes. Currently headed by Executive Chef Julien Tongourian, the restaurant offers French classics in tapas-style portions. Don’t miss the signature truffle langoustine ravioli or the iconic mashed potatoes. For a more intimate experience, book a table in the outdoor Le Jardin. Price Range: $$$$ Type: French – Michelin Three Star Location: Shop 401, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2166 9000

L’Envol — Wan Chai

L’Envol at The St. Regis Hong Kong is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant led by Executive Chef Olivier Elzer. The restaurant serves contemporary French cuisine with Asian ingredients, and their set menus change regularly to incorporate only the freshest seasonal ingredients, with a particular focus on seafood delicacies such as the Hokkaido sea urchin box. The restaurant’s elegant design of marble and wood creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, with natural light streaming in to showcase the stunning open kitchen. Wine lovers will be delighted by the extensive and exclusive wine list, with a variety of exceptional wines available by the glass. Price Range: $$$$ Type: French – Michelin Two Star Location: 3/F, The St. Regis Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Drive, Wan Chai Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2138 6818

Lan Fong Yuen (蘭芳園) — Central, Tsim Sha Tsui

Whether you’re a fan of milk tea or not, you should try Lan Fong Yuen, their Central branch one of the oldest local milk tea shops that exists in present time. This iconic restaurant has been serving up their signature Hong Kong-style milk tea since 1952, using high-quality Australian milk and Indian Assam black tea. For coffee lovers, try their Yuen yeung, a delicious mix of coffee and milk tea. Originally starting out as an open-air food stall, the nostalgic green stall in Central is still preserved today despite the restaurant now operating inside a building. Indulge in their crispy pork chop buns, French toast, or simply a bun with condensed milk to complete the perfect meal. Price Range: $$ Type: Cha Chaan Teng – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: 2 Gage Street, Central; 44 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2544 3895

Loaf On (六福菜館) — Sai Kung

Hong Kong is a seafood lover’s paradise: wander along the waterfront promenade in Sai Kung, where restaurants display water tanks outside for fresh seafood. Among them is Loaf On, boasting a Michelin star for 15 consecutive years. This Cantonese seafood haven serves up fresh delights like mantis shrimp, razor clams, and scallops with glass noodles. Be sure to pre-order the signature chili pepper crispy skin chicken for a flavourful treat. And don’t forget, you can bring your own seafood for the chef’s creative touch. Price Range:  $$$ Type:  Chinese Seafood – Michelin One Star Location:  G/F, 49 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung Contact:   Website  | Instagram | +852 2792 9966

Luk Yu Tea House (陸羽茶室) — Central

Named after the Sage of Tea, a renowned Chinese tea master, Luk Yu Tea House in Central has been delighting diners with authentic dim sum and Cantonese dishes since its establishment in 1933. The elegant decor, featuring Chinese art and subtle colonial details, adds to the old-world charm of this three-story restaurant, attracting both regulars and tourists alike. Indulge in their freshly made dim sum, perfectly paired with a wide selection of Chinese tea, ranging from Puer to Long jing and everything in between. Price Range: $$-$$$ Type: Chinese Tea House – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: 24-26 Stanley Street, Central Contact: Facebook | +852 2523 5464

Mak Man Kee (麥文記麵家) — Jordan

The iconic Mak Man Kee in Jordan, with a history spanning over 60 years, is all about Cantonese wonton soup noodles. To ensure the perfect texture of their noodles, this diner uses self-made noodles, featuring the distinct flavours of egg and shrimp roe. Their firm and bouncy tiger prawn wontons are prepared fresh and al dente, while the sweet clear broth is simmered for at least 6 hours, with a blend of pork bone, Jinhua ham, flounder, dried shrimp and more. Enjoy the noodles tossed in oyster sauce or shrimp roe, which is also available as a pre-packaged condiment to-go. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and authentic flavours has earned them a nod from the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide. Price Range: $ Type: Chinese Noodles – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: G/F, 51 Parkes Street, Jordan Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2736 5561

Man Yuen (文苑飯莊) — Wong Tai Sin

Man Yuen Restaurant might be tucked away in an East Kowloon public housing estate, but don’t let that fool you. Led by culinary director CK Poon, the restaurant offers quality Cantonese cuisine that has earned it a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list. Expect mouth-watering dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from local markets, and their team knows how to whip up classics like wok hei-laden stir-fries that’ll make your taste buds dance. Forget the fancy location, Man Yuen attracts diners from near and far with its top-notch Cantonese eats! Price Range:  $$$ Type:  Cantonese – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location:  Shop S02, 2/F, Tin Ma Court, 55 Chuk Yuen Road, Wong Tai Sin Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 6315 7300

MONO — Central

Helmed by Venezuela-born Chef Ricardo Chaneton, MONO is an intimate 22-seater space with a Michelin One star under its belt. This fine dining restaurant presents Asia with a taste of refined Latin American gastronomy, reinterpreting LatAm cuisine with inventive dishes that pay homage to tradition while being influenced by European and Asian culture. Bold flavours and sophisticated techniques take centre stage. You can even listen to the Chef’s wide range of music collection on Spotify. Price Range:  $$$$ Type:  Latin American – Michelin One Star Location:  5/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 9726 9301

Mora — Sheung Wan

If you’re strolling down Cat Street, keep an eye out for Mora, where soy takes the spotlight in every dish. Led by the renowned Chef Vicky Lau, this restaurant in Sheung Wan embodies the surprising, harmonious capacities of contrasting ingredients and textures. From light-as-air tofu to bubbling stone pot mala tofu, Mora’s hyper-seasonal menu showcases the versatility of soy, a pivotal ingredient in Asian culinary tradition. The MICHELIN Green Star restaurant works with long-standing local product shops and participates in sustainability charity activities. Price Range:  $$$ Type:  Innovative – Michelin One Star Location:  40 Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 9583 8590

Neighbourhood — Central

Nestled in the middle of lively bars and antique shops, Neighborhood might not scream fine dining from the outside, but trust me, it’s where the real foodies flock. Chef-owner David Lai, influenced by his training in the U.S. and culinary experiences in San Francisco, offers a seafood-heavy French menu with tapas-style dishes and large platters for sharing. The salt-baked chicken rice with giblets and morels is a crowd favourite, showcasing Lai’s seasonal produce-first philosophy. Despite the absence of fancy websites or Instagram hype, this place books out faster than you can say “bon appétit”. Price Range:  $$$ Type:  French – Michelin One Star Location:  61-63 Hollywood Road, Central Contact:   Facebook | +852 2617 0891

She Wong Leung (蛇王良) — North Point

Explore the exotic flavors of traditional Hong Kong delicacy at She Wong Leung, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognized restaurant in North Point specialised in snake soup. Unlike most snake soup shops that serve the dish only in winter, the owner, who studied Chinese medicine, formulates its signature snake soup with a different blend of herbs and spices for every season, making it a healthy tonic all year round. Enjoy exceptional value with set menus featuring snake soup and home-style dishes to cater to all tastes. For those feeling extra adventurous, try the snake wines. Don’t miss out on the equally popular double-boiled soups, which require pre-ordering. Price Range: $ Type: Chinese – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: Shop A, GF, 298 Electric Road, North Point Contact: Website | +852 2578 8135

Shugetsu (麵鮮醬油房周月) — Central

A long-stayer on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list, Shugetsu is a Japanese ramen joint on Gough Street, drawing early queues for its lip-smacking Tsukemen ramen. Homemade noodles, available thick or thin, are paired with a comprehensive base sauce aged for a whopping 18 months. The meticulous soup-making process involves simmering chicken stock until concentrated, then adding soy sauce and vinegar. Owner Taka’s commitment to quality also shines through in their equally-exceptional noodles, made in-house with the same recipe and ingredients as their Japanese restaurant in Shikoku’s Ehime prefecture. Price Range:  $-$$ Type:  Japanese Ramen – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location:  5 Gough Street, Central Contact:   Instagram | Facebook | +852 2850 6009

Shui Kee Coffee (瑞記咖啡) — Sheung Wan

Located inside the bustling Sheung Wan Cooked Food Centre, Shui Kee Coffee is a beloved cha chaang teng known for its French toast and milk tea. While this eatery serves up nostalgic comfort food items like instant noodles, sandwiches, and buns with your choice of ham, spam, or egg, it’s their Hong Kong-style French toast that draws in the crowds. The toast is pan-fried to perfection with crispy edges, while the inside remains moist and buttery, sinfully drizzled with butter and condensed milk, and it is perfectly paired with a cup of milk tea. Prepare to brush up on your math skills to navigate their menu, using “Suzhou” numerals for prices that even locals may not understand. But fear not, as they have an English menu to guide you through. Price Range: $ Type: Cha Chaan Teng – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: Shop 17, 2/F, Cooked Food Centre, 345 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan Contact: Website | +852 2850 8643

Sister Wah Beef Brisket (華姐清湯腩) — Tin Hau

Carrying on their mother’s legacy, Wong Shu Wah and Wong Kwok Wah, the second-generation owners of Sister Wah, continue to serve their mother’s recipe for the famous beef brisket in clear broth, just the way she did. Using only locally butchered beef brisket, the meat is seasoned and simmered to perfection with up to 10 spices, resulting in a balanced, flavourful clear broth that’s not oily and has a distinct herbal aroma. To maintain the best flavour, the brisket is prepared on the same day it’s butchered. But the brisket isn’t the only star on the menu; their homemade Shanghainese cuisine, including wontons in chilli oil, is not to be missed. Price Range: $ Type: Chinese Noodles – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: 13 Electric Road, Tin Hau Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 2807 0181

Sun Hing Restaurant (新興食家) — Kennedy Town

Craving dim sum late at night? Look no further than Sun Hing Restaurant in Kennedy Town, open from 3am to 4pm daily. This legendary eatery is a favourite among all walks of life, serving up steaming hot baskets of freshly made dim sum since the 1980s. Be sure to try all the dim sum classics, including the steamed custard buns, with a runny, rich, and piping-hot filling that’s out of this world. Sun Hing Restaurant is an old-school joint that’s self-serving, just like the good old days. Choose your preferred loose tea leaves from a stainless-steel shelf to make a pot of Chinese tea, and pick from a variety of delicious dim sum on the steam trolleys full of bamboo baskets stacked high. It’s no wonder Sun Hing is always packed with regulars and tourists alike. Price Range: $ Type: Chinese Dim Sum – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: Shop C, G/F, 8 Smithfield Road, Kennedy Town Contact: Website | +852 2816 0616

Sushi Shikon — Central

Located at the luxurious The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, Sushi Shikon is a culinary gem that has earned three Michelin stars every year since 2014. Led by Chef Yoshiharu Kakinuma, a master of Edomae sushi who was served as a young apprentice to Mr. Yoshitake, the restaurant curates an unforgettable omakase experience featuring the freshest ingredients imported daily from Tokyo’s infamous Toyosu market. Complementing their seasonal menu is a carefully selected collection of sake, including exclusive options available only at Sushi Shikon. Prepare to be dazzled by the artistry of Edomae sushi and indulge in a truly exceptional dining experience. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Japanese omakase – Michelin Three Star Location: 7/F, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Road Central,, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2643 6800

T’ang Court (唐閣) — Tsim Sha Tsui

Experience the epitome of Cantonese cuisine at T’ang Court, one of the finest restaurants in town and a recipient of three Michelin stars since 2020. Curated by Executive Chef Wong Chi Fai and his talented team, the restaurant is inspired by the Tang Dynasty, China’s golden age. Don’t miss the signature dishes such as the baked stuffed crab shell, the succulent braised imperial bird nest, as well as the finest abalone and seafood dishes. The equally lavish decor and impeccable service make T’ang Court a constant presence in the fine dining scene. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Cantonese – Michelin Three Star Location: 1F & 2F, The Langham, Hong Kong, 8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2132 7898

Ta Vie — Central

Ta Vie means “Your Life” in French and “journey” in Japanese, and this Michelin-three-starred spot invites diners on a culinary journey that marries French and Japanese cuisines. Chef Hideaki Sato’s mantra of “pure, simple, and seasonal” guides the tasting menu, featuring top-notch ingredients sourced from Japan. The intimate setting and darkened interiors add to the dramatic experience. The cherry on top? The wine-pairing here includes interesting Asian vintages as well as sake. Price Range:  $$$$ Type:  French-Japanese – Michelin Three Star Location:  2F, The Pottinger Hotel, 21 Stanley Street, Central Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2668 6488

Tai Ping Koon (太平館) — Multiple locations

Step back in time and experience the rich history of the city’s oldest running Hong Kong-style Western restaurant, Tai Ping Koon. Established in 1860 and currently run by the fifth-generation of the Chui family, this iconic restaurant chain is famous for its ‘soya sauce’ Western dishes, a fusion of Chinese ingredients and faux-Western recipes, including Swiss sauce chicken wings and sizzling steaks. And of course, no visit to Tai Ping Koon is complete without trying their famous roasted pigeon, cooked to crispy perfection on the outside and juicy on the inside. The secret to Tai Ping Koon’s success is their signature “Swiss sauce,” a marinade sauce made with a blend of soy sauces and sweet tones originating from their first Guangzhou restaurant. And don’t forget to leave room for their signature soufflé, a true showstopper that’s as big as a plate. Price Range: $$ Type: Western – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: Causeway Bay, Central, Jordan, Tsim Sha Tsui Contact: Website | Facebook | +852 2899 2780

Tate Dining Room — Central

With Michelin-starred Chef Vicky Lau at the helm, the French-Chinese fusion restaurant Tate Dining Room tells edible stories through its artfully crafted tasting menu, each dish tells an edible story that pays tribute to a specific ingredient, such as local flower crab and pigeon. Thrived for perfect moments and last experiences, every aspect of the dining experience is carefully curated by the team, from the flavours and lighting to the aroma, plating, temperature, and more. Recognised with the title Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2015, Lau infuses her graphic design background into her colourful and creative plating. The dining room itself is also an interior design dream, featuring pastel pink velvet banquettes and etched steel tables. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Innovative – Michelin Two Star Location: 210 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2555 2172

The Chairman (大班樓) — Central

The Chairman made history in 2021 as the first restaurant in Hong Kong to claim the No.1 spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Under the helm of the talented Chef Kwok Keung Tung, this Michelin-starred hotspot offers a farm-to-table experience that celebrates the freshness of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. The signature dish, steamed flower crab with aged Shaoxing wine and chicken oil, is a true masterpiece. They continue to shine after relocating to a new place on Wellington Street with a new lush green design, and diners can only make reservations online and are required to order one of the set menus in advance.

Price Range: $$$ Type: Cantonese – Michelin One Star Location: 3/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington St, Central Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2555 2202

The Steak House by Regent Hong Kong — Tsim Sha Tsui

In an elegant setting overlooking Victoria Harbour, The Steak House at Regent Hong Kong serves up a tantalising array of prime meats from around the globe. With a focus on dry-aged beef and an original charcoal grill, Chef Amine Errkhis and his team create mouthwatering dishes that are complemented by an elaborate salad bar and decadent desserts. Featuring a curated wine selection, this stylish restaurant is perfect for celebrating any special occasions. Price Range:  $$$$ Type:  Steak House Location:  15-17 Mercer Street, Sheung Wan Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 5286 1517

Tim Ho Wan (添好運點心專門店) — Multiple locations

Indulge in Michelin-starred dim sum at Tim Ho Wan in Sham Shui Po, the birthplace of this world-renowned restaurant chain. Don’t miss their signature dish, the char siu bao, a Baked BBQ Pork Bun with a crispy, buttery crust and a sweet and savoury filling that’s out of this world. Alongside this iconic dish, the restaurant offers over 20 other traditional dim sums, including shrimp dumplings and steamed beef meatballs, all at affordable prices. This neighbourhood gem is your chance to dine at one of the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, without sacrificing quality or taste. Price Range: $$ Type: Dim Sum – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location: Central, Olympian City, Sham Shui Po, Tseung Kwan O, West Kowloon Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2788 1226

Tin Lung Heen (天龍軒) — West Kowloon

Tin Lung Heen at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong occupies 102nd floor of the city’s tallest skyscraper, ICC. Led by renowned Executive Chef Paul Lau, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant celebrates fine Cantonese cuisine, with standout dishes such as the signature honey-glazed Iberian pork char siu, double-boiled chicken soup with fish maw in coconut, and delicate dim sum served only on weekends. The restaurant’s high ceiling and grand red wood veneer decor highlights the breathtaking views of Hong Kong west’s skyline. Privates rooms are available for special occasions of any sizes. Price Range: $$$$ Type: Cantonese – Michelin Two Star Location: 102/F, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2263 2270

Twins Liangpi Limited (兩姊妹涼皮有限公司) — Mong Kok

Ready for some seriously satisfying Sichuan cold skin noodles (liangpi)? Originally a takeaway spot in Prince Edward, Twins Liangpi Limited has now moved to Mong Kok with dine-in options. And let’s talk sauce – their secret recipe of sesame paste, sugar, soy sauce, and more is like a flavour explosion in your mouth. With fresh, handcrafted noodles and homemade chilli oils, every bowl is a labour of love. If you live on Hong Kong Island, check out their shop at Central’s Basehall 2! Price Range:  $-$$ Type:  Sichuan Street Food – Michelin Bib Gourmand Location:  GF, 99 Hak Po Street, Mong Kok Contact:   Instagram | Facebook

Under Bridge Spicy Crab ( 橋底辣蟹 ) — Wan Chai

Started off with humble beginnings as a stall along the Canal Road flyover, Under Bridge Spicy Crab has been delighting diners with its Boat People style cuisine, and even appeared on the late Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations in 2007. The signature dish here is the fiery and flavourful Under Bridge Spicy Crab, where each crab weighs over five catty (a little over one pound), deep-fried, and cooked with a secret typhoon-style sauce. You can also choose the level of spiciness to suit your taste buds, from mild to super spicy. But the menu doesn’t stop there – there’s also a wide selection of fresh seafood, from mantis prawns to fresh clams and everything in between. Get ready to dig in and get your hands dirty as you immerse yourself in this delicious crab feast. Price Range: $$-$$$ Type: Chinese – The HK Hub’s Pick Location: G/F-3/F, Ascot Mansion, 421-425 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai Contact: Facebook | +852 2893 1289

Wing — Central

WING redefines Chinese cuisine with modern flair, synergising the finest of the Eight Great Chinese Cuisines with modern culinary approaches. Chef Vicky Cheng’s French training shines through in every dish, from crispy pigeon to chilli oyster with house-preserved century egg. The menu is highly seasonal. The decor is as chic as the food, adorned with rich emerald hues and subtle marble touches to create an elegant atmosphere. But beware – snagging a reservation here often requires months in advance. Price Range:  $$$$ Type:  Chinese Location:  29F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2711 0063, +852 9310 0172 (Whatsapp)

Yardbird — Sheung Wan

Yardbird is a well-known secret among foodies in Hong Kong. Situated a bit further from Lan Kwai Fong and Soho, this modern izakaya is renowned for its yakitori delicacies. Owned by Chef Matt Abergel and Lindsay Jang, it offers over 20 types of yakitori skewers, featuring local ‘three-yellow’ chicken grilled over binchotan charcoal, paired perfectly with a selection of Japanese whisky. The dynamic vibe and welcoming hospitality are also why people keep returning. Price Range:  $$$ Type:  Japanese Izakaya – Michelin One Star Location:  154-158 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan Contact:   Website  | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2547 9273

Header image credits: Cristal Room By Anne-Sophie Pic

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Growing up between Hong Kong and various other countries, Renee is a hospitality graduate, an adventure enthusiast, with a newfound passion for writing. When she’s not discovering hidden gems and new eats on Instagram, you'll most likely find her sweating at the gym, sipping on fine wine with friends, solving mysteries in crime movies, or jet-setting to new countries.

