Lin Heung Tea House in Sheung Wan is one of the oldest teahouses in Hong Kong and it is one of the few Chinese restaurants that serves dim sum the traditional way.

An unassuming Chinese restaurant which offers both locals and tourists the most authentic Cantonese dining experience you can get, this restaurant is definitely a place that is worth visiting—if you are willing to brave the crowd.

Lin Heung Tea House has been in business since 1889. For first-timers, get ready to fight for your food when you get to Lin Heung Tea House. You’ll find diners swarming to a pushcart whenever it gets out of the kitchen, and some dishes can get sold out within minutes so you have to be quick on your feet!

This teahouse is almost perpetually crowded, but it truly is a must-visit destination when you are in Hong Kong. What else can we say? Lin Heung Tea House may not be the best option for the faint-hearted, but it sure is one hell of an experience.

Lin Heung Tea House
162 Wellington Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 25444556
Daily: 6am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan MTR Exit E2

Read: 15 Best Dim Sum Restaurants in Hong Kong that offer the quintessential dim sum experience.

Besides being the dim sum and roast goose capital of the world, Hong Kong is a city that boasts a dynamic and thriving coffee scene. Coffee shops have been sprouting all over the country at an alarming rate but they go well beyond just places that sell coffee.

From quirky aesthetics, hip spaces to some playful, never-before-seen creations, the coffee culture in Hong Kong has dramatically reshaped itself since the early days of Starbucks.

If you are a coffee fanatic like us who travel around the world in search of the best brews, or simply someone hankering for a morning cuppa before you begin your day proper here is our list of 18 coffee shops in Hong Kong’s Central & Sheung Wan district.

% ARABICA COFFEE

Located on the first level of the bustling IFC mall, % Arabica Coffee—famous coffee shop from Kyoto—stands as a beacon of comforting brews and the perfect pick-me-up for those who work around the area. We absolutely love their coffee coupled with their incredibly picturesque store layout.

Shop 1050, 1 Harbour View Street,
IFC Mall
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2809 2913
Daily: 9am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Central

Photo Credit: Amber Coffee Brewery

AMBER COFFEE BREWERY

A recent addition to the massive coffee shop-laden district of Sheung Wan, Amber brings to the table an array of eccentric coffee creations from pineapple-infused cold brews to the humble latte.

Their cups are hand-painted which make takeaways orders a must to put on the ‘gram’. For those in search of a nightcap or two, Amber also turns into a wine bar in the evening.

Des Voeux Road Central, 140-142
G/F No.142 Full View Building
Tel: +65 +852 3106 0872
Mon to Fri: 8am – 9.30pm
Sat: 9am – 6pm
Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Central

BARISTA JAM

If you frequent Sheung Wan, chances are, you would have stumbled upon Barista Jam at least once. The fact that it has a centralised location, good coffee, knowledgeable staff, affordable prices and a cosy setting is why we find ourselves making several returns to this stylish coffee shop.

Shop D, G/F, 126-128 Jervois Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2854 2211
Mon: 10am – 6pm
Tue to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat: 10pm – 6pm
Sun: 11am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

BREW BROS COFFEE

For a feel and a taste of Melbourne-style coffee, this humble coffee shop in Sheung Wan offers just that. Made from coffee beans delivered directly from Melbourne’s Market Lane Coffee, you can order anything from a flat white to their signature 21-hour cold brew. Be prepared to wait though, because Brew Bros Coffee is pretty small.

33 Hillier Street,
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2572 0238
Daily: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

CAFÉ DEADEND

Hidden at the dead end of Po Hing Fong Street in Sheung Wan, Café Deadend is the perfect hideaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. They share the premise with their sister bakery Po’s Atelier, which means you get to enjoy an array of lovely baked goods along with a cup of coffee.

72 Po Hing Fong
Sheng Wan
Tel: +852 6716 7005
(Closed on Mondays)
Tue to Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

COCO ESPRESSO

Since its early beginnings in Sheung Wan, Coco Espresso now has 5 outlets scattered across the island. Here is where you can savour the robust flavours of a solid latte made only using freshly roasted beans or a refreshing cold brew on a hot day.

13-15 Jervois Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

COMMON GROUND

A hidden gem in Soho, it is not easy to get to Common Ground—you have to climb a million flights of stairs to reach Shing Wong Street—but once you stumbled upon the cafe, it will become your favourite hangout in Soho.

G/F, 19 Shing Wong Street, Central
Tel: +852 2818 8318
Mon to Fri: 11am – 7pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Central

Photo Credit: Corner Kitchen Cafe

CORNER KITCHEN CAFE

Located right across the street from the greenery of Hollywood Road Park, the bright and airy Corner Kitchen is all about great coffee and delectable home-baked treats. It may not be the most niche coffee roaster in town nor the hippest, but you can expect Corner Kitchen to deliver solid, consistent coffee every time.

226 Hollywood Road,
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2547 8008
Mon to Sat: 8am – 8pm
Sun: 8am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

CUPPING ROOM

Recognised as one of the most established independent coffee shops in Hong Kong, Cupping Room is opened by the champion of the Hong Kong Barista Championship 2013.

Step inside Cupping Room and let the aroma of coffee beans delight you—this Melbourne-inspired coffee shop is one place to head to for coffee purists.

299 Queen’s Road Central
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2799 3398
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

ELEPHANT GROUNDS

A quaint and small cafe that can be easily missed due to its location, Elephant Grounds sits within the WOAW! concept store.

If you’re a fan of all things mysterious, then perhaps you may find charm in its somewhat secretive location. It has both casual seats around the coffee bar and outdoor benches as well.

11 Gough Street
Tel: +852 2253 1313
Mon to Sat: 11am – 8.30pm
Sun: 12pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan/Hong Kong

HALFWAY COFFEE

Famous for serving coffee in vintage oriental porcelain cups, Halfway Coffee is a dinky joint tucked away along a row of antique shops. They serve all the classic coffee options from lattes to flat whites and a wide selection of teas as well.

12 Tung Street,
Tai Ping Shan, Hong Kong
Tel: +65 +852 9511 7197
Daily: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

HAZEL & HERSHEY COFFEE ROASTERS

Coffee lovers will enjoy visiting this cute little retail boutique coffee shop in Central. Whether it is caffe latte, cappuccino or piccolo, helpful and passionate baristas prepare every cup of coffee with precision and care.

