Cherry Chan

Visiting a dai pai dong is a quintessential Hong Kong food experience, much like going yum cha or snacking on cheap street eats. But ever since the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department has stopped renewing any dai pai dong licences, these open-air, street-side eateries are becoming an increasingly rare sight. Luckily, grandfather laws are keeping them alive (for now), and as long as this generation is passing down their license to the next, we’ll still be able to enjoy a slice of authentic Hong Kong flavours. So, in support of good and cheap eating, here are some of the city’s best dai pai dongs for your next meal.  RECOMMENDED:  🍞 Local bakeries🥟 Best dim sum restaurants🥢 Cantonese restaurants

From new openings and hot events to product launches, Hong Kong's food scene is never short of exciting happenings. So, we've conveniently gathered this month's foodie happenings that you need to know to stay in the loop.  Bookmark this page for more updates! We'll keep dropping the freshest news as it comes in. RECOMMENDED: Get ready for Year of the Snake by booking a table for the best Chinese New Year menus in Hong Kong.

With a vast array of global restaurants in Hong Kong, foodies often find it challenging to choose just one cuisine. However, there is one flavour profile unites them all: spiciness. From the fiery curries of India to the tongue-tingling sensations of Hunan-style dishes, each culture offers its own unique interpretation of heat and spiciness. If you’re ready to dig into some piping hot plates, keep reading to find global restaurants accredited by the Hong Kong Tourism Board under the Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme, which recognises merchants in the city that consistently deliver high product quality and service standards.

With countless new restaurants joining Hong Kong’s dining scene, it’s no surprise that foodies in the city can easily get overwhelmed with options. Here at Time Out, we’ve taken the city’s gargantuan list of eateries and whittled them down to the 50 best venues that you need to try. Our rankings change depending on the latest and most creative offerings, so bookmark this page to keep updated and get some inspiration for where your next meal could be. Eaten somewhere on this list and loved it? Know of a restaurant that should be included? Tag us on Instagram and use the hashtag #TimeOutEatList. Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in Hong Kong’s city news, culture, and dining. RECOMMENDED: Get ready for the holidays with our ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas in Hong Kong!

Hong Kong has plenty of locations that come with gorgeous views, whether it's a fancy restaurant that overlooks Victoria Harbour or a scenic sunset spot during the golden hours. Our city also has plenty of hiking trails that reveal a stunning backdrop, and Tai Lam Chung Reservoir certainly fits the bill. More commonly known as Thousand Island Lake, this reservoir has a picturesque view and the hike is fairly easy to complete. Follow our step-by-step guide below for details on how to tackle this trail. Distance: Between 10 to 15kmDuration: 3 to 4 hoursDifficulty: 2 out of 5Recommended: Looking for more hiking spots to hit up? Browse through our top picks of the best hiking trails around Hong Kong!

Nothing says ‘I love you’ more than taking your special someone to one of these stunning locations for a meal they’ll never forget. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or thinking of popping the question, we’ve got you covered with these romantic venues across town to get you feeling all lovey-dovey. RECOMMENDED: Grab your gang and have a meal at the best restaurants with epic views in Hong Kong

Valentine’s Day is approaching soon, and while we all have different ways of showing love to our partner, there’s no doubt a sumptuous meal is one of the quickest ways to someone’s heart. Whether you’re commemorating an anniversary, rekindling with your ex, or diving into a first date, these menus are sure to wow your partner.RECOMMENDED: Continue your lovey-dovey celebrations in one of the most romantic hotels in Hong Kong.

Chocolates are a must-have for any occasion, so instead of settling for something you could easily grab from the convenience store, treat yourself to a decadent selection from one of these stores below. From irresistible truffles to crunchy pralines, follow our guide to discover the best chocolate shops in Hong Kong.  RECOMMENDED: Looking for more sweets? Take a look at our ultimate guide to traditional desserts in Hong Kong!

It's a brand new month, and we're here to kick off February on a strong note by bringing you the newest restaurants that Hong Kong has to offer. This month, check out all the latest additions to the city's dining scene like an Aussie steakhouse with a killer view, a casual cafe opened by an award-winning barista, and more!Think we missed a new great dining place in Hong Kong? Shoot us an email at editor.hk@timeout.com so we can check it out!RECOMMENDED: Dig into plates of kimbap and tteokbokki at the best Korean restaurants in Hong Kong!

