Last week, I hopped over to my old stomping ground, Hong Kong, for a whirlwind visit. Although the trip was short, I made sure to pack in loads of my favorite pastime – eating and drinking at some of my old spots. These gems have managed to withstand the city’s rollercoaster ride of changes over the past few years, and I’m convinced they deserve more attention than a few-second video clips in my Instagram story.
For those seeking a blend of fun, creativity and delicious dim sum, Social Place is the place to be. I used to swing by for lunch back when it was practically my neighbor. Their take on dim sum is still as modern and unconventional as ever. The menu has leveled up in terms of fun – just don’t be alarmed if you find a serving bowl with ants (doodle). They’re just for show, not for nibbling.
“Spanish lazy omelette with morcilla and chorizo” by Pica Pica
In the sea of European restaurants, Spanish flair truly stands out in the Hong Kong crowd. I remember the tapas craze about 12-13 years ago; there was a new tapas restaurant opening every 3-4 months on average. Many joints came and went, casualties of the competitive and pricey Hong Kong dining scene. However, Pica Pica not only survived but thrived. Tucked in a gorgeous industrial building near the historic Western Market, this modern tapas bar dishes out beautifully presented, no-nonsense, delicious food. The wine selection and vibes are also spot on.
Even if you’re not a wine aficionado, you’ve probably heard of James Suckling. One of the world’s top wine critics and his better half set up this chic and understated wine bar/restaurant in 2018. Just in case you didn’t know, Hong Kong’s zero tax on wine makes it the ultimate spot for top-notch wine in Asia.
During the pandemic when the restaurants couldn’t stay open for dinner, they started offering some of the best wines of the world for tasting at very reasonable prices in the afternoon; it truly was a lifesaver during a very difficult time. And these amazing tasting sessions continue to this date. This time we had Great Wines of Italy – 30 incredible wines from some of my favorite wine regions (yes, we tasted all 30, and some more afterward;-)). And this is probably one of the very few wine bars in the world that has proper Korean dishes on the menu, thanks to Marie Kim-Suckling’s Seoul-inspired offerings. Her kitchen makes a mean kimchi pancake that works perfectly with Brunello di Montalcino.
Tai Hing
This BBQ restaurant chain needs no introduction. Their Char-Siu (Cantonese-style barbecued pork) rice is foolproof.
Hong Kong Style lunch and all day breakfast – Pan-fried pork chop with tomato sauce, rice and a fried egg. Ham omelet with a buttery toast, rice vermicelli and pickled vegetables in soup at “Cha Chaan Teng”
Unfortunately, I don’t have a specific favorite to recommend anymore…but these Hong Kong Style cafe/diner are all over the city. I’ve always had a love-and-hate relationship with Cha Chaan Teng. They offer no frills, cheap, and quick local food. Service is very efficient but don’t expect a warm smile and patience, especially during the busy lunch hour. This is not exactly a place to linger and chill, and the food may not be the best you’ll have. BUT it is a must-have experience for visitors if you want to eat like the locals. Eating at Cha Chaan Teng always comforts me in a very weird way. See, a love and hate relationship.
For those heading to Hong Kong before May, make a beeline for SEVVA and have a drink on the terrace. Unlike the others I’ve mentioned, this stylish and fancy bar loved by celebrities is bidding farewell soon. My husband and I had to swing by for a proper goodbye – it’s where we had our first date. Sure, it might not be the cheapest spot, and newer bars in central Hong Kong might give it a run for its money, but their terrace still boasts the best view of two architectural icons of Hong Kong’s skyline – Bank of China and HSBC.
Cheers to the memories!