Other than getting your caffeine fix, you can also purchase coffee beans and coffee-making equipment.

Shop 3, 69 Peel
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3106 0760
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Central

KAFFEINE

Nestled along Jervois Street, where a number of indie cafés sit, Kaffeine specialises in quality coffee made from freshly roasted beans. But perhaps what helps this little coffee shop stand out from its competitors is its excellent fresh food.

108 Jervois Street,
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +65 +852 2639 5100
Mon to Sat: 8am – 6pm
Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

Photo Credit: Lof10

LOF 10

A minimalist coffee shop nestled on the slope of U Lam Terrace, Lof 10 is a pretty laid back venue that boasts a range of flavoured coffee beverages including their rose latte. You will definitely not miss the attention grabbing logo that is shaped like an old Hong Kong neon light.

While they may not be the most affordable coffee shop option in town, their drinks sure match up to the cost.

1 U Lam Terrace,
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2540 2210
Daily: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

NOC COFFEE CO.

Boasting industrial minimalism as their store concept, NOC Coffee Co. is one place where you can sip on a coffee in style. Spacious, cool and perfect for photos, we can see why NOC Coffee Co. is a hit among the younger crowd.

34 Graham Street,
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2606 6188
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Central

SIMPLY LIFE (THE LANDMARK)

Perhaps one of our favourite spots in Hong Kong for an afternoon chill, simplylife is a good cafe to unwind, relax and enjoy a myriad of tantalising nosh while you’re at it.

With a bakery that produces an amazing range of bread, pastries and cakes, everything is of premium quality, and no additives are added. For lunch and dinner, the kitchen also dishes out fresh salads, pasta, burgers and other savoury main courses.

Shop 30, L2, Festival Walk
80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Tel: +852 2777 5168
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kowloon Tong

URBAN BAKERY WORKS

Sexy. Artsy. Fuss-free. Comfort. Altogether, URBAN Bakery Works presents itself as a place for all-day casual dining. The concept shop at The Landmark is a stunner, and it promises nothing but a hip and fun experience.

The bakery focuses on croissants, that come in a variety of fancy flavours from almond, Belgian chocolate, cheddar cheese, to brulee—all of which are available every day.

Room 322, 3/F The Landmark
12-16 Des Voeux Road Central
Tel: +852 3565 4320
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 8pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 8.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Central

Photo Credit: Why 50

WHY 50 

Conveniently located in the heart of Sheung Wan, it is hard not to nip in for a quick cuppa or a hearty sandwich. Why 50’s coffee selection is unique and speaks volumes of their passion for experimentation.

Some dishes that come highly recommended include their Lavender Latte as well as the delicious Cubano—perfect for starting the day right.

27 Hillier Street,
Fu Fai Commercial Centre
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 6532 4161
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

Read: 17 Best Cha Chaan Teng in Hong Kong you must visit.

Everyone thinks of cha chaan teng when it comes to casual dining in Hong Kong. For the uninitiated, cha chaan teng is a no-pretense, fuss-free local eatery in Hong Kong that serves comfort food at affordable prices. These local diners are everywhere in Hong Kong and you will always find locals dining in those nondescript outlets.

A cha chaan teng is not known for service, unfortunately. It is really a place where you eat and go, or do a few quick readings of your newspapers. That said, the essence lies in savouring a moment of local delicacy amidst the humdrum of the city life.

A trip to Hong Kong is not complete without eating at Cha Chaan Teng. Here is our guide to the best cha chaan teng in Hong Kong that we can always count on for a good local meal.

AUSTRALIAN DAIRY COMPANY

Australian Dairy Company is probably the first name that comes to mind when Hong Kong cha chaan teng is mentioned. Yes, you have to make a visit to the famous outlet in Jordan for they serve the BEST scrambled eggs and ham macaroni.

Australian Dairy Company is very much a quick service restaurant; you are not meant to linger here. They operate with a ruthless efficiency: you order, eat, pay and go. And by the way, no service here at all. The staff (no matter which year, which month, which day you go) are all perpetually rude, grumpy and fierce.

We got scolded for merely taking a photo of our food. Yes, you have been warned.

47 Parkes Street, Jordan,
Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2730 1356 (Closed on Thursdays)
Mon to Sun: 7.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Jordan

CAFE MATCH BOX

Located on a quiet corner of Fashion Walk in Causeway Bay, Cafe Match Box is a retro-themed eatery where you can get popular cha chaan teng dishes.

On the menu, you can find Baked Rice with Pork Chop & Pineapple (HKS$66), Three Treasures Rice (HK$56), Grilled Pork Chop (HK$133) as well as baked goods such as Bo Luo Bao (HK$9) and Coconut Tart (HK$9).

Shop C&D, G/F,
57 Paterson Street,
Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay
Tel: +852 2868 0363
Daily: 8am – 11pm Nearest Station: Causeway Bay

CAPITAL CAFE

It is not difficult to understand why Capital Cafe is so popular. It has a no-frills menu and it focuses to get the basics right. You can always find locals satisfying their cravings for scrambled eggs, macaroni, French toast, and milk tea here.

Kwong Sang Hong Building Block B-d,
6 Heard St, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2666 7766
Daily: 7am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Wan Chai

HOI AN CAFÉ

Established in 1952, Hoi An Café is a charming old-school cha chaan teng located near to the Western Market in Hong Kong’s Sheung Wan district.

It is known for its classic Hong Kong baked goods such as cocktail buns, pineapple buns, Swiss rolls and its signature coconut tarts.

17 Connaught Road West,
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2540 6340
Mon to Thu & Sat: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Fri: 7.30am – 3pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

HOKKAIDO DAIRY FARM

Not to be confused with Australian Dairy Company, Hokkaido Dairy Farm is another cha chaan teng that is frequented by locals. The menu comprises mostly sets—from Breakfast Sets, Noodles Sets to Sandwich Sets.

While it does not have eggs as gratifying as Australian Dairy Company, the Breakfast Set is still worth a shot; it comes with fried eggs with toast, your choice of macaroni or spaghetti in soup with ham and a choice of Hokkaido coffee or tea.

30 Canton Rd,
Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2736 0002
Daily: 8am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsui

HONG LIN RESTAURANT

Hong Lin Restaurant is another popular haunt in Mongkok that locals frequent. There are both a dine-in area as well as a take-out counter. If you do not have time for a proper meal, grab an egg tart; it comes with a flaky, butter case and the curd is smooth and subtly sweet.

