Your ultimate guide to Hong Kong

For a city that’s all about speed and getting things done, it’s surprising how limited access has been to many leading Western AI tools here. But it looks as though that’s finally changing, as Google has released its Gemini chatbot to Hong Kong users with no VPN or workaround required. The uptake has been swift, with the Gemini app climbing to the top of App Store charts just days after the drop. With Gemini gradually becoming available to everyone, folks will be able to make use of the versatile AI model to help with everyday tasks, whether it’s to help draft up an email, brainstorming ideas, generate images, plan a family trip, or just ask those random questions that float around in your brain. “We believe expanding the Gemini experience will drive more creativity and productivity for the city, and help achieve our commitment of ‘advancing Hong Kong, together’,” says Michael Yue, managing director and general manager of Google Hong Kong. “Going forward, we will continue to responsibly build a full-stack AI ecosystem, making AI more helpful for everyone.” Photograph: Screen shot of Google AI subscription plan The standard version of Gemini is completely free. But for deeper features – like longer context, faster responses, advanced image and video generation, and tighter integration across Google apps – you’ll need a Google One AI subscription. Global pricing currently hovers around the US$20/month mark for the Pro tier, with local HKD equivalents expected to land similarly once fully live. Hong Kong’s AI options have been somewhat patchy for a while now. We have access to tools like Grok, Microsoft Copilot, and Perplexity, but other major models, mainly ChatGPT and Claude, are completely blocked, leading many locals to turn to aggregators like Poe, or more accessible Chinese AI chatbots like DeepSeek, Doubao, and Yuanbao – which come with its own set of issues due to Chinese censorship. To check if Gemini is ready for you, visit gemini.google.com and sign in. Hong Kong’s tech scene moves fast, and with Google finally bringing its AI assistant to the city, the move could be the push other players need to follow suit. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong craft brewery H.K. Lovecraft is closing after eight years M+ Shop celebrates Art March with artist collabs and a series dedicated to Hong Kong culture Bangkok’s ThongSmith brings its famous boat noodles to Hong Kong

Homegrown brewery H.K. Lovecraft is calling last orders. After nearly eight years of operation, the award-winning Tsing Yi-based brewery has announced its imminent closure. The news was shared on social media, bringing their chapter in local craft brewing to an end. Lovecraft began brewing in 2018, carving out a space that few others occupied at the time. In a local scene dominated by hop-forward IPAs and experimental ales, they built their entire operation around lagers, earning them a devoted following in the city. Their commitment to the craft is also recognised on the global stage. At the 2019 Berlin International Beer Competition, they proved that Hong Kong could compete with the best, taking home bronze for their ‘Fire Bringer’ Vienna Lager and a gold for ‘Space Rock’ in the Rauchbier category. In their statement on Instagram, the brewery explained that ongoing financial challenges over the past few years had taken their toll. More recently, the founder has been facing health issues that require his full attention, and despite trying to manage both, stepping away from the business became the right decision. They thanked their supporters and noted that anyone interested in taking over the retail space or purchasing their premium equipment could reach out to them. Lovecraft is now holding a final ‘goodbye sale’ to clear out remaining stock. Fans can mix and match their favourites for $11 per can or $132 for 12 cans with free delivery. It’s likely the last chance to grab their core lineup, so head over to hklovecraft.com to place an order. While we say goodbye to Lovecraft, several other excellent local breweries continue to keep the city’s craft beer scene alive, including names like Young Master Brewery, Yardley Brothers, Gweilo Beer, Carbon Brews, Black Kite Brewery, Heroes Beer Co., and many others. If you value what these local brewers bring to our city, now's the time to show it – buy local, spread the word, and raise a glass while we still have them. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: M+ Shop celebrates Art March with artist collabs and a series dedicated to Hong Kong culture Bangkok’s ThongSmith brings its famous boat noodles to Hong Kong A new Starbucks Harry Potter collection has arrived in Hong Kong

As we start winding down towards the end of Arts Month, the M+ museum is in full-blown creative mode with its retail game. The M+ Shop has released a fresh lineup of exclusive collaborations for the city’s busiest art season – think limited-edition wearables, artist-driven pieces, and a dedicated tribute to Hong Kong’s unique cultural landscape. One of the more striking pieces in this release ties directly to the museum’s facade. From March 23 to June 21, the M+ exterior will be showcasing 3 to 12 Nautical Miles, a new work by Pakistani-American artist Shahzia Sikander. To mark the occasion, the shop is offering a pair of limited-edition T-shirts featuring stills from the piece, drawing from Sikander’s practice of animating hand-painted images. Photograph: Courtesy M+ Shop Also not to miss is the ‘Very Hong Kong’ series, a collection that reflects the city’s cultural history while shining a light on its innovative spirit. Among the highlights is a collaboration with Twemco, the local automatic flip clock manufacturer that’s been ticking since 1968. This is the brand’s first museum collaboration, presenting a limited-edition clock that flips to the M+ logo at 12 noon and midnight. Elsewhere in the series, you’ll find Red A’s classic plastic storage boxes designed in exclusive colourways, black-and-white photographs of old Hong Kong by renowned photographer Fan Ho, Hong Kong architectural figures by Wilson Shieh, exclusive lifestyle products inspired by German photographer Michael Wolf, and much more. Photograph: Courtesy M+ Shop For those drawn to the more playful end of the art spectrum, the M+ Shop has also landed a collaboration with Doraemon and Jean Jullien, pairing the beloved Japanese robot cat with the French artist’s signature simple lines and whimsical sensibility to present a range of stationery, apparel, and accessories. Shoppers will also find other exclusive releases like a highly collectable 1:4 scale sculpture of Hajime Sorayama’s Sexy Robot Floating, a range of merchandise for the Lee Bul retrospective that’s currently on view, and the M+ Core Collection. With a mix of local character, playful collaborations, and well-designed everyday pieces, there’s plenty to catch your eye whether you’re hunting for a memento or just browsing between exhibitions at the museum. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Bangkok’s ThongSmith brings its famous boat noodles to Hong Kong A new Starbucks Harry Potter collection has arrived in Hong Kong Hong Kong’s The Chairman and Wing are officially the best restaurants in Asia

