Hong Kong is not only a global financial hub and a city of skyscrapers, but it is also a true paradise for food lovers. A food tour in Hong Kong offers an exciting culinary adventure where you can savor a delightful mix of traditional Cantonese dishes, street food, and innovative fusion cuisine. From humble Dim Sum to Michelin-starred restaurants, Hong Kong’s food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.
Here’s a guide to the top culinary delights you can experience during your Hong Kong food tour.
1. Dim Sum – The Quintessential Hong Kong Experience
No food tour in Hong Kong is complete without sampling dim sum, the small, savory (and sometimes sweet) dishes that are traditionally served during breakfast or lunch. Dim sum restaurants, often known as "tea houses," serve a variety of steamed, fried, and baked delights. Popular choices include char siu bao (barbecued pork buns), har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and egg tarts.
For an authentic experience, visit the famous Maxim’s Palace in Central, where you can enjoy dim sum served on rolling trolleys, or head to the bustling Tim Ho Wan in Mong Kok, a Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant known for its baked char siu bao.
2. Roast Goose – A Delicious Cantonese Classic
Roast goose is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic dishes, famous for its tender meat, crispy skin, and rich flavors. The goose is marinated with a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection. A must-try is Yung Kee Restaurant in Central, which has been serving exceptional roast goose since 1942. If you're looking for something more casual, head to the famous Mak’s Noodle for a bowl of noodles paired with tender roast goose slices.
3. Wonton Noodles – A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
Hong Kong’s wonton noodles are a perfect combination of delicate, handmade dumplings filled with shrimp or pork, served in a hot, clear broth with springy noodles. The dish is a beloved comfort food and can be found at many local eateries. Mak’s Noodle in Central is renowned for its authentic version, while Tsim Chai Kee in Wan Chai offers a hearty serving with generous portions of wontons and noodles.
4. Egg Waffles – A Sweet Street Snack
One of Hong Kong’s most popular street foods is the egg waffle (also known as gai dan zai). These golden, crispy waffles are shaped like little bubbles and have a soft, eggy interior. They are usually served fresh off the grill and are perfect for an afternoon snack. Street vendors all over Hong Kong, especially in Mong Kok and Causeway Bay, offer egg waffles with a variety of toppings such as chocolate sauce, fruits, and even ice cream.
5. Hong Kong-style Milk Tea – A Refreshing Beverage
No food tour would be complete without trying Hong Kong-style milk tea, a local favorite beverage. Known for its strong, smooth, and rich flavor, the tea is made by brewing a blend of black tea leaves and then adding sweetened condensed milk. It's often served iced or hot and is the perfect accompaniment to your meal. Kau Kee Restaurant in Central and Lan Fong Yuen in Central are famous for their delicious Hong Kong-style milk tea.
6. Pineapple Bun – A Sweet Treat with a Twist
Despite its name, the pineapple bun (or bo lo bao) does not contain pineapple. The name comes from the golden, crusty topping that resembles the pattern of a pineapple. Inside, the bun is soft and fluffy, often served with a slice of cold butter. Enjoy this treat at any local bakery or café, but Kam Fung Restaurant in Wan Chai is one of the best spots to try it.
7. Claypot Rice – A Hearty and Flavorful Dish
For a more substantial meal, try claypot rice, a traditional Cantonese dish where rice is cooked in a clay pot with a variety of toppings such as chicken, Chinese sausage, and salted fish. The dish is served piping hot, and the rice at the bottom becomes crispy and golden, adding a unique texture. Joy Hing Roasted Meat in Wan Chai and Mak’s Noodle both serve flavorful versions of this comforting dish.
8. Street Food – A Taste of Hong Kong's Vibrant Markets
Hong Kong is known for its lively street food scene, where vendors serve up quick, tasty snacks that are a great way to experience local flavors. Explore the bustling Temple Street Night Market or Jordaan’s Street Food Alley to try treats like stinky tofu, fish balls, curried squid, and cheung fun (steamed rice rolls). These markets are filled with locals and tourists alike, making it the perfect place to enjoy authentic Hong Kong street food.
9. Seafood – Fresh Delights from the Ocean
Hong Kong is home to some of the freshest seafood in the world. From giant prawns to lobster, crabs, and fish, the seafood here is second to none. Head to the famous Lei Yue Mun Seafood Village, where you can pick fresh seafood from the market and have it cooked on-site at one of the many seafood restaurants. Another great option is Sai Kung, a fishing village known for its fresh catches and scenic views.
10. Hong Kong-style Hotpot – A Shared Meal Experience
Hotpot is a communal dining experience that allows you to cook your own food right at the table. The hotpot features a bubbling pot of broth, into which you dip raw meats, seafood, and vegetables. There are several variations of hotpot in Hong Kong, including spicy and mild broths. Little Sheep and Chung’s are popular hotpot chains offering this interactive dining experience.
If interested in Hong Kong cuisine, please contact us to customize itinerary based on your taste preferences.