For the mains, you definitely have to try the macaroni set (HK$43/ S$7) that came with a large bowl of beef macaroni in tomato soup, buttered toast, scrambled eggs and a hot coffee/ tea. The tomato soup was rich and thick; every sip was a joy. It came with many beef slices, and the side of buttered toast completed the very quintessential Hong Kong meal.

Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Tung Choi St, No. 143-145
Tel: +852 2391 8398
Daily: 6.30am – 3am
Nearest Station: Mong Kok / Mong Kok East

HONOLULU CAFE

Another of our favourite cha chaan teng in Hong Kong is Honolulu Cafe which has the best egg tart ever in history. Honolulu Cafe should be no stranger to Singaporeans since there is an outpost here on our sunny island, but dining at the original outlet elevates the experience.

When at Honolulu Cafe, apart from stuffing yourself with egg tarts, do not leave without trying the Swiss Wings and Curry Fishballs too!

176-178 Hennessy Rd,
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2575 1823
Daily: 5.15am – 1.30am
Nearest Station: Wan Chai

KAM FUNG RESTAURANT

Kam Fung Restaurant is a local institution known for its excellent milk tea, egg tarts, baked chicken pies and Bo Luo Bao.

The baked chicken pies, in particular, are phenomenal. The crust is super buttery and it simply melts in the mouth. It is to die for. If you are lucky, you’d get fresh batches that are just out of the oven—those are exceptionally warm and fragrant.

41 Spring Garden Ln,
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2572 0526
Daily: 6.45am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Wan Chai

KAM WAH CAFE

Kam Wah Cafe has one of the best, if not the best bo luo bao in Hong Kong. The cha chaan teng is always crowded, but trust us when we say those pineapple buns are totally worth queueing up for.

G/F 47 Bute Street,
Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2394 6346
Daily: 6.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Mong Kok East

LAN FONG YUEN

Founded in 1952, this Hong Kong institution is the place to go to for milk tea, pork buns and French toast. Come here for a no-frills, authentic Hong Kong cha chaan teng experience.

2 Gage Street, Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2544 3895
Mon to Sat: 7.15am – 6pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Central

MIDO CAFE

Mido Cafe in Yau Ma Tei is one old-school cha chaan teng to visit when in Hong Kong. Untouched by time, the cafe seems to be at a standstill. You have your usual cha chaan teng fares—from baked rice to noodles, sandwiches to classic HK-style drinks.

What you really have to try is the French Toast (HK$22). It is Mido Cafe’s most popular item and one that every first-timer to Mido Cafe must try. Two slices of soft bread coated with egg and deep fried to a slightly crispy texture then generously drenched in maple syrup, the French Toast definitely lived up to its hype.

63 Temple Street,
Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2384 6402
Mon & Tue, Thu to Sun: 9am – 9.45am
(Closed on Wednesdays)
Nearest Station: Yau Ma Tei

RELAX FOR A WHILE

If you are in the Tsim Sha Tsui area, check out Relax For A While along Kimberley Road. The menu is big and there should be something for everyone.

We liked their French Toast as well as the comprehensive congee menu. Otherwise, the fried rice never ever disappoints. Just look at the luscious gravy and generous ingredients!

Cheung Lee Commercial Building,
Kimberley Rd,
Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3113 6388
Mon to Thu: 7am – 12.30am
Fri & Sat: 7am – 1am Sun: 7am – 12am
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsui

SHAM TSENG CHAN KEE ROASTED GOOSE

A popular Cha Chaan Teng that serves amazing roasted goose and the classic Hong Kong cafe food, Sham Tseng Chan Kee is our go-to place when in Mongkok.

They have a few outlets but the outlet at Mongkok always entices us with its display of glistening roast geese. Yes, you definitely need a plate of Roast Goose Rice when at Sham Tseng Chan Kee.

427 Reclamation Street,
Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2491 0722
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Mong Kok

STAR CAFE

This underground cafe is hard to locate, but once you get there, you will be glad that you made the effort to track it down. Locals flock to Star Cafe for their signature tomato soup noodles with egg and luncheon meat.

To find this place, enter Champagne Court B at 16 Kimberly Road, walk to the end and go down the stairs on your right. You will be on your way to a bowl of flavourful tomato soup noodles. Top-up for cheese for an extra oomph!

40 Carnarvon Rd,
Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2724 4408
Mon to Sat: 8am – 9.30pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsui

SWISS CAFE

Swiss Cafe sits on the second level of an unassuming building in Central and what you have to try at the cafe is its Swiss Wings. The Hong Kong-style style chicken wings are flavoured with a special sweet soy sauce, making every bite a joy.

There is a Swiss Set at HK$45 that comes with a toast, ham omelette as well as Swiss wings with instant noodles.

No.12-16 Li Yuen Street West, Central
Tel: +852 2111 0841
Mon to Sat: 7am – 7pm
Sun: 8am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Central

TSUI WAH RESTAURANT

The most famous Cha Chaan Teng in Hong Kong is undisputedly Tsui Wah Restaurant. Locals and tourists alike flock to Tsui Wah Restaurant for their signature Hainanese chicken rice, fishball noodles, and Bo Luo Bao. One of the most impressive things about Tsui Wah is that it manages to maintain its high standards across all the branches.

One of the most impressive things about Tsui Wah Restaurant is that it manages to maintain its high standards across all the branches. Definitely, a must-visit when you are in Hong Kong.

2 Carnarvon Rd,
Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2366 8250
Mon to Fri: 7am – 2am
Sat & Sun: 7am – 3am
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsui

YEE SHUN MILK COMPANY

If you find yourselves in Causeway Bay, you have to drop by Yee Shun Milk Company. It is most known for their smooth Steamed Milk—which is essentially a Hong Kong-style milk pudding. A bowl of cold Steamed Milk is what we always crave and you will never be disappointed by the creamy and slightly sweet rendition by Yee Shun Milk Company.

Other favourites on the menu are pork chop bun and macaroni soup with fried egg and ham.

513 Nathan Rd,
Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2323 2726
Daily: 7am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Yau Ma Tei 

For more recommendations, read our Hong Kong Food & Travel guides.

Out of the numerous coffee shops in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, Halfway Coffee stands out for its excellent coffee served in vintage porcelain cups.