Wan Chai does a decent job of keeping its people fed, from old-school dai pai dongs to slick new openings that draw queues on the regular. Into that mix arrives ThongSmith, a Bangkok-based boat noodle specialist with serious cult credentials. This marks the first international outpost for Iberry Group, which has several popular food concepts across Thailand, and if the opening menu is anything to go by, they’ve sure done their homework. Photograph: Courtesy Thongsmith ThongSmith started as a love letter to the traditional boat noodles that originated in the 1950s along Bangkok’s historic canals. Their broth is the star of the show, simmered for eight hours with galangal, star anise, lemongrass, and pickled garlic, then finished with either pork blood for a deep umami punch or a lighter, clear soup option. The noodles are silky, the toppings are generous, and the ingredients are luxurious – think Australian Wagyu ribeye, Kurobuta pork, and premium meatballs. It’s still street food, but elevated. Photograph: Courtesy Thongsmith The Hong Kong menu stays largely faithful to Bangkok. You’ll find the ThongSmith signature boat noodles with Wagyu beef round, braised shank, tendon, and beef balls in their signature spicy broth. Those not into beef can also opt for a Hokkaido pork version, or try the tossed chicken noodles served with a side of clear pork bone broth. Photograph: Courtesy Thongsmith There are also a few exclusives to mark the occasion, including Karn’s fried rice with chicken or shrimp, a peppery dish inspired by co-founder and cuisine director Karn Kittivech’s childhood; a pad thai made in the style of Eastern Thailand; beef tongue green curry rice with whole beef tongue that’s been braised for two hours; and the Chalee’s Chicken ‘Ko Lae’, a Southern Thai-style charred chicken thigh marinated in a coconut and spice mix, served with a cucumber salad that cuts through the smoke. Photograph: Courtesy Thongsmith As with any great meal, you don’t skip desserts. Guests will be able to enjoy nostalgic Thai treats, including Ka-Nom-Tuay pandan coconut pudding, a staple that is often eaten before noodles; sun-dried banana fritters made from a Northern Thai banana variety known for its honey-like sweetness; and Pung Sung-Kaya, a soft steamed bread with a rich pandan or Thai milk tea custard dipping sauce. ThongSmith is now open at 38 Spring Garden Lane in Wan Chai. If you’ve been waiting for boat noodles that’ll transport you straight to Bangkok without leaving town, this is the one to queue for. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: A new Starbucks Harry Potter collection has arrived in Hong Kong Hong Kong’s The Chairman and Wing are officially the best restaurants in Asia Red A releases new blind boxes featuring nostalgic Hong Kong household items

Hong Kong has always been lauded as a foodie’s paradise, and we’ve once again proven to be a delight to palates as the city sweeps up one of the food and beverage industry’s most prestigious accolades. For the first time ever, Hong Kong played host to the 14th edition of the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony, welcoming industry professionals from all over Asia at the Kerry Hotel on March 25. Hong Kong absolutely held its own against the crème de la crème of Asian eateries, with six restaurants making it onto the 50 Best list. Though this number is technically one down from the 2025 rankings, our restaurants are technically sitting in higher positions overall this year. In fact, the Best Restaurant in Asia 2026 has just been proclaimed The Chairman, rising up to the top spot from last year’s second position. Hot on its heels in second place on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list is yet another Hong Kong restaurant, chef Vicky Cheng’s Wing. Well done to our city’s fantastic restaurateurs for once again proving to the world that we are the top foodie capital of the world! Chef Danny Yip’s renowned Old World Hong Kong dishes have already been the talk of the town for years, and he attributes the restaurant’s success to what he jokingly calls his “vintage team”, since their ages average out to about 52 years old, and most of the staff have been with Yip since the inception of The Chairman 17 years ago. We can only imagine it’ll be even more difficult to get a booking at his restaurant now! Other Hong Kong restaurants that also made it onto the Asia’s 50 Best list include Neighborhood (no. 24), Estro (no. 32), Caprice (no. 35), and Mono (no. 46). The 2025 winner Gaggan in Bangkok has slid down a little to sit at a very respectable no. 3, simultaneously also holding the position of the Best Restaurant in Thailand. Mingles in Seoul (no. 4) is the Best Restaurant in South Korea, while Nusara in Bangkok rounds off the top five.  When it comes to best-performing cities on the food scene, it is Bangkok in top slot with a whopping nine restaurants among the top 50, though Tokyo doesn’t fall far behind with seven restaurants on the list. See below for the list of 50 best restaurants in Asia, visit the official website for further details, and jump on booking your spots before they all immediately get snapped up! Photograph: Courtesy The Chairman Asia’s 20 Best Restaurants of 2026: The Chairman, Hong Kong Wing, Hong Kong Gaggan, Bangkok Mingles, Seoul Nusara, Bangkok Meet the Bund, Shanghai Chef Tam’s Seasons, Macau Gaggan at Louis Vuitton, Bangkok Ling Long, Shanghai Ru Yuan, Hangzhou Fu He Hui, Shanghai Sorn, Bangkok La Cime, Osaka Onjium, Seoul Masque, Mumbai Sézanne, Tokyo Lamdre, Beijing Sühring, Bangkok Odette, Singapore Seroja, Singapore Visit the official website to see the full top 50 list, and click here for the extended list of best 51-100 restaurants in Asia this year. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Red A releases new blind boxes featuring nostalgic Hong Kong household items A Spark of Madness to host dinner on one of Hong Kong’s last sampan restaurants A new exhibition all about Hong Kong cha chaan tengs opens at Airside

