Curator’s statement
Hong Kong sets my foodie heart racing like nowhere else: One minute you’re elbow-to-elbow with strangers in a sizzling dai pai dong, the next you’re at a speakeasy swirling an umami-packed mezcal. I grew up chasing these contrasts and still return for the magic of neon nights, harbor breezes, and wok-hei flavor. From street-side wonton noodle shops to three-Michelin-star chef’s tables, it’s the easiest city on earth to splurge and snack on the very same day. No wonder the universal Cantonese greeting is “Have you eaten yet?”
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Things to do in Hong Kong
A street food vendor at Temple Street's night market
Take the “ding-ding” down Hennessey Road: Grab a spot on the upper deck of Hong Kong’s double-decker trams (operating since 1904!) and take in the hustle and bustle of the city along neon-lined streets.
Afternoon tea cruise on the Star Ferry: Take in the views along Victoria Harbour on the historic Star Ferry while enjoying a luxurious English afternoon tea presented by one of Hong Kong’s most iconic hotels.
Catch the Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak: A legend in its own right, this funicular takes visitors and locals alike to the top of Victoria Peak, where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and the best view of the city.
Stroll through Temple Street’s night market: From fortune-tellers to fried squid, wander through the crowds to experience Hong Kong’s sights, sounds, and flavors on full display.
Hike the Dragon’s Back to Shek O: Enjoy sweeping views and fresh air on this coastal ridge hike, followed by a seafood feast with ice-cold beers to wash it all down.
Wong Tai Sin Temple: Light some incense at Hong Kong’s most beloved Taoist shrine, where locals from schoolchildren to corporate CEOs come to make offerings in exchange for blessings in their endeavors.
Hong Kong Museum of Art: Take a break from the heat and humidity by exploring the vast collection of Chinese and international art, along with stunning harbor views.
Places to eat & drink in Hong Kong
Lung King Heen, Four Seasons: Hong Kong’s world-renowned dim sum is taken to another level here, with classics like abalone puff pastries and lacquered roast goose paired with exceptional service, plus a side of harbor views that rival the food.
West Villa Restaurant (multiple locations): My family would wait in line every weekend for the legendary “Big Brother” honey-glazed char siu (roast pork), caramelized to perfection. Make a reservation or get there early—the wait is worth it.
Yan Wo Dou Bun Chong, multiple locations: A local institution since 1958, this no-frills tofu stall serves more than just their (must-try) tofu pudding drizzled in warm ginger syrup. Try the fried tofu stuffed with shrimp for a savory snack break while exploring.
Lan Fong Yuen: One of my first stops for a bite every time I’m back in Hong Kong, this cha chaan teng (the spiritual cousin of a classic American diner) invented HK’s famous silk stocking milk tea. Try the HK-style French toast (deep fried, so you know it’s good) and the pork chop buns to taste how European and Chinese cultures came together in the city’s past.
Lee Keung Kee North Point Eggette: Step away from the usual tourist spots and head to North Point for a gai daan jaai (aka “egg waffle” or “eggette”) hot off the iron. Crispy on the outside, custardy-soft on the inside, this is a walking snack packed with nostalgia for every Hong Konger.
Lin Heung Tea House: One of the last dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong with trolley service, this century-old institution is a piece of old Hong Kong, just a stone’s throw from the gleaming glass-and-steel skyscrapers of Central district.
Sing Kee Dai Pai Dong: Experience the true meaning of “wok hei” at one of the few open-air dai pai dongs left in the city. Order the garlicky typhoon shelter crab and the stir-fried beef with potatoes, and enjoy a close-up view of the roaring woks and bursts of flame from the open-air kitchen.
Lamma Rainbow Seafood Restaurant: Bringing a whole new meaning to “visual menu,” pick out the tastiest-looking live seafood (still swimming in glass tanks out front) for your meal. Geoduck sashimi, steamed razor clams steamed with garlic, and stir-fried clams are my favorite ways to finish a day trip to Lamma Island.
The Savoury Project: An umami-obsessed bar by an award-winning team. Sip on shiitake mezcal highballs and Parmesan-washed martinis for a taste of something extraordinary.
Yardleys Taproom: Tap into Hong Kong’s craft beer scene at Yardleys and sip on everything from a classic IPA to a pandan coconut milk stout. If you’re hungry, Yardleys serves up classic pub fare with a Hong Kong twist. Lychee-smoked beef sandwich, anyone?
Need to know
Hong Kong’s Octopus transit card works on almost all public transportation and market stalls, including most dai pai dong stalls and street food vendors.
Although most Hong Kong restaurants have a good understanding of allergies and dietary restrictions, you may want to have Chinese translations of dietary requirements handy on your phone to avoid any misunderstandings.
Hong Kong ranks as one of the world’s safest big cities for solo and female travelers. Neon-bright streets buzz well past midnight.
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Hong Kong page.