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Whether you’re new to the city and want to dive straight into the best local eats or are simply a huge fan of Hong Kong cuisine, we’ve got you covered with this curated list of must-visit spots accredited under the Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme. From comforting bowls of congee and wonton noodle soup to classic tea-time favourites and more, here are some of the best places to get a true taste of Hong Kong.
Cha Chaan Teng
Founded in 1991 as a humble cafe in Wan Chai, aptly named Cha Chaan Teng now boasts a prime Central location on Wellington Street. The shop prides itself on preparing its food with care, using ancestral cooking techniques and family recipes passed down. You’ll find a wide array of quintessential Hong Kong-style cafe fare here, including the restaurant’s signature Crust Egg Cookie and Crusted Baked Chicken.
Congee King
Is there anything more comforting than a hot bowl of congee? Congee King is famous for its signature fish-broth congee, which at the time of opening was the first of its kind. Having held its Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2018, this local gem will not disappoint. For something more traditional, order the Pork Liver and Scallops Congee, and we wouldn’t skip on the sticky rice dumplings either.
Ho Hung Kee (1946) Congee & Noodle Shop
Ho Hung Kee has upheld a reputation for high-quality food and service for over 70 years and remains a popular haunt for locals and visitors alike. While congee is one of the shop’s specialties, the House Wonton Noodles stands as the most sought-after item, undoubtedly earning this long-standing establishment its title as the world’s first wonton noodle shop to be awarded a Michelin star.
Kee Wah Tearoom
Housed in a Grade 3 historic building on Queen’s Road East, Kee Wah Tearoom sits within Kee Wah Bakery’s flagship shop. The nostalgic 1930s-inspired decor creates the ideal setting to enjoy an afternoon tea break — the perfect time to enjoy local favourites such as Porkchop Rice Casserole, Prawn Toast and Pineapple Buns with a thick slab of chilled butter.
Kung Wo Tong
This traditional Chinese herbal tea shop was founded in 1904 by a Chinese doctor who was the son of an imperial doctor of the Qing dynasty (1644–1911). Now with four branches serving a range of health-promoting drinks and herbal jelly, Kung Wo Tong was the first shop in Hong Kong to sell guillinggao — a jelly-like medicinal dessert traditionally made from tortoise shell, which is known for its heat clearing and detoxifying properties.
Lok Yuen
A master of handmade fish balls, wonton and dumpling noodle shop Lok Yuen has been using the same traditional techniques for over 50 years. Customise your bowl with your preferred type of noodles and combination of tasty toppings (the freshly made wontons and dumplings are worth a try!).
Mak’s Noodle
If you’re a fan of wonton noodles but still haven’t paid Mak’s Noodle a visit, you’re missing out. Continuing to follow the recipe of the current Mak’s grandfather (aka ‘Guangzhou’s King of Wonton Noodles’) who founded the noodle shop back in the 1920s, the restaurant serves up perfectly plump shrimp wontons, silky noodles and a rich clear broth. The portions here are small but that just leaves room to sample other popular dishes like beef brisket and tendon noodles or dumplings.
Ming’s Kitchen
Hong Kong harbours a deep-rooted love for seafood and it’s comforting to know you don’t have to travel very far to get your fix. With a branch in Causeway Bay and another in Mongkok, Ming’s Kitchen is our go-to for dishes that pay tribute to authentic Cantonese flavours, with an original twist, such as Spicy ‘Deepthroat’ Mantis Shrimps and salt-baked Hong Kong Flaming Virgin Crabs, which is set aflame at your table.
Nam Kee Spring Roll Noodle
Nam Kee Spring Roll Noodle started out in the 1980s as a small family-run food trolley in Aberdeen, and has since grown into a popular chain that you can find at practically every corner. Like most typical cart noodle shops, Nam Kee offers a wide variety of noodles and toppings to choose from. If you’re not afraid of a little heat, have your noodles with the special chilli sauce, or order the sour and spicy noodle soup with their signature spicy pork.
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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.
