EatbyLe

Hong Kong is one of the most exciting cities in Asia for food, nightlife, and shopping. Whether you’re here for fine dining, comfort food, or hidden cocktail bars, this city has it all. Here are my notes and recommendations from a packed 4.5-day trip.

Where to Stay

💡 Pro tip: If you love nightclubs, fine dining, and shopping, stay on Hong Kong Island. If you want to experience the “real” Hong Kong, base yourself in Kowloon/Mongkok.

• Cordis Hotel (Kowloon) – 5 stars, close to the MTR, with a strong breakfast buffet.
• Grand Hyatt (Hong Kong Island) – Luxury option with excellent in-house restaurants.

Getting Around

• The MTR is one of the best subway systems in the world. Get an Octopus Card for quick and easy travel.
• Taxis in red are for downtown. A ride between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon is about 250 HKD.
• Escalators are your friend – walking can be steep in some areas.
• Cash is still important. Some restaurants and taxis don’t accept cards.

Michelin & Fine Dining

Expect similar pricing to Europe: around 100–200 EUR per person without wine pairing. Service can feel rushed, but the food quality is exceptional.

My favorites:

• Forum (3 Michelin stars) – The best Michelin experience in Hong Kong. Classic dishes with creative twists.
• Mono – Memorable service and conversation.
• Ho Lee Fok (Michelin recommended) – Fun, upscale Cantonese. The char siu is excellent.

Other great spots:

• Mott32 – Expensive, but perfect for groups or couples.
• Épure (1 star) – Great for lunch.
• Man Wah (1 star) – Located in the Mandarin Oriental, with some of the best dim sum.
• Yat Lok (1 star) – Local and quick. For fatty duck, order the lower part.
• Grissini – Italian fine dining inside the Grand Hyatt. Fantastic lunch menu, excellent tiramisu, and freshly baked Italian bread served with olive oil.

Cocktail Bars

Hong Kong Central is famous for nightlife, and the cocktail scene is among the best in Asia.

• Bar Leone – Currently ranked #1 in Asia.
• Montana – Busy and energetic.
• Savoury Project – A personal favorite.
• The Diplomat – Great cocktails and the best burger in Hong Kong.
• 001 – A secret bar inside an old prison.

It’s also part of the culture here to take a shot or two at the bar.

Coffee

Specialty coffee is thriving in Hong Kong, and many cafés are perfect for photos as well as a caffeine hit.

• Halfway Coffee – Aesthetic and photogenic.
• EN – Minimal and stylish.
• Crew (Wan Chai) – Neighborhood vibe with friendly staff.
• OMA – Clean and modern.
• Koffee – Excellent brews.

Comfort Food

Hong Kong cinema has made its food culture iconic, and comfort food is a must.

• Lin Heung Lau – Dim sum is best enjoyed at lunch – a must visit.
• Chung Kee Congee – Perfect for a hearty bowl.
• Capital Café – A classic cha chaan teng (local diner).

Things to Do Beyond Food & Shopping

If you need a break from eating and shopping, Hong Kong also offers some fantastic attractions:

• Victoria Peak – Take the Peak Tram for panoramic views of the skyline.
• Star Ferry – A short, cheap ferry ride with one of the world’s most iconic harbor views.
• Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) – Located on Lantau Island, accessible by cable car.
• Temple Street Night Market – A lively market in Kowloon, great for snacks and souvenirs.
• Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden – A peaceful Buddhist complex with traditional Chinese gardens.
• Man Mo Temple – One of the city’s oldest temples, dedicated to the gods of literature and war.

Final Thoughts

I managed to experience all of this in just 4.5 days—a crazy schedule but worth every moment. Hong Kong offers everything from Michelin stars to street-level comfort food, hidden cocktail bars, and vibrant coffee culture.

If you’re planning your trip or have your own recommendations, feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear them.