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Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

Top 20 Hong Kong Must Eat Restaurants – A HK Food Guide

Last Updated February 20, 2023 William Tang

You are here: Home » Eat & Drink » Top 20 Hong Kong Must Eat Restaurants – A HK Food Guide

One of the things you quickly realize about Hong Kong is that people here LOVE 2 things: shopping and eating .  If the locals aren’t out on the streets of Causeway Bay making purchases at SOGO or buying the latest Louis Vuitton bag, they’re out having dim sum or checking out the hottest eateries.  But the question is, where should you eat in HK?

If you’re visiting Hong Kong, you’ll soon realize that there’s just not enough time and stomach space for you to eat through everything so I’ve compiled this list of the top 20 restaurants in Hong Kong .  I want to help satisfy your food cravings with these Hong Kong must eat places.

Note that there is no particular order for the restaurants other than the fact that I’ve separated the savoury restaurants from the dessert spots.

Read more about Hong Kong

• 2 Day Hong Kong Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Hong Kong
• 3 Best Side Trips from Hong Kong
• The Perfect 1 day Macau Itinerary
• Best of Hong Kong Articles

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In This Article

Second stomach required?

Best restaurants in hong kong, map of best hong kong restaurants, tim ho wan, the dim-sum specialists 添好運點心專門店, tung po 東寶小館, lei garden 利苑酒家, ho hung kee 何洪記, tsui wah 翠華餐廳, ichiran 天然豚骨拉麵專門店一蘭, pak lok chiu chow 百樂潮州酒樓.

• Home-made Cuisine 愛吃家常便飯

Indonesian Restaurant 1968 印尼餐廳1968

Fish ball noodle shop in causeway bay 江仔記粉面專家, the lobby at the peninsula hotel 半島酒店大堂茶座, australia dairy company 澳洲牛奶公司, yee shun dairy company 港澳義順牛奶公司, lab made 分子雪糕專門店, coffee alley 咖啡弄, sinmei tea 川善茶居, honeymoon dessert 滿記甜品, mobile softee, street food, looking for activities in hong kong, great location, great price, travel resources for your next trip.

In short, the answer is yes .

I guarantee you now that when you go to Hong Kong, you will end up eating your way through it.  I myself felt that I honestly needed a second stomach to get through the day.

The big trick you learn after a few “I had way too much food and I don’t feel so well” days is that you have to keep your meals small.  You can have your defined breakfasts, lunches and dinners but if there’s 2 of you, just order one entrée and be done with it because along the way, you just know you’re going to be picking up other food that suits your fancy.  This way, you’ll never be over-stuffed from any of the big meals and you’ll leave some space for all the snacking you’ll be doing from place to place.

Click on the links below to jump straight to the reviews of this Hong Kong food guide

• Ho Hung Kee
• Pak Lok Chiu Chow
• Home-made Cuisine
• Indonesian Restaurant 1968
• Fish Ball Noodle Shop
• The Lobby Afternoon Tea
• Australia Dairy Company
• Yee Shun Dairy Company
• Coffee Alley
• Honeymoon Dessert
• Mobile Softee

Hong Kong Must Eat Restaurants

Note all ratings and prices are out of 5.

• Address (E):  Shop B, C, & D, G/F, 2-8 Wharf Road, Seaview Building, North Point, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  北角和富道2-8號嘉洋大廈地下B,C及D鋪
• Closest subway stop:  North Point
• Hours:  Mon.-Sun. 10:00-21:30
• Specialities:  Dim Sum
• Rating:   ♦ ♦ ♦♦♦
• Price:  $$
• OpenRice link
• TripAdvisor review
• Tips:  The only dim sum place you have to go to if you had to choose one.  There are a number of locations now in Hong Kong so the lines aren’t as bad anymore.  There are now 5 locations scattered around HK and Kowloon.  Would totally recommend North Point as it’s a bit further out so lower probability of huge tourist crowds.

You’ve heard of the Michelin Guide right?  If you haven’t, it’s a well respected and highly regarded guide on top restaurants around the world.  It’s based on a 3 star system and just to get one is an honor.  In 2019, Michelin released their latest edition for Hong Kong & Macau and Tim Ho Wan retained their one star.  Now what’s unique about Hong Kong is that it’s home to the cheapest Michelin starred restaurants.  Instead of paying steep dollars for a Michelin experience, take advantage of your time in Hong Kong and have some of the best dim sum you’ll ever have at Tim Ho Wan.

I know I hype this up like crazy and I was a bit worried on this trip because I didn’t want to over-hype it to my girlfriend but after having my second Tim Ho Wan experience, we both agreed that this was simply the best dim sum ever.  The whole time we were eating there, we were just constantly nodding our heads in approval and savouring every last bite.  I think it means a lot that even after all of my hyping, it was able to meet the sky high expectations.  You will certainly not be disappointed.

The menu itself isn’t expansive.  They stick to the dim sum classics and make all of it fresh and on premise.

The top dishes to get in my mind are: The Baked Bun with BBQ Pork (mind blowing), Steamed Egg Cake, Vermicelli Roll Stuffed with Shrimp (also known as a steamed rice roll) and Pan-Fried Turnip Cake.

Make sure to check out the full list of the 2019 selection of Hong Kong & Macau Michelin rated restaurants .

Table of Contents

• Address (E):  Java Road Market and Cooked Food Center, 2/F 99 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong
• Address (C):   北角渣華道99號渣華道市政大廈2樓
• Hours:  5:30PM – 12:30AM
• Specialities:  Dai Pai Dong, Seafood
• Rating:   ♦ ♦ ♦♦
• Price:  $$$
• Tips:  Try to get here before 7PM, Do not go to the other restaurants on the same floor

Dai Pai Dong or really open-air food stalls used to be littered all over the city.  This was truly the best way to get authentic street food and do it for super cheap.  However, the city cracked down on a lot of these due to health and safety regulations and as a result there are only 28 left today.

A lot of them are all amazing but I bring your attention to Tung Po because the relatives we were staying at told us that this particular place was super popular because it had amazing seafoods but uncharacteristic of a Dai Pai Dong, was housed indoors and air conditioned.  In addition because its in a municipal building, they’re also extremely clean which is a bit of a concern when you’re having street food. I was thoroughly impressed with this place as it had that old-school food stall vibe with the waiters yelling out orders, food being quickly shuffled from kitchen to desk and even beer girls trying to sell their beer.  The place is loud and really alive.  The hustle and bustle really makes you excited and  very hungry.

The menu itself is quite expansive as well as I remember being totally unsure about what to order simply because there was so much selection.  Luckily, the relatives were able to make those picks. The food that came out was all quite amazing.  The seafood was fresh and was surprised they even had dishes like squid ink pasta.  Don’t think there was a bad dish in the bunch we ordered at all.

For a place like this, it works out well to have a large group of people so that you can try different foods and really have a good night especially with all those beers.  From the looks of it, a lot of expats knew about this restaurant as I saw quite a few foreigners here as well on top of the many local regulars here.

What surprised me however was our bill at the end.  The food I will say is definitely on the higher side of things in Hong Kong so don’t think that because you’re going to some “food stall” place that it’ll be cheap.  For the 4 of us, the bill I remember racked up to about $100 CAD.  Pricey meal but was quite the unique experience and had excellent memorable dishes.

• Address (E):  10/F, Times Square,1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣勿地臣街1號時代廣場食通天10樓
• Closest subway stop:  Causeway Bay
• Hours:  Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Dinner: 6:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
• Specialities:  Guangdong Cuisine, Dim Sum
• Price:  $$$$
• Tips:  Definitely recommend the pomelo mango and sticky rice date desserts.  Honestly not sure if I had anything bad for dim sum.

Dim sum can be found all around the city and they vary in quality and price.  Lei Garden belongs to the high class side of things but deliver on some amazing and unique dishes that impressed even myself.

I think “inventive” is a word that comes to mind when I think about Lei Garden.  What makes them stand out from some of the other dim sum I had in Hong Kong was how they’ve able to put interesting spins on traditional dishes.  The now famous pomelo, mango dessert that’s found everywhere was apparently invented by Lei Garden and so is their sticky rice date dessert.

Their quality is top notch through and through as well as their service.  If you’re wanting to do a fancier dim sum session, Lei Garden is the place to go to.  They have a bunch of locations scattered around Hong Kong and Kowloon so you have choices outside of Causeway Bay.

• Address (E):  Shop 1204-1205, 12/F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣軒尼詩道500號希慎廣場12樓1204-1205號舖
• Hours:  11am – midnight
• Specialities:  Wonton Noodles, Fried Noodles, Dim Sum
• Rating:   ♦ ♦ ♦
• Tips:  Make sure you get the fried noodles

A friend had recommended Ho Hung Kee to me from her last trip to Hong Kong and at first we didn’t have plans to go but then my girlfriend’s relatives set something up so we actually got to go.  This restaurant actually had one Michelin star in 2013 but lost it for 2014.  Not quite sure why but regardless it is still a well known restaurant with a lot of history.

Although I wasn’t blown away by this restaurant, the one thing that surprised me was how good their fried noodles (chau fun) were.  Fried noodles for me is usually very standard fare akin to steamed rice but in this instance, there was something about how perfectly cooked the noodles were, the subtle taste infused while it was fried up.  It’s the kind of thing where you think you know how it should taste and take it for granted until you try it somewhere like here where they totally raise the bar. Ho Hung Kee is also known for its wonton noodles.  They were good but I think ones you get in small local noodle shops are better and cheaper.

This new location is on the 12th floor of the Hysan Place mall so you’ll need to take the elevator + escalator to get there.  Also expect lines here so I would try to  come early if possible.

• Address (E):  G/F, 204-244 Portland Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon
• Address (C):  旺角砵蘭街240-244號旺角文華地下
• Closest subway stop:  Mong Kok
• Hours:  24 hours
• Specialities:  Milk Tea, Pineapple Buns, Fish Ball Noodles, French Toast
• Tips:  Make sure you order the pineapple bun if they’re not sold out yet.  I wouldn’t bother with the butter though.  Best eaten fresh.

Mega chain for tea restaurants or  “cha cha tang” in Hong Kong.   Cha cha tangs are basically a mix of western and Asian cuisines in a quick, fast food type setting.

You’ll see this practically at every corner and you’d expect chain level food but honestly I loved it every time I ate here.  It’s great for breakfast, lunch or dinner.  There’s food for every meal.

My favorites for Tsui Wah include their pineapple bun which even locals rave as the best in Hong Kong, french toast and their fish balls & fish cakes w/flat rice noodles in fish soup.  Their milk teas are also done as well as any other cha cha tang I’ve been to.

They recently opened one at The Peak which we ate at and I was impressed that they didn’t jack up the prices there that much.  A great dinner to have after watching the light show from the top.

• Address (E):  Shop H ＆ I, Ground Floor, Lockhart House, Block A, 440 Jaffe Road, Causeway Bay
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣謝斐道440號駱克大廈A座地下H及I舖
• Specialities:  Ramen
• Tips:  If you’re coming here for dinner, make sure you come early.  We got here before 7PM and we were able to get a table without waiting but 15 minutes in, I went to take a photo of the outside and a line had already started to form.  Lesson:  Come early.

This was another restaurant we accidentally stumbled upon while walking to another restaurant in Causeway Bay.  We saw the long lines and wondered what this place was.  I opened my trusty OpenRice app and realized that this was “hot shit” and ranked near the top.  Hong Kong folks love top rated places like this and this just adds to long queues.  An import from Japan, this restaurant has taken the city by storm with its traditional Hakata style ramen.

Everything about this place is unique.  The setting is a casual and rustic eatery with 36 individual booths designed for you to savour your ramen privately.  The ordering system is also pretty cool as well.  In your booth is a piece of paper where you have to make a decision about: flavor strength, richness (oiliness), garlic, green onions, sliced pork, red sauce strength, noodle texture and whether you want any extras like seaweed, egg.  You can order their tofu dessert on this sheet as well.  The entire experience feels almost mystical because once you finish writing the sheet, you press a button and place your paper in a platter.  The lady behind the booth takes it, leaves a copy of the paper in case you want to order an extra serving of noodles.  When the ramen arrives, they place it on your table and then close the bamboo curtain.

We first started with the tofu dessert which we had to figure out how to eat.  They give you two per order and at first we thought it was a dessert for two but counterintuitively, what you’re supposed to do is have the first one before eating your noodles to clear your palette.  The pudding itself isn’t very flavorful but has a slight sesame taste to it. After that we ate our ramen which was fantastic.  You can really taste the freshness coming from the ingredients that come straight from Japan.  The soup base is flavorful and the noodles the right amount of firmness.  The was however a bit disappointed with the egg that I ordered.  I was expecting the type of egg you get at Ramen Dojo in San Francisco which is poached to just the right amount of “cooked-ness” but this egg on top of being a bit more cooked than I like, was also cold.  I’m guessing that that the nature of it being cold is actually more authentic.

After the ramen, we finished things off with the second half of our dessert which was the same tofu dessert except you put on a syrup.  We weren’t too impressed with the pudding but it was a good experience to try it out to fully experience Hakata style ramen.

I’m really not a ramen connoisseur and although I thought the ramen was good, I didn’t find it any better than the top ramen places in North America like Ramen Dojo.  Experience is top notch though.  There’s nothing like eating ramen in your very own tiny booth.

• Address (E):  Shop 1002, 10/F, Times Square,1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣勿地臣街1號時代廣場10樓1002室
• Hours:  Mon to Sun: 11:00-23:30
• Specialities:  Chiu Chow Cuisine
• Tips:  Try their signature dishes which are very unique.  This is a fancy restaurant so this is probably best with a large group.

If you haven’t noticed yet, we spent A LOT of time in Causeway Bay, hence all the restaurants in the area.  But seriously there’s a lot of good food here! For our final dinner in Hong Kong before we had to fly back to Toronto, we were treated to this restaurant in Times Square.

I don’t think I’ve ever had Chiu Chow cuisine before so this was my first time.  My girlfriend’s relatives did all the ordering and the dishes we got were all super tasty.

The most memorable dishes include goose meat, fried egg pancake with an explosion of oysters and the fried noodle pancake where you would take a slice and then add sugar and vinegar. The caveat of this place is that you’re going to be dropping a good amount of dough for it.

This probably wouldn’t be somewhere I’d visit if I was just touring the city but I thought I’d add it here in case any of you wanted to do big dinners with larger groups.

Home-made Cuisine  愛吃家常便飯

• Address (E):   Shop 6-7, G/F, 379 Jaffe Road Wan Chai, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  灣仔謝斐道379號地下6-7號鋪
• Closest subway stop:  Wan Chai/Causeway Bay
• Specialities:  Chinese
• Tips:  Try their signature dish which has shrimp fried rice stuffed in a crispy skinned chicken.

This restaurant wasn’t on my radar at all with so many restaurants to pick in this area but my girlfriend’s relatives brought us here on their recommendation.

Jaffe Road is loaded with restaurants and this one has a tiny storefront that is easily missed.  The big draw to this restaurant is really the chicken stuffed with shrimp fried rice which I thought was quite epic.  The skin is perfectly crisped, the chicken juicy succulent and the rice inside perfectly cooked.  It is so popular that you actually have to call in advance to reserve a chicken and have it prepared in advanced from what the relatives told me.

Their other dishes were actually all good as well.  We had a shrimp dish, spare ribs and vegetables which were tasty and well flavored and cooked.