Hong Kong's dining scene is bursting with various regional cuisines. Arguably, Korean food is one of the most popular amongst the city's diners; as it offers a wide range of dishes, from soothing ginseng chicken stew to tantalisingly spicy tteokbokki. So whether if you're in the mood to grab a quick kimbap, pick up some banchan for a potluck, or enjoy a barbeque feast in front of a hot charcoal grill, these Korean restaurants around town can cater to any cravings you've got.  RECOMMENDED: Snap a picture at the most Instagrammable restaurants in Hong Kong!

Ever since it gained popularity in the 90s, Hongkongers have been obsessed with karaoke (or KTV, as is more commonly used by locals). From the rotten to the resplendent, we embrace anyone willing to grab the mic and have a crack. And while the city’s largest purveyors of karaoke, Neway and Red Mr, certainly dominate the scene, there are definitely a few other choices out there worth checking out if you’re looking for a break from the norm. RECOMMENDED: If you prefer watching others performing instead, visit these live music venues in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong’s restaurants come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. While some may look a bit dingy, others present themselves with stunning decor and sweeping views that practically demand you take a picture. Keep reading if you want to find the most Instagrammable restaurants in Hong Kong. RECOMMENDED: Looking for more casual dining options? Check out the best izakayas in Hong Kong!

Tseng Tau Tsuen is a quiet residential village tucked away in Ma On Shan. There’s not a lot that goes on there, but with the upcoming opening of the mega Go Park Sai Sha, the village is soon to gain a new neighbour that will turn this serene locale into a vibrant hub of activity. This mall complex offers a wide range of sporting facilities, such as a multipurpose stadium that can be used for small concerts, a rock-climbing gym, a golfing range kitted out with Trackman radar technology, pitches and courts for various sports, and even an indoor swimming pool. But let’s be honest, what we’re really interested in, is the range of eateries that’ll be joining the mall.  Currently, Sports Bistro is the only dining venue that’s open for business inside Go Park. Aligning with the mall’s sports-friendly message, this restaurant focuses on nutritionist-recommended dishes, with options like all-day breakfast plates, salads, Asian rice and noodle dishes, and light snacks on the menu. We decided to check out the restaurant on a Sunday afternoon, and even though Go Park was still undergoing trial operations – meaning there was not much there besides sporting facilities – the restaurant was completely packed full of customers.  Luckily, we only waited for a bit before being ushered to our table. The restaurant’s venue was spacious and had large floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing plenty of natural sunlight to flow into the space. The decor is relatively simple, featuring a few sports-related

For some Hongkongers, the thought of making the long journey into the New Territories can deter them from visiting just for a meal, let alone exploring the area. However, many who live there will tell you that there are plenty of worthy spots to dine at – if you’re willing to sacrifice time to commute.  Adding to New Territories’ roster of restaurants is Dzô Dzô, a Vietnamese eatery under local dining group Taste Gourmet Group, proprietors of venues like Shanghainese and Sichuanese restaurant Azure 80 and Japanese-inspired French venue Tirpse. Meaning ‘cheers’ in Vietnamese, Dzô Dzô is located within New Town Plaza, one of the busiest and largest shopping malls in Sha Tin.  We visited the restaurant on a Monday evening and were surprised to find the restaurant packed with diners, even on a weekday. After a short 10-minute wait, we were taken to our seats. Despite being partially open to the mall, the restaurant is tucked away in a quiet corner, so we could dine without hearing any commotion. Dzô Dzô’s interior featuring a calming colour palette of green and white, with light wooden fixtures and potted plants creating a relaxed ambience for diners. The menu offers a wide selection of Vietnamese dishes ranging from light appetisers to entrees for sharing. Rather than ordering from Dzô Dzô’s a la carte menu, we were recommended by the staff to go for the dinner set for two (starting from $398) – which comes with two appetisers, a vegetable dish, one entree, and two drinks – so w

