Hong Kong is a crossroads for many different cultures, which makes it a melting pot of choices when it comes to different types of cuisine. And with over 12,000 restaurants, the variety of dining options available can be somewhat overwhelming. If you’re visiting for vacation or a business trip, here’s a list of three great neighborhoods to explore that are known for delicious eats.
SHAM SHUI PO
Sham Shui Po is a bustling down-to-earth neighborhood known for vibrant street markets nicknamed for what you’ll find for sale. There’s an “electronics street” as well as a “fashion street” where you can hunt for a good deal. It’s great for shopping, street photography, and is trending now for food too!
– Tim Ho Wan
Probably the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant you’ll ever visit, Tim Ho Wan is well known for their Dim Sum and the BBQ pork buns are legendary. There’s usually a queue to get in, but at around $2 a plate it is definitely worth the wait.
Address: 9-11 Fuk Wing Street, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
Website: timhowan.com.hk
– Heyitai Restaurant
This small cafe style restaurant is well known for one thing – cheong fun, or rice noodle rolls. They’re a Cantonese dish typically served as a snack or street food and can be served with a variety of sauces and toppings, from sweet to savory, including everything from sesame to pork rinds.
Address: G/F, 121 Lam Street, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
CENTRAL HONG KONG
As the name suggests, Central is the heart of Hong Kong’s business district, full of skyscrapers and luxurious malls. It’s also the neighborhood to access the tram to Victoria Peak for a great view of the city.
– Little Bao
This little restaurant re-creates American comfort foods with an Asian twist. You’ll find creative burgers and sandwiches made with a bao, a steamed Asian rice bun. Little Bao takes these and makes pork belly sliders, burgers, and even toasted bao and green tea ice cream sandwiches. It’s like a kid’s meal that’s made for adults.
Address: 66 Staunton St, Central, Hong Kong
Website: little-bao.com
– Mott 32
For a more modern take on dim sum with a touch of art deco class, definitely stop by Mott 32. Located in the basement of the Standard Charter Bank Building, Mott 32 is named after the first Chinese shop that opened in NYC on Mott Street. And although the decor is vintage, the food is elegant and modern with an east-meets-west fusion.
Address: 4-4a Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong
Website: mott32.com
SAI KUNG
This coastal town is sometimes called Hong Kong’s “back garden” for the beautiful hiking trails and scenery along the coast. Because of the fishing village here, Sai Kung is also well known for fresh caught seafood.
– Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant
Located along the waterfront near the fishing villages of Sai Kung, the seafood is some of the freshest that you’ll find in Hong Kong. Along the front of the restaurant there are water tanks where you can choose your own seafood. The prices are by weight and you can have it prepared any way you’d like.
Address: 96 Man Nin St, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
– Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery
This bakery is famous for their Portuguese style egg tarts and pineapple buns.The pineapple buns are served hot and fresh right out of the oven, are slightly sweet, and are named for the crisscross pattern of the crusted topping. It’s the perfect place to go for dessert and coffee after lunch. There’s usually a bit of a queue, but it moves quickly so don’t be deterred.
Sj Dc says
one can’t miss wan chai!!! having lived in HK, IMHO, I can vouch that it is far more authentic, diverse and cheaper than Central
Rachelle says
Oooh! I’ll have to check it out next time I visit!