If you have a day where you want to have unique Chinese food but not have to go to banquet hall type of place, definitely consider  Home-made Cuisine!

• Address (E):  5/F, The L. Place, 139 Queens Road, Central, Hong Kong
• Address (C): 中環皇后大道中139號The L Place 5樓
• Closest subway stop:  Central
• Hours:  Mon to Sun: 12:00 – 0:00
• Specialities:  Indonesian
• Tips:  I do love their Nasi Goreng :)

It’s rare to find an authentic Indonesian restaurant in the middle of Hong Kong but this is it.  It’s completely legit and 100% satisfied our cravings for Nasi Goring that we had ever since I did my trip to Bali 2 years ago.

This restaurant is located in one of the finance districts so it’s definitely more upscale, hip and modern but as a result also pricey so adjust your expectations on portion size and pricing.  That being said, we both had a lovely experience sharing that one Nasi Goreng bowl and splitting an appetizer.  Like I said before, the trick to eating in Hong Kong is to have small, small portions.

• Address (E):  Near corner of Canal Road East and Tang Lung Street (On Canal Road East), Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣堅拿道東2號
• Hours:  Mon – Sun 10:00-00:30
• Specialities:  Fish Ball Noodles
• Price:  $
• Tips:  Eat like a local

To close off the savoury section is this hidden fish ball noodle shop in Causeway Bay.  My girlfriend loves her fish balls and swears by this place as the best in the city.

After a day of hiking on Lamma Island and having a dinner there, we filled our tummies a bit more with food from this place.

It’s definitely not a place that tourists will frequent so the atmosphere is completely authentic.  The seats and tables are cramped and you’ll most likely have to share a table with workers grabbing solo dinners before heading home.

As promised, the noodles here were done to perfection.  The fish balls were completely fresh and the noodles had the perfect amount of bounce to them.

If you can find this place, I’d totally recommend you checking it out and eat like a local.

Alright now on to my favourite meal of the day…snack and dessert time!

• Address (E):  G/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, 19-21 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
• Address (C):  尖沙咀彌敦道19-21號半島酒店大堂
• Closest subway stop:  Tsim Sha Tsui
• Hours:  Mon-Sun Tea 14:00-18:00
• Specialities:  Afternoon Tea
• Price:  $$$$$
• Tips:  The thing to get is “The Peninsula Classic Afternoon Tea” on the menu for 338HKD + 10% service charge.  Keep in mind that they don’t take reservations so I would recommend getting their early to avoid the lines.  Be mindful of the “smart casual” dress code as well.

I’ve never done afternoon tea in my life but thanks to my lovely girlfriend, I was treated to an amazing one in The Lobby at the Peninsula Hotel.  What a way to set the bar with this iconic hotel  and the quintessential afternoon tea experience.  In the heart of TST, this hotel evokes the style and decor of the 1930s – a by-gone era.  From the intricate ceiling work, the sweet sounds of the quartet playing in the balcony to the elegant tablewares and fancy porcelain cups, presentation is impeccable.

After waiting in line for about 40 minutes with the rest of the tourists, we were given our seats.  Looking around, everyone was working on their afternoon tea platter so there was really no question around what to order.  The trickier part was figuring out what kind of tea we wanted.  I eventually picked one of their herbal infusions. The first to arrive was the tea which came in a classical metal teapot, the kind that the Queen of England probably pours from.  Following proper tea pouring protocol, our server lifted the teapot with custom handle mitts and slowly poured the tea over a metal strainer that sat overtop my teacup.   The whole ritual was mesmerizing and we certainly didn’t repeat the process with the same level of elegance later on.  The particular herbal tea that I had was good I thought but then again, I’m not very picky about the teas.  Chantelle’s tea was much more fruity which I liked but honestly can’t remember what she ordered.

When our triple decker platter came, my jaw dropped over the amount of food this was going to be.  For a fancy place like this I totally expected them to stinge on the food but wow was there a lot to dig through.  Everything from the scones and the amazing cream and jam to the smoked salmon sandwich in the middle and macarons at the top were amazing.

Here’s the breakdown:

Bottom plate

• 4 raisin scones with Devonshire clotted cream, organic strawberry preserve

Middle plate

• Prosciutto sandwich
• Cucumber and cream cheese fill sandwich
• Mini chicken pot pie
• Pastry with mushroom
• Smoked salmon sandwich
• Green pound cake with raisin
• Lemon madeleine
• Jello top red velvet cake with chocolate on top
• Key lime with marshmallow top
• Butterscotch macaron
• Lemon cream macaron

The Lobby and their afternoon tea is not to be missed.  Decadence at its finest!

• Address (E):  G/F, 47-49 Parkes Street, Jordan, Kowloon
• Address (C):  佐敦白加士街47-49號地下
• Closest subway stop:  Jordan
• Hours:  Mon to Wed & Fri to Sun: 07:30-23:00, Closed on Thu
• Specialities:  HK Style, Egg Sandwich, Tea
• Tips:  The egg sandwich is the thing to get here

We totally stumbled upon this quite randomly as we were walking from Tsim Sha Tsui to Mong Kok.  I remember reading about this on another blog and even though I wasn’t particularly hungry at this point, we went in anyways.  That’s kind of just how our days went in Hong Kong.

The big must-have item here is the egg sandwich and boy did it pack a wallop.  This egg sandwich was ginormous and the egg itself so juicy and fluffy at the same time.  We also tried their steamed egg pudding and I thought that was stellar as well.  It was a much more full bodied and creamier than the steamed milk pudding that we had later at Yee Shun Dairy Company.

The restaurant itself is a very traditional HK-style restaurant but surprisingly very clean.  Also don’t let the name of the place throw you off.  I was confused myself at first but once you go inside you realize it has nothing to do with Australia.  I even checked out some of the dairy they were selling and it was all of the Kowloon variety.

This is the kind of place that would be great for a breakfast if you can plan around it but aside from that I’d only come here to do a little bit of food sampling as a snack and move on.

• Address (E):  G/F., 506 Lockhard Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣駱克道506號地下
• Hours:  Mon.-Sun. 12:00-00:00
• Specialities:  HK Style, Steamed Milk Pudding
• Tips:  Consider this place a snack shop.  Come in for the steamed milk pudding and that’s it.  I wouldn’t bother with the flavors, just get the original.

Back home, there are only a few special restaurants that make the steamed milk pudding for dim sum and even then it’s average.  If you’re a fan of this type of pudding (in Chinese it translates to “double skin milk”), you’re in for a treat here.  This is pretty much all they specialize in and is quite well known in Hong Kong.  They do come in a bunch of flavours but I think it’s best if you stick to the original flavour.  You have a choice of hot or cold but I think the best way (and original way) to have the milk pudding is hot.

There are many locations in Hong Kong so if you see the cow, drop by.  The shops never look like much on the outside but these desserts are mightily tasty.

• Address (E):  Shop nos. 1A-1B, G/F., Leishun Court, 106-126 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣禮頓道106-126號禮信大廈地下1A-1B號舖
• Hours:  Mon-Thu & Sun: 09:30-22:30, Fri-Sat & PH: 09:30-23:00
• Specialities:  Green Tea Matcha Soft-serve Desserts
• Tips:  Honestly anything is good here. Stick to the green tea since that’s what it’s known for. It really just depends on how hungry you are and whether you can get a seat here or you’re standing outside.The latest in matcha green tea crazy that’s hit Hong Kong.

This is the latest in Hong Kong’s craze over Japanese green tea matcha.  For the longest time, City Super grocery stores had the best green tea called Sweets House Cha Cha.  People would line up for this place and everything but since ViaTokyo opened, everyone started flocking over to these guys.  If you check OpenRice, this is also at the top of the list so we knew we had to check it out.

The big test for us was how it would match up against Sweets House Cha Cha.  To my surprise, the green tea ice cream at Via Tokyo was EVEN BETTER.  The matcha flavouring at Via Tokyo is simply much more rich and more authentic tasting.  I can’t say the Sweets House Cha Cha one tastes artificial in any way but with Via Tokyo, the flavour is that much more impactful on your tastebuds.

Would definitely recommend this for a quick stopover if you’re in Causeway Bay.  Seats are hard to come by even on a weekday afternoon but grab something to go and enjoy it on your walk to your next spot.

• Address (E):  G/F, 6 Brown Street, Tai Hang, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  大坑布朗街6號地下
• Closest subway stop:  Tin Hau
• Hours:  Monday off, Tuesday to Thursday: 15:00 to 00:00, Friday: 15:00 to 1:00, Saturday: 13:00 to 1:00, Sunday: 13:00 to 11:00
• Specialities:  Nitrogen Made Ice Cream

A totally unique experience for anyone that’s never been to a liquid nitrogen based ice cream shop.  This modernly-staged ice cream parlour is located in the new hip area of Tai Hang of Hong Kong.  Storefront freezers and ice cream tubs are replaced by a multitude of Kitchen-Aid mixers behind a panel of glass.  All the ice cream is made fresh and right in front of you where liquid nitrogen is used to flash-freeze the ingredients of the flavour you order.  This makes for a much more creamy, dense and smoother ice cream and unlimited possibilities for flavours.

The big draw for Lab Made is not only the crazy presentation of liquid nitrogen smoke engulfing the counters when making the ice cream but also the whacky and fun flavours they rotate through.  When we were there, they had chocolate mint with Baileys, banana cashew, Thai coconut mango sticky rice and strawberry shortcake.  Over the course of two visits to two different locations, I was able to try all the flavours and truthfully loved all of them.  The Thai coconut mango sticky rice was particularly memorable because I could literally taste the unique texture of rice in the ice cream.

• Address (E):  Room B1-B3, 1/F, Dragon Rise, 9-11 Pennington Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣邊寧頓街9-11號登龍閣1樓B1-B3室
• Hours:  Mon-Sun: 12:00-22:00
• Specialities:  Unique drinks and desserts
• Tips:  It’s actually not that easy to find this location.  The ground floor entrance has no mention of Coffee Alley at all but at this particular corner, you should be able to find a way in.  Walk up a flight of stairs and you’ll quickly see the line up of people waiting for their table.  Note that every person at the table MUST order a drink.  The prices here are also relatively high, with the costs easily racking up to $20 CAD per person.  Get here early to avoid the lines.  We got here just a little past 12PM and there was already a line in place for the second sitting.  If you want to ensure you get in for the first sitting, make sure you get here between 10AM-11AM.

Coffee Alley is a Taiwanese coffee shop that has garnered a lot of hype and like Ichiran, you’re contending against a lot of other tourists and locals that want in on the action.  After a good 40 minute wait in line for the second sitting, we were finally able to grab a table.  Due to the high demand of the place, they also institute a seating time limit and also impose a drink-per-person rule which I was a bit surprised about.

What makes Coffee Alley unique is really in presentation and uniqueness.  They’re not just any sort of cafe shop but they strive to reinvent.

For drinks I ordered the Slow Drip Viennese Coffee while Chantelle ordered the Iced Fresh Fruit Tea.  The coffee was good but very strong and cream filled.  The chilled tea I thought was really good.  Their ice cubes were actual frozen wedges of fruit which was pretty cool.

Their food items were all very enticing but eventually picked the  Loin Cheese Croissants Sandwich and Barbeque Pork Sandwich.  Both were incredibly large dishes and tasty.  The croissant was well made and cheese nice and melty over the large slice of ham.  My favourite was definitely the pork sandwich. Although it was very messy to eat once it fell apart, I enjoyed the large slabs of pork between toasted bread and a special type of yellow mustard-like sauce.

To finish things off, we couldn’t leave without trying their desserts so we ordered their signature Ice Cream with Cotton Candy & Espresso  and  Golden Napoleon Mille-feuille.  The cotton candy ice cream was quite the experience because you’d get this platter holding a tall cone of cotton candy and as you pour the espresso over it, the cotton candy contracts and dissolves before your eyes.  What you’re left in the end is ice cream and caramelized sugar drowned in espresso.  However I thought the show was more impressive than the taste.  The napoleon cake was really well done and much lighter and fluffier than the Italian version.  

We were completely stuffed after our lunch.  If we were to do it again, I would have only ordered one entree between the two of us.  We definitely didn’t expect such large sandwiches.

• Address (E):  5/F, CS Tower, 50 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  上環永樂街50號昌盛大廈5樓
• Closest subway stop:  Sheung Wan
• Hours:  Mon.-Sun. 11:30-19:30
• Specialities:  Matcha Green Tea
• Tips:  From the reviews, you hear about the line ups but when we came 5PM on a Wednesday we didn’t have any problems.  However 30 minutes later, all the tables were full.  The space isn’t big so I can see that happening very quickly.  I would say to come before 5PM to grab a snack and tea.

This is for the true matcha green tea lovers.  The owner of this place is Japanese so everything here is quite authentic.  The decor is more towards a traditional Japanese/Chinese tea house.  On one end of the teahouse is a wooden shelf with a circular entrance and quite the extensive collection of oriental tea pots.  Oh and I should mention that there’s quite the mischievous cat that roams around between the tables and chairs.

The unfortunate thing for us that we were still stuffed from lunch so when we got here all we had the stomach for were a few drinks.  From the OpenRice reviews, I knew that their green tea molten cake and matcha loaf cake were supposed to be really good.  For us we just tried the signature Matcha Soul drink which is served with honey, almonds, and dried osmanthus flower bits and the Matcha Genmaicha Marone which is served with roasted rice and chestnuts.  The Matcha Soul wasn’t too overpowering and I liked how it was balanced out with the honey and additional bits.  I found that the Matcha Genmaicha Marone was a little less flavorful and so not as good as the Matcha Soul.  Both drinks were almost identical and if I were to do it all over again, I’d try one of the cold drinks like the Matcha Mojito.

• Address (E):  Kitchen 11, 11/F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
• Address (C):  銅鑼灣軒尼詩道500號希慎廣場11樓Kitchen 11
• Hours:  Unknown
• Specialities:  Fruit desserts
• Tips:  Remember item C or Snow White Sago.  Locals swear by it.

This is a big Chinese dessert chain in Hong Kong that originated from the town of Sai Kung.  It’s gotten so huge in fact, you can now find them in China, Indonesia and Singapore.  This was my first time having them and I was pleasantly surprised.  They were very fast-food oriented though this may be because at Hysan Place, it’s literally in a food court but everything seemed to be “to go”.

Outside of these options you have all your traditional Chinese desserts including almond and sesame soups, bird’s nest, durian, grass jelly, sticky rice balls etc.  Lots to choose from and a great option if you want to grab dessert.

Can’t provide any real details about this because of the mobile nature of Mobile Softee.  It’s basically a ice cream truck and all they really sell is soft serve but there’s something incredibly addictive about their soft serve.  I haven’t quite pinpointed it but I think it’s the extra creaminess of the ice cream that draws me in.  Price is only 9HKD as well.  This is way better than what you get at McDonalds that’s for sure.

For locals Mobile Softee brings back a lot of sweet childhood memories that accompany the “Blue Danube” melody that the trucks play.  Aside from the soft ice-cream, they also serve a nutty drumstick, large cups and jumbo orange.

Your best chances of bumping into Mobile Softee is at Golden Bauhunia Square, the Star Ferry Pier/Victoria Harbor in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok.

How can I forget Hong Kong’s street food.  It’s really hard to pin point the exact locations of these places but here are a few different type of foods you should look out for when you’re roaming around.

Now go forth and begin your food eating adventure in Hong Kong!

GetYourGuide is a platform of choice.  Take a look at a few of these popular activities in the city that I think you’ll like.  Book them before they sell out!

Looking For A Good Place To Stay?

If you’re planning your trip to Hong Kong and thinking about food and you’re likely looking for a place to stay as well.  From personal experience, finding a reasonably priced place is tricky but here are two places that I hand selected as ones that are in good locations and won’t break the bank.  If these don’t suit your fancy, find other great places in Hong Kong to stay in .

Formerly known as Formerly Guangdong Hotel Hong Kong, this hotel is right in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui.  While the reviews are just ok, the rooms look great and you can’t beat the location.

CHECK RATES

MINIMAL HOTEL CULTURE

Located in Sham Sui Po, it’s slightly further out but being on the subway line means you can get down to TST, MK or even Central really easily.  You can’t beat this price though for something clean and modern.

What you should read next

• Where To Stay in Hong Kong – A Guide To Hotels and Neighbourhoods
• 2 Day Hong Kong Itinerary – Highlights in 48 hours
• Discovering Hong Kong’s Green Outdoors
• Three Best Side Trips from Hong Kong

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

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Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

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eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The one we find using the most is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order. The newest eSIM we’ve tried is KnowRoaming that sneakily has great rates on unlimited plans. We’ve partnered with them to give you a custom code GAP10 to save you 10%.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

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About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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The 25 Best Places To Eat & Drink In Hong Kong

Jess Basser Sanders

December 12, 2016

As soon as you land in Hong Kong, you get the feeling: this place is really exciting. We’ve spent days wandering around Hong Kong in overwhelmed awe. And that goes for the food, too. Working out where to eat in Hong Kong is not easy. There are endless options: obviously there’s incredible Cantonese food (both super local and traditional, as well as extremely high-end), but there’s also plenty of upscale European cuisine. Basically, be ready to spend most of your time in Hong Kong eating. Also, be prepared to dine in hotels, malls, and skyscrapers (and sometimes all three at once) because whole swaths of Hong Kong have only those buildings.

A quick geography lesson: Hong Kong is a collection of islands, as well as a peninsula jutting off mainland China. You’ll most likely be spending most of your time on Hong Kong Island (where Central, Wan Chai, and many hotels aimed at Westerners are) and in Kowloon (where a lot of locals live). You’ll end up crossing back and forth a bit by ferry and train no matter which side you stay on, but be sure to explore both.