Japan’s curry specialist Caligari has opened their first overseas location in Hong Kong. This Tokyo-based restaurant boasts accolades such as nabbing first place in 2019 and 2023 at the Kanda Curry Grand Prix, an annual event held in Japan to crown the country’s best curry. Currently, the restaurant ranks as one of Japan’s 100 best curry restaurants on Tabelog, one of the country’s most popular restaurant apps.  Caligari’s Hong Kong outpost is located in a bustling area in Central but the restaurant is tucked away in an inconspicuous corner of the Entertainment Building, creating a comforting environment to enjoy your food. The restaurant has an understated white interior, complemented by accents from dark wooden furniture and fixtures. I visited Caligari at noon on a Saturday and to my surprise, there were only a few customers dining at the restaurant. Differentiating itself from other curry restaurants in Japan, Caligari uses a unique blend of spices like fennel, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, as well as mustard seeds to add depth in their curries. By simmering their curries at high pressure and temperatures for eight to 12 hours, the restaurant achieves distinctly rich flavours. Customers can opt for rice sets served with Caligari’s signature curry – a harmonious blend of chicken and pork cooked down with coconut milk to render subtle flavours – or the premium spices curry – a velvety sauce that contains a dash of coconut milk and the natural essences of the

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) From now until February 19, heritage Cognac brand Rémy Martin is holding an exclusive Rémy Martin Cognac Express pop-up at Elements in Tsim Sha Tsui. The Cognac brand’s pop-up space takes form in a lavishly decorated train carriage, in which guests can scan a QR code to redeem an e-boarding pass that allows them to hop aboard and learn about Rémy Martin’s 300-year old Cognac blending and ageing legacy. Additionally, guests can also admire a display of Rémy Martin’s Club, VSOP, and XO Cognac bottles in their limited edition Chinese New Year packaging. What’s more, the Cognac Express also provides an interactive tasting area for guests to sip on the brand’s fine Cognacs, while learning about the differences of each variety from Rémy Martin’s brand ambassadors. During the event period, Rémy Martin has partnered with renowned bars Penicillin and Lockdown to create two Rémy Martin VSOP based cocktails – Working to Restore and Express Highball – for customers to savour. The Rémy Martin pop-up will also provide masterclass sessions, in which spirit experts will share their knowledge about Cognac production and appreciation.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Dara – meaning ‘auntie’ in Kapampangan (one of the eight major languages of the Philippines) and spoken primarily in the entire province of Pampanga – is a family-run business and is named after the restaurant’s executive chef and founder Imelda Bunoan, also known as Darang Mel (Auntie Mel). The modern Filipino restaurant originally opened in late 2022 within Art Lane in Sai Ying Pun; but has recently moved to a bigger location across the neighbourhood. The restaurant is tucked behind La Paloma and a stone’s throw from Call Me Al, so keep your eyes peeled if you’re trying to find their venue. The new venue buzzes with activity and exudes a lively atmosphere. Dara has kept the same colour scheme, furniture, and decor from its previous location; such as the arch design in their bar display, rattan and wooden fixtures, and hanging light bulbs. Aside from boasting a space that’s four times bigger than their previous venue, the new space features high ceilings, a large bar table that stretches as far as the eye can see, and a soon-to-open karaoke and billiards room that will be fully operational by January. It's an expansive space that's a rare find on this side of town.Since their move to the new location, Dara has expanded their menu to provide more affordable and filling Pinoy classics. Feeling hungry, we start off by tearing into a portion of homemade pandesal – a traditional bread roll – ($58) wh

If you’ve ever been on Peel Street, chances are you’ve most likely passed by Chôm Chôm. Like most venues on this dynamic street, you’ll most likely find a crowd of people at Chôm Chôm spilt out onto the pavement as they sip on cocktails and Vietnamese beer. This resto-bar has been an integral part of Soho’s bustling neighbourhood since 2013, but briefly closed its doors during the summer. After their short break, the Vietnamese eatery is back and ready to host diners and drinkers alike. Previous patrons of Chôm Chôm are familiar with the outdoor seating area, where you’ll find drink crates turned into makeshift stools and tables, as well as plastic chairs that would fill up their front entrance. While it isn’t the most glamorous seating arrangement, it added to Chôm Chôm’s character and paid homage to casual streetside eateries that you would see in Vietnam. Following their summer break, the restaurant has renovated its outdoor space to have two large benches built into the front entrance, but we suspect Chôm Chôm will bust out the plastic chairs once again when the time comes. Chôm Chôm doesn’t offer reservations, so be sure to arrive early, as this spot fills up quickly. Despite visiting on a busy Thursday evening, we were able to grab our seats right by the bar, which provided us with a clear view of Chôm Chôm’s kitchen. Chôm Chôm’s atmosphere was lively and full of energy, but the raucousness made it difficult to have a conversation at a normal volume. Nevertheless, the s

Featuring a stunning upside-down-hanging garden, Rue du Liban is the perfect place to sit back and relax.The eatery provides a modern yet authentic take on Lebanese fare, and allows diners to order a wide selection of sharing platters and regional dishes; such as starters like grilled halloumi cheese ($128), tabbouleh salad ($108), lamb sambousek ($118), and more. Move onto Rue du Liban’s grilled mains like chicken fatteh ($168), grilled tiger prawns with garlic sauce ($258), and mixed grill platter ($568). If you want to pair your meal with libations, Rue du Liban’s menu also provides a range of wine labels from Lebanon that should not be missed.

