It is said that Hong Kongers’ two passions are shopping and food. The range of retailers may be impressive, but the dining is even better. “Asia’s World City” boasts a truly globalized food scene.
Cantonese dim sum is highly praised, but Hong Kong also serves up sublime cooking from across Asia. Exquisite hotel restaurants historically set the standard, but fine independent restaurants can now be found right across the city. At the other end of the scale, so can market stalls offering some of the most delicious – and cheap – street food.
The Mid-Levels district boasts an eclectic range of dining choices, while the boho-chic culinary styles of Star and Gough streets attract Central’s smart set. In Kowloon, scores of reputable Cantonese restaurants line the streets around Nathan Road.
For traditional Chinese food, the venerable Tai Ping Koon, one of Hong Kong’s oldest restaurants, dating from 1860, serves a much-appreciated roasted pigeon. Upscale and expensive Japanese restaurants abound, but for excellent-value sushi, maki rolls and tempura, Sushi Mata is a popular choice with in-the-know locals.
Across the water on Hong Kong Island, light and fragrant Vietnamese dishes are served with charming élan at Rice Paper in Causeway Bay. Non- meat-eaters need not feel left out: Life Café in Mid- Levels serves vegetarian, vegan, and raw-food breakfasts, lunches, and a dinner menu including vegetable stir-fries and Indonesian gado-gado.
Practical Information
Life Café Shelley Street, Mid-Levels, Central;
Rice Paper 413–8, 4F, World Trade Centre, 280 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay;
Sushi Mata 61–5 Chatham Street, Tsim Sha Tsui;
Tai Ping Koon Several branches