We could easily spend years in Hong Kong and still not feel like we’ve gotten a handle on all the food the city has to offer. But we’ll certainly keep trying.

Restaurants

When you’re in the mood for highly specific chicken parts, Yardbird is the move. But actually, this yakitori spot works for almost any casual eating occasion - as long as you’re not in a rush. They don’t take reservations here, and even after being open for years, it’s still insanely popular, so there will be a wait. But once you’re in the door, you can have all the chicken hearts, livers, and gizzards you like (and more common cuts too).

Hong Kong has no shortage of high-end French restaurants, but Belon is a more casual option, like the everyday bistros all over Paris. They still take themselves pretty seriously, but not in ways we’re going to complain about - ingredients are the best they can find, and the bread is baked in house. The menu sounds like a list of classics (roast chicken, foie gras), but the local influence is in there as well - that roast chicken comes out whole (head and feet attached) to share, just like in Cantonese restaurants. Make sure you order it.

Mak's Noodle

Wonton noodles are a Hong Kong classic: small bowls of broth with a mound of egg noodles and prawn wontons. And the best place to find them is Mak’s Noodle. We’re partial to the Wellington St location in Central (the family business has a few outlets both in Hong Kong and Singapore), where you can happily slurp through a bowl (or two) with both tourists and locals.

Tsui Wah Restaurant

Another Hong Kong classic is milk tea, super strong tea with evaporated or condensed milk. And at some point in your trip, you should get to Tsui Wah for a cup. There are locations all over Hong Kong where you can pair that milk tea with a toasted bun also smothered in condensed milk. Many of the outlets are open 24 hours, so you could do this for breakfast, afternoon tea, on your way home from a night out - really, whenever you want.

Tim Ho Wan has become famous for their baked BBQ pork buns and for being one of the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, so it attracts a mind-boggling number of tourists. And while the original shop in Kowloon is good, there are now a bunch of locations around the city where you can take a number and wait in a huge crowd of people for some very, very good baked BBQ pork buns. There’s also now one in the train station at IFC (International Finance Center), so if you time things right, you can grab some buns just before you head to the airport.

L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon

There are L’Atelier de Joel Robuchons all over the world, including Paris, but don’t count this place out just because it’s the fanciest chain restaurant ever. The food is a modern take on traditional French and the counter-style set up is fun and casual. There are a bunch of different ways to eat here, from a reasonably-priced set lunch menu to a very unreasonably-priced “discovery menu” that’s worth the splurge for its out-there version of French food.

Ronin is a seafood-focused spot from the same people behind Yardbird, and it’s similarly Japanese-inspired. The food is izakaya-style, and you can choose to do a set menu or order a la carte. The place is tiny, so unless you don’t mind waiting (or risking not getting in - there’s limited walk-in availability), definitely make a reservation. Also, if you’re into Japanese whiskey, they have 100 different types here.

Maxim's Palace

If you’re looking for classic dim sum, Maxim’s Palace in Central is where you want to be. There are views of Victoria Harbour, chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and trolleys piled high with dumplings. Waits are kind of inevitable, and the whole thing is pretty touristy, but this place is a classic for a reason.

22 Ships is pretty much always busy. This tapas bar doesn’t take reservations and also doesn’t have many seats, so expect a wait for their fairly classic Spanish food. While you wait, walk down the street to their sister bar Ham & Sherry for a glass of wine and all kinds of Spanish charcuterie sliced right in front of you. If you’re anything like us, you might not actually end up making it back to 22 Ships.

Peking Garden

Peking Garden is from the same people as Maxim’s and has been serving their namesake ducks since the ’70s. Don’t be put off by the crowd of suits - the traditional-leaning food here is super popular with locals too. Obviously you need to be ordering Peking duck, but the onion cakes shouldn’t be skipped either.

Bo Innovation

Molecular gastronomy might not be what the cool kids are doing anymore, but they’re all in on the idea at Bo Innovation. And we were never cool kids anyway. Bringing soils and foams and various spheres of things to traditional Chinese flavors and techniques, Bo Innovation is a small spot that serves 15-course menus at night and a shorter set menu at lunch. When you’ve overdosed on dumplings and are looking for a fancier experience, this should be on your list.

Lung King Heen

For a super high-end take on Cantonese, Lung King Heen at the Four Seasons does it best. There’s a view, plenty of white tablecloths, and a menu the size of a novel. There’s dim sum on the weekends for lunch too.

8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana

Maybe you’ve overdosed on barbecue pork buns and wonton noodles and it’s time for something different. You wouldn’t be making a bad move with 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana, which, despite that nonsensical name has some of the best classic Italian in Hong Kong. It’s pretty upscale and also inside a mall - so this spot isn’t for everyone - but they also seem to put truffles on everything, so they’re doing something right.

Épure is one of those French restaurants where you’re pretty sure everyone who works there can read your mind, because they know what you want before you even do. Despite being in the truly frightening Harbour City mall on the Kowloon side, once you actually get inside Épure you’ll forget you had to battle your way past stores from every luxury label known to man. Unsurprisingly, this place is pricey and not for everyone. But if you’re looking to throw down on a meal that’s going to be perfect from start to finish, this is the place to do it. Go for one of the tasting menus, which put a modern spin on classic French food.

The Chairman

The Chairman is the Hong Kong version of farm-to-table. This low-key Cantonese spot uses meat from the New Territories (the part of Hong Kong between Kowloon and Mainland China), has its own farm, and doesn’t serve controversial delicacies like shark’s fin and bird’s nests (yes, that’s a very real thing). But all this warm and fuzzy stuff wouldn’t mean much if the food wasn’t good which, luckily, it is. It’s the sort of place you can drop into on a night when you have nothing planned and leave very happy.

Kin's Kitchen

Kin’s Kitchen is traditional Cantonese food that’s neither fine dining nor casual. Basically, it’s like what your Cantonese grandmother would cook, if you had one. There’s a mix of super traditional (their smoked soy sauce chicken is legendary) and less so (steamed minced pork with squid ink and egg), but it never ends up feeling stuffy or boring. This one is a bit under the radar, but worth checking out.

Lin Heung Tea House

Despite the name, you’re not coming to Lin Heung for the tea (although you’ll probably ending up drinking it) - you’re here for the dim sum. Lin Heung is as old-school as things get. Don’t plan on just sitting at your table waiting for the trolley to come around to you - this is a dim sum death match, where you’ll be elbowing seniors out of the way to grab what you want and take it back to your table. This may not be the best dim sum in the city, but it is one of the best experiences.

Ho Lee Fook

When a restaurant’s name translates to “good fortune for your mouth,” you know they’re probably on to something. Ho Lee Fook is a modern take on the old-school tea houses of Hong Kong with dumplings, roast meats, and all the bubble tea cocktails you could want.

Bakery/Cafe

There might be a city in the world without a coffee shop run by Australians, but Hong Kong isn’t it. Fineprint is run by a couple of Aussies and serves flat whites, bagels, and sweet things during the day and tapas-like small things at night.

Yat Lok Restaurant

Yat Lok in Central is another old-school Hong Kong institution. They’ve been roasting all kinds of meat here for almost fifty years, but you’re here for one type only: the roast goose. Specifically, the roast goose leg on vermicelli. It’s a richer version of duck that’s available all over town, but this is the hands-down local favorite.

Under Bridge Spicy Crab

If a night out in Hong Kong gets messy, it should end with a whole bunch of crab. And you’ll want to get it at Under Bridge Spicy Crab. Locals are all about this shop in Wan Chai and its secret spicy sauce, and because they’re open late (until 3am daily), it’s perfect for rolling in with a crew when the bars close.

Duddell's

Duddell’s is most definitely a scene - it’s on top of the Shanghai Tang flagship store, has a couple of different rooms, and is highly photogenic - but it also has some pretty excellent food. It’s high-end, but the dim sum is great quality, and if the weather’s good, the outdoor terrace is a perfect spot to spend an afternoon.

Second Draft

If you want to pretend you actually live in Hong Kong, Second Draft is a good place to do it. This gastropub has a total neighborhood feel with a big bar in the center, and plenty of beer on tap. You won’t find fish and chips or pies here though - the food often involves clever twists on Hong Kong dishes.

Given all the skyscrapers in Hong Kong, there are a lot of impressive views to be had. One of the best can be found at Ozone, at the top of the Ritz-Carlton on the 118th floor of the ICC (International Commerce Center) in Kowloon. This is the highest bar in the world. Possibly because of that, it can feel a bit pretentious and drinks are expensive. But grabbing a pre-dinner drink up here is an essential Hong Kong experience.

Captain's Bar

Captain’s Bar is in the Mandarin Oriental and has a dress code after 5pm, which is kind of all you need to know. It wouldn’t have felt out of place in the old British days, and is still the bar of choice for the after-work drinks crowd. That said, it’s worth stopping in for a drink to soak up the atmosphere. Beers are served in silver mugs (if you’re a regular, you’ll get a special one with your name etched on it) and the martinis are legendary.

Suggested Reading

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The Best Restaurants In Rome

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The Best Restaurants For When You’re Visiting Paris

25 of the best bistros, cafes, boulangeries, and more essential spots in the City of Light.

VP, Editorial Strategy

Melbourne-native Jess has been writing about LA restaurants since 2012, despite not eating a vegetable as a child. She even likes salad now.

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11 Of Hong Kong’s Best Restaurants And Dining Experiences In 2024

By Peta Brady

20th May 2024

Experience the electric energy of Hong Kong, where ancient traditions and futuristic encounters intertwine throughout this vibrant city. Discover more here.

It’s no secret that the vibrant city of Hong Kong takes its cuisine seriously, offering a culinary landscape as diverse as its skyline. From sizzling street food to elegant Michelin-starred dining, this is a city that knows how to tantalise the taste buds and leave you hungry for more.

Elevate your Hong Kong dining experience at these 11 top restaurants.

Ho Lee Fook

G/f, 3 - 5 elgin street, central, hong kong.

Showcasing a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine, a visit to Ho Lee Fook delivers an unforgettable culinary experience. This trendy hotspot blends traditional flavours with contemporary flair, offering classic dim sum alongside signature dishes like melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu short ribs served with a side of opulent ambience.

Tai Cheong Bakery

35 lyndhurst terrace, central, hong kong.

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without indulging in the iconic egg tarts from Tai Cheong Bakery . Sink your teeth into the warm, buttery, crumbly shortcrust pastry filled with velvety egg custard for a true taste of local culinary heritage.

Kam's Roast Goose

G/f, po wah commercial centre, 226 hennessy road, wan chai, hong kong.

Prepare for a flavour explosion at Kam's Roast Goose , where, as the name suggests, succulent, crispy-skinned goose takes centre stage. This one Michelin-starred eatery is renowned for its expertly roasted meats and mouth-watering BBQ pork, as well as the authentic family-style environment.

Tsim Chai Kee

98 wellington street, central, hong kong.

Slurp your way through a bowl of soupy heaven at Tsim Chai Kee , a beloved noodle joint famous for its springy wontons and silky smooth noodles. Simple yet satisfying, this humble and affordable Bib Gourmand establishment lets the flavours do all the talking. Our suggestion? Go for the King Prawn wonton noodles with fresh sliced beef. Walk-in only.

30/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong

Elevate your dining experience at VEA , where culinary magic is delivered. This one Michelin-starred gem offers exquisite French Chinese fusion cuisine prepared with precision and passion; each dish is true artistry on a plate.

Lung King Heen

8 finance street, four seasons hotel hong kong, central, hong kong.

Prepare for an unforgettable dining experience at Lung King Heen , a two Michelin-starred restaurant in Central Hong Kong. Indulge in exquisite Cantonese delicacies prepared with the finest ingredients, all served in an elegant setting overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Luk Yu Tea House

24-26 stanley street, central, hong kong.

Step back in time at Luk Yu Teahouse , an institution of traditional dim sum culture and flavourful Cantonese cuisine. Savour yum cha classics and aromatic teas amidst the old-world charm of this historic teahouse.

Haiphong Road Temporary Market

Haiphong road, tsim sha tsui, kowloon, hong kong.

Dive into the frenetic chaos of  Haiphong Road Temporary Market , where an array of hawker stalls beckon with aromatic delights. From sizzling skewers to steaming bowls of slippery noodles, this bustling market is a paradise for food enthusiasts seeking authentic local flavours.

28/F, One Peking, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Perched high above the city, Hutong offers contemporary, “occasionally fiery” Northern Chinese cuisine with some of the best views in the city. Signature cocktails and delectable Peking duck served with a side of glamour make dining here a truly memorable affair.

Mak Man Kee

G/f, 51 parkes st, jordan, hong kong.

Craving more comforting noodles? Look no further than Mak Man Kee , a legendary noodle house famous for its rich, flavourful broth and springy noodles. It’s considered a ‘must-stop’ spot for noods, so take your place in the queue of hungry locals and get ready for the ultimate in slurpy satisfaction that's Bib Gourmand but super affordable.

25/F, Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong

Complete with an eclectic royal blue theme and birdcage chandeliers, this one Michelin Star dining experience in the opulent surroundings of Man Wah is one you won’t forget quickly. Timeless elegance meets culinary excellence with their offering of classic Cantonese delicacies, each crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Now you've eaten, what's next? Head to:

• The Best Hotels To Stay In Hong Kong
• 10 Of The Best Hong Kong Spas For The Ultimate Pampering
• 11 Of The Best Things To Do In Hong Kong This Year 

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20+ Top Hong Kong Restaurants You Must Visit

Try not to drool all over your keyboard – these are some of the best restaurants in Hong Kong!

It’s no secret that Hong Kong is full of amazing restaurants: Hong Kong has one of the world’s highest per capita concentrations of eateries – there is 1 restaurant for every 300 people !

You could easily have a hearty traditional Cantonese breakfast followed by fragrant Thai dishes for lunch, sneak in a little Japanese as an afternoon snack and round it all off with an authentic Neapolitan pizza for dinner – all in the same day!

These are restaurants that I frequent often and love taking out-of-town visitors to, let me know what you think if you end up visiting one of these fab establishments!

If someone said to me, “Flo, I have 48 hours to spend in the city: where should I eat in Hong Kong?”, here are the top 20+ places I would recommend. Read on for the best places to eat in Hong Kong and must-try dishes!

1. Fini’s

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Literally just food pics (@literallyjustfoodpics)

My local watering hole, close enough that I can crawl home at the end of the night if need be. Amazing vibe, people, drinks and food. Fini’s is a sister restaurant of Linguini Fini’s in Soho and they serve up consistently amazing food and cocktails – make sure you try their pizza and life-changing mac n’ cheese.

2. Little Bao

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Little Bao gets playful with the original “bao”, steamed buns traditionally sandwiching braised pork belly. I’ve never been disappointed after a meal here and it is conveniently located in Causeway Bay.

It tends to get busy on Fridays and Saturdays, as expected, and it’s not a great place to go with a big group of people – but it’s well worth the 30-45 minute wait. I’ve gotten lucky and been sat straight away with 1-2 friends during week days. If you’re stuck waiting, leave your number with the host and head out for a drink.

Must-haves: short-rib pan-fried dumplings, LB fries (I still dream about these fries), pork belly bao, fish tempura bao. If you like your food hot, drizzle their “hawt” sauce over EVERYTHING.

3. Chachawan

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Again, a no reservations policy in place but don’t let that deter you because their kitchen is speedy (as in, you sit down, order and BAM – you get your food in 5-10 minutes, max) and the food is delectable.

Chachawan serves up Thai food from the Northeastern region and so it tends to be quite spicy. Personally I’ve never had an issue but I like having my mouth on fire. Their cocktails are to-die-for, although some of them use raw eggs so be sure to ask if you’re not into that sort of thing.

Must-haves: crab omelette, grilled chicken thigh, any of the papaya salads. If you have a sweet tooth definitely go for at least one, if not all, of these: mango with sticky rice, crispy banana pancake with condensed milk, young coconut ice cream.

4. 22 Ships

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On the slightly pricier side but a lovely little Spanish restaurant serving up modern tapas in the heart of Wan Chai. The food is, how do I put this…”frikkin’ beautiful”.

No reservations (again) and a quick caveat: don’t come here if you’re absolutely starving. While the food is delicious, portions are not massive. Definitely ask for a seat at the counter so you can watch the chefs do their thing.

Must-haves: jamon ham, manchego and truffle toastie with quail eggs, Spanish breakfast, pork & fois grois burgers. They also have awesome daily specials on the board.

5. Ho Lee Fook

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This restaurant definitely has the cheekiest name of them all. Funky decor with a wall of “lucky cats” as you walk in – the food is top-notch and they serve up some of the best barbecued pork (char siu) I’ve had in Hong Kong. Chinese food is best when shared in a big group, so e-mail them ahead of time as they take reservations for large groups.

Must-haves: “mom’s” dumplings, fried cauliflower, pork char-siu (or the platter if there’s a few of you), wagyu short-ribs.

6. Tim Ho Wan (multiple locations)

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You gotta love dim sum. I don’t know (or fraternize) with anyone who doesn’t love dim sum. Have the char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), cheung fun with shrimp or pork (steamed rice paper rolls), fried turnip cake.

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Let me start by saying that Carbone is not cheap, but the food is SO good. Carbone is a New York-style Italian restaurant and it is one of the best Italian restaurants in Hong Kong. Come with a big group or for special occasions, because the portions are generous and you definitely want to save space for their amazing dessert cart!

Must-haves: spicy vodka rigatoni, meatballs, veal parmesan, caesar salad.