Good news, muggles – Starbucks is about to get a wizarding makeover. The coffee chain is set to team up with the Harry Potter franchise for a new line of merchandise and beverages across the Asia-Pacific region, celebrating themes of friendship, courage, and community. Starting March 23, fans can get their hands on a lineup that goes beyond the usual themed cup. Featuring over 20 drinkware and lifestyle accessories, the spellbinding collection has everything from Hogwarts House mugs that change colours when you pour in something hot, to tumblers and cold cups adorned with wands, cauldrons, and owls, all done up in rich house colours with little constellation details. For something a little less conspicuous, they’ve also got Bearista keychains dressed in Hogwarts-inspired robes, Sorting Hat sticky notes for your desk, and travel tags ready for your next adventure. Photograph: Courtesy Starbucks On the drinks front, Starbucks is also whipping up three Honeydukes-inspired drinks – iced latte, a frozen tea, and a Frappuccino blend – each with popping Honey Bergamot-flavoured bubbles that burst with citrus flavours as you sip. Unfortunately, these will only be available in select locations, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and Vietnam, but that’s adding to your list of reasons for a quick trip! The merch will be dropping in Hong Kong, Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and Vietnam on March 23. And because nothing magical ever sticks around forever, stock is limited, so you might want to move fast. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong’s The Chairman and Wing are officially the best restaurants in Asia Red A releases new blind boxes featuring nostalgic Hong Kong household items A Spark of Madness to host dinner on one of Hong Kong’s last sampan restaurants

Red A is back with another round of tiny classics. The local brand, which has been manufacturing plastic household goods since 1949, has just released its third mini-series, shrinking down five more of its iconic products into collectable keychains. Photograph: Courtesy Amaz by Lokianno The latest ‘Old Days Chapter’ blind boxes from their ‘Made in Hong Kong’ miniature series are inspired by some of Red A’s most signature items from the 1960s to 90s. The collection features a classic candy box (known in Cantonese as ‘chuen hap’) from the 1960s with gold dragon and phoenix motifs; a school bag, aka ‘space briefcase’ (1970s), that was apparently tough enough to sit on; and that familiar red little plastic stool (1970s) we’re sure you’ve seen, and probably still see, in kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms everywhere. There’s also a plastic watering can (1970s) that was used for gardening, home cleaning, and floor washing during a time when water rationing was a thing, along with a red and white chamber pot (1990s), which is maybe less glamorous but still a recognisable part of local life for plenty of people. Photograph: Courtesy Amaz by Lokianno You can check these cute collectibles out in person at Amaz by Lokianno in Causeway Bay, where they’ve set up an ‘Old Days Corner’ mini exhibition with a range of nostalgic Red A products on display. Four local artists – including Castor, Foon Wong, Jackal, and Maggie Fu – have also put their own spin on the classic Red A funnel stool, turning everyday home items into vibrant, unique art pieces. The blind boxes are now available at Amaz by Lokianno (Basement, Fashion Walk, 2-4 Kingston Street, Causeway Bay). You can also get the whole set on Red A’s official online shop, or check out their blind boxes from the other two series. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: A Spark of Madness to host dinner on one of Hong Kong’s last sampan restaurants A new exhibition all about Hong Kong cha chaan tengs opens at Airside 6 Outlying island ferry routes to increase fares starting April 1

