Supper Guide: Hong Kong’s hot pot culture after hours

What it is: A trendy spot celebrated for its smoke-infused broths, set against a backdrop of quirky neon decor that perfectly complements its innovative menu.

Why we love it: A Smoking Affair offers a fun alternative to your typical hot pot scene with its lineup of unique, housemade soup bases. It’s also popular for its plentiful seafood options for pescatarians or anyone looking to cut down or skip the heavy meats. Alongside classic broths, the menu throws in some wild cards like gastrodia mushroom fish head soup, spicy duck blood with fresh yam, tom yum soup with lobster and even a sweet smoky grass jelly dessert pot.

Time Out tip: Be sure to order their signature hand-pounded beef balls, which come in portions of either four or six per plate. 

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 12pm-3.30pm, 5.30pm-2am; Saturday to Sunday 5.30pm-2am

27/F, Soundwill Plaza II - Midtown, 1-29 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay

What it is: A favourite among the locals for its traditional, straightforward hot pot with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients.

Why we love it: Hungry Boy strips down the hot pot experience to its core, showcasing ultra-fresh seafood and meats that speak for themselves. The simplicity of the menu highlights the quality but also the skill in preparing these ingredients to perfection. It comes to no surprise that the clam soup base is a hit at almost every table, known for its super fresh and sweet clams. You can enjoy it in a variety of styles, from a classic clear broth with garlic to a more adventurous mix featuring preserved vegetables and pig stomach.

Time Out tip: The chilled seafood offers a refreshing counterpoint to the robust hot pot flavours. For a tasty appetiser, try the deep-fried chicken gristle and egg yolk fish skin—great for nibbling on alongside a cold pint.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 5pm-2am

G/F, 4 Pak Po Street, Mong Kok

What it is: A casual no-frills, all-you-can-eat chicken hot pot specialty restaurant.

Why we love it: 18th Floor Chicken Pot kicks things off with a hearty chicken casserole dish. Enjoy the tender chicken first, then choose a broth to go with the leftover sauces in the pot, sparking a delightful flavour explosion. 

Time Out tip: Don’t forget to leave space for dessert. The soft-serve ice cream, customisable with your choice of toppings, is the perfect sweet finish to your meal.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 5pm-2.30am

18/F, Chong Hing Square, 601 Nathan Road, Mong Kok

What it is: A lively restaurant-slash-bar that combines the deliciousness of traditional Cantonese hot pot with the thrill of karaoke.

Why we love it: The food is only half the fun here. Fancy a side of fame with your steaming hot pot? Grab the mic and steal the spotlight. Your fellow diners can even rate your performance! It's the perfect spot to blend two of Hong Kong's favourite pastimes – hot pot and karaoke – into one unforgettable experience.

Time Out tip: They often roll out special late-night promotions, so keep an eye on their socials for the latest updates on special deals!

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 6pm-3am

5/F, One Knutsford, 1 Knutsford Terrace, Tsim Sha Tsui

What it is: A place that truly understands the art of pairing its offerings. With a wide selection of champagnes, sakes, wines, and creative cocktails, this venue elevates Cantonese-style hot pot with an intoxicating twist.

Why we like it: Bino N’ Booze takes Cantonese-style hot pot to the next level by infusing the broths with a splash of booze that’s drunk with flavour. The menu boasts premium cuts of steer beef, unique delicacies like hua diao drunk duck tongue, truffle abalone dumpling, and ice plant, along with an extensive vegetarian menu that ensures there's something delicious for everyone.

Time Out tip: If you're looking to have hot pot with friends or family, make reservations for one of their private rooms where you can enjoy fresh beers, fresh seafood, hand-wrapped dumplings, and signature soups.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 5pm-12.30am

Shop A, G/F & 1/F, 205 Hai Tan Street, Sham Shui Po

What it is: A traditional hot pot spot that combines Cantonese signatures with a picture-perfect, retro Hong Kong vibe.

Why we love it: You've probably already come across Lau Haa on Instagram, thanks to its photogenic, time-capsule ambience. Step down into the basement and back in time with neon signs, tiled floors, and storefront gates that recreate the bustling streets of retro Hong Kong. The food is as authentic as the decor, featuring classics like still-moving frog legs and a wide variety of local, fresh, premium beef cuts – the real stars of the show. 

Time Out tip: Lau Haa's lively, nostalgic aesthetic makes it a prime backdrop for travel photos, so dress up for the occasion and make sure your phone is on full charge.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 6pm-2am

Shop A, B/F&G/F, Block A, Lockhart House, 441 Lockhart Road, Causeway Bay