Rootdown is the newest addition to Sai Ying Pun's cafe-filled neighbourhood. Located just a few stops away from Sai Ying Pun's MTR Exit B3, this all-new cafe is nestled within the colourful walls of ArtLane and stands out with its unique exterior. Unlike other cafes in the area, Rootdown's venue has large wooden panels that are lined up to allow sunlight and wind into the cafe, while keeping the cafe semi-closed off from the street. Inside the cafe's venue, you'll find a few wooden tables and chairs, as well as a sleek metallic cafe-bar where their beverages are made. Rootdown's food offerings span from pastries such as croissants or toasted milk bread with maple brown butter (both $35), to savoury bites like nori chips or loaded potato skins topped with sour cream and pancetta (both $50). Additionally, the menu also provides a range of sandwich options such as grilled cheese ($70), as well as salami and pepperoni ($90). Regardless if you have a vegetarian diet or not, the 'shroom sandwich ($90) should not be overlooked. Containing three different types of mushrooms – maitake, shiitake chips, and a mushroom pate spread – along with arugula and pickled onions between crispy focaccia bread; this sandwich is packed full of flavour and umami. When it comes to beverages Rootdown serves up of plenty of coffee options, smoothies, and blended lattes. But if you care for some tipple, the bar also offers whisky or tequila highballs, wines; and even some of their own cocktails. 

Over the years, Kennedy Town has undergone a transformation evolving from a sleepy town into one of Hong Kong’s trendiest neighbourhoods full of casual eateries and restobars. Adding to the array of drinking establishments in this waterfront town is Blotto, a laid-back drinking den that prides itself on making sure you have a good time while drinking to your heart’s (and liver’s) content. The bar’s name was inspired from a 15th century term that means ‘to be extremely drunk’ - now, you’ll know what to expect when you swing by. The philosophy of Blotto is simple: ‘if it ain’t fun, don’t do it’, and the bar certainly follows that motto with gusto.  Blotto exudes a no-fuss, unpretentious divey vibe. It is simple yet honest, inviting you to unwind and have a great time. The bar's signage, painted in bold grey letters, almost gives the impression that the painter made an amusing mistake on the letters. Inside, the bar's interior is adorned with colourful metal stools and steel drum chairs. The walls are a cheerful mix of yellow, pink, and blue, decorated with cheeky murals portraying animals joyfully sharing pints or raising wine glasses. It's the kind of joint where you can kick back and gleefully gulp down a few libations without feeling like you're under a microscope. They also offer a modest collection of card and board games to keep you and your friends entertained throughout the night. The brainchild behind the bar is local mixologist Austen Lendrum, who is also the co-found

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Renowned Japanese chef Shinji Kanesaka is bringing his two Michelin-starred Ginza Sushi Kanesaka to Hong Kong for the first time with the brand new opening of Kanesaka Hong Kong. Helmed by chef Seiji Taniguchi who was formerly at Sushi Kanesaka’s Tokyo Palace Hotel branch, this Japanese restaurant intimately seats up to 20 guests at a time and serves up authentic Edomae-style sushi to Hong Kong’s diners. Customers can choose from menu options such as a lunch nigiri set, a lunch omakase, or an exquisite dinner omakase – all of which will showcase the chefs’ expertise in sushi craftsmanship. Highlights of Kanesaka include dishes such as chef’s signature maki roll with akami, chutoro, and otoro; horse mackerel nigiri; monkfish liver; and Bafun sea urchin maki.

