Taiwanese pancake
Photograph: Natalie Lam
Photograph: Natalie Lam

Where to find the best Taiwanese pancakes in Hong Kong

Probably the only thing that can steal the spotlight from bubble tea

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Taiwanese bubble tea has always been a strong contender in the HK foodie scene. But if there’s one thing that can give it a run for its money, it’s Taiwanese pancakes. Also known as ‘hand grab cakes’ (a literal translation from its Chinese name), these flaky pastries are one of Taiwan’s all-time popular street food. They can be customised with every filling imaginable and will make a perfect meal whether you’re craving a late-night snack or looking for a quick but satisfying lunch. That said, there are not that many places in town that offer these delectable bites. Here are some of the very best. By Natalie Lam 

RECOMMENDED: We love Taiwanese food, but we’ve always had a soft spot for Japanese cuisine too. Sushi, udon, ramen, tsukemen, tonkatsu – what’s not to love?

Best Taiwanese pancakes in Hong Kong

  • Taiwanese
  • Sai Wan Ho
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Joining the fray in one of Hong Kong’s most welcomed bargain food haven, Tai On Building, I Miss You offers not only original-flavoured pancakes but also a purple sweet potato alternative. No matter which one you choose, the pancakes are always perfectly pan-fried with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy centre. Along with various fillings available – from cheese and bacon to octopus and duck breast – you can take this savoury treat into any direction you want. And, in case you can’t make up your mind, you can also take your pick from the shop’s recommended combos on the menu.

  • Kwai Fong
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To stand out from so many cheap eats and amazing food stalls at Kwai Chung Plaza is no easy feat, but this Taiwanese pancake caterer did just that. Try its signature ham, eggs, and meat floss pancake or sink your teeth into its cheesy pork tenderloin pancake, and you’ll understand why there's always a seemingly endless queue outside its doors. Fair warning, since the stall is only manned by the owner, sometimes it may take a while to get your order ready. But even so, be patient, because it’s well worth the wait.

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  • Street food
  • Sai Wan Ho

If you’re in need of an authentic taste of Taiwan, +5ºC is the place to be. Other than offering a variety of Taiwanese street food such as fried squid and salted fried chicken, +5ºC also provides a wide range of pancake fillings for you to choose from. But what makes this spot truly special is the pancake batter that's made using a traditional Taiwanese recipe obtained by the stall owner during a trip to Taiwan. It's definitely is definitely one of the best finds inside Tai On Building.

  • Street food
  • Tai Po
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Whether you’re looking for a quick stomach-filler or something to satisfy your midnight cravings, you can’t go wrong with this Tai Po neighbourhood favourite. Frequented by residents who live nearby, Tai Po’s Friend not only serves customised Taiwanese pancakes but also offers a number of local street food essentials. The food here may not be as cheap as others on this list, but you’ll get to watch the whole drool-worthy assembling process of the pancakes before finally biting into one. Give it a try, we guarantee you’ll be beyond willing to come back for more.

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  • Street food
  • Fanling
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Located in Fanling, Tai Dao has been a beloved food stall ever since it opened its doors in 2016. Apart from offering customised pancakes with over 20 fillings priced from just $5 to $9 each, Tai Dao also serves up different beverages like smoothies and bubble tea. For those who’re intimidated by the daunting ordering experience at local food stalls, you’ll be happy to know that at Tai Dao, you can simply tick off the fillings of your choice on the ordering sheet, and hand it over to a member of staff along with the money. All there is left to do now is for you to indulge in these sinfully delicious pancakes!

Care for some desserts?

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