You would know that Sheung Wan is an eclectic mix of old and new and it is precisely why we love that hood so much. Every trip to Hong Kong sees us exploring the unabashedly charming Sheung Wan, and this trip brought us to Halfway Coffee.

Love a good cuppa? You’d love it more at Halfway Coffee.

So you might have seen pictures of their iconic coffee all over Instagram. Halfway Coffee isn’t your regular coffee shop with predictably good coffee; the game is up with a look that they had creatively coined and is famed for today.

Coffee in Halfway Coffee is served in vintage porcelain cups. Pretty patterns on the China complemented with intricate hand-pulled latte art; now, this is going to be one of the prettiest cups of coffee you’d ever have. Coffee-to-go are also served in paper cups with porcelain prints. They did not earn their spot on countless Instagram’s feeds for no reason.

Apart from coffee, Halfway Coffee also has a wide range of tea selections. We have to be honest that we didn’t bother with those because when you have seriously good coffee in such pretty porcelain cups, it is easy to get distracted.

Halfway Coffee
12 Tung Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 9511 7197
Daily: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

For more recommendations, read our Sheung Wan Food Guide which features the best places to dine at in the neighbourhood.

Shui Kee Coffee in Hong Kong has been around for decades and it is as old school, as traditional, as Hong Kong as you can get to a cha chaan teng.

You almost don’t see tourists dining there; just locals who want breakfast in the most comforting form they know, without having their wallets take a beating.

Where Hong Kong-style buns, sandwiches, French Toast, noodles and milk tea are concerned, Shui Kee Coffee does it in the most traditional no-frills way. You have to try it for yourselves if you want a true taste of Hong Kong-style breakfast.

Shui Kee Coffee sits within the food centre, on the third level of Sheung Wan Municipal Services Building. You wouldn’t “chance upon it” if you didn’t know about it and hunted for it. It is one of those places where locals in the know go to and one that they always return to for a quick, casual and affordable breakfast.

On the very straight forward menu, you have your usual Hong Kong-style beverages (HK$13/ S$2.16) such as Milk Tea, Yuan Yang and Almond Milk. Shui Kee Coffee is famous for its Hong Kong-style Milk Tea; you have to go for the Milk Tea, of course. We loved the cold one that came in an old-school glass bottle. It was silky with a subtle bitter after taste.

For breakfast, there is no better way to start your day in Hong Kong than with a bowl of Noodles (HK$24/ S$4). What is essentially just instant noodles is made better with two slices of luncheon meat and a fried egg; the locals sure love their “can tan mee”.

The Beef & Egg Bun (HK$14/ S$2.30) is a popular choice. Honestly, there is nothing special about it, but it is one of those typical breakfast items that locals grow up eating. Shui Kee Coffee’s rendition comes with eggs that are fried with chives for an elevated flavour.

What you must not miss is the Hong Kong-style French Toast (HK$23/ S$3.83). Shui Kee Coffee’s rendition is one of the best that we’ve had in Hong Kong.

The next time you find yourselves in Sheung Wan, make a trip to Shui Kee Coffee and eat like a local.

Shui Kee Coffee
Shop 17, 18167, Sheung Wan
Sheung Wan Municipal Services Building
Tel: +852 2850 8643
Mon to Sat: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

Singaporeans are evidently obsessed with Hong Kong – and the endless opening of Hong Kong gourmet brands on our sunny island is testimony to that fact. While most travellers only spend a weekend in the Pearl of the Orient, we strongly suggest you to re-visit the city this year.

From having breakfast at Honolulu Cafe, boarding a junk boat, hiking the Dragon’s Back, shopping till you drop at Citygate Outlets to partying at Lan Kwai Fong, here is a curated 4D3N Hong Kong Itinerary and 20 Tips On What To See And What To Eat.

DAY ONE IN HONG KONG

#1 HAVE BREAKFAST AT HONOLULU CAFE

Honolulu Coffee Shop is famous for their egg tarts. Having said that, do make it a point to visit in the morning to savour the freshest and tastiest egg tarts. There is a stark contrast in its quality during daytime and nighttime. We also highly recommend their Pineapple Buns.

176-178 Hennessy Rd, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2575 1823
Daily: 6am – 12am
Nearest Station: Wan Chai

#2 BARGAIN HUNTING AT LADIES MARKET

The Ladies Market is a popular night market that stretches across a few streets. Even if shopping is not on your to-do list, you should still take a stroll down the aisle and check out all the interesting items that have on sale.

Tung Choi Street
Mong Kok, Kowloon

#3 CHECK OUT THE FLOWER MARKET

Located on Flower Market Road, the Flower Market is actually a cluster of flower shops selling all sorts of flowers you ever dreamt of. Bouquets are readily available or if you would like, stalks of roses can also be bought at relatively cheap prices. It is Valentine’s Day every day here!

Flower Market Road
Prince Edward, Kowloon

#4 LUNCH AT KAM WAH CAFE

Kam Wah Cafe has a made a name for itself with its bo lo bao (pineapple bun). The local cha chaan teng is always crowded with locals and foodie tourists, but trust us, the pineapple buns are worth the wait.

G/F, 47 Bute St
Prince Edward, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2392 6830
Daily: 6.30am – 12am
Nearest MTR: Prince Edward

#5 BOARD A HONG KONG JUNK BOAT

The picture of a junk boat against the picturesque skyline of Hong Kong says everything. Cruising along the sea on a Hong Kong junk boat is an unmissable experience! So gather your friends, charter a boat and sail into the sea while singing along to Moana’s soundtrack.

#6 DINNER AT RONIN

Ronin—a speakeasy style Japanese bar-cum-restaurant—is one of Hong Kong’s best-kept secrets. The dark, mysterious 20-seated bar’s primary focus is seafood and damn, it seriously is one of the best meals we ever had in our lifetimes. Of course, the divine meal comes at a costly price.

8 On Wo Lane
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2547 5263
Mon to Sat: 6pm – 12am
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

#7 BAR HOP AT SHEUNG WAN

Admittedly, the neighbourhood of Sheung Wan is immensely gentrified. However, we certainly do not mind the new addition of exciting cocktail bars! Some of our personal favourite watering holes include Aberdeen Street Social, Sohofama and NEO Cocktail Club.