If you’ve recently walked past Linva Tailor on Cochrane Street, you may have noticed a new dining addition opposite the cheongsam tailoring shop. Indonesian Restaurant 1968 may seem unassuming at first glance, but little do people know, this restaurant has an extensive history and is one of the longest-standing Indonesian restaurants in the city. Their first restaurant originally opened on Yun Ping Road in Causeway Bay in 1968, and has moved across several locations in the CWB district and Central over the years, before finally settling down underneath the Mid-Levels Escalator this August. Indonesian Restaurant 1968 is owned and run by Hudson Chang, the grandson of the original proprietor, and he continues to carry out the legacy of his family. We arrived at the restaurant on a bustling Friday evening, but fortunately, we managed to secure a table without much delay. Stepping inside, diners are instantly greeted by the homely and rustic atmosphere that Indonesian Restaurant 1968 prides itself on. The decor showcases wooden tables, cosy booth seats, rattan chairs, and menus resembling a newspaper. Since the restaurant was packed, we were only able to get a seat at the bar table in the basement level, where the ceiling was noticeably low. Our dining experience was slightly hindered by a boisterous group of diners seated nearby. The low ceilings created a rather echoey environment, which made it challenging to maintain a conversation at a normal volume.The restaurant’s menu feat

While Jardine's Cresent in Causeway Bay may seem like a like a standard street market full of stalls selling all sorts of knick knacks and home appliances, it's also home to Liao Za Lie, a casual restaurant that specialises in Shaanxi-style cusine. Diners can expect to find a wide variety of delightful appetisers such as rou jia mo – a crisp, flaky pancake stuffed with fillings such as minced pork or potatoes and onions; firey stir-fried dishes, and sharing dishes such as Sichuan fish with pickled mustard, or wide biangbiang noodles tossed generously in chilli and garlic that can be customised to your spice tolerance. 

As of August 2024, the Michelin Guide Hong Kong has been adding new recommended restaurants from Hong Kong and Macau to its website and app every second Wednesday of every other month – and they’ve just unveiled nine new dining venues. Photograph: Cherry Chan This month’s newly recognised additions include intimate restaurant Ankôma, which creates seasonal menus full of French-Japanese creations; Thai Pai Dong, a widely popular joint tucked away in Jordan that offers crowd-pleasing Thai dishes served at Bangkok’s streetside vendors; and Magistracy Dining Room, an opulent British restaurant that occupies the century-old Former Magistracy in Tai Kwun. Photograph: Courtesy Jee As for Chinese fare, the Michelin Guide has also name-dropped venues such as Jee, a contemporary Cantonese establishment with Western influences; Art & Taste, a casual Taiwanese diner in Central offering authentic dishes like braised beef noodle soup; and Hung’s Delicacies, a family-owned Chiu Chow restaurant that has won diners over with its classic marinated meats and signature fried rice with goose and X.O. sauce. Photograph: Joshua Lin Other newly recommended venues include retro gelateria Snack Baby, known for their creative gelato flavours made with lactose-free and animal-free milk; snack vendor Banana Boy, which offers crispy banana roti in sweet and savoury flavours; and dessert shop Heartwarming, a streetside vendor that churns out traditional sweet soups and various black sesame treats lik

Fine dining fiends can rejoice, as Simon Rogan’s acclaimed one-Michelin-starred and Green Michelin-starred restaurant, Roganic, has officially reopened at a new location at Lee Garden One, Causeway Bay. The newly-renovated space, designed by local interior design firm Atelier E, embodies Roganic’s ethos of ‘reuse, recycle, and repurpose’. The restaurant’s eco-friendly decor showcases reclaimed flooring and upcycled chairs from its original location, a minimalist bar counter crafted from repurposed oyster shells and stone, and striking bespoke wooden pieces created in collaboration with local woodwork brand HKTimberBank.  Photograph: Courtesy Roganic Hong Kong   Under the guidance of executive chef Oli Marlow, along with head chef Adam Catterall and senior chef Mark Catchpole, Roganic has revamped its menu to present entirely new offerings. For lunch, guests can enjoy a menu priced at $520, featuring two snacks, sharing dishes such as Hokkaido scallops with grilled peas and pea shell dashi or dry-aged Guangdong duck roasted in flower honey, followed by two seasonal desserts.   Photograph: Courtesy Roganic Hong Kong   As for dinner, the restaurant introduces a new sharing set menu ($1,280), which offers four starters, a selection of four main courses, three desserts, and three sweet treats. Highlights include Wagyu ox tongue with pickled shimeji mushrooms, cured Hainan mackerel with beetroots, and aged grouper with white dragon sweetcorn. For those who want to take their d