As much as TVB drama series were all the rage on television sets all over Asia in the 90s and 00s, it’s been a good long while since Hong Kong has seen significant representation on the small screen. Thankfully, that’s all about to change this summer, as the city’s PCCW Media has joined hands with independent studio SK Global Entertainment to produce a new drama series named The Season, depicting the downward spiral of a bougie bunch right here in Hong Kong. Here’s what we know so far about this series! Photograph: Courtesy PCCW Media What is The Season about? This is a six-episode series set in Hong Kong that follows a group of friends ready to enjoy a summer of boating and partying. As idyllic as lounging around on yachts and swigging expensive bottles sound, the characters’ lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer are shattered when things swiftly spiral into deceit and power struggles between the group. The Season drops viewers into the world of Hong Kong’s elite circles. The old-money Hext family is at the heart of this social group – depicting the city’s real-life upper crust dynasties well with power and influence extending from the race tracks to charity galas – but things are thrown into disarray with the arrival of Cola, a newcomer to Hong Kong’s high society with something to hide. Considering that SK Global Entertainment was the powerhouse studio behind Crazy Rich Asians, we can probably expect more of the glittering opulence of that universe, rather than Nicole Kidman’s out-of-touch turn as a wealthy Hong Kong expatriate in 2024’s Expats. Photograph: Courtesy PCCW Media Who stars in The Season? The cast of The Season consists of talents from both Hong Kong and global entertainment circles. Jessie Mei Li, who played protagonist Alina Starkov in Shadow and Bone, stars as Cola, while Hong Kong’s own three-time Golden Horse award winner Karena Lam and Toby Stephens (Percy Jackson And The Olympians) depict the heart of Hong Kong’s high society as Fiona and Christopher Hext. The international ensemble also includes Chris Pang (Crazy Rich Asians), Lee Jae-yoon (Physical 100 Season 2), Justin Chien (The Brothers Sun), Yvonne Chapman (Avatar: The Last Airbender), Celina Jade (Wolf Warrior 2), Japanese model-turned-actress Koki, and even cameos from Anson Lo of Hong Kong band Mirror and Marf Yau of Collar. Photograph: Courtesy PCCW Media When will The Season be released? The six-part series has been confirmed to premier globally in June this year. The precise dates have yet to be announced, but we can expect to see this “champagne-fuelled revenge drama” accompanying us this summer as we go through a boozy junk season of our own. Photograph: Courtesy PCCW Media Where and how can I watch The Season? Hong Kong viewers will be able to watch The Season broadcast directly on Now TV. The series will be available on Viu across markets in Asia, the Middle East, and South Africa, while US viewers can stream it on Hulu and Disney+. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Red A releases new blind boxes featuring nostalgic Hong Kong household items A Spark of Madness to host dinner on one of Hong Kong’s last sampan restaurants A new exhibition all about Hong Kong cha chaan tengs opens at Airside

You’ve done the harbour view restaurants, you’ve been to all the hidden eateries, and now you’re looking for something new. Well, local food brand A Spark of Madness has your answer. For two nights only on March 26 and 27, the local condiment brand is hosting ‘Sparked on a Sampan’, an eight-course Cantonese feast aboard one of the city’s last floating restaurants. Curated by the sampan aunties themselves, the menu features fresh local seafood paired with bottles from CWS Wines and the brand’s Hong Kong-inspired sauces. A vegetarian option is also available, with one egg dish that can be modified to vegan upon request. Photograph: Courtesy A Spark of Madness Back in the 1960s and 70s, this was how Hongkongers ate since they were largely fisherfolk. Families lived on the water, neighbours visited by sampan, and folks would gather for meals while floating from boat to boat. For two nights only, guests can experience this taste of old Hong Kong, served with a view and a delicious touch of ‘madness’. The evening runs from 7pm to 9.30pm on both nights. Tickets are $685 for the vegetarian menu and $785 for the seafood option, and you’re welcome to BYOB or purchase beverages on board. Since the weather in late March is unpredictable, do bring along a sweater and wear comfortable shoes, as you will be getting on and off two different boats on the night.  Photograph: Courtesy A Spark of Madness For those looking for a dining adventure that goes beyond the usual, this promises an evening of flavour, history, and a sprawling view of the city’s glistening waterfront. Visit asparkofmadness.co to book your spot. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: A new exhibition all about Hong Kong cha chaan tengs opens at Airside 6 Outlying island ferry routes to increase fares starting April 1 Tai Kwun Art Week returns for seven days of live performances and late-night exhibitions