DAY TWO IN HONG KONG

#8 BRUNCH AT MAXIM’S PALACE

If you are looking for a quintessential Hong Kong dim sum experience with the comfort of a modern establishment, then head to Maxim’s Palace. They have retained its authenticity by serving dim sum on traditional trolleys like the good old days.

3/F, City Hall 5-7 Edinburgh Place
Tel: +852 2521 1303
Mon to Sat: 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Sun & PH: 9am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Central

#9 HIKE DRAGON’S BACK

Located in the outskirts of metropolis Hong Kong, Dragon’s Back boasts stunning panoramic views of tall skyscrapers, coastal shores and the surrounding mountainous region. The beginner-friendly hike makes an excellent alternative for those who wish to admire Hong Kong’s scenery minus the suffocating crowds.

#10 LUNCH AT YUM CHA

If you are looking for a great yum cha meal without the scruffiness, Yum Cha is the perfect place. The dining establishment is exceptionally popular for its irresistibly adorable dim sums. It is worth mentioning that the steamed dishes were superb and service was impeccable.

3/F, 20-22 Granville Road
Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2751 1666
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest MTR Station: Tsim Sha Tsui

#11 COFFEE AT OMOTESANDO KOFFEE

Fans of Japanese Omotesando Koffee can look forward to the specialty coffee bar’s high quality espresso-based beverages and baked custard cubes at Hong Kong’s outlet. Take all our money already!

G24-25, Lee Tung Ave
200 Queen’s Rd East
Tel: +852 2601 3323
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm
Sat and Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest MTR Station: Wan Chai

#12 SHOP TILL YOU DROP AT CITYGATE OUTLETS

Ladies, remember to increase your credit card’s spending limit prior to visiting Citygate Outlets. This shopping centre this is where you can find global brands such as Burberry, Club21 and OnPedder at slashed prices.

20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung,
Lantau, Hong Kong
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tung Chung

#13 DINNER AT YAT LOK

Yat Lok might be notorious for their atrocious service, but it is their insanely delicious roast goose meat that kept us returning religiously each time we visit Hong Kong. It has been nearly half a century since award-winning Yat Lok started serving amazing roast meat with their family secret recipe, and the rest is history.

G/F, 34 -38 Stanley Street
Central Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2524 3882
Mon to Sat: 10am – 9pm
Sun: 10am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: Central

#14 PARTY AT LAN KWAI FONG

You have not experienced Hong Kong until you paint the town red at their nightlife district Lan Kwai Fong. There are countless of bars and clubs at this area and they open till an unearthly 6am. Not even kidding.

DAY THREE IN HONG KONG

#15 LUNCH AT HELLO KITTY CHINESE CUISINE

Hello Kitty Chinese Cuisine—the World’s First Hello Kitty-Themed Dim Sum Restaurant—has taken Hong Kong by storm and is a must-visit for all avid fans. Due to Hello Kitty Chinese Cuisine’s overwhelming popularity, we strongly recommend you to make a reservation in advance to secure a table.

Shop A-C, G/F, Lee Loy Mansion
332-338 Canton Road, Kowloon
Tel: (852) 8202-8203
Daily: 11am – 3.30pm, 6pm – 11pm (last order 10pm)
Nearest MTR Station: Jordan

#16 SPEND THE DAY AT OCEAN PARK

Ocean Park is one of Hong Kong’s best attractions. It houses an amusement park, an animal theme park, an oceanarium and a marine mammal park all in the 17-hectare park. An ideal place for families to spend an entire day at.

#17 DINNER AT ICIHRAN RAMEN

Ichiran Ramen is a ramen chain from Japan and boy, we are glad it has opened 24/7 outlets in Hong Kong. The dining concept is unique; diners sit in individual partitioned cubicles. The broth is unbelievably tasty—we will never get sick of it.

Lockhart House Block B
440-446 Jaffe Road
Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2152 4040
Daily: 24/7

DAY FOUR IN HONG KONG

#18 BRUNCH AT SING HEUNG YUEN

Make your way to Sing Heung Yuen—one of Hong Kong’s very last few Dai Pai Dongs—and experience the local way of life by dining at this old-school roadside food vendor. The humble Chinese alfresco eatery has been around for nearly half a century and is especially well-loved amongst locals for its signature tomato egg noodles and yummy condensed milk buns.

2 Mee Lun Street, Central
Tel: +852 2544 8368
Mon to Sat: 8am – 5pm
Closed on Sun and PH
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

#19 VISIT DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

It doesn’t matter if you are a grown adult, because there is no age limit at Disneyland. Discover the magic, immerse yourselves in the fairytales and forget all your adult fears and unhappiness. Spend half a day at Disneyland Hong Kong and unleash the inner child in you.

#20 DINNER AT TSUI WAH

Tsui Wah is hands down the most famous Cha Chaan Teng in Hong Kong. The menu is comprehensive but you can’t go wrong with their signature Hainanese chicken rice and fishball noodles. We are amazed by how the chain has successfully managed to keep its standards consistent throughout all outlets.

15 Wellington Street
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2525 6338
Daily: 24/7
Nearest Station: central

For more recommendations, read our Hong Kong Food & Travel Guides to find out more about the best places to visit.

As one of the reigning Asian Tigers, Hong Kong is a bustling hub frequented by people from all walks of life. The cosmopolitan city’s cuisine is no longer confined to just cha chaan tengs and dai pai dongs, but now entails an eclectic mix of artisan coffee shops, specialty dessert stores, third culture gourmet and whatnot.

Home to a myriad of local traditional teahouses and swanky fusion restaurants, visitors will find themselves helplessly captivated by Sheung Wan’s refreshing diversity. So head over to hipster neighbourhood Sheung Wan and see for yourself what the old and new generation of Hong Kong natives have to offer!

From long-standing dim sum establishment Lin Heung Tea House, award-winning yakitori restaurant Yardbird (ranked as Asia’s 45th best restaurant in 2014) to new speakeasy bar Neo Cocktail Club, here is our guide to Bars, Cafes and Restaurants in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong.

AGNES B CAFE LE PAIN GRILLE & FLEURISTE

Agnès B Café Le Pain Grille and Fleuriste on Gough Street is more than just a pretty face. While no designer handbags and fashion accessories are sold at this branded cafe, one should still check out Agnes B for their beautiful in-house florist—where flower species have been specially flown in from Africa—and their mouthwatering variety of French pastries, teas and coffee.