Calling all cocktail enthusiasts! This February, Hollywood Road is set to become the ultimate drinking destination with the debut of Margarita Mile in Hong Kong. Originating from the United States, this week-long bar crawl leads drinkers through the best spots in town for margaritas. The event has since been held around the globe, and it’s finally taking place in Hong Kong.  From February 17 to 23, 10 of the city’s top bars – Call Me Al, The Holywell’s, Coa, Dead Poets, The Globe, Courtroom, Socio, The Pontiac, Lockdown, and The Green Door – will be shaking up exclusive margaritas made with El Tequileño tequila. Imbibers who join the crawl can pick up a passport and a stamp after ordering their first cocktail from any of the participating venues. Then, bring your passport with you and collect stamps from other participating bars by ordering their renditions of the classic Mexican cocktail.  Photograph: Courtesy Margarita Mile Customers who collect over five stamps will receive a free El Tequileño shot and shot glass, and get entered into a lucky draw for a chance to win a bottle of El Tequileño’s Gran Reserva tequila. Those who collect all 10 stamps will also receive the free shot and shot glass, but the lucky draw prize could be winning a luxurious staycation at Rosewood Hong Kong! While you can tackle all 10 bars by yourself, local event organiser Hong Kong Pub Crawl will be around to guide thirsty cocktail seekers on a tour of the Margarita Mile during the week. What’s m

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and we’re fairly certain most people will be getting their hands on gifts like flowers, chocolates, or stuffed animals to impress their partners. But, if you’re looking to impress your S.O. with a huge romantic gesture, we reckon Pane e Latte’s massive pastry will do the trick. In the spirit of the upcoming romantic day, this casual Italian restaurant has created a giant raspberry pain au chocolat and cappuccino set ($198).  Available throughout February, this hefty treat has a flaky crust and a raspberry and chocolate filling. What’s more, the pain au chocolate is approximately the size of two adult heads, so you’d better invite a few friends to help you demolish this behemoth of a baked good. And that’s not all. Pane e Latte will release a new pastry and cappuccino set each month, so stay tuned to their Instagram to be the first to find out what they’ve got in store.  Photograph: Courtesy Pane e Latte If you can’t hack this giant pastry and want something more manageable, the restaurant is also releasing regular-sized treats each month. This February, diners at Pane e Latte can sink their teeth into a Very Berry croissant filled with cream as well as a cookies & cream latte (each $58, $98 for both). Additionally, they’ve also whipped up other V-Day-related treats like heart-shaped bombolinis ($48) and a delightfully sweet strawberry latte ($58), exclusively available from now until February 16. Stay in the loop: sign up for our 

If you’ve ever walked around Causeway Bay, chances are you’ve seen Transformers: The Ark, a bright yellow, futuristic restaurant with a giant billboard and spaceship-like exterior. As the world’s first Transformers-themed restaurant, this venue quickly became a hit with fans of the series and families with young children. However, the eatery recently announced on Instagram that it will be closing on February 8. The dining venue thanked its customers for their support over the years and mentioned that “the Ark spaceship will travel around the world to continue its mission to serve our Earthling friends”. The fast food restaurant also shared that they will be relocating to Yitian Holiday Plaza in Shenzhen and will be open from May 1 onwards. Photograph: Courtesy Transformers: The Ark The Transformers-themed restaurant first opened in Causeway Bay in mid-2023. As the first of its kind, this fast food joint took inspiration from the spaceship in the animated series that was set to fly towards planet Cybertron before crashing onto Earth. Within the same year, the eatery rapidly expanded and opened a branch location at Park Central in Tseung Kwan O, which closed in mid-2024 after a six-month-long run. Recommended reading: American sandwich chain Eggslut closes in Hong Kong this February Taschen is holding a huge sale on their art books from February 5 London's famous ASMR exhibition is coming to Hong KongFollow us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, or subscribe to our

American gourmet sandwich chain Eggslut recently announced on Instagram that it would close its Hong Kong location on February 23. The brand thanked its customers for their support since opening its doors in 2023, stating “the long queues, the joy on our customers’ faces, and every like and share online – these moments will forever be in our hearts”.  Founded by chef Alvin Cailan in 2011, the sandwich chain initially started as a Los Angeles-based food truck, and has since expanded to brick-and-mortar stores around the globe, including London, Singapore, Tokyo, and South Korea. The brand is best known for its mega-indulgent egg sandwiches, which features ingredients such as applewood smoked bacon, homemade chicken sausage, or seared USDA prime-grade tri-tip steak, all paired with eggs done the way you like – scrambled, over-medium, or hard-cooked.  Photograph: Cherry Chan Eggslut didn’t explicitly mention if they had plans to reopen in Hong Kong in the future. Nonetheless, the restaurant wrapped up its announcement on a hopeful note by stating “when the right moment comes, we will regroup and return, and we hope to see all of your smiling faces once again”.  Recommended reading: Hong Kong’s giant panda twins are officially debuting on February 16 Taschen is holding a huge sale on their art books from February 5 London's famous ASMR exhibition is coming to Hong KongFollow us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news an