Ask anyone to list the things they love about Hong Kong, and cha chaan tengs will likely be near the top. Whether it’s because there’s no better value for money anywhere in the city, the way a post-night-out bowl of instant noodles just hits different at 2am, or the fact that you’ve been going to the same one since you were a kid, these establishments are so embedded in our daily lives that we rarely stop to examine them – but this new exhibition at Airside suggests it’s about time we did! Curated by architectural historian Charles Lai and product designer Kay Chan Wan Ki, ‘The Cha Chaan Teng Codex: Tales of Invisible Designs’ exhibition brings together a team of cross-disciplinary creators – including architects, product designers, carpenters, graphic designers, filmmakers, and even chefs – to examine everything from the science behind perfectly scrambled eggs to the visual language of hand-painted signage. Photograph: Jenny Leung The exhibition unfolds across seven chapters, each tackling a different dimension of cha chaan teng culture. Chapter one displays artefacts from decades past, including the original 1951 licence applications from Yuk Woo Cafe and the preserved neon sign of Wan Chai’s now-shuttered Sun Fung Kee. Visitors will then pass the actual sign and door of the former Hoi On Cafe in Sheung Wan to enter chapter two, which reconstructs a vintage cha chaan teng complete with seating booths that first emerged from local small-scale furniture makers, who adapted Nordic designs with regional materials. Visitors can also step into the shoes of a waiter in an interactive game and memorise the cryptic cha chaan teng jargon on the wall. When the phone rings, pick it up, listen carefully, and jot down the items using the shorthand you’ve just learned as quickly and accurately as possible. Photograph: Jenny Leung Moving on, chapter three features a full-scale recreation of the beverage station – the compressed, hyper-organised nerve centre of any cha chaan teng – alongside displays tracing how things like teapots, menus, and ceramic teacups have evolved over the years. Chapter four takes a scientific turn, deconstructing classic egg dishes these places are known for, and includes an interactive olfactory installation where you can literally smell the aromas of classic cha chaan teng dishes like soy sauce chicken leg, curry beef brisket, and Hong Kong-style milk tea. Photograph: Jenny Leung Photograph: Jenny Leung Finally, chapters five to seven bring in contemporary voices: young chefs and chocolatiers reinterpreting cha chaan teng signatures; filmmakers and art directors discussing how these spaces have served as cinematic backdrops since the 1980s; and a retail area where takeout coffee, yuenyeung, pineapple buns, and egg tarts have been transformed into cute plushies, hand-tufted rugs, and even cha chaan teng-flavoured chocolate. ‘The Cha Chaan Teng CODEX: Tales of Invisible Designs’ is running from now to July 31 at Airside’s Gate33 Gallery. The exhibition is free to enter until March 31, after which tickets will cost $20 (except for kids aged three and under). Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: 6 Outlying island ferry routes to increase fares starting April 1 Tai Kwun Art Week returns for seven days of live performances and late-night exhibitions Global smash-hit star Hanumankind to debut in Hong Kong this May

It’s no secret that we love this city and all it has to offer, and we’re always proud to call ourselves Hongkongers. But if there’s one gripe we have – a bone to pick, if you will – it is that Hong Kong is not exactly the most pet-friendly place in the world. We have the bustling city, the teeming nightlife, the lush greenery, and so much amazing food, but when we look at other cities all around the world, Hong Kong pet owners can’t help but think about how we can’t simply stroll into malls or places of entertainment with our furry companions, or even ride on the subway with them. Luckily, things are taking a turn for the better, with the Hong Kong government recently announcing the introduction of a special permit that will allow selected restaurants to welcome dogs indoors. Targeted for approval by mid-2026, between 500 and 1,000 permits will be issued to restaurants which apply for them. This means that we could see a sudden influx of restaurants that actively embrace patrons dining alongside their pets within this year – an absolute dream for dog owners who are tired of being relegated to outdoor seating with no air conditioning. View this post on Instagram A post shared by April & Artie (@aprilandartie) To address some of these queries: restaurants granted the pet permit will be allowed to determine the extent of their participation, and the policy does indeed cover air-conditioned areas in restaurants. Pet owners will be required to keep their dogs under control at all times with a leash no longer than 1.5 metres or secured to a fixed object. Dogs will also not be allowed on dining tables or to come in contact with food and tableware. It remains to be seen whether there’s a limit on how many dogs each pet owner can bring into eateries, and secretary for environment and ecology Tse Chin-wan also said on February 10 that dog diapers will most likely not be made mandatory as it may cause discomfort to dogs who don’t need them. High-risk venues like hotpot or barbecue restaurants will not be granted pet permits.  When asked which restaurants they would want to see welcome their pets in the near future, Hong Kong’s pet owners are not picky – they’re just happy that the option to do so is happening in the first place. Stephanie Lown, who works at the SPCA Hong Kong and is the founder of the outdoor adventure group Exploring Dogs, is just “thrilled to have any options open up to dogs at all!” Her rescue dog Lola is an energetic, active adventurer of the great outdoors, so Lown can think of “nothing better than ending a hike with your dog and being able to stop at a café or restaurant for a nice refreshing drink or meal”. Cho would love to see Korean restaurants and dim sum places adopt a pet-friendly attitude, while Dorathy wants to see their dining options expand to include cha chaan tengs or fast-food joints. We don’t know if Maxim’s Palace in City Hall or your local Café de Coral will soon embrace hungry pups, but it sure is a nice thought! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Life in Hong Kong with Lola (@livin_da_vida_lola) Promoting pet-friendly eateries is a great step in making Hong Kong a more inclusive city for animals. Considering that the local pet economy is a multi-billion dollar market driven by mostly younger citizens with the financial means and the inclination to provide the best for their animals, there is plenty more that can be done to make people happy while tapping into this sizable income pocket. Hong Kong is already trying out having pets on public transport, with select bus routes accommodating animals on certain days of the week and the Light Rail in the New Territories allowing pets on the weekends. Pet owners are now eagerly waiting for expanded transportation options, as well as regulations that don’t require their pets being placed in carriers – it’s easy to put a Pomeranian in a bag, but try doing the same with a Bernese Mountain Dog.  “Right now, I am always on foot or taking cabs everywhere whenever I travel with my dogs,” Cho muses. “I hope one day dogs will be allowed on either the MTR or on buses.” Dorathy concurs, saying that as a medium-sized dog owner, “it would be fantastic to bring my dogs on the MTR and buses”, adding that she wouldn’t mind putting her Samoyeds in diapers to ensure hygiene if needed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Exploring Dogs (@exploringdogs) Cho also adds that there are not enough dog-friendly parks and beaches in Hong Kong – dogs are currently banned from most parks and public beaches, with only a handful open to dog owners and their pups. “We usually end up on unregulated beaches that are filled with plastic, broken glass, and trash, which is so dangerous for dogs. Hopefully we’ll see more dog-friendly places so our fur babies can enjoy nature too.” Lown looks even further ahead, hoping to see more housing options open up to pet owners as well. “The last couple of years have definitely shown promise with ferries, KMB buses, and the MTR welcoming dogs for SPCA’s Dogathon, but we still have some ways to go. Other countries have had these pet-inclusive policies for years, if not decades!” Lastly, she hopes that with this recent wave of pet-friendly sentiment, the Hong Kong government might review the city’s animal cruelty laws, which she laments have not been updated in 90 years. “It would be good to see the government finally implementing a ‘Duty of Care’ policy which would help improve animal rights and welfare in Hong Kong.” Hear, hear! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong’s recent food poisoning outbreak linked to raw oysters Calbee opens a limited-time Chinese New Year pop-up at Citygate Outlets for snack fans Macau is the most active region in Asia when it comes to love and sex, according to Time Out