G/F, Chung San House
8 & 10 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2563 9393
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat to Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

BARISTA JAM

Specialty coffee shop Barista Jam is a paradise for all coffee connoisseurs. The hole-in-the-wall store sells not just aromatic coffees but also a collection of coffee-making equipment and coffee beans for both home and commercial purposes. Coffee aside, a selection of delicious pastas and patisseries are also available on the menu for those who are feeling peckish.

Shop D, G/F, 128 Jervois Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2854 2211
Mon: 10am – 6pm
Tue to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat: 10am – 6pm
Sun: 11am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

BLUE BUTCHER BAR & RESTAURANT

Blue Butcher Bar & Restaurant is a meat house in Sheung Wan that sources its meat from farms that do not compromise on quality, and hang the meat in-house using age-old recipes together with modern techniques.

G/F, 108 Hollywood Rd, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2613 9286
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

BREW BROS COFFEE

Set foot in Brew Bros Coffee and one cannot help but wonder if he/she is actually in Melbourne instead. If you find the taste of your coffee awfully familiar, that is only because coffees here have been prepared with Melburnian specialty coffee roaster Market Lane’s espresso blends.

Passionate Head Barista Hikaru Ono was previously working in Australia and Japan, hence delivering consistent premium espresso-based beverages to all caffeine addicts.

Shop F2, LG/F, 33 Hillier Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel :+852 2572 0238
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

CAFE DEADEND

As its name suggests, Cafe Deadend is literally located at the dead end of Po Hing Fong road. The relatively hidden cafe is a breakfast hotspot amongst native yuppies and expatriates alike, who relish the idea of digging into wholesome breakfast items such as wholesome sandwiches and nutritious salads. Cafe Deadend shares the venue with sister bakery Po’s Atelier so one can also savour a delectable assortment of pastries.

72 Po Hing Fong, Tai Ping Shan
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 6716 7005
Mon: Closed
Tue to Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

CHA CHA WAN

Specialising in Issan cuisine, Cha Cha Wan is clearly no ordinary Thai restaurant. Food served here are of Northeastern Thai origin and one can expect a scrumptious selection of Dtom Sap Moo (HK$98) and Pla Phao Glua (HK$268), where the former is a hot and sour pork rib soup while the latter is a salted crusted whole sea bass perfect for sharing amongst friends.

206 Hollywood Road
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2549 0020
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

CRAFTY COW

As its name suggests, third-culture restaurant Crafty Cow specialise in craft beers and good steaks. The gastropub is primarily influenced by a myriad of international cuisines, hence one can expect revamped Western classics integrated with Southeast Asian flavours such as Bone Marrow with Sichuan Pepper Infused Oil and Spanish Duroc Pork with Kimchi Slaw.

G/F, 3-3A Upper Station Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2915 8988
Tue to Fri: 12pm – 12am
Sun: 11am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

ELEPHANT GROUNDS

Hidden at the back of retail store WOAW! is Elephant Grounds, a hipster looking cafe shop that is renowned for their aromatic espressos and ice-cream sandwiches. Flavours of the irresistible ice-cream sandwiches change weekly so each visit will be a refreshing surprise.

11 Gough Street
Tel: +852 2253 1313
Mon to Sat: 11am – 9pm
Sun: 12pm – 7pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

GRASSROOTS PANTRY

It is hard to walk pass Grassroots Pantry without doing a double take at the cafe’s beautiful decors. Think hanging chop boards, wooden ladles and heaps of potted plants. But the key driving factor in keeping its regulars returning is its vegetarian menu that caters to those on special diets. With buddhist-friendly, gluten-free, nut-free and vegan options available, Grassroots Pantry is packed with health conscious customers daily.

108 Hollywood Road
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2873 3353
Daily: 9am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

HALFWAY COFFEE

You might have seen pictures of their iconic coffee all over Instagram. Halfway Coffee in Sheung Wan isn’t your regular coffee shop with predictably good coffee; the game is up with a look that they had creatively coined and is famed for today.

Pretty patterns on the China complemented with intricate hand-pulled latte art; now, this is going to be one of the prettiest cups of coffee you’d ever have. Coffee-to-go are also served in paper cups with porcelain prints.

12 Tung Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 9511 7197
Daily: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

HOI AN CAFÉ

Established in 1952, Hoi An Café is a charming old-school cha chaan teng located near to the Western Market in Hong Kong’s Sheung Wan district. It serves classic Hong Kong baked goods, such as cocktail buns, pineapple buns, Swiss rolls and its signature coconut tarts.

G/F 17 Connaught Road West, Sheung Wan
Tel: +852 2540 6340
Mon to Thu: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Fri: 7.30am – 3pm
Sat: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

KAU KEE BEEF BRISKET

The relentless queues formed outside Kau Kee Beef Brisket on a daily basis is testimony to the fact that this age-old eatery is one of Hong Kong’s very best. Patrons include a variety of regular locals and curious tourists – all of whom flock to Kau Kee to savour a piping hot bowl (HK$60 / S$10.90) of springy noodles and fork-tender beef brisket.

21 Gough Street
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2850 5967
Mon to Sat: 12.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

#11 LIN HEUNG TEAHOUSE

Lin Heung Teahouse is a beloved household name amongst natives. It is the go-to restaurant for the quintessential Hong Kong dim sum experience and we are glad that the institution has remain unfazed by Sheung Wan’s increasing gentrification. Dishes are extremely affordable when compared to the expensive lattes and we say it is definitely one of the best haunts in this neighbourhood.

162 Wellington Street
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2544 4556
Daily: 6am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

LITTLE BAO

Little Bao is the epitome of Asian fusion done right. On first glance, the facade of Little Bao resembles a western diner but on closer look, one would notice that the gourmet eatery has successfully infused oriental flavours into revamped western classics. We thoroughly enjoyed their Mac & Cheese (HK$108) and Ice-Cream Burgers (HK$48 each).

66 Staunton Street
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2194 0202
Mon to Fri: 6pm – 11pm
Sat: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Central / Sheung Wan

MA SA RESTAURANT

Ma Sa Restaurant is famed for their Triple Sunny-side Up Eggs with Char Siew and Rice (HK$26 /S$4.70). The three wonderfully runny eggs are served atop an incredibly large portion of rice. It is recommended that you share this filling dish with someone.