Every culture has its unique cuisine, but some dishes can be more daunting than others. Hong Kong is no stranger to having some eyebrow-raising dishes – think snake soup or century eggs – but what if we told you that mooncakes have been listed among the world’s worst dishes? Online travel guide platform Tasteatlas has released its list of the 100 worst-rated dishes in the world for 2025, compiled from over 600 thousand ratings by global users. To our surprise, single-yolk mooncakes landed in 25th place on the list and earned a mere 2.7 points out of five. What’s more, these traditional treats also topped Tasteatlas’ list as the worst pastry in the world. While one user described mooncakes as a “hard-boiled egg in a sweet cake”, others defended them, saying “it’s nice to have a filling snack that isn’t too sweet”, and that it “definitely doesn’t deserve the low rating it gets”. The top spot on the list went to Sweden’s blodplättar (traditional animal blood pancakes and lingonberries), which scored a 1.6 out of 5, followed by blodpalt – dumplings made from rye or barley flour dough and animal’s blood – from Finland at 1.8 points, and calskrove – a calorific calzone stuffed with hamburgers and French fries – also from Sweden at 1.9 points. Aside from mooncakes, several Asian dishes also made Tasteatlas’ list. Among them, Thailand clinched fifth place with deep-fried silkworm pupae at 2.0 points, followed by fish entrail sour curry in ninth place with 2.2 points. Others on the li

If you’ve ever gone bar-hopping in Central, chances are you’ve dropped into Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour for a cocktail at least once. Since opening its doors in 2017, this hidden gem in Landmark’s basement has become one of Hong Kong’s top speakeasy-style bars. Housing over 200 bottles of premium gin sourced globally, it’s a haven for gin lovers. Photograph: Courtesy Dr Fern's Gin Parlour/Jared Lam Sadly, the bar recently announced on Instagram that it will be closing its doors by January 25 and encouraged visitors to ‘drop by one last time for a prescription to whatever ailment you have’. As a farewell, Dr. Ferns’ is going out with a bang and holding a series of exciting guest shifts. Visitors can stop by on January 16 to catch Shanghai-based bar The Union Trading Co’s mixologist Lio Yao behind the bar, or catch Dr. Fern’s former head bartenders Paul and Gerry as they shake and stir exclusive cocktails for one last time on January 18 and 24. While t​​he gin parlour hasn’t mentioned any plans to open at a new venue, we’re keeping our fingers crossed that they’ll return to Hong Kong’s bar scene. Recommended reading: I tried the viral custard flan from Rosewood Hong Kong and here's my verdict Chinese app Xiaohongshu sees an influx of American users following the likelihood of a TikTok ban Catch unbeatable deals at Black Sheep Restaurants’ Black Series Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and updates on what's g

Our city’s foodies are always on the hunt for great dishes to try, so it’s no surprise for an online food recommendation to quickly become a viral sensation. Recently, one post on Xiaohongshu (XHS) – a Chinese social media app that’s currently being flooded with ‘TikTok refugees’ – about the Hokkaido custard flan from Rosewood Hong Kong’s Butterfly Patisserie has sparked interest amongst many. Led by executive pastry chef Jonathan Soukdeo, the patisserie consistently churns out showstopping pastries. Although this baked dessert has been available at Butterfly Patisserie for six months, it’s become a hot commodity and must be reserved in advance on Rosewood Hong Kong’s website. Luckily, I was able to get my hands on one of these pastries to see what all the hype was about.   Photograph: Cherry Chan At first glance, the flan is around the same size as a fist and has a flaky pastry shell with distinct layers. The custard’s surface is lightly caramelised and dusted with icing sugar. After taking a hefty bite, the strong egg and vanilla flavours of the custard coated my entire palate.  The flan was pleasant at first, but the creamy filling got pretty sweet as I continued eating and wished I had a cup of tea or coffee to offset the rich, eggy flavours. With that said, I particularly enjoyed the flan’s crispy pastry shell, which added a contrast in textures. Photograph: Cherry Chan As someone with a low threshold for sweets, I tapped out after having half of the custard flan, bu