Ever wanted to go back in time and shop at a supermarket from the 1950s? It might come off as a rather specific fancy, but for those who harbour such a dream, you’re in luck: Hong Kong’s homegrown supermarket giant, Wellcome, is hopping aboard the nostalgia train with the launch of a retro-inspired concept store in Yau Ma Tei. Designed as a tribute to Hong Kong’s extensive retail history, Wellcome has repurposed its Prosperous Garden branch in Yau Ma Tei as an exhibition destination to celebrate the supermarket’s 80-year-plus legacy. Founded in 1945, Wellcome has been a constant in the lives of local families, serving the needs of generations of Hongkongers. As the city evolved, Wellcome evolved with it, but this branded concept shop preserves a slice of the supermarket as shoppers might have seen it back in the 1950s to the 1970s, complete with vintage character, photogenic interiors, and time-limited collectibles. Each aisle, stocked with a curated selection of products, doubles as a fetching backdrop oozing charm and colour, so no doubt this location will quickly become a popular attraction! Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Snap photos of the LED-emblazoned shopfront, which takes its cues from Hong Kong’s famous urban landscape of neon lights; discover classic interior design elements such as the vintage silver-and-green turnstile, a sea of red plastic lamps popularised in wet markets, and patterned floor tiles; and admire nostalgic grocery setups and heritage exhibits that showcase the allure and shared memories of Hong Kong’s past.  As part of the concept store activation, Wellcome is also launching special deals and brand collaborations to commemorate the occasion, including a reusable Wellcome Retro Eco Bag for $28 with a single transaction of $100 – it’s reminiscent of Wellcome’s old-school red-and-yellow carrier, making for a keepsake that’s both practical and sentimental. Additionally, Wellcome will team up with tech equipment manufacturer Smeg to offer a limited-edition Lifebox ($88 with any purchase of $100 or more) from February 6 to 19, and Hong Kong’s own lifestyle brand G.O.D. for a Lunar New Year-themed game set ($68). Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Wait, there’s more! While the weather’s still below 20 degrees Celsius, pop over to Prosperous Garden to sip warmed Vitasoy soy milk from glass bottles – a Hong Kong childhood memory that many will dwell on fondly. You can also take your chance at a Lee Kum Kee capsule machine from now until March 31, which will dispense a surprise miniature magnet depicting one of the condiment maker’s signature products. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Harbourside Swing Fest returns for its 2026 edition in late April Shiro brings its signature ‘crystal sushi’ to its second location in Tai Kwun Everything you need to know about Japan’s official cherry blossom forecast 2026