8. Din Tai Fung

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I’m originally from Taiwan, and when I found out that Din Tai Fung was FINALLY opening up shop in Hong Kong I felt my heart almost explode from excitement. My favorite xiaolongbao and shrimp fried rice at my doorstep, anytime I want? Fun fact: I’m actually allergic to shellfish but I take antihistamines just so I can eat their shrimp dumplings and fried rice.

Must-haves: soup dumplings, shrimp and egg fried rice, shrimp and pork wontons in special spicy sauce, chicken soup.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zuma • Hong Kong (@zumahk)

Zuma has been around a long time, and for good reason. They serve delicious Japanese dishes and hosts the best boozy brunches in town . If you’re visiting Hong Kong make sure you book yourself into brunch on Saturday or Sunday ahead of time as they fill up weeks in advance.

The dessert platter at the end = the most magnificent thing you’ve ever seen! Can’t make it for weekend brunch? No worries – they offer an a-la-carte menu during lunch and dinner on other days.

Must-haves: miso marinated black cod, sirloin steak, all the sushi, karaage fried chicken, dessert!

10. Tung Bo

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If you’re looking for a fun experience with great seafood and Cantonese dishes, come to this local joint in North Point with a big group of people. It is on the 2nd floor of the Java Road Market on 99 Java Road and is a little hard to find, but when you do it’s worth it! This place is not fancy but you can immerse yourself in the (slightly frantic) experience and drink beer out of bowls!

Must-haves: beef short ribs, fried rice with scallop and shrimp, fried rice with duck sauce in a lotus leaf, drunken shrimp, sweet and sour pork.

Note: Tung Bo has closed at this location and is set to reopen in Wan Chai in late 2023.

11. Cafe Siam

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Cafe Siam has become one of my go-to places for scrumptious Thai food at a reasonable price. They have two branches remaining in Kennedy Town and Quarry Bay (RIP Lan Kwai Fong branch) and is a great place for big groups or intimate 1:1 dinners. Cafe Siam, along with Chachawan, Samsen and Ruam , are fantastic places to get your Thai-fix in Hong Kong.

Must-haves: prawn cakes, grilled pork neck, pomelo salad, green curry, fried rice with thai hot basil (kaho pad krapao), stir-fried morning glory.

12. Motorino

Motorino is honestly one of the best pizza restaurants in Hong Kong, by far. It serves up authentic brick-oven pizza with fresh toppings as well as killer dessert. The pizza base is perfectly crispy on the outside and doughy on the inside, and the tomato base is fresh AF.

Must-haves: soppressata piccante pizza (Italian salami), tiramisu, roasted sweet corn.

13. Chao Chao [Closed]

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Finally! This Japanese chain specializing in gyoza (pan fried dumplings) has arrived in Hong Kong! I am absolutely obsessed with the food at Chao Chao, and after waiting in line for 2 hours in Kyoto I finally understood why people go crazy over these little pockets of joy.

Must-haves: signature gyoza, the boiled dumplings, spring onion gyoza, soup udon.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 大戶屋 OOTOYA HK (@ootoya.hk)

Ootoya serves up hearty Japanese “fast food” dishes at seriously reasonable prices. The food comes quickly, and they have something on the menu for everyone. Though it doesn’t compare to Japanese food in Japan (to be expected, to be honest), the ingredients are fresh and the portions are very generous.

Must-haves: miso cod, pork katsu and egg rice, udon, mochi with ice cream.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Samsen (@samsenhk)

This relative newcomer has quickly soared to the top of my list of favorite Thai restaurants in Hong Kong. They first opened across the street from my house and have since opened a larger restaurant in Sheung Wan. It’s no surprise that I’ve found myself being drawn to their boat noodles and pad thai, week after week.

They don’t accept reservations at the Wan Chai branch, so you’ll have to put your name down for a table. Not to worry though, you can head over to Fini’s for a drink while you wait! The Sheung Wan branch accepts reservations for groups of 6 and more, but you’ll have to pay a deposit to confirm the booking.

Must-haves: boat noodles, crab fried rice, coconut ice cream.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by B Ê P Vietnamese Kitchen (@bephk)

There’s nothing better than a hot bowl of pho on a cold, rainy day. BEP’s hearty Vietnamese dishes are a crowd favorite and keep me going back, time and time again. The prices are extremely reasonable, and the food comes out piping hot. They have a larger space on Wellington Street, and another on Staunton Street.

Must-haves: beef pho, fish rice paper rolls, calamari cake, beef salad.

17. Posto Publicco [Closed]

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Operated by the same company that runs Fini’s, Posto Publicco (meaning “public place” in Italian”) is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Hong Kong. Their staff are the bomb, and the food is out of this world, plus the ambience is just super cool. Go to Posto Publicco for a good time. Take my word for it.

Must-haves: I can’t even just pick a few things because EVERYTHING ON THE MENU IS INCREDIBLE. Eat anything. Eat everything. You cannot go wrong, and then end your meal with their decadent “Diner Cake”. Do it.

18. Sohofama [Closed]

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Sohofama is a modern Chinese restaurant with an amazing MSG-free menu (and lots of gluten free options). It is located in PMQ, a trendy art and culture hub in Soho, and actually grows/sources a lot of their organic vegetables locally in Hong Kong! The atmosphere is buzzing and is a perfect Friday night dinner spot.

Must-haves: yeung chow fried rice with chorizo, xiao long bao, pan fried pork buns, fried green beans.

19. Maison Libanaise

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Maison Libanaise is located in SOHO, right in the thick of all the action. It serves fresh Lebanese cuisine over two floors, and is a popular lunch spot (they do takeaway as well). There aren’t tons of great Middle Eastern places to eat in Hong Kong, so if you’re craving some Lebanese food then this is the place to be!

Must-haves: roasted cauliflower, hummus, shish taouk.

If you love spicy Sichuanese food or hot pot then this is the place to be. This hidden gem in Wan Chai serves up some of the best Sichuan food in Hong Kong. When you’re here, make sure you try one of their signature baijiu cocktails because they pack a serious punch!

Must-haves: sliced pork with garlic & chili, dry pot stir-fried cabbage, shredded chicken with sesame dressing, pork dumplings with chili oil.

21. Elementary

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Elementary is one of the best brunch spots in Hong Kong, which means it gets extremely packed over the weekend. The ingredients are fresh, the coffee is good and the prices are extremely reasonable. What more do you need? Get here early on Saturday or Sunday to nab a spot.

Must-haves: Dirty eggs, the holy kale, or go all out with the brekkie board.

22. Haidilao

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This Chinese hotpot chain is one of the most popular ones and is a newcomer to Hong Kong – you’ll crave this during Hong Kong’s cold winters. The food and service are to die for, which explains the massive queues every single night.

Fear not, you can get a manicure and plenty of snacks while you’re waiting for your table! Make sure you ask for the noodle man to come over to put on a show and cook fresh noodles at the table.

Must-haves: imitation crab sticks, corn, fried tofu skin, handmade noodles.

23. Liu Yuan Pavilion

I have been eating at Liu Yuan Pavilion since I was 5 years old, and it is hands-down the best Shanghainese restaurant in Hong Kong. Restaurants come and go in Hong Kong, so the fact that it’s been around for 30 years speaks volumes. The food is outrageously good, and you have to book a table before you go.

Must-haves: pan fried buns, scallion pancakes, shrimp with peas, scallion noodles, sweet and sour fish.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pici (@picihk)

You must be thinking, “there’s a common theme here”. And you’re right, there is. Carbs. I love carbs. And pasta is no exception! Pici serves freshly made pasta day in and day out, with a menu that will keep you coming back for more.

Must-haves: the orecchiette, parpadelle, ravioli carbonara and cacio e pepe.

25. Banh Mi Kitchen

My go-to hole-in-the-wall joint whenever I get a hankering for a solid banh mi. Blink and you’ll miss it down one of the narrow side streets in Central, but believe me when I tell you that it is 100% worth hunting this banh mi shop down. There is no seating available so this is an easy grab-and-go lunch option in Hong Kong.

Another firm favorite for brunch-goers in Hong Kong, APT offers a unique “build-your-own” open faced toast menu, and you can also tailor your coffee to your exact liking – choose from a range of toppings or go for the classic: avocado on toast.

27. Shun Hing

Shun Hing is a classic Hong Kong diner, or “cha chaan teng”, in the up-and-coming Tai Hang neighborhood. What it is famous for is its mouthwatering barbecue pork and smooth egg omelette over rice, but what I really love is their take on the pineapple bun.

This sweet bun is sliced in half and stuffed to the brim with a silky smooth omelette – it’s to die for! Do me a favor and don’t expect red carpet treatment at any cha chaan teng in Hong Kong – they are made for quick in-and-out meals that will leave you incredibly satisfied, but chances are you won’t get 5-star service.

28. Mother of Pizzas

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There are places in Hong Kong that are horribly hyped up and don’t deserve the attention…this is not one of those places. Mother of Pizzas delivers in every way with a crispy char-grilled base and perfectly bubbly crust, and they aren’t shy with their toppings either.

Be prepared for a long wait time on Friday nights and over the weekend, but it’s worth the wait for the best Neapolitan pizza in Hong Kong.

Must-haves: pepperoni l’Americano, the Summer of Love 1967, carbonara pasta.

29. 11 Westside

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Unfortunately, you’ll be pretty hard pressed to find delicious, authentic Mexican fare in Hong Kong. That is, until you make your way over to Kennedy Town and try the tacos and tableside-prepped guacamole at 11 Westside. It’s just what every taco lover has been waiting for!

Must-haves: the elote, fish tacos, fried cauliflower tacos, guac and chips.

30. Chatterbox Cafe

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This Singaporean staple has finally made it to Hong Kong, and we Hong Kongers are head over heels for the traditional Hainan chicken rice, laksa and kway teoh. If you’re missing the flavors of Singapore then head over to Tsim Sha Tsui side and queue up for a table at this diner.

Must-haves: mandarin chicken rice, laksa, ice kachang.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fiamma (@fiammahk)

New to this list of the best restaurants in Hong Kong is Michelin-starred chef Enrico Bartolini’s Italian eatery up on the Peak. Though the restaurant is not elevated enough for a view over a meal, you can step outside to walk off your meal along one of the easiest hiking trails in Hong Kong for your dose of Hong Kong’s panoramic skyline. We love the casual-yet-sophisticated vibe at Fiamma, the excellent Italian fare (perfect for sharing) and the warm hospitality.

Must-haves: rigatoni all’amatriciana, any of the pizzas, thick cream panna cotta.

32. Peking Garden

With the iconic Spring Deer closing down in Hong Kong it’s hard to find another go-to Peking duck joint. Peking Garden is a close second option when you are looking for the classic northern Chinese cuisine dish. There are a few locations but the most consistent branch is located in the basement of Alexandra House in Central.

Must-haves: peking duck, stir-fried beans, sweet and sour pork.

33. Little Cove

Little Cove is an Australian-style eatery with two branches in Hong Kong – the OG branch in Sai Kung and a huge warehouse-esque space on the waterfront in Kennedy Town. We love the breakfast and brunch items on the menu – I’m a fan of the avocado and toast, ricotta hotcakes and red dragonfruit smoothie bowl, while my husband’s go-to is the beef benedict. It’s an extremely child-friendly restaurant in Hong Kong – kids will love the fire station next door!

Must-haves: Breakfast bowl, beef benedict, smoothie bowls.

Planning a trip to Hong Kong? Here are some quick must-knows. ✈️ To get into Hong Kong you’ll need to fly into Hong Kong International Airport . A cab from the airport to the city costs approximately HK$350-450 and typically takes less than 45 minutes/1 hour from door-to-door, or you can  pre-book your private airport pick up or drop off here . You can also take the Airport Express train which stops in Tsing Yi, Kowloon and Central – it takes just 24 minutes from end to end. Get 20% off your Airport Express ticket if you buy your ticket ahead of time online here . 🛂  Most visitors to Hong Kong do not require a visa for entry . See here for more details. 💱 The local currency is the Hong Kong dollar. The exchange rate is approximately 7.6 HKD to 1 USD/1 Euro. Most places accept Visa or Mastercard. 🎟️ You pretty much never have to pay full price for admissions or tour tickets in Hong Kong . Just click here and search for places you want to go, and book online for discounted travel experiences . 📱 Buy a local SIM card . You can get a 7 day Hong Kong tourist SIM card and pick it up from the airport on arrival. 🚗 Getting around Hong Kong is easy. Public transportation is efficient, cheap and clean, and the network is very extensive. Taxis are cheap as well if you are in a hurry. One of the first things to do when you arrive in Hong Kong is get an Octopus card . It is a stored value card that works on all public transportation (but not in taxis). 🌐 Language in Hong Kong: The main language spoken in Hong Kong is Cantonese, a local dialect. Many people speak English (or at least basic English), and almost all signs are bilingual. 🌤️ Weather in Hong Kong: It is not a year-round tropical country as many people seem to believe. Summers are HOT and it gets fairly cold during the winter months (December to February). The best time to visit Hong Kong for milder weather is from March to early June, and September to November (but avoid the 1st week of May and 1st week of October as the city can get busy during China’s “Golden Week” holidays). 🛏️ Booking hotels in Hong Kong: Most visitors opt to book hotels on Hong Kong Island or on Kowloon side. There are some excellent Hong Kong boutique hotels to pick from: I’m a fan of The Fleming and The Hari which are both excellent boutique hotels in Wan Chai; Little Tai Hang and Tuve which are both located on the edge of Causeway Bay; as well as Ovolo Central and The Murray which are in the Central and Admiralty areas. All of these Hong Kong boutique hotels are within walking distance from a nearby MTR station, and are located on the blue Island line that runs from end-to-end of Hong Kong island. You can also click here for more accommodation options .

I’m always adding new places to this list so check back for even more food recommendations. What are your favorite places to eat in Hong Kong?

Looking for more insider Hong Kong recommendations and tips?

• Read this before your trip to Hong Kong: 15 things you should know about the city before your visit
• Have a slightly sweet tooth? Don’t miss these top Asian dessert places to check out in Hong Kong
• Read this article for unique and offbeat things to do in Hong Kong
• Don’t skip the street food in Hong Kong, even if it’s overwhelming! Read on for other things NOT to do if you’re visiting Hong Kong
• Looking for a place to stay in Hong Kong? Look into hotels n Wan Chai, Central, Soho, Sheung Wan and Causeway Bay for maximum convenience! Click here to book accommodation in Hong Kong
• Head on over here for more recommendations for places to eat and things to do in Hong Kong

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Oh, my favorite Hong Kong! I’ve been to so many great restaurants there – it´s one of the coolest cites for unique dining experiences! From your favorites I’ve only visited Tim Ho Wan though! I love Lebanese food, had no idea of Maison Lebanaise.

P.s I love the way your web looks now! :-*

Thanks so much for taking the time to read this, Anna! Let me know if you’re ever back in town and we can check out Maison Lebanaise 🙂

Great list! I’ve been to Hong Kong so many times, that sometimes I think “What else is left to see?” Well, this list is super helpful! 🙂 I heard about that resto “Ho Lee Fook” and all I can think of is how funny it sounds. It sounds like “holy f—” But I heard the food is really good!

I am loving the sound of your local watering hole…close enough that you can crawl home! This compilation of restaurants sounds absolutely delicious! I think my favourite would be Little Bao – the fish tempura bao sounds amazing!!! And I am very curious about these fries that you dream off.

The fish tempura bao is to die for. They also have an ice cream bao for dessert!

I am always one for hikes and camping but when I do visit a city, I am a glutton. I am now looking into visiting your beautiful home for a long weekend around Christmas because of your “11 things you should know before visiting Hong Kong” post and this just secured that I will be visiting sooner than later! Mother of god, that steamed bun!

Be prepared to put on a few pounds Ashley! 🙂

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Moving to Hong Kong and not sure where to start? Expat Living is the essential lifestyle guide to living in Hong Kong.

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Dining districts: where to eat in hk.

22 April, 2021 by Expat Living 3 Min Read

https://expatliving.hk/dining-where-to-eat-best-hong-kong-restaurants/

The restaurant scene in Hong Kong has really evolved in recent years – it’s now quite the foodie town. If you’re wondering where to eat in HK, here’s a guide to what’s on offer in some of the city’s best dining districts.

9 Areas for Exploring HK’s Best Food

1. soho/mid-levels.

Soho has a lot to offer those who like to eat and drink. A great place to start is Tai Kwun, the revitalised Central Police Station; you’ll find history, beautiful restaurants and some fun bars. Elsewhere, Graham St Food Hall (Shop 3, 23 Graham Street, grahamstfoodhall.hk ) continues the recent trend of multi-outlet food spots; there are five vendors here, serving American smoked meats, Japanese food bowls and more.

Also in the area:

MEATS, Taqueria Super Macho, Motorino, Fini’s, Chilli Fagara, Belon, MANA!, Chôm Chôm, DiVino Wine Bar, Ho Lee Fook, Tate Dining Room & Bar

Central is much more than just offices and retail; there are plenty of great eats too. Margo is an exciting new opening (Shop 6, G/F, The Galleria, 9 Queen’s Road, margohk.com ) – it’s a modern European brasserie-style concept helmed by Chef de Cuisine Mario Paecke, and offering a balance between tradition and innovation. Wagyu Rump Steak Frites, anyone?

