From streetside stalls to world-class restaurants, Hong Kong is a culinary hotspot with something for everyone. Known for its unapologetic bold flavours and mastery of seafood, here are some of the most popular local foods to look out for on your next visit.
The most well-known Hong Kong dish to make it big on the global food scene, this legendary snack is a must-try for all visitors to the city. Served in a buttery pastry shell, it’s essentially a Chinese version of an English custard tart and comes with a choice of toppings. Some of the most common fillings include squid balls, chicken wings, minced pork and dried shrimp, and many eateries also offer vegetarian versions for those with different tastes.
If you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, there’s char siu bao, a traditional Chinese steamed bun filled with barbecued pork. Its name translates to “fork roasted” and it’s a comforting favourite for many Hong Kongers.
Another savoury treat that can be found all over the city are cart noodles, which were first created in the 1950s. Featuring an endless array of toppings from pig’s blood to offal, they have an addictive DIY aspect that appeals to many. These cheap and convenient meals are a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
For those with a sweet tooth, try out some of Hong Kong’s iconic desserts such as egg waffles or pineapple buns (bor lor bao). The latter are made by frying a flat piece of bread and smearing it with butter and a sweet icing. You can even find versions that contain delicious additions such as ham and corned beef for those with more savoury cravings.
To cap off your dining experience, don’t leave without trying a serving of yum cha. Essentially a fusion of Western and Eastern tea and coffee, yum cha usually involves black tea with milk, sweetened condensed milk, sugar or evaporated milk and a variety of other ingredients. It’s a great way to start or end your meal and can be found at many of the city’s cha chaan tengs.
It would be an understatement to say that Hong Kongers love their baked goods. You can expect the streets to be perfumed with the enticing aroma of various types of bread, pastries and cakes from early morning onwards. Klook Recommendation: Located inside Asia World Expo, Nuva is an all-new Cantonese restaurant helmed by an award-winning chef with more than 40 years of experience. Their menu features many classics including crispy sweet and sour pork, sea cucumber with grouper, and more. Book a table with Klook to get 10% off your bill!