Love dim sum and surreal imagery? You’re in good company. Hong Kong street artist Lousy, best known for his bold graphics resembling glyphs and pictorial shapes, is collaborating with viral food photographer-artist David Leung – also known as Davidgoodtime, who specialises in capturing reflected food images highlighting pareidolia – for a dynamic exhibition about dim sum and the ritual of yum cha.  Hosted at JPS Gallery, ‘Double Umami’ is an artistic ode to Hong Kong cuisine, reimagined through the unique lenses of two distinctly different creators, who shaped their love of dumplings and morning teas into a visual celebration of Hong Kong’s DNA.  Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery In the exhibition space, visitors will encounter a customised dim sum cart installation, decorated by David and Lousy, in addition to photographs depicting beloved dim sum dishes in Leung’s signature mirrored style, mounted inside bamboo steamers crafted by master artisan Lui Ming of Ming Sang Steel Bamboo Receptacle. ‘Crab’s Kid Burn & Sell’ shows siu mai in a different light, appearing almost like the face of a crustacean, while ‘Char Siu Cat No. 2’ draws parallels between char siu bao and felines. We also particularly liked the birdcage installation which houses real emu eggs and plastic cards from dim sum carts inscribed with the Chinese onomatopoeia for bird chirps. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery Branching out from photography onto canvas and installation work for the first time, Leung is also presenting the ‘Sauce’ series, applying the same mirrored techniques to create patterns reminiscent of Rorschach inkblot tests. Inspired by traditional Fu Lu Shou statues representing fortune, prosperity, and longevity, Leung uses foldable boards loaded with pigment to ‘find’ faces hidden in the paint. In contrast, Lousy – rather than focusing on the food aspect of dim sum – aims to capture the feeling of community and chaos experienced during a yum cha get-together. He paints and draws on top of old dim sum order sheets to give graphic form to the hustle and bustle of a Cantonese restaurant, depicting figures sat at a table, abstract interpretations of food, hands pouring tea, and more. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery David and Lousy’s collaborations don’t end there. Lousy has teamed up with Wendy’s Wok World for a ‘Special Collab Soy Sauce’. 22 bottles of Tiu Yuen small-batch soy sauce are covered in custom packaging artwork created by Lousy. Meanwhile, Leung worked with chef May Chow of Little Bao to wrap 50 bottles of her handcrafted Fook Jiang chilli sauce in original ‘chilli sauce’ Rorschach artworks, bringing the food-focused project one degree closer to the art of Chinese cooking. ‘Double Umami’ is on exhibition at JPS Gallery from January 30 to March 7. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Art book publisher Taschen is having a huge sale in early February Starbucks opens at the Hong Kong Palace Museum with Hong Kong’s first Chinese calligraphy shop sign and exclusive products Fujifilm releases a camcorder-instant camera hybrid in the instax mini Evo Cinema

Listen, we love a good beat drop or screaming chart-toppers like any other nighttime reveller in the city, but in this era of EDM and throwback pop-heavy party scene, it would be nice to enjoy something authentic that sounds different for once. Well, it looks like we got our wish, because a vinyl record-based bar has just announced they’ll be opening in Lan Kwai Fong. The brainchild of longtime friends Brian and Ah Hei, the 8055 vinyl bar has had previous iterations based in Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, which grew in popularity to welcome even local celebrities and creatives like Eason Chan and Tyson Yoshi as patrons. The pandemic eventually saw the shuttering of the bar – but not for good. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Building on their seven-year brand identity as a hotspot for authentic vinyl DJ-ing, graffiti art, and Japanese chill drinking culture, 8055 is now back in the game with a new home in the heart of Hong Kong’s nightlife district, Lan Kwai Fong. Expect the warmth and pops of analogue sound being played all night, with a focus on Japanese hip-hop, jazz, funk, and city pop – a sound that’s pretty unique within our nightlife scene and, frankly, a breath of fresh air from all the other clubs around. To pair with the music, 8055’s drinks turn the focus on premium Japanese whiskies and umeshu plum wine. Their signature tipple is an elegant, simple umeshu soda, but you can also truly do things the Japanese way by leaving the choice up to the bartender, omakase-style. Staying true to the brand’s history, 8055’s new venue will also allow guests to freely draw, scribble, and unleash creativity all over the walls with graffiti markers, so if you’ve ever left your mark in bars like Not2Sweet, you’ll want to do the same here as well. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Check things out at 8055’s grand opening party on January 24, when they’ll be hosting a 10-hour DJ relay from 8pm onwards. The lineup will include Andrew Bull, better known as DJ El Toro or the ‘Father of Hong Kong DJs’, who is famous for initiating the city’s first disco in The Peninsula hotel as well as the iconic Canton Disco. Sounds like a party and a half! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Kodak Apparel opens a time-limited concept store in Hong Kong New brasserie Chouchou brings French comfort food to an elevated setting in Wan Chai Sai Ying Pun’s historic steakhouse Sammy’s Kitchen announces closure this month

The popular Japanese mascot series Namagaki is taking over Festival Walk in Kowloon Tong with a themed installation! Since Namagaki characters began popping up inside claw machines and arcades across town, so many hearts have been captured by their simple yet lovable designs and adorably blank expressions. The Namagaki Festival features a series of installations and exhibits for fans to take pictures with, as well as a charming merch pop-up with exclusive items for sale. Photograph: Courtesy Yell / Festival Walk At the centre of the installation is a four-metre-tall giant oyster can, where Namagaki characters spill out alongside rainbow-coloured sweets. Right next door is the pastel-coloured Namagaki Washoku House, where cute oyster characters act as chef and waiter at this makeshift traditional Japanese eatery. See if you can spot the pink pumpkins dotted around the space – it’s the installation’s discreet nod to the upcoming spooky season.  Beyond photo ops, fans will definitely delight in browsing through the themed pop-up store housing over 100 exclusive Namagaki products, including 80 first launches in Hong Kong that span everything from stationery to t-shirts and tote bags. Don’t forget to stop by the Namagaki claw machine and the collectible trading card capsule machine for an adorable surprise!  Photograph: Courtesy Festival Walk In the spirit of Halloween, Festival Walk is inviting visitors to trick or treat around designated stores in the mall. Exclusive to My Festival members, take part in this seasonal activity by purchasing a $1,000 gift card to receive a limited-edition Baby Namagaki birthstone bag charm and candy can clutch – where you can store your hard-earned sweets.  Namagaki Festival will be at Festival Walk from October 24 to November 13. See footage of the Namagaki Festival pop-up here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: 18 hotels in Hong Kong and Macau have been awarded 2025 Michelin Keys OneRepublic is coming back to Hong Kong in February 2026 The best Halloween parties in Hong Kong this year