It is worth mentioning that the price for such a substantial amount of food at Ma Sa Restaurant can barely get you a beverage in other white-washed establishments at Sheung Wan.

G/F, 23 Hiller Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2545 9026
Mon to Fri: 6am – 6pm
Sat to Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

NEO COCKTAIL CLUB

Neo Cocktail Club is an up-and-coming retro cocktail bar that is so camouflaged that you would not even know that you have walked past it. The bar is not just well-known for its drinks but also equally famous for its old school games. Unwind into the night with a round of foosball or a game at the vintage pinball machine.

10 Shin Hing Street,
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2812 2280
Mon to Sat: 6pm – 1am
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

RONIN

Ronin is a speakeasy 20-seated Japanese tapas bar with a primary focus on seafood. Dishes are on a rotational basis (depending on the availability of ingredients), which means there is always something new even for regulars. Fresh raw fishes are specially flown in from Japan and sourced from the finest local suppliers, hence diners are guaranteed only the best quality dishes. However, do note that patrons do have to be ready to pay a hefty price for a meal.

8 On Wo Lane, Central Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2547 5263
Mon to Sat: 6pm – 12am
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

SANG KEE CONGEE

Sang Kee Congee is nearly half a century old and it remains unpretentious and as authentic as it can be. Finding such a local diner in the gentrified area is rare and we are glad that such eateries are still being supported by the community.

People go to Sang Kee Congee for their tasty congee and you can get a bowl of Fish Belly Congee or Pork Balls Congee at HK S$27 / S$4.90 and HK $19 / S$3.45 respectively.

G/F, 7-9 Burd Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2541 1099
Mon to Sat: 6.30am – 9pm
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

SINMEI TEA

Quite essentially a modern tea house that serves pretty matcha desserts, Sinmei Tea might just be the it place to be now when you need some matcha fix in Hong Kong. It took us a while to locate the place, because it sits on the fifth level, within an unassuming building in Sheung Wan.

What welcomed us was a long queue of matcha lovers, and an atmospheric cafe with an interior that models after a traditional teahouse.

5/F, CS Tower, 50 Wing Lok Street
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3690 8238
Daily: 11.30am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

SOHOFAMA

Tucked at the basement of PMQ Cultural Hub is Sohofama, an organic modern Chinese restaurant that is so impressive that we say it is worth a special visit. Sohofama boasts an in-house hydroponic farm, where the culinary team actually source their herbal ingredients from there. Besides the impressive Chinese fare, one should also not miss out on their splendid cocktails—especially the Smoking Chamomile (HKD $168).

G/F, Block A, PMQ
35 Aberdeen Street
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2858 8238
Daily: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

TEAKHA

This tea specialist is housed in a little shophouse on a quiet alley off Tai Ping Shan Street, which is slowly becoming one of the hippest streets in Hong Kong lined with cafes, galleries, studios and lifestyle boutiques.

Teakha is a tiny cafe, and it is crowded all the time, especially on weekends. The interior of the cafe is cute and cosy, while the outdoor terrace is a charming spot to have a cup of tea and enjoy their range of luscious desserts, including the Osmanthus & Okinawa Black Sugar Chiffon and the signature Matcha cheesecake.

18 Tai Ping Shan St
Tai Ping Shan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2858 9185
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

THE MIXING BOWL

The Mixing Bowl first started out to offer both adults and children baking classes, but the brand soon evolved into a bakery, coffee shop and a cafe. The Mixing Bowl is the ideal destination to hangout with friends, catch up on work on your laptop or simply grab a cuppa to go. The roasted coffee beans are from Ceremony Coffee Roasters, Maryland USA and is seriously legit.

22-26 Bonham Strand
The Pemberton
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2524 0001
Mon: Closed
Tue to Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

YARDBIRD

Ranked as Asia’s 45th Best Restaurant in 2014 and 46th Best Restaurant in 2013, award-winning Japanese Yardbird is an extremely popular yakitori bar-cum-restaurant that will have latecomers queuing for hours. Do order a handful of chicken skewers and their signature KFC for sharing. Fun fact: KFC refers to Korean Fried Cauliflowers, not Kentucky Fried Chicken!

33 Bridges Street, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2547 9273
Mon to Sat: 6pm – 12am
Sun: Closed
Nearest Station: Sheung Wan

If you are heading to Hong Kong, read our guides:

Tsim Sha Tsui Food Guide – 17 Places To Dine At

Wan Chai Food Guide – 14 Places To Dine At

15 Best Dim Sum Restaurants In Hong Kong

11 Best Cha Chaan Teng In Hong Kong

You might have heard about our love for Hong Kong umpteen times – we still do, but today, we want to share some dining highlights from a recent trip because there are many reasons to love dining at Central, really!

We all have different objectives when we travel – some like to just stuff their faces silly with all the good food, some like to experience the local culture so that they have memories to keep in their hearts for always, some like to explore the famous attractions and sites. But because we always prioritise eating (greedy like that), our tummies are ever ready to be surprised, ever game to dine at non-touristy places, ever excited to explore all the food awaiting us.

Central is a bustling area in Hong Kong, and while it may be the CBD of Hong Kong, it actually has many dining options to offer.

From a very gorgeous cafe that is filled with natural sunlight, to what is probably the sexiest Japanese restaurant in Central, and a brilliant bakery that bakes the most creative croissants; here are 7 Restaurants in Central Hong Kong To Fall In Love With.

#1 CAFE LANDMARK

It is impossible to miss this grand restaurant that sits within Landmark shopping mall. The crowd that patronizes Cafe Landmark is a chic one; an evident favourite among stylish executives in the area, as well as shoppers who need a resting stop in between their retail therapy, Cafe Landmark is easy to fall in love with.

An open space with an effortless grace and grandeur, the restaurant has an international menu with Asian influences. The patisserie is an artisanal one, with delicate bakes and creations that are both feasts for the eyes and soul.

Shop 107-108,1/F, Landmark Atrium
15 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2526 4200
Mon to Sat: 8am – 9pm
Sun & PH: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Central

#2 GOGYO 

Founded by the same owner of Ippudo Ramen, GOGYO is a modern and chic Japanese ramen bar that is quite unlike the usual traditional ramen shops. The idea at GOGYO is the start with drinks; why not, right? There is a comprehensive range of Japanese craft beers, shochu, and cocktails. Then, proceed with snacks, or what we’d like to think of as Japanese bar grub. A hearty bowl of ramen shall be your main, and that is the way we roll at GOGYO.