BaseHall, J.A.M., Bedu, The Big Things Kitchen, SOMM, Chaiwala, Aria, MONO, NOVE@theFringe, Spiga, Arcane, Envoy, Duddell’s, Carbone, Octavium, Bombay Dreams, Baan Thai, TokyoLima, Uma Nota, Zuma, SHÈ, Fumi, VEA

3. WAN CHAI

Ignore the tourist-trap bars as there is a lot more to Wan Chai. It has pockets of excellent eateries on Ship Street, Star Street, Lee Tung Avenue and along Hennessy Road. A new opening in this neck of the woods is Bengal Brothers, inspired by bustling streetside eateries in Calcutta, and a great place to pick up Indian-style rolls and bowls (G/F, Man Hee Mansion, 6 Johnston Road, bengalbrothers.com ).

Crust, Jean May, El Cerdo, Pirata, 22 Ships, The Optimist, Le Bistro Winebeast, Francis, Pici, Samsen

4. TSIM SHA TSUI

The TST area is a major drawcard for some of the biggest and best chefs in the world, and you will find something to please even the fussiest palate along the harbour. There’s so much going on in the area too! Start with the many gourmet options at Rosewood Hong Kong and neighbouring K11 MUSEA, and then – if you’re not too full – roll on to explore pockets like Elements Mall, FWD House 1881 and West Kowloon.

Boticario, Momoz, Radicalchic, Harbourside Grill, Twist&Buckle, Monsoon, Aqua, Brick Lane Gallery, FINDS, Gaylord Indian Restaurant, Hutong, OM Tapas, Spasso.

5. SHEUNG WAN

This neighbourhood’s cool, creative vibe extends to the restaurants in the area. There are all sorts of places tucked away in laneways and side streets. Hjem is the newest to open (161 Hollywood Road, fb.com/hjemcafe ); it’s a Scandinavian café (the name means “home” in Norwegian) serving up comfort food such as meatballs and mash, smørrebrød with prawns and asparagus, and Nordic cheese platters.

Mama Malouf, Yakinikumafia, Locofama, Louise, Yardbird, Figaro

6. CAUSEWAY BAY

Causeway Bay can sometimes be overlooked as a dining destination in favour of nearby Wan Chai or Soho, but it can definitely hold its own in the foodie stakes. Roganic is the brain child of British celebrity chef Simon Rogan and it’s an impressive, well-thought-out experience. Roganic, UG08, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay ( roganic.com.hk )

Alto, Din Tai Fung, elBorn, Sijie Sichuan Restaurant, Little Bao, Brick Lane

7. KENNEDY TOWN

Affectionately known as K-Town, this thriving neighbourhood has a constantly evolving food scene. Brand new on the waterfront is Grain, a gastropub and brewlab that happens to be the only dining venue in Hong Kong to house a working brewery on-site (Shop 1, New Fortune House, 3-5 New Praya, grain.com.hk ).

Pici (the sixth and newest outlet in HK), Chino, K-Town Bar & Grill, Bistro Du Vin, Alvy’s, Missy Ho’s, Comptoir, Shoreditch, 11Westside

8. SAI YING PUN

This neighbourhood’s blend of old and new Hong Kong has seen it become one of the hippest districts in the city and a real foodie hotspot. Among the highlights is Brut!, an intimate restaurant/bar combining creativity and simple ingredients, plus some fascinating wines (Shop C, G/F, 1 Second Street, brut.com.hk ).

Fat Chad’s, Ping Pong129 Gintoneria, Big Dill, Lucale, Lobster Shack, Metropolitan, Flying Pig Bistro, La Paloma, Potato Head, TacoChaca

9. SOUTHSIDE

Stanley Plaza, Repulse Bay and Wong Chuk Hang in Hong Kong have a solid selection of restaurant options. A newie in Stanley is Pane e Latte, Italian for “bread and milk”, which serves up artisanal breads, pastries, pizzas, Italian coffee, wines, cocktails and more (25 Stanley Market Road, paneelatte.hk ).

Beef & Liberty, Limewood, Shoku, Stan Café, Kömune, Sip Song

Keen to explore more Hong Kong restaurants and dining districts? Head to our Wine & Dine section!

This article first appeared in the City Guide 2021/22 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.

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Trattoria Felino

• Shop 3&4, GF, Pao Yip Building, 1-7 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
• $$ · Italian

Reservations are not available for this restaurant on our site

The chef hails from Naples and his trattoria serves culinary gems from the Italian city, including his grandma's recipes. Start with the carbonara egg, aerated egg yolk with guanciale and pecorino in an eggcup on a bed of corn kernels. Then move on to the house-made pasta, which embodies the ethos of the trattoria. The tagliatelle with Wagyu beef ragout strikes the perfect balance between meaty and tangy. Book well ahead to secure a table.

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Hong Kong Food: 15 Must-Eat Dishes (& Where To Eat Them)

Published: September 9, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Becca Congdon

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Introduction:

When it comes to food travel, Hong Kong is a city that should be at the top of every foodie’s list. With its vibrant culinary scene and diverse gastronomic offerings, Hong Kong is a paradise for those seeking to indulge in a gastronomic adventure. From mouthwatering dim sum to fragrant roast goose, the city offers a myriad of tantalizing dishes that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

What sets Hong Kong apart is its unique blend of traditional Cantonese cuisine and international influences. As a former British colony and a major global financial hub, the city has embraced culinary influences from around the world, resulting in a fusion of flavors that is hard to resist.

In this article, we will delve into the must-eat dishes in Hong Kong and provide you with insights on where to find the best versions of these delectable treats. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you navigate through the bustling streets of Hong Kong in search of unforgettable food experiences.

Before we embark on this culinary journey, it’s important to note that Hong Kong is a city that loves its food. From authentic street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, the options are aplenty. So, prepare yourself for a feast of flavors and get ready to discover the incredible world of Hong Kong cuisine.

Roast Goose

No visit to Hong Kong would be complete without trying the iconic Roast Goose. Known for its succulent and flavorful meat with a crispy skin, this dish is a true Hong Kong delicacy.

The tradition of Roast Goose in Hong Kong can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty. The geese used for roasting are carefully selected, ensuring that only the finest quality birds are used. They are then marinated in a secret blend of spices and roasted at high temperatures to perfection.

The result is a mouthwatering dish that is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The meat is rich and tender, while the skin is beautifully crispy and golden brown. Each bite is a heavenly combination of savory and fragrant flavors.

One of the best places to indulge in Roast Goose is Yung Kee Restaurant in Central. This legendary restaurant has been serving up delicious Roast Goose for over 70 years. They adhere to traditional cooking techniques, ensuring that every goose is roasted to perfection.

Another popular spot is Kam’s Roast Goose in Wan Chai. This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its succulent Roast Goose, which is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Whether you choose to dine at a renowned restaurant or opt for a local eatery, trying Roast Goose is a must during your visit to Hong Kong. It is a dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the city and will leave you craving for more.

Dim sum is a quintessential part of Hong Kong’s food culture. These bite-sized delicacies are traditionally served in steamer baskets or on small plates, and are perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Dim sum originated in Cantonese tea houses, where it was served as a snack with tea. Today, it has evolved into a popular meal option, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

One of the highlights of a dim sum meal is the variety of dumplings available. From delicate shrimp dumplings (har gow) to savory pork dumplings (siu mai), each dumpling is a burst of flavor. Other popular dim sum dishes include steamed BBQ pork buns, sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves, and pan-fried turnip cakes.

When it comes to dim sum in Hong Kong, Tim Ho Wan is a name that cannot be missed. Known as the “world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant,” Tim Ho Wan serves up delicious and affordable dim sum that has garnered a loyal following. The char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) and the vermicelli roll with pig’s liver are must-tries.

If you prefer a more upscale dining experience, head to Maxim’s Palace in City Hall. This iconic restaurant is known for its grand dining hall and exquisite dim sum offerings. Don’t miss their steamed custard buns and crispy spring rolls.

For a taste of traditional dim sum in a local neighborhood setting, visit Lin Heung Tea House in Sheung Wan. This no-frills eatery has been serving dim sum since 1889 and offers an authentic experience. Be prepared to share tables and embrace the bustling atmosphere.

Whether you choose to dine at a famous dim sum establishment or a local neighborhood joint, indulging in dim sum is a culinary experience you shouldn’t miss in Hong Kong. It’s a chance to sample a wide array of flavors and savor the essence of Cantonese cuisine.

Pineapple Bun

A beloved Hong Kong classic, the Pineapple Bun is a must-try treat for any food traveler. Despite its name, this sweet and fluffy bun does not actually contain pineapple. Its name comes from the distinct crust on top, which resembles the texture of a pineapple.

The Pineapple Bun is made from a soft and airy dough, topped with a sugary crust that provides a delightful contrast in texture. The bun is usually served as a breakfast or afternoon snack, and can be enjoyed on its own or with a slab of butter sandwiched in the middle.

One of the best places to enjoy a Pineapple Bun is at Kam Wah Cafe in Mong Kok. This renowned bakery has been serving up crispy and aromatic Pineapple Buns since 1956. The buns are freshly baked and the crust is perfectly caramelized, creating a delightful crunch.

Another popular spot is Australia Dairy Company in Jordan. Known for its old-school charm and delicious breakfast offerings, their Pineapple Bun is a crowd favorite. Pair it with a hot cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea for the ultimate experience.

For a twist on the traditional Pineapple Bun, head to Kam Fung Cafe in Wan Chai. They offer a variation called the “Pork Chop Bun,” where a juicy pork chop is sandwiched inside a Pineapple Bun. It’s a unique combination that is both savory and sweet.

Whether you prefer the classic version or want to try a variation, indulging in a Pineapple Bun is a delightful experience that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the beautiful top crust before taking a bite!

Egg Waffles

If you’re craving a sweet treat in Hong Kong, then Egg Waffles, also known as “gai dan jai,” should be at the top of your list. These golden, crispy waffles are a popular street snack that can be found throughout the city.

Egg Waffles are made from a batter consisting of eggs, sugar, flour, and evaporated milk. The mixture is poured into a special mold with a honeycomb pattern, and then cooked until the waffles turn golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and chewy on the inside.

These delectable waffles have a unique texture, with each bite offering a delightful combination of crispiness and fluffiness. They are typically served on a piece of parchment paper, making them easy to grab on the go.

You can find Egg Waffles at various street stalls and small shops scattered across the city. One popular spot is Lee Keung Kee North Point Egg Waffles in North Point. They have been serving up these delicious treats for over 60 years, and their waffles are known for their perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Another renowned establishment is Mammy Pancake in Mong Kok. They offer a wide range of flavors for their Egg Waffles, including chocolate, matcha, and even savory options like cheese and ham.

Whether you enjoy them plain or with a scoop of ice cream, Egg Waffles are a delightful snack that embodies the street food culture of Hong Kong. Take a stroll through the bustling streets, let the aroma of freshly cooked waffles guide you, and treat yourself to this irresistible treat.

Wonton Noodles

When it comes to comfort food in Hong Kong, Wonton Noodles is a classic dish that never disappoints. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of thin egg noodles served in a flavorful broth with succulent wontons filled with shrimp or pork.

The key to a great bowl of Wonton Noodles lies in the balance of flavors. The broth should be rich and aromatic, made from a combination of pork bones, dried shrimp, and other secret ingredients that give it a distinct umami taste. The wontons themselves should be plump, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

One of the most famous places to enjoy Wonton Noodles is Mak’s Noodle in Central. This institution has been serving up this beloved dish since the 1920s and is renowned for its perfectly cooked noodles and flavorful broth. Be prepared for long queues, as this place is always bustling with hungry patrons.

For a more modern twist on Wonton Noodles, head to Tsim Chai Kee Noodle in Central. They are known for their al dente noodles and generous portions of wontons. The broth is flavorful yet not overpowering, allowing the natural flavors of the wontons to shine.

If you’re looking for a local neighborhood spot, try Ho Hung Kee in Wan Chai. This family-run establishment has been serving Wonton Noodles for several generations, and their noodles have a smooth and springy texture that pairs perfectly with the succulent wontons.

Whether you’re seeking comfort food or just want to experience a classic Hong Kong dish, Wonton Noodles is a comforting and satisfying option. It’s the perfect meal to warm your soul on a chilly day or to enjoy as a quick and flavorful lunch.

Char Siu, also known as Cantonese-style BBQ pork, is a popular dish in Hong Kong that will make your taste buds sing with delight. The tender and succulent pieces of char siu are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then roasted until they acquire a rich caramelized coating.

The marinade for char siu typically consists of a combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder, giving the pork a delectable blend of flavors. The meat is then cooked over an open fire or in an oven, allowing it to develop a smoky and slightly charred exterior.

One of the best places to indulge in char siu is at Joy Hing Roasted Meat in Wan Chai. This unassuming eatery is famous for its melt-in-your-mouth char siu, which is served sliced and generously drizzled with the signature glaze. Pair it with a plate of steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

For a more upscale option, head to Yat Lok in Central. This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its succulent char siu that is perfectly caramelized and bursting with flavor. The texture is tender, and the flavors are well-balanced.

If you’re in the mood for a unique twist on this classic dish, visit Kau Kee Restaurant in Sheung Wan. They offer a char siu with a slightly smoky and spicy flavor profile, elevating the dish to a whole new level.

Char Siu is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, in noodle dishes, or in a steamed bun. No matter how you choose to savor it, the tender and savory char siu will leave you craving for more.

When it comes to beverages in Hong Kong, Milk Tea takes center stage. This rich, creamy, and aromatic drink is a staple in local cha chaan tengs (tea houses) and is an essential part of the city’s food culture.

Hong Kong-style Milk Tea is made by brewing a strong black tea blend and then adding condensed milk or evaporated milk to create a smooth and velvety texture. The tea leaves used are typically a mix of Ceylon and Assam, which gives the tea a robust and full-bodied flavor.

The brewing process is unique to Hong Kong, involving a method called “pulling tea.” This technique involves pouring the tea back and forth between two cups to create a frothy and well-mixed beverage.

One of the best places to savor Hong Kong-style Milk Tea is at Lan Fong Yuen in Central. This iconic tea house has been serving up their signature milk tea for over 60 years and is known for its smooth and creamy texture.

Another popular spot is Tsui Wah in various locations across Hong Kong. They offer a traditional style milk tea that is strong and robust. Pair it with their famous bun with condensed milk for a truly indulgent experience.

If you’re looking for a modern twist on this classic beverage, visit Sing Heung Yuen in Central. They serve a unique version called “nai cha,” which is milk tea blended with fresh tomatoes. It may sound unusual, but the combination of tangy tomatoes and creamy milk tea creates a refreshing and surprisingly delicious drink.

Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, Hong Kong-style Milk Tea is a must-try beverage that will awaken your senses. It’s the perfect companion to a hearty meal or a delightful pick-me-up throughout the day.

Beef Brisket Noodles

Beef Brisket Noodles is a beloved dish in Hong Kong that combines tender, slow-cooked beef brisket with flavorful noodles in a savory broth. This hearty and comforting dish is a favorite among locals and is a go-to option for a satisfying meal.

The beef brisket is marinated and braised for hours until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The broth, made from a combination of beef bones, herbs, and spices, is simmered to perfection to infuse all the flavors together.

The noodles used can vary, but the most common options are flat rice noodles or egg noodles. They are cooked to perfection and served with the fragrant broth and generous portions of the succulent beef brisket.

If you’re in search of the best Beef Brisket Noodles, head to Kau Kee Restaurant in Sheung Wan. This legendary eatery has been serving up their famous beef brisket for over 90 years. Their noodles are springy, and their beef brisket is tender and full of flavor.

Another popular spot is Sister Wah in Tin Hau. They are known for their rich and robust broth, which elevates the dish to a whole new level. The beef brisket is perfectly cooked, and the noodles are the perfect vehicle for soaking up all the flavors.

If you want a unique twist on this classic dish, visit On Lee Noodle in Sham Shui Po. They serve a Spicy Beef Brisket Noodles that adds a kick of heat to the traditional flavors. It’s a bold and satisfying combination.

Beef Brisket Noodles is the ultimate comfort food in Hong Kong, perfect for warming your soul on a chilly day or satisfying your cravings for a hearty meal. So grab a bowl, slurp up the noodles, and savor the rich flavors of this beloved dish.

Curry Fish Balls

Curry Fish Balls are a popular street food snack in Hong Kong that packs a punch of flavor and spice. These little balls of goodness are made from fish paste that is steamed, then deep-fried, and finally simmered in a fragrant curry sauce.

The fish balls themselves have a bouncy and springy texture, while the curry sauce is rich, aromatic, and slightly spicy. The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering treat that is both savory and satisfying.

You can find Curry Fish Balls at street food stalls, where they are often served on skewers or in paper cups with toothpicks. They are a favorite grab-and-go snack for locals and tourists alike.

One of the most popular spots to enjoy Curry Fish Balls is at the Temple Street Night Market in Yau Ma Tei. Here, you’ll find numerous food stalls serving up piping hot fish balls in rich curry sauce. The bustling atmosphere adds to the experience, making it a must-visit destination in Hong Kong.

If you prefer a sit-down restaurant experience, visit Mr. Fishball in Sham Shui Po. This eatery specializes in a variety of fish balls, including the curry-flavored ones. Their fish balls are known for their springy texture, and the curry sauce is rich and flavorful.

For those who want to try a unique twist on this classic snack, visit Mammy Pancake in Mong Kok. They offer a fusion version called “Curry Fish Ball Pancake,” where the fish balls are embedded in a pancake and topped with a curry sauce. It’s a creative and delicious take on a traditional dish.

Curry Fish Balls are a delightful and satisfying snack that captures the essence of Hong Kong street food. Be prepared for a burst of flavors and a delightful spiciness as you indulge in this local favorite.