Remember when we all saw a giant Doraemon sitting unexpectedly at the dockyard along Tsing Yi last week? Well, the news is out and it’s not that a robotic cat is invading Hong Kong – instead, a fleet of floating inflatable sculptures will be making their appearance along Victoria Harbour next month. AllRightsReserved, the local creative brand behind last year’s thousands of panda sculptures and the recent Chiikawa exhibition in Tsim Sha Tsui, is putting on the Water Parade, where a set of four giant, floating inflatable figures will be making a debut at sea. In the lineup is Doraemon, perched on his favourite dorayaki snack; Elmo from the Kaws & Sesame Street collaboration; McDonalds’ purple blob-shaped mascot Grimace; and Labubu, the globally viral Nordic-inspired monster by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung. After a trial run in the waters of Tsing Yi on September 20, these four figures will be set afloat along Victoria Harbour on October 25, and will be shown in brand-new poses. Visit them just off of Tamar Park in Admiralty and snap plenty of photos, because when else are you going to see such universally recognised and different cartoon characters all sitting together? Photograph: Courtesy AllRightsReserved On November 1, the floating sculptures will be taken on a water parade between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, sailing along both sides of Victoria Harbour, before departing from our waters on the evening of the same day. For the entire duration of the sculpture display, there will also be a Water Parade Market at the promenade near Tamar Park. Aside from pop-up stores, F&B stands, game booths, photo spots, and a capsule toy zone, the market will also feature other internationally popular IPs from KPop Demon Hunters, season five of Stranger Things, Squid Games, Snoopy and the Peanuts, as well as Hong Kong’s classic TOLO Founding Duck, which is marking its 40th anniversary. Early-bird tickets to the festivities will be available at $50 for adults, starting at 12 noon on September 26. Walk-in tickets can also be purchased on site, subject to availability. All tickets include a $20 merchandise voucher, which can be redeemed cumulatively on purchases of every $200. Attendees can also buy a viewing platform special ticket at $150, which includes entry to the Water Parade Market. See some footage of the Water Parade here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: The best Oktoberfest events happening in Hong Kong this year The best things to do in Hong Kong this week (September 22-28) Super Typhoon Ragasa: Hong Kong braces for the strongest typhoon of the year as it approaches the city

Do you remember an exhibition last summer that displayed miniature scenes of the Central and Western districts in Pacific Place? In case you missed it, the Joyful Miniature Association (JMA) is back once again, this time with more incredibly detailed dioramas of life in Hong Kong, including seven brand-new miniatures that have never been seen before. The 24 art pieces will highlight some of Hong Kong’s famous landmarks, cultural customs, and unique lifestyles. Peek into painstaking recreations of Sunday dim sum at Maxim’s Palace in City Hall, chaotic nighttime revelry along Lan Kwai Fong, the customs of worship and pin wheel buying at Man Mo Temple and Wong Tai Sin Temple, a moving model of the fifth generation of the Peak Tram funicular railway, views of Victoria Harbour complete with boats sailing and fireworks, and more.  Photograph: Courtesy Joyful Miniature Association The new miniatures at this show include the Kai Tak Sports Park, the legendary old Kowloon Walled City, night scenes of Temple Street, horse racing, aquatic animals on sale at one of the many shops along Goldfish Street, the cable car at Ngong Ping 360, and Hong Kong’s transhipment history at the Insta-famous Western District Pier. The JMA brings together over 100 Hong Kong artists who collectively integrate the traditionally European craft of miniatures with our distinctly local culture using cutting-edge technology. If there’s one way to stroll through the most iconic sights and experiences of Hong Kong in just a few steps, this exhibition is definitely it. ‘Hong Kong: Through the Looking Glass Miniature Exhibition’ will be on display at The Peak Tower from April 25 to June 23 – JMA’s longest exhibition in the city. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong ranked as the 10th most walkable city in the world; 1st in East Asia Hong Kong Airport Express proposes fare increase of 9.4 percent The Cheung Chau Bun Festival is hosting a carnival this Sunday

We sit down with artist and designer Joe Foti before his new exhibition in Hong Kong

March in Hong Kong is not complete without a trip to the Wanchai Convention Centre to spend a day or two at Art Basel. This year’s fair gathers 240 global galleries, with large-scale installations, paintings, sculptures, digital art, live performances, video works, and more to see!

From a world without colours to her love of big city metros, we caught up with British artist Monster Chetwynd for a round of quick-fire questions while she's in town for her new installation at Pacific Place!