GOGYO has five ramen options on the menu, but the one to turn your attention to is the famous Kogashi (burnt) Miso Ramen – the broth is charred with large flames, giving the ramen a sensational smoky flavour. Expect a slightly thicker broth, and more robust taste; if you are not a fan of rich flavours, this might not be for you, though.

Fancy a lunch set? They’ve got one that is pretty value-for-money. For HK$188, the Eel Hitsumabushi Rice Bowl Set comprises a unajyu, vegetable tempura and a side salad. The seating capacity at GOGYO is relatively small, but there is a reason why so many are willing to wait patiently for a seat. You shall know why too when it is your turn.

Shop 3020, Level Three IFC Mall
1 Harbour View Street, Central
Tel: +852 2385 1366
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Hong Kong

#3 KIKUSAN

Kikusan is our newfound favourite restaurant in Hong Kong when we need our Japanese food fix without breaking the bank. It is also possibly the sexiest Japanese casual dining outlet in Central, one that we cannot ever get sick of. The prices are unbelievably affordable, and if we were citizens of Hong Kong and working in Central, you would see us there very often with our Kikusan Roll.

Yes, the Kikusan Roll (HK$68), a maki roll with gorgeous chunks of uni (sea urchin), shrimp and minced fatty tuna. You read that right – all these premium ingredients packed in a neat maki roll for just HK$68! Can you believe it?!

Kikusan also has a selection of Japas (their version of Japanese tapas). It might sound bizarre, but we actually love the Kimuchi (HK$28) the best. It is essentially ‘kimchi’, but Kikusan prepares their own with homemade Japanese chilli. Other noteworthy dishes include the comforting Fried Okinawa Bitter Melon & Pork (HK$58) which reminded us of a taste of home, and the Assorted Sashimi with Rice (HK$138) which is otherwise known as ‘chirashi-don’.

Shop B13-16, Basement, Landmark Atrium, Central, Hong Kong
15 Queen’s Road Central
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2500 0555
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Central

#4 MAXIM’S CAKES

Of course, the ones who are always in a hurry are not forgotten. You still deserve some nice bites in between meetings. Grab some fresh bakes from Maxim’s Cakes to keep you company while you clock your meetings in the day. Maxim’s Cakes is an all-time favourite place to stop by whenever we need to pick up a bread roll or two, and they are conveniently located EVERYWHERE in Hong Kong – and we really mean everywhere.

The outlet in Central is strategically located on Pedder Street, just right outside the MTR station. We often find ourselves drawn to the shop by the aroma of fresh bread and cakes. There will definitely be something for everyone – savoury and sweet breads, cake slices, biscuits and even mooncakes now that it is Mid-autumn festival.

This Mid-autumn festival, look forward to the Mei-Xin Lava Custard Mooncakes which has liu sha that actually flows from the mooncake center. What socery, right? Another creation that you can look forward to is the special Tsum Tsum edition mooncakes. The cute packaging will definitely delight every fan. But you may stick to the classics if you’d like – the Mei-Xin White Lotus Seed Paste with Egg Yolk will be just right for you.

Shop 3, G/F, Tak Shing House
20 Des Voeux Road Central, Central
Tel: +852 2526 7296
Nearest Station: Central

#5 PEKING GARDEN RESTAURANT

Established in 1978, Peking Garden Restaurant is known for its authentic Peking Cuisine and it is listed in the Michelin Restaurant Guide from 2013 to 2015. Whether it is a place for family dinners, or for a corporate meal, Peking Garden Restaurant is a notable choice.

While Peking Garden Restaurant has several outlets in Hong Kong, we like the branch at Alexandra House as it exudes ancient beauty with hints of gold and red.

Famed for their Barbecued Peking Duck (well, you saw that coming from their name right?), we savoured the prized crispy skin that came with a hint of smoky applewood taste.

Dining here may be relatively pricier, but the Peking Duck, as well as dishes such as Braised Tientsin Cabbage with Jinhua Ham, Deep-fried Prawn in Chilli Sauce and Chilled Duck Tongue in Mustard will have you rubbing your bellies with happy sighs.

Shop B1, Basement 1, Alexandra House
16-20 Chater Road, Central
Tel: +852 2526 6456
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Central

#6 SIMPLYLIFE

simplylife is a European-style bakery cafe, and it is one that had us falling in love with over and over again. In a busy city where people are always racing against time and missing out on the smallest things, simplylife is an oasis of calmness in Hong Kong, and quite simply what life should be.

Nothing here is unnecessarily expensive, and only the freshest ingredients are used in the preparation of its bakes and mains. There are several outlets across Hong Kong, and the one that sits at Landmark is convenient and very accessible. Well-loved by the executives working in the area, simplylife is a haven of fashionable European bakes.

Awake your senses and be greeted by the scent of fresh bakes every morning. simplylife’s range of breads and cakes is a sight to behold. Prices here are exceptionally reasonable, by the way.

Shop B32, Landmark Atrium,, Central
The Landmark, Central
Tel. +852 2978 3929
Mon to Sat: 7.30am – 8pm
Sun & PH: 8.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Central

#7 URBAN BAKERY WORKS

It is no secret that our loyalty is sold to URBAN Bakery Works. Its concept shop at The Landmark is a stunner, and it promises nothing but a hip and fun experience. We are crazy about their croissants. If you haven’t tried, you must not miss the world for this – because these people are really game to outdo the Parisians with their croissants.

While you may be mind-blown by the sheer number of fancy croissants available, the highlight has got to be the Ball Law Cowssant – a hybrid of croissant and po luo bao (pineapple bun) complete with a slab of French butter, the Ball Law Cowssant (Dare devil version) totally blew us away, and we will go so far as to say that it is a must-eat in Hong Kong.

Other croissant flavours that captured our hearts were the Crunchy Peanut Butter that is lavishly filled with chunky spread, and the Lava Custard Croissant – if you think “liu sha bao” is divine, wait till you try this! That’s not all. The chic bakery cafe also serves excellent Vittoria coffee, a variety of salad and sandwiches which are perfect for a light and casual meal, as well as an array of decadent cakes and pastries.

Room 322, 3/F The Landmark
15 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3565 4320
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 8pm Sat, Sun & PH: 8.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Central

This post is brought to you by Maxim’s Group.