Clay Pot Rice

Clay Pot Rice, also known as “bo zai fan” in Cantonese, is a hearty and flavorful dish that is a must-try in Hong Kong. As the name suggests, this dish is cooked in a clay pot, which allows the flavors to meld together and gives the rice a delicious crispy crust.

The clay pot is filled with fragrant jasmine rice, along with various toppings and seasonings. Popular choices for toppings include Chinese sausages, chicken, mushrooms, and preserved meats. The pot is then covered and cooked over a low flame, allowing the ingredients to slowly cook and infuse the rice with their flavors.

Once cooked, the clay pot is unveiled, revealing a steaming and aromatic bowl of rice with tender and savory toppings. The crispy rice at the bottom of the pot adds a delightful texture and depth of flavor to the dish.

One of the best places to enjoy Clay Pot Rice is Kwan Kee Claypot Rice in Sai Wan. This family-run restaurant has been serving up their signature Clay Pot Rice for over 30 years. Their version is packed with tender chunks of chicken, Chinese sausages, and mushrooms, all cooked to perfection.

For a more modern twist on this traditional dish, visit The Claypot Rice in North Point. They offer a variety of toppings, including BBQ pork, spare ribs, and even seafood, catering to different preferences. The rice is perfectly cooked, and the flavors are well-balanced.

Clay Pot Rice is a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases the culinary heritage of Hong Kong. From the fragrant rice to the flavorful toppings, every bite is a treat for the senses. So grab a spoon and dig into this delicious and filling dish.

Cheung Fun, also known as Rice Noodle Rolls, is a popular Cantonese dish that is a favorite among locals and visitors. These silky smooth rice noodle rolls are a versatile delicacy that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course.

Cheung Fun is made from a thin layer of steamed rice batter that is spread onto a cloth-lined tray or bamboo steamer. It is then filled with various ingredients such as shrimp, BBQ pork, beef, or vegetables, before being rolled up and served with a sweet soy sauce or peanut sauce.

One of the best places to experience Cheung Fun is Lin Heung Kui in Sheung Wan. This traditional teahouse has been serving up their signature Cheung Fun for over 80 years. Their rolls are thin and delicate, and their fillings are generously portioned and flavorful.

For a more modern take on Cheung Fun, visit Law Fu Kee in Wan Chai. They offer a variety of innovative fillings, such as cheese, foie gras, and even truffle, taking this classic dish to new heights. Their Cheung Fun has a perfect texture and is served with a delicious homemade sauce.

Another popular spot is One Dim Sum in Prince Edward. This humble eatery is known for its exquisite dim sum, including their Cheung Fun. The rolls are translucent and silky, and the fillings are comforting and flavorful.

Cheung Fun is a delightful dish that allows you to savor the soft and silky texture of rice noodle rolls, paired with a variety of delicious fillings. Whether you enjoy it as a savory treat or with a sweet sauce, Cheung Fun is a must-try dish in Hong Kong.

Egg Tart is a beloved dessert that has become an iconic part of Hong Kong’s food culture. These sweet and creamy custard tarts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Egg Tarts have a flaky and buttery pastry crust that encases a smooth and velvety egg custard filling. The custard is made from a combination of eggs, milk, sugar, and a hint of vanilla extract. The tarts are baked until the custard sets and develops a beautiful golden color on top.

One of the most famous places to indulge in Egg Tarts is Tai Cheong Bakery in Central. Established in 1954, this bakery is known for its perfectly baked tarts with a buttery and crumbly crust. The custard is silky-smooth and has just the right amount of sweetness.

Another popular spot is Honolulu Coffee Shop in Wan Chai. They serve Portuguese-style Egg Tarts, which have a slightly caramelized top and a creamy custard filling that is rich and decadent.

If you want to try a modern twist on this classic dessert, visit The Old Man in Central. They offer a cocktail-inspired Egg Tart that combines the flavors of the traditional tart with a unique cocktail blend. It’s a creative and delicious take on a beloved dessert.

Egg Tarts are a symbol of Hong Kong’s culinary heritage and a must-try treat for any food lover. Whether you enjoy them as a sweet ending to a meal or as an afternoon snack, these delightful tarts will leave you craving for more.

Siu Mai, also known as Shumai, is a popular dim sum dish that is a staple of Cantonese cuisine. These delicious bite-sized dumplings are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for their delicate flavors and attractive presentation.

Siu Mai are traditionally made by wrapping a thin sheet of dough around a filling of ground pork, shrimp, and other seasonings. The dumplings are then steamed, resulting in a tender and juicy texture that is bursting with flavors.

One of the best places to enjoy Siu Mai is at Tim Ho Wan, known as the “world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant.” They are famous for their siu mai, which are perfectly crafted with a balanced combination of pork and shrimp. Every bite is a delightful mix of savory flavors and succulent textures.

For a more traditional experience, visit Lin Heung Tea House in Sheung Wan. This historic teahouse has been serving Siu Mai for decades and maintains a charming old-world ambiance. The siu mai here are made with precision and feature a pure and delicate taste.

If you’re looking for a unique twist on this classic dim sum, head to Dim Dim Sum in Jordan. They offer a variety of unconventional Siu Mai fillings, such as truffle, scallop, and even cheese. These innovative combinations add a new dimension to the traditional dumpling.

Whether you prefer the classic Siu Mai or want to try a modern variation, these delectable dumplings are a must-try dish in Hong Kong. Enjoy them as part of a dim sum feast or as a satisfying snack on their own – either way, they are sure to leave you craving for more.

BBQ Pork Buns

BBQ Pork Buns, also known as Char Siu Bao, are a delectable Cantonese dim sum delicacy that is loved by people all over the world. These soft and fluffy steamed buns are filled with savory and sweet BBQ pork filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

The filling for BBQ Pork Buns consists of succulent and tender char siu, which is barbecued pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. The meat is chopped into small pieces and then mixed with a combination of sauces and seasonings, such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce.

One of the best places to enjoy BBQ Pork Buns is at Tim Ho Wan, the Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant known for its exceptional quality. The buns here have a delicate and fluffy texture, with a generous amount of flavorful char siu filling.

For a unique twist on this classic dish, head to Lin Heung Tea House in Sheung Wan. This traditional teahouse offers a variation called “Golden Lava Char Siu Bao,” where the buns are filled with molten custard along with the BBQ pork filling. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a delightful explosion of taste.

If you prefer a more modern ambiance, visit The Dim Sum Co. in Quarry Bay. They are known for their creative and innovative dim sum offerings, including their delicious BBQ Pork Buns that are crafted with care and attention to detail.

Whether you enjoy them as part of a dim sum feast or on their own as a snack, BBQ Pork Buns are a must-try dish in Hong Kong. The soft and fluffy bun combined with the flavorful and juicy BBQ pork filling create a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving for more.

Stinky Tofu

Stinky Tofu, known as “chou doufu” in Cantonese, is a unique and polarizing dish that is not for the faint of heart. This fermented tofu has a pungent aroma and a strong flavor that can be an acquired taste for some but a delight for others.

The process of making Stinky Tofu involves fermenting tofu in a brine or marinade infused with various ingredients such as fermented vegetables, dried shrimp, or herbs. The tofu is left to ferment for a period of time, which develops the distinct smell and taste.

In Hong Kong, you can find Stinky Tofu at street food stalls or in local markets. It is usually deep-fried until it develops a crispy and golden exterior while retaining its soft and silky interior.

One popular place to try Stinky Tofu is at Temple Street Night Market in Yau Ma Tei. Here, you’ll find vendors serving up piping hot and freshly fried Stinky Tofu. The intense aroma and the crispy texture make for a unique culinary experience.

If you’re adventurous and want to give Stinky Tofu a try, head to Wang Fu Market in Sham Shui Po. This bustling market offers a variety of street food options, including Stinky Tofu. Be prepared for the strong smell and the bold flavors that will challenge your taste buds.

Stinky Tofu is an acquired taste, but it’s an integral part of Hong Kong’s street food scene. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore the diverse flavors of the city, give Stinky Tofu a try – you might just discover a new culinary experience that surprises and delights you.

Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide array of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. From iconic dishes like Roast Goose and Dim Sum to unique treats like Pineapple Buns and Stinky Tofu, the city’s food scene is diverse, vibrant, and deeply rooted in its culinary heritage.

Exploring the culinary treasures of Hong Kong means embarking on a journey where tradition meets innovation. Whether you dine at renowned restaurants or sample street food from local vendors, you’ll be treated to a gastronomic experience that blends authentic flavors with modern twists.

As you indulge in the must-eat dishes of Hong Kong, be sure to visit old teahouses, vibrant night markets, and bustling street food stalls. These are the places where the true flavors of the city come alive, where you can witness the passion and craftsmanship of the local food vendors.

Take the time to savor the fragrant Roast Goose, delight in the delicate dumplings of Dim Sum, and enjoy the crispy texture of Pineapple Buns. Dive into the comforting bowls of Wonton Noodles and Clay Pot Rice, and let your taste buds be delighted by the savory and sweet flavors of BBQ Pork Buns and Egg Tarts.

No food journey in Hong Kong is complete without trying the iconic Milk Tea, sampling the rich and hearty Beef Brisket Noodles, and venturing into the bold and flavorful world of Curry Fish Balls and Siu Mai.

While exploring the food scene of Hong Kong, remember that it’s not just about the dishes themselves; it’s also about the experience. The bustling markets, the aroma-filled streets, and the warm hospitality of the locals make every bite a memory to cherish.

So, whether you’re a seasoned food traveler or a first-time visitor, be prepared to immerse yourself in the culinary tapestry of Hong Kong. Discover new flavors, embrace the traditional dishes, and embark on a food journey that will leave you with unforgettable tastes and memories. Hong Kong’s Food Travel scene is waiting to be explored – bon appétit!

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If you’ve dined at one of Hong Kong’s best restaurants , you’ll have likely spotted a black “Time Out Recommended” badge displayed in the window. This year, we’re proud to announce that we’ve partnered with the lifestyle magazine to curate a list of top dining venues together. So, next time you’re out, be sure to look for the new “Time Out x Cathay Recommended” stickers adorning a select few restaurants. You can feast easy knowing that the restaurant has been given the ultimate seal of approval, guaranteeing the city’s finest offerings and an unforgettable dining experience.

Beyond identifying Hong Kong ’s buzziest spots for a meal or drink, this year’s guide is even more exciting: you can earn Asia Miles as you dine at any of these winning establishments. To ensure planning your next special occasion is effortless, these celebrated spots have been broken down into categories ranging from impressive date night hangouts to Instagram-ready feasts.

With 40 venues to choose from, you won’t be short on dining options this year. Looking for a place to start? We’ve highlighted some of our favourites for you. Don’t forget to present your Cathay membership number to rack up those Asia Miles for your next culinary adventure – you can savour an earn rate of HKD4 = 1 when you dine at these restaurants. 

Credit: Maison ES

Instagrammable spots

Romantic cosy interiors play backdrop to picture-ready food at Maison ES , a garden-inspired restaurant helmed by chef Esther Sham of Ta Pantry fame. Filled with antiques and flea market furniture finds, the restaurant’s mint walls and inviting dining rooms complement laidback Asian- French-inspired tasting menus which highlight dishes like the French yellow chicken and the lobster ravioli served with decadent beluga caviar.

Shop B, UG/F, Hang Tak Building, 1 Electric Street, Wan Chai, 2521 8011

Credit: Kinsman

Nostalgic Hong Kong touches permeate this Peel Street bar , with red leather booths, chequered tiles and old school bric-a-brac welcoming cocktail aficionados inside. Chinese spirits get their moment in the sun with traditional Cantonese liquor Yuk Bing Siu and snake wine-based cocktails, alongside unique infusions of local ingredients such as roselle and magnolia, and monkfruit. It’s the cocktail salon of Wong Kar-wai’s dreams.

G/F, 65 Peel Street, Central, 2865 5011

Credit: dolos

Date night destinations

This intimate Soho restaurant celebrates seafood through its fine dining menu, captained by the team behind Twins Kitchen. Inspired by the concrete structures that protect Hong Kong from oceanic waves, this eatery spotlights French and Japanese preparations which honour ingredients such asmonkfish liver, firefly squid and eel. Bold tasting menus are complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list – though aficionados can also bring their own bottle without a corkage fee. 

G/F, 60 Staunton Street, Central, 3488 5770  

Credit: The Upper House Salisterra

Mediterranean flavours meet sweeping city views at Salisterra , The Upper House ’s chic restaurant which overlooks Victoria Harbour and Admiralty’s serpentine streets. Led by Italian chef Ricardo Chaneton, the menu is inspired by his travels, with standout dishes including a seafood platter served with a bright citrus shallot sauce, Provençale-style lamb shank and thyme roasted peaches for a sweet end to the evening. Arrive before sunset for the ultimate sundowner from their stellar cocktail list, or a specially curated three-course menu. 

Level 49, The Upper House, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 3968 1106 

Credit: Harbourside Grill

Al fresco dining

Harbourside Grill 

Hidden away in Harbour City’s Ocean Terminal you’ll find a sprawling terrace touting a postcard perfect vista of the Hong Kong skyline: unobstructed views of the Star Ferry navigating the Victoria Harbour as iconic landmarks rise up behind it. Harbourside Grill ’s menu lives up to its unrivalled views, featuring crowd-pleasing French favourites like duck confit and beef tartare, which sit alongside impressive cuts of beef, grilled to perfection over Japanese charcoal in a Josper oven. 

Shop OTE401, Level 4, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, 3-27 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, 2619 9100  

Credit: Sugar

High up on the 32nd floor of EAST, this effortlessly cool rooftop bar and restaurant boasts views over the harbour and a mean gin list. Locals in the know flock to Sugar for sundowners that make an impression, with solar system-inspired cocktails and dangerously drinkable G&Ts. You won’t want to miss out on the Japanese bar snacks either, with decadent takoyaki, furikake and Kewpie mayonnaise-topped fries, and pork belly buns on offer. 

32/F, EAST, Hong Kong, 29 Taikoo Shing Road, Taikoo Shing, Quarry Bay, 3968 3738

Credit: Matchali

Chill hangouts

This cosy spot on Moon Street specialises in all things matcha, sourcing ceremonial-grade ingredients from Japan as well as plant-based milks and natural sugars. Run by two cousins, Matchali ’s restful space is filled with the sound of whisks hard at work creating their signature emerald drinks. From mango matcha lattes to affogatos served with soft serve matcha ice cream, you’ll find creativity galore here alongside all the caffeine classics. 

G/F, 5 Moon Street, Wan Chai, 9880 7661

Credit: Shh Café

A spa’s in-house café might not immediately sound like a winner but  Shh Cafe ’s fusion-style menu and tranquil interiors beg to differ. Bright, airy decor and swathes of pampas grass create a relaxing ambience, while red bean and matcha-topped croffles and iced honeycomb coffees will sate any sweet tooth. Looking for something more substantial? Tiger prawns served on a bed of kimchi cheese risotto and a side of tomato should do the trick.

Shop B&C, G/F, Cheung King Mansion, 144 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 3795 3065

Check out the full list of Time Out x Cathay Recommended restaurants here .

Trattoria Felino, Banh Mi Nem join three other restaurants in new MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong recommendations

MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong has announced five new entrants as “recommended restaurants” this August, joining the pack of Hong Kong’s top places to eat.

Beyond the Guide’s annual distinctions of Stars, Green Stars, and Bib Gourmands, the Paris-founded publication awards restaurants as recommended venues to visit whilst dining in a specific city. This is the first set of new additions to the Hong Kong edition since the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau 2024 ceremony was held in March.

Carna by Dario Cecchini at the Mondrian Hong Kong has earned a rightful spot in the Guide, praised for its innovative nose-to-tail steakhouse concept, sourcing beef from Italy, Australia, Ireland, the USA, and Japan.

In Wong Chuk Hang, lulu BAOBAO is a surprise entrant. This hidden gem serves a taste of Shanghai cuisine with made-to-order xiaolongbao and bouncy noodles. The restaurant is located in an industrial building on the Southside.

Prince and the Peacock is celebrated for its lavish presentation of regional cuisines dotting the Indian subcontinent, fit for royals, located inside Tai Kwun’s former Central Magistracy building. The Guide lauds the restaurant’s lamb biryani, a must-order when dining at Prince and the Peacock.

Trattoria Felino explores the trattorias of Naples, delivering grandmotherly recipes by the duo chef team of Marcello Scognamiglio and Félix De Arriaga Balanzat at the Wan Chai restaurant. The pasta is handmade, and the lamb, beef, and chicken dishes are prepared with bold flavours.

Banh M i Nem is another new Wan Chai entrant in the Guide, receiving viral attention for its authentic Hanoi-style banh mi sandwiches, along with cold vermicelli dishes and Vietnamese coffee.

Rubin Verebes is the Managing Editor of Foodie, the guiding force behind the magazine's delectable stories. With a knack for cooking up mouthwatering profiles, crafting immersive restaurant reviews, and dishing out tasty features, Rubin tells the great stories of Hong Kong's dining scene.

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The Best Bars in Hong Kong, from Speakeasies to Cocktail Lounges

The intoxicating city has something for everyone, from sprawling, ornate cocktail lounges occupying the top floors of cloud-piercing hotels for the luxury-seeking traveler to surreal sci-fi chic speakeasies for those looking for their “The Fifth Element” moment.

Hong Kong is one of the most exhilarating cities in the world, keeping pace with the likes of New York City, London and Tokyo. Nicknamed “Asia’s World City” for good reason, the vertical playground is home to exceptional restaurants, tranquil temples, high-end shopping malls, legendary nightlife, top-tier museums, edgy art galleries and more skyscrapers than any other city in the world. It’s also one of the world’s classiest cocktail capitals. Need proof that Hong Kong’s bar scene is as buzzy as ever? Take a look at this year’s “ Asia’s 50 Best Bars ” winners where a total of nine Hong Kong bars earned a spot on the prestigious list, and an exciting newcomer debuted at number one. 