From January 17 to 26, Black Sheep Restaurants is returning with its ever-popular Black Series dining event, which promises exclusive dishes and signature menus at unbeatable prices. What’s more, all Black Series diners will receive a lai see, offering a chance to win redeemable prizes for their next visit. You could potentially win two-for-one deals on lunch and dinner, or even snag a complimentary bottle of Champagne! Photograph: Courtesy Prince and the Peacock Expect lavish dining experiences at venues like Prince and the Peacock, where chef Palash and his team have whipped up a menu (from $468) with dishes like lobster shorba in tomato broth and tomato cream, tandoor-fired Wagyu short ribs with sesame chutney, and more. Treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable meal at Michelin-starred eatery Belon (from $1,088) which includes creations like Spanish mackerel with ginkgo nut and red curry, and smoked Pekin duck with sugarcane and sakura. Photograph: Courtesy Grand Majestic Sichuan For those seeking traditional Chinese flavours, be sure to drop into Ho Lee Fook on Elgin Street to savour timeless Cantonese classics in their time-limited dinner menu ($498). Alternatively,  Grand Majestic Sichuan’s exclusive menu (from $328) will serve up fiery dishes like bang bang chicken tossed in spicy sesame sauce and kung pao prawns.  Photograph: Courtesy Black Sheep Restaurants If you’re craving something sweet, Gelato Messina will offer a third scoop on the house for

Last December, Hong Kong’s foodies couldn’t stop raving about Japan’s beloved bakery TruffleBakery opening in town. Well, it seems like the hype around Japanese bakeries isn’t dying down anytime soon, as baked goods brand Merci Moncher has just opened its first overseas location in Hong Kong! Here’s all the key info you knead to know about this artisan bakery. Where is Merci Moncher in Hong Kong? You can find the Japanese bakery at 15 Lan Fong Road in Causeway Bay near Lee Garden One. Photograph: Courtesy Merci Moncher What’s on the menu at Merci Moncher? Aside from a wide variety of baked goods – including baguettes, bread loaves, and roll cakes – Merci Moncher also offers Hong Kong-exclusive items like mini melonpan bread loaves, cream-filled milk rolls inspired by Italian maritozzo buns, flaky egg tarts made with Hokkaido milk, and plenty more. Those in need of caffeine can also grab fresh brews made from NOC’s coffee beans from the shop’s small coffee stand. Photograph: Courtesy Merci Moncher Special promotions at Merci Moncher To celebrate Merci Moncher opening its first overseas location, the bakery will be rolling out week-long discounts and deals in January. Enjoy a buy-one-get-one deal on their flaky egg tarts from now until January 14, followed by a buy-one-get-one deal on croissants from January 15 to 21. Finally, the bakery will be selling their mini melonpan bread loaves with a 50 percent discount from January 22 to 28.  What is Merci Moncher and why are they

China’s largest online shopping platform, Meituan, has released its annual Black Pearl Restaurant Guide for 2025 – and Hong Kong nabbed a whopping 37 spots on the list! This year, the guide is comprised of 370 restaurants from 34 cities around the world, and destinations such as Changzhou, Quanzhou, Wenzhou, and Sanya made their first appearance on the list. For those who aren’t aware, restaurants named in the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide are categorised into three diamond tiers – similar to Michelin star ratings. For the 2025 ranking, our city gained six more venues compared to last year’s total of 31 venues. Most notably, refined Cantonese restaurant The Chairman gained an additional diamond, making it one of two restaurants in the city to earn the prestigious ranking of three diamonds. Find the complete list of Black Pearl Restaurant Guide-recognised restaurants below: Three diamonds (Two venues)The Chairman Howard’s Gourmet Two diamonds (11 venues)8 ½ Otto e Mezzo BombanaAmberCapriceL’Atelier del Joël RobuchonTa VieVEA RestaurantSeventh Son RestaurantLai Ching HeenLung King HeenT’ang CourtSushi ShikonOne diamond (24 venues)AndōArborChaatEstro (new entry)Hansik GooL’Envol (new entry)Sep (new entry)Tate Dining Room The Chinese LibraryBo InnovationHong Zhou RestaurantSpring MoonMing CourtRùn (new entry)Mott 32Chinesology (new entry)Tin Lung Heen The Legacy House (new entry)Celestial Court Chinese RestaurantXin Rong JiStellar House (new entry)WingYong Fu Recommended reading