7 local food restaurants in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the most fascinating places in the world when it comes to food. The number of options available throughout the city can be overwhelming: street restaurants, in shopping malls, or hidden on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th… floors of any building. There is so much to choose from, both local and international food, that sometimes it's hard to decide. (Spoiler: you can eat well almost anywhere).

If you're hesitating or having trouble deciding, like I do, here are 7 local food restaurants in Hong Kong that I have tried and always return to. I hope you like them. If you've been to any, write to me and let's discuss!

🥟 Master Chan Dim Sum Specialist

I had to start with the most typical of Hong Kong: dim sum, which literally means "bite that touches the heart" (and something with that name can only be good).

This place is ideal for trying different types of dim sum and other Cantonese specialties.

Recommendations:

• Shrimp dim sum

• Meat and seafood rice rolls

• Siu mai

• Sponge cake for dessert, very typical and always present on local tables.

Dishes cost between 20 and 40 HKD (about 3 €). You order through a QR code and the menu is in English. As a good local place, if you go alone, you will probably be seated with someone else.

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🌟 Din Tai Fung

One of my favorites. Although it is a Taiwanese restaurant, it also includes Cantonese dishes and deserves to be on this list.

It is one of the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants you will find. Although it is slightly more expensive than other local spots, you won’t spend more than 20 € per person.

It is located in Causeway Bay and is very large, so you will rarely have to wait.

Recommendations:

• Xiao Long Bao (impressive)

• Steamed vegetables

• Wonton soup

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🍽️ Chiuchow Garden Restaurant

A restaurant very popular with locals, with round tables for sharing and an enormous menu.

• At noon: special attention to dim sum and oyster omelet, a very typical dish.

• At night: there are no dim sum and the menu changes. Prices are slightly higher.

Recommendation: the smoked duck, traditional and delicious.

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🥟 Num Num Dumpling

A good dumpling soup never fails. They also have fried versions and they are just as good.

There are several locations throughout Hong Kong. Very affordable prices: between 7 and 10 €.

Important: they only accept cash or Octopus card.

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🥢 One Dim Sum

One of the most famous in the city and recommended in all guides. I tried the one in Central, small and crowded, but the service is quick and the wait is worth it.

The dim sum costs between 3 and 5 €.

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🍜 Mak’s Noodles

Perfect for trying a wonton soup, one of the most typical dishes of Hong Kong. There are several locations spread throughout the city; I was at the one on Victoria Peak.

If you are in the area and don't know where to eat, this is a sure hit.

Prices are around 10 €, the service is quick, and there is usually not much wait.

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🍚 Southeast Asia Special Deli

Probably the most local place on the list: menu only in Chinese, shared tables, and excellent value for money.

My recommendation? The rice dish with beef and runny egg on top. It's delicious and doesn't reach 7 €!

It is located in the Macao Ferry shopping center, so if you are taking the ferry and want a quick and authentic meal, it’s ideal.

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🍰 Bonus: Desserts

If you have room for dessert, don't miss:

• 🥚 Egg tart from V8 Bakery, in Sheung Wan:
  V8 Bakery on Google Maps

• 🧇 Egg waffles from Mammy Pancake, recommended even in the Michelin Guide.

• 🥭 Mango mochis. Delicious!

💡 Where to go if…?

• You want to try dim sum → Master Chan Dim Sum Specialist

• You are looking for a very local option → Southeast Asia Special Deli

• You want to indulge in Michelin → Dim Tai Fung

💬 And you?

Have you tried any of these places? Do you have any recommendations that cannot be missed on this list?
Write to me and let's discuss!