Quick answers — eating in Hong Kong
- Best restaurant overall
- Caprice
- Best value
- Mak's Noodle (Wellington Street) (HKD 60-150 / USD 8-20)
- Strongest cuisines
- Chinese, French, Japanese, Indian
- Dishes to try
- Dim Sum, Wonton Noodles, Roast Goose, Egg Tart
- Booking window
- For three- and two-starred restaurants, book 1-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Some require full pre-payment or a substantial deposit, often non-refundable, to secure your table.
Booking well in advance, especially for starred restaurants, is essential, often several weeks to months. Dress codes typically range from smart casual to formal, particularly for multi-starred venues. Tipping is generally not expected beyond the standard 10% service charge already included in the bill. Dinner hours usually commence around 6:30 PM and extend until 10:00 PM or 10:30 PM for last orders.
Chinese
Best Chinese restaurants in Hong Kong
Chinese fine dining is regional: Cantonese seafood and dim sum, the chilli and numbing pepper of Sichuan, the delicate soups of Shanghai. Larger tables see more of the menu.
T'ang Court
Three MICHELIN StarsCantonese · Tsim Sha Tsui · HKD 1,500-3,000 / USD 190-380+
Kwok-keung Kwong
Located in The Langham, T'ang Court upholds the pinnacle of classic Cantonese gastronomy. Its opulent decor, reminiscent of a traditional Chinese abode, sets the stage for expertly prepared dishes using premium ingredients. The focus is on authentic flavours, masterful execution, and an elegant dining experience that honors culinary heritage with precision.
Order: Baked Stuffed Crab Shell; Sautéed Prawns and Crab Roe with Golden Fried Rice
Forum
Three MICHELIN StarsCantonese · Causeway Bay · HKD 1,800-3,500 / USD 230-450+
Yeung Koon Yat
Forum is a legendary establishment renowned globally for its 'Ah Yat Abalone.' Founded by Chef Yeung Koon Yat, it represents the epitome of refined Cantonese cooking, emphasizing traditional techniques and the highest quality ingredients. The formal setting and impeccable service underscore its status as a cornerstone of Hong Kong's elite dining scene.
Order: Ah Yat Abalone (Braised Dried Abalone); Deep-fried Crispy Chicken
Ho Hung Kee (Hysan Place)
Bib GourmandCantonese · Causeway Bay · HKD 100-300 / USD 13-40
A long-standing establishment, Ho Hung Kee is renowned for its excellent Cantonese noodles and congee. This Bib Gourmand recipient offers consistently high-quality, comforting dishes in a simple, bustling setting. It's a perfect spot for an authentic taste of Hong Kong's culinary heritage, demonstrating that exceptional food doesn't always come with a high price tag.
Order: Wonton Noodle Soup; Beef Brisket Noodle Soup
Mak's Noodle (Wellington Street)
Bib GourmandCantonese · Central · HKD 60-150 / USD 8-20
Mak's Noodle is a legendary institution, celebrated globally for its tiny bowls of exquisite wonton noodles. The broth is rich, the noodles springy, and the shrimp wontons perfectly al dente. While simple in decor and service, its commitment to quality and tradition makes it a must-visit for an iconic, no-frills Hong Kong dining experience.
Order: Wonton Noodle Soup; Braised Beef Brisket
French
Best French restaurants in Hong Kong
French cooking is still the backbone of fine dining almost everywhere — expect sauce work, butter, precise service and set lunch menus that cost a fraction of dinner.
Caprice
Three MICHELIN StarsFrench Contemporary · Central · HKD 2,500-4,000 / USD 320-510+
Guillaume Galliot
Perched within the Four Seasons, Caprice offers exquisite modern French cuisine with an emphasis on premium ingredients and refined techniques. The opulent dining room provides stunning views of Victoria Harbour, complemented by an impressive cheese cellar and a sommelier team guiding guests through a world-class wine list. A paragon of luxury dining.
Order: Crab cooked in three ways, with Oscietra caviar; Challans Duck, cherry wood smoked, 'Rouennaise' style
Amber
Two MICHELIN StarsModern French · Central · HKD 2,000-3,500 / USD 250-450+
Richard Ekkebus
Housed within The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Amber presents highly innovative and refined modern French cuisine. Chef Ekkebus is celebrated for his lighter, health-conscious approach, reducing dairy and refined sugar without compromising flavor. The stylish dining room features an iconic bronze chandelier, providing a sophisticated backdrop for truly inventive dishes.