The intoxicating city has something for everyone, from sprawling, ornate cocktail lounges occupying the top floors of cloud-piercing hotels for the luxury-seeking traveler to surreal sci-fi chic speakeasies for those looking for their The Fifth Element moment. Looking to pair a negroni with a mortadella sandwich and Italo disco? Or perhaps you’re into late-night debauchery in a moody boîte with sultry live jazz, vintage cigars and martinis? The beautifully chaotic and captivating city has it all, though the overwhelming number of drinking den options might make you consider tearing your passport to shreds. Don’t do that. Instead, keep reading to discover some of the best cocktail bars in the glittering megacity, from swanky haunts with world-renowned, tuxedo-wearing mixologists to walk-in-only jewel-box-sized omakase-style bars.

Where to Drink in Hong Kong

The savory project, artifact bar, salisterra bar, mostly harmless.

• 65 Peel St, Central, Hong Kong

Entering this 50-seat Cantonese cocktail salon feels like you’ve just stumbled into a Wong Kar-wai film. Opened in early 2024, Kinsman’s nostalgic and highly Instagrammable retro interior was modeled after old-school Hong Kong bing sutt and Japanese kissaten cafes , from the lush red leather booths and shophouse-inspired checkered flooring to the kaleidoscopic mural of bygone Hong Kong landmarks behind the bar. Also behind the bar is co-owner, dining editor and head mixologist Gavin Yeung, whose creative cocktails highlight overlooked Cantonese and Chinese spirits and give modern-day drinkers a taste of Hong Kong’s former glory days as a spirit-distilling hub. Take, for example, the “Kowloon Dairy,” an earthy riff on milk punch: Roselle and Magnolia liqueurs are blended with hemp seed, monk fruit spirit, citrus, milk and pu’er tea, then topped with a frothy salted cream. Hungry? Order Cantonese bistro dishes like a lap cheong (Chinese sausage) platter with housemade pickles, wagyu ox tongue baked rice with 24-month aged comté cheese, and a variety of tong sui (Chinese dessert soups).

• 4 Staunton Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong

Opened in the lively Soho district in 2023, the hype isn’t dying down anytime soon for The Savory Project. After all, it’s helmed by Jay Khan and Ajit Gurung , the superstar team behind Coa, an eternally buzzy, Mexican-inspired, agave-focused cocktail joint that’s earned the top spot by “Asia’s 50 Best Bars” multiple times.  It’s all in the name here, as meticulously crafted cocktails and non-alcoholic creations are made with unexpected ingredients that emphasize all things savory. Give your go-to extra dirty martini a break and order the umami-packed “Shitake Bamboo,” made with shitake mushroom, spicy umeshu and fortified wine. For a beyond-flavorful alternative, try the “Thai Beef Salad,” made with beef, peanut, coconut, chili, kaffir lime and rum. 

• LG/F, Jardine House, No, 1 & 2, Shop 5 & 7, 1 Connaught Pl, Central, Hong Kong

Come to this atmospheric, sci-fi chic speakeasy for endless photo-perfect opportunities. Stay for the excellent cocktails, including a savory “Caviar Martini.” Tucked away in the basement of a high-end food hall, this hidden gem’s otherworldly interiors by Nelson Chow were inspired by the serene atmosphere of underground water reservoirs, sci-fi movie spaceships and brutalist architecture. The vibey atmosphere is just as head-spinning as the cocktails. Consider giving your tastebuds a thrill with the “Bread and Butter Milk Punch,” featuring bourbon, rye, lemon, corn, toasted brioche and butter. Order delectable bar bites by chef Sato Kiyoshi to complete your out-of-this-world experience.

• The Upper House, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong

For a dose of that famous Hong Kong skyline, head to The Upper House, one of the most coveted addresses in the city. Entering from the serene hotel lobby, guests are whisked away up 49 floors in a matter of seconds by a smooth elevator and then released onto a striking sky bridge, which majestically floats above a Guggenheim-like atrium and guides you into Salisterra, the swanky André Fu-designed hideaway frequented by designer-clad Hong Kong socialites and celebrity visitors. Guests can enjoy drinks with a Mediterranean-inspired meal in the decadent main dining room, but make your way into the intimate Wes Anderson -esque bar lounge for VIP vibes, impeccable people-watching and martinis amid jaw-dropping vistas of the iconic skyline and Victoria Harbour.

• 2 f, 110 Queen’s Rd West, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong

Where have all the cool kids gone, you asked? They’re sipping farm-to-glass cocktails in Sai Ying Pun at Mostly Harmless, an intimate, hip, yet unpretentious omakase-style bar that opened in 2021. Helmed by acclaimed bartender Ezra Star , you’ll find the ever-changing cocktail menu written in Magic Marker on the glossy white-tiled walls, along with the names of every guest who walks in the door. What’s in your drink at this walk-in-only watering hole depends on the ingredients Star finds during her regular visits to local markets and farms. No matter what you order, the mixology masters ensure that the drinks at Mostly Harmless are always killer.

• Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong

The Mandarin Oriental is one of Hong Kong’s most luxurious hotels, so of course it’s home to an impossibly exquisite bar. High up on the 25th floor is The Aubrey, a glamorous Japanese izakaya dressed in maximalist, antique-clad interiors. Opened in 2021 and designed to resemble the home of a 19th-century European art collector with a penchant for Japanism, there are several head-turning rooms to explore, each offering distinct and memorable bar experiences. In the mood for high balls and craft cocktails? The ornate main bar, which also offers some of the most dramatic views of Hong Kong, is for you. Craving oysters, champagne and sparkling sake? Then it’s all about the aptly named Champagne & Sake Bar. Expect a designer-clad clientele sipping cocktails and nibbling on Japanese bites in the curio lounge, dotted with Tiffany lamps, potted ferns and eclectic, gallery-worthy artwork. Plus, a rotating roster of top-notch local and international DJs steps up to the late-night decks after 10 p.m. In other words, it’s all happening at this ever-vibrant, see-and-be-seen hotspot. 

• Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance St, Central, Hong Kong

You don’t have to stay at the lavish Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong to experience unmatched luxury. All you have to do is visit the hotel’s ground-floor lobby and step into the beautiful people-packed Argo. One could easily mistake the AB Concept-designed cocktail bar for an elegant conservatory. An abundance of small terrariums, mirrors and brilliant views of Victoria Harbour via floor-to-ceiling glass walls bring the outdoors inside. The unabashed opulence doesn’t end there: Argo’s focal point is a soaring, sparkling glass display case artfully filled with a variety of rare spirits above the marble-clad bar. Just as sublime as the neoclassical-drenched interiors are the riffs on classic cocktails with Asian-sourced ingredients, like the “Deathless Old Fashioned,” made with Macallan 12, D.O.M Bénédictine, bitters and lacto-fermented strawberries. 

• Rosewood Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

If you’re into vintage cigars, sultry live jazz performances and rubbing elbows with a stylish crowd in a swanky speakeasy-inspired setting, then DarkSide is the place to be. Hidden away in the Rosewood Hong Kong, which is majestically perched along Kowloon’s Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, this high-style, devilishly good-looking drinking den features sumptuous seating and a stunning ceiling installation of rotating hourglasses handcrafted in Murano, Italy. Embrace your dark side in the moody, award-winning haunt while regaling in live music from Hong Kong’s finest jazz performers and ordering from a menu filled with rare, dark spirits and signature cocktails that pay homage to Kowloon’s “dark side” moniker.

• 56, 58 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong

Quinary isn’t your average cocktail bar. When it swung open its doors back in 2012 on Hollywood Road, it instantly became a magnet for serious cocktail connoisseurs. Today, the multi-award-winning, multi-sensory bar is still going strong, which makes sense considering it was dreamt up by Hong Kong’s most celebrated mixologist, Antonio Lai . If it’s your first time visiting this walk-in-only perennial hotspot, grab a seat at the long, glowing bar and order their best-selling tipple (and perhaps Hong Kong’s most famous cocktail), the “Earl Grey Caviar Martini.” It’s made with Cointreau, citrus vodka, elderflower syrup and burstable Earl Grey boba-like “caviar” beads and crowned with a cloud of Earl Grey-infused foam.

• 11-15 Bridges St, Central, Hong Kong

Opened in mid-2023 in Hong Kong’s Central District, this Italian cocktail bar, led by Argo alum Lorenzo Antinori , earned the top accolade on “Asia’s 50 Best Bars” for 2024. And rightfully so! Inspired by the warm, local Roman spots in Antinori’s hometown of Trastevere, vintage posters of Al Pacino and the pope line the walls and patrons in roomy banquettes sip negronis and frozen cappuccinos to a soundtrack of Italian opera and Italo disco. Everything here is must-order-worthy, from an espresso martini sweetened with biscotti liqueur to a whiskey sour crafted with olive oil. Then there’s the mouthwatering fare, like Italian fried chicken sprinkled with Parmigiana and Bar Leone’s most popular dish, the Roman-stuffed pizza with a hill of mortadella, whipped ricotta and pickled chilis.

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Hong kong tourism board, must-try street food in hong kong.

• Written by Coconuts Hong Kong

Hong Kong draws many visitors for its flavourful culinary scene — some come for the refined dim sum experience, others for the more local noodle shops. However, there is an often-overlooked facet of Hong Kong’s gourmet reputation — its humble street food.

This can be some of the richest, most worthwhile food experiences you have in the city; not for nothing is the Hong Kong Michelin Guide filled with gourmet recommendations that you can find on a street corner. On practically every street, alley, or walkway, are more types and varieties of food than you can shake a skewer at.

The next time you’re in Hong Kong, don’t be tempted to make a beeline for the nearest air-conditioned indoor restaurant. While there’s nothing wrong with a traditional, sit-down eatery, that is far from the only way to get a spectacular, multi-course meal. Our tasty street food offers a great variety of tastes for very little money —  so great, in fact, that you can easily enjoy a three-course meal. Here’s a guide to do just that.

Appetizers and drinks

Sugar cane juice

Most every street food stall will have a drinks section that offers refreshments to complement your food. Of the many choices you’ll be presented with, we recommend grabbing a cup of sugar cane juice. Refreshing and extremely sweet, it’s usually made on the spot by pressing steamed sugar cane with a machine. You’ll spot a shop that sells it from a mile away — it’ll have a large bucket of canes jutting out the side, and a long line of thirsty people in front.

Stinky tofu

We guarantee you there’s nothing quite like chowing down on stinky tofu — a very pungent way to whet your appetite. The first thing you’ll smell as you walk past street food, stinky tofu is first brined in a vegetable and meat mixture then deep fried. While stinky tofu does not lose all of its smell when slathered with chili and soy sauce, its taste is much better than its smell would have you believe. Just don’t eat too much of it before a date night.

Another classic pre-meal snack is roasted chestnuts. Usually buried in charcoal and stirred in a giant wok by the roadside, the chestnuts are piping hot and shovelled into a small bag for each customer. Do note that the small carts selling the chestnuts have no fixed schedule — but it doesn’t take a bloodhound to detect its savoury, smoky aroma when there is one nearby.

Try it: from autumn to spring, look out for the carts between Jordan Road and Kansu Road, or Shantung Street in Mong Kok, Kowloon

Main course

Siu mai and curry fish balls

Siu mai (dumplings) are a cornerstone in dim sum , while fish balls (fish meat minced and mixed until springy and shaped into balls) are commonly seen in noodle stores. Because of their popularity, however, they have made their way onto many a street food stall menu. Siu mai differ from their restaurant counterparts in that they are made of a pork-fish mixture (as opposed to shrimp and shrimp roe) wrapped in a yellow, flour-based wrapper, usually eaten with soy sauce and chili oil. Both fish balls and siu mai are commonly sold in portions of five to ten.

Try it: Tung Tat Food Shop , G/F, 172 Fa Yuen Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon

Cheung fun (rice noodle rolls), a mainstay of teahouses and dim sum restaurants, are pulled using rice flour mixed with tapioca flour and water. This mixture is poured into a flat, rectangular steamer lined with a breathable fabric. After steaming, the mixture forms into a springy, noodle-like sheet, which is then folded into long rolls, cut, and served with sweet soy sauce. While cheung fun is served similarly in both restaurants and street stalls, you might find the street version is a bit less silky, and comes with less choice of filling. But at its lower price point, and how filling it is (especially with toppings such as roasted pork and shrimp), it’s pretty unbeatable. Many street-side snack vendors have taken to serving them smothered in sauces like peanut and chili sauce, and its consequent heartiness has transformed it into one of Hong Kong’s favourite things to eat standing up. 

If at any street food stall you hear the characteristic snipping of a pair of scissors, it’s more likely than not they’re being used to cut up some tasty beef offal. In Hong Kong, beef offal, which consists of various cow organs, is usually stewed in a flavourful broth and cut to order straight from the pot. The dish usually comes with chu hou sauce (a soybean-based condiment) and stewed turnips.

Three stuffed treasures

Alongside more modern innovations in street food such as mini egg puffs, you will find a smattering of fried foods on the menus of street stalls. Most commonly seen is what’s known to Hong Kong people as ’three treasures’. Pieces of eggplant, tofu, and bell pepper are stuffed with fish paste and then fried. Usually eaten with soy sauce, these three dishes combine the heartiness of fish paste with the natural flavour of each of the different wrappers.

Try it: Dong Hing Snack Food, Stall A4, 43-59 Dai Tsuen Street, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon

Egg waffles

Riding the wave created by bubble tea’s debut in the West, the humble mini egg waffle has finally become a thing overseas as well. Baked in an egg-shaped waffle iron, the egg puffs are traditionally eaten plain in Hong Kong. In recent years, the egg waffle has morphed into a full-on craze, with the creation of flavours such as salted egg yolk, chocolate chip, and even green tea. Additionally, stores now serve it with soft-serve ice cream, making it even more delectably sinful.

Said to be one of the favourite snacks of Chris Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong, the egg tart is a very different beast from the egg waffle. It consists of a creamy yellow custard filling baked in either a cookie or a flaky pastry crust. Either crust perfectly complements the gooey, sweet filling.

Info Window Title

• Local Flavours
• Street Food
• Recommendations

Information in this article is subject to change without advance notice. Please contact the relevant product or service providers for enquiries.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board disclaims any liability as to the quality or fitness for purpose of third party products and services; and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, adequacy or reliability of any information contained herein.

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Dining above Windsor: Upscale Asian eatery brings new downtown flavour

Towering over the streets of downtown Windsor, a new culinary destination promises more than just a meal.

For a truly elevated experience, take a trip up to the 14th floor of the CIBC building on Riverside Drive where you’ll find Republik Asian Eatery & Bar — the latest outpost of a Toronto-area chain that hints at refined dining in the city’s core.

The Asian fusion eatery — reminiscent of trendy spots in metropolises like Hong Kong and Tokyo — aims to bring a new flair to downtown Windsor’s gastronomic scene. 

Its top-floor location was home to Fourteen Restaurant and Sky Lounge for nearly a decade before that fine dining establishment shuttered in January. Fourteen opened at the location after its previous tenant, the Windsor Club, signed a 10-year lease in 2015 at the Hiram Walker & Sons heritage building in Walkerville.

“The first time I came here I fell in love with the view,” Toronto restaurateur and Republik owner Kee Zheng said of the restaurant’s sweeping panorama of the Detroit skyline. 

Since starting out in French restaurants, Zheng later opened six Japanese Teppanyaki locations in Toronto, before launching the Republik restaurant chain.

Zheng said the view of Windsor’s border city is what cemented his decision to expand Republik beyond its other locations in Cambridge and Kitchener.

“People come to this restaurant, not just for dining out — they come for the atmosphere and the view.”

But while the restaurant soars above the streets, Zheng’s focus remains grounded in keeping prices affordable.

Guests can choose from a variety of Asian fusion dishes, with entrées starting at $17, and $27 at the higher end.

“I want our customers to feel like it is this high-end, upscale restaurant, but they’re also paying a very, very good price,” said Zheng.

“I always think, if I was the customer, could I afford it? 

“The prices are very reasonable. It’s about $20 to $30 per person, so anyone can enjoy it.”

For the fullest experience, Zheng suggests easing into the meal with a pot of traditional tea, followed by a look at the craft cocktail list. 

Take note, though, Republik doesn’t offer bar seating, which had been popular among guests looking for a more relaxed option at Fourteen Restaurant and Sky Lounge.

Republik’s dining room does, however, seat 180 to 200 guests, with ample space for private events.

Once a beverage is in hand, consider a light soup or sushi roll before moving onto entrées , said Zheng.

Among the main menu’s offerings: yakisoba, the classic Japanese stir-fried noodle dish, a sweet and spicy Chinese-American General Tso’s chicken, seared beef tataki, and a crispy karaage chicken.

But the experience begins long before the meal or the view.

The moment guests step off the elevator onto the 14th floor — accessed by a street-level entrance at 100 Ouellette Avenue — they are immersed in the atmosphere.

Red beams form a pinwheel on the ceiling, guiding guests past sakura cherry blossom trees and welcoming Buddha statues to the heart of the restaurant. 

The space draws inspiration from signature Hong Kong-style interiors, featuring minimal furnishings and bold reds, blacks and golds.

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An ideal spot to celebrate special occasions. 

If fortunate, you’ll snag a table next to the window, just as the sun starts to dip behind the Detroit skyline. 

For more information, visit republikeateryandbar.com .

[email protected]