Order: Hokkaido Sea Urchin, lobster jelly, cauliflower, caviar; Kyushu Wagyu, black pepper jus, seasonal vegetables
Louise
One MICHELIN StarFrench Casual · Central · HKD 700-1,500 / USD 90-190+
Franck Studer
Set in a charming colonial-era building in PMQ, Louise offers refined yet comforting French cuisine. Under the direction of Chef Julien Guy, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients with classic techniques, designed for sharing. The beautiful garden terrace and relaxed, elegant interiors create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like dining in a grand country home.
Order: Signature Roasted Whole Yellow Chicken with sticky rice; Scallops with Uni and caviar
Japanese
Best Japanese restaurants in Hong Kong
Japanese rooms range from counter omakase, where you eat whatever the chef cut that morning, to kaiseki menus built around the season. Counters are small — book early and arrive on time.
Arbor
Two MICHELIN StarsNordic-Japanese · Central · HKD 1,800-3,000 / USD 230-380+
Eric Räty
Arbor offers an elegant forest-inspired retreat, blending Nordic culinary philosophy with Japanese ingredients and precision. Chef Räty's tasting menus are seasonal masterpieces, showcasing exquisite produce through thoughtful, artistic plating and innovative flavour combinations. The natural light-filled space and refined atmosphere create a tranquil escape from the city's bustle, making each dish memorable.
Order: Seasonal seafood preparations, often featuring uni or scallop; Game birds during autumn/winter
Yardbird
One MICHELIN StarIzakaya/Yakitori · Sheung Wan · HKD 500-900 / USD 65-115+
Matt Abergel
Yardbird redefined Hong Kong's dining scene with its effortlessly cool atmosphere and focus on yakitori made from every part of the chicken. The lively, no-reservations izakaya serves meticulously grilled skewers and creative small plates, paired with an excellent sake and cocktail list. It's a fun, energetic spot that consistently delivers high-quality, approachable Japanese cuisine.
Order: KFC (Korean Fried Cauliflower); Meatball (Tsukune) with Tare and Egg Yolk
Indian
Best Indian restaurants in Hong Kong
Modern Indian kitchens have moved far beyond curry-house shorthand — regional recipes, live-fire tandoors and tasting menus that put spice work at the centre rather than heat.
Chaat
One MICHELIN StarIndian · Tsim Sha Tsui · HKD 600-1,200 / USD 75-150+
Manav Tuli
Located in the Rosewood Hong Kong, Chaat offers an elevated take on traditional Indian street food and regional classics. Chef Tuli's menu bursts with authentic flavours, prepared in impressive tandoor ovens and using traditional techniques. The vibrant, bustling atmosphere and stylish decor make it a dynamic and memorable destination for deeply spiced, flavourful dishes.
Order: Raj Kachori; Lamb Roganjosh
Budget
Where to eat cheaply in Hong Kong
Kau Kee Restaurant
Famous for its intensely flavourful beef brisket noodles, either in clear broth or curry. Expect queues, a no-frills setting, and delicious, tender beef. A bowl costs around HKD 60-80.
Tim Ho Wan (Sham Shui Po)
The original 'cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant' offers outstanding dim sum at incredibly low prices. Must-tries include the baked char siu bao and shrimp dumplings. Expect to pay HKD 100-150 per person.
Kam Wah Cafe
A quintessential Hong Kong cha chaan teng, famed for its pineapple bun with butter (bo lo yau) and milk tea. Perfect for a classic local breakfast or afternoon tea. Dishes are typically HKD 30-70.
Sister Wah
Known for its incredibly popular and often awarded beef brisket curry noodles. The broth is rich, the brisket melts in your mouth, and the portions are generous. Expect to pay around HKD 60-90.
Tai Cheong Bakery (Egg Tart)
A historic bakery famous for its shortcrust pastry egg tarts. A simple, comforting, and essential Hong Kong snack. A single egg tart costs around HKD 10-15.
Local dishes
What to eat in Hong Kong
Dim Sum
A Cantonese style of cuisine prepared as small, bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. Popular items include Har Gow (shrimp dumplings), Siu Mai (pork and shrimp dumplings), and Char Siu Bao (BBQ pork buns). Tim Ho Wan is renowned for its affordable Michelin-starred dim sum.
Wonton Noodles
A classic Hong Kong comfort food featuring delicate shrimp wontons and springy egg noodles in a clear, savory broth. Often served with a dash of red vinegar. Mak's Noodle is a legendary establishment famous for its consistent quality and perfectly crafted wontons, a must-try for any visitor.
Roast Goose
A quintessential Cantonese delicacy, roast goose boasts incredibly crispy skin and tender, succulent meat, often served with a sweet plum sauce. Yat Lok Restaurant in Central holds a Michelin star and is celebrated for its perfectly executed roast goose, attracting long queues daily.
Egg Tart
A small, custard-filled pastry with a flaky crust, typically served warm. You can find them with either a shortcrust or puff pastry base. Tai Cheong Bakery is famed for its buttery, crumbly shortcrust egg tarts, while Honolulu Coffee Shop offers a popular puff pastry version.
Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao)
Despite its name, there's no pineapple in a pineapple bun. It's a sweet, soft bread roll with a crumbly, sugary crust resembling a pineapple's texture. Often served with a slice of cold butter (bo lo yau), creating a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures. Kam Wah Cafe is a famous spot.
Fish Ball Noodles
A staple street food and casual meal, featuring bouncy fish balls made from fresh fish paste, served with thin noodles in a light, flavorful broth. Often accompanied by chili oil or other condiments. Many local dai pai dongs and small eateries excel at this comforting dish.
Baked Pork Chop Rice
A classic cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe) dish. It consists of a tender, pan-fried pork chop served over fried rice, generously covered in a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce, often with cheese. Tai Hing is a popular chain that serves a reliably good version of this hearty dish.
Cart Noodles (Che Zai Mian)
A customizable and affordable street food where you choose your preferred noodles, toppings (fish balls, pig's blood curd, chicken wings, etc.), and broth. It originated from street hawkers. Many small local eateries in districts like Mong Kok or Sham Shui Po offer this personalized culinary experience.
How to book a table in Hong Kong
- · For three- and two-starred restaurants, book 1-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Some require full pre-payment or a substantial deposit, often non-refundable, to secure your table.
- · Many fine dining establishments offer more accessible lunch tasting menus, providing a chance to experience the cuisine at a lower price point and often with slightly easier reservation availability.
- · Be aware of strict cancellation and no-show policies. Many top restaurants will charge the full menu price or a significant penalty if you cancel within a short window or fail to appear for your booking.
- · For one-starred or Bib Gourmand venues, booking a few weeks ahead is generally sufficient, though some popular spots like Yardbird operate on a walk-in basis with a virtual queue system.
FAQ
Hong Kong restaurant questions travellers ask
What is the best restaurant in Hong Kong?
Caprice in Central is the benchmark table — French Contemporary, led by Guillaume Galliot, three michelin stars, around HKD 2,500-4,000 / USD 320-510+ per person. Order the Crab cooked in three ways, with Oscietra caviar; Challans Duck, cherry wood smoked, 'Rouennaise' style
Where is the best Chinese restaurant in Hong Kong?
T'ang Court in Tsim Sha Tsui is the Chinese table to book in Hong Kong (HKD 1,500-3,000 / USD 190-380+ per person). Other strong options: Forum, Ho Hung Kee (Hysan Place), Mak's Noodle (Wellington Street).
Where is the best French restaurant in Hong Kong?
Caprice in Central is the French table to book in Hong Kong (HKD 2,500-4,000 / USD 320-510+ per person). Other strong options: Amber, Louise.
Where is the best Japanese restaurant in Hong Kong?
Arbor in Central is the Japanese table to book in Hong Kong (HKD 1,800-3,000 / USD 230-380+ per person). Other strong options: Yardbird.
Where is the best Indian restaurant in Hong Kong?
Chaat in Tsim Sha Tsui is the Indian table to book in Hong Kong (HKD 600-1,200 / USD 75-150+ per person).
Where can I eat well in Hong Kong without spending a fortune?
Mak's Noodle (Wellington Street) is the best-value table on this list at roughly HKD 60-150 / USD 8-20 per person. Beyond fine dining, locals point to Kau Kee Restaurant, Tim Ho Wan (Sham Shui Po), Kam Wah Cafe.
How far in advance should I book restaurants in Hong Kong?
For three- and two-starred restaurants, book 1-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Some require full pre-payment or a substantial deposit, often non-refundable, to secure your table. Many fine dining establishments offer more accessible lunch tasting menus, providing a chance to experience the cuisine at a lower price point and often with slightly easier reservation availability.
What food is Hong Kong famous for?
Dim Sum, Wonton Noodles, Roast Goose, Egg Tart, Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao) — the dishes most worth eating where they come from. A Cantonese style of cuisine prepared as small, bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. Popular items include Har Gow (shrimp dumplings), Siu Mai (pork and shrimp dumplings), and Char Siu Bao (BBQ pork buns). Tim Ho Wan is renowned for its affordable Michelin-starred dim sum.
Planning the rest of Hong Kong?
The full Hong Kong guide has a seven-day itinerary, neighbourhoods, museums and the mistakes to avoid.
Read the Hong Kong travel guide