Hong Kong, a vibrant city known for its rich culinary heritage, is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re a fan of street food, traditional dim sum, or modern fusion cuisine, the city offers a diverse range of flavors that will leave you craving for more. From bustling night markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, Hong Kong’s food scene is an experience in itself.
If you’re visiting Hong Kong for the first time or looking to explore its gastronomic wonders, here are the top 10 must-try foods that define the city’s unique and delicious culinary culture.
1. Dim Sum (点心)
No visit to Hong Kong is complete without indulging in dim sum, the iconic Cantonese cuisine served in bamboo steamers. Dim sum is more than just food; it’s a social experience enjoyed with family and friends over tea.
Some of the most famous dim sum dishes include:
- Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings) – Delicate, translucent dumplings filled with fresh shrimp.
- Siu Mai (Pork & Shrimp Dumplings) – Open-topped dumplings with minced pork and shrimp.
- Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns) – Soft, fluffy buns stuffed with sweet and savory barbecued pork.
- Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls) – Silky smooth rice rolls filled with shrimp, beef, or char siu, drizzled with sweet soy sauce.
You can try dim sum at legendary restaurants like Tim Ho Wan (the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant) or Maxim’s Palace, which offers a traditional cart service experience.
2. Roast Goose (燒鵝)
One of the most famous dishes in Hong Kong, roast goose is a must-try for meat lovers. The goose is marinated with a blend of secret spices, then roasted until the skin turns crispy while the meat remains juicy and flavorful.
For the best roast goose, head to:
- Yat Lok Roast Goose (Michelin-starred, famous for its crispy skin and rich flavors)
- Kam’s Roast Goose (another Michelin-starred favorite, known for its succulent meat)
Pair your roast goose with steamed rice or noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
3. Egg Tarts (蛋挞)
A legacy of Hong Kong’s colonial past, egg tarts are a popular pastry influenced by the Portuguese pastel de nata and British custard tarts. These small treats consist of a flaky or buttery crust filled with a creamy, sweet egg custard.
Two styles dominate Hong Kong’s egg tart scene:
- Flaky Puff Pastry Egg Tarts – Delicate, crispy layers similar to a croissant.
- Shortcrust Pastry Egg Tarts – A firmer, biscuit-like crust.
Try them at:
- Tai Cheong Bakery (famous for its buttery, rich shortcrust pastry egg tarts)
- Honolulu Coffee Shop (known for its flaky puff pastry version)
Enjoying a warm, freshly baked egg tart with Hong Kong-style milk tea is one of the best simple pleasures in the city.
4. Pineapple Bun (菠蘿包)
Despite its name, the pineapple bun (bo lo bao) does not contain pineapple. Instead, it gets its name from the golden, crackly topping that resembles the fruit’s rough texture. Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, this bun is often served with a thick slice of cold butter (bo lo yau).
Best places to try pineapple buns:
- Kam Wah Café (one of the most famous pineapple bun spots in Mong Kok)
- Australia Dairy Company (a must-visit for classic Hong Kong breakfast items)
Pair it with a cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea for an authentic local breakfast experience.
5. Wonton Noodles (雲吞麵)
A beloved comfort food, wonton noodles are a staple in Hong Kong’s culinary scene. This dish consists of delicate shrimp or pork-filled dumplings served in a flavorful, clear broth with thin, springy egg noodles.
What makes Hong Kong’s wonton noodles special?
- The dumplings are handmade, filled with fresh shrimp and pork.
- The noodles have a signature firm and chewy texture.
- The broth is light yet packed with umami flavor.
Top places to try wonton noodles:
- Mak’s Noodle (a legendary shop with a decades-old recipe)
- Tsim Chai Kee (famous for its generous wonton portions)
For an authentic experience, order a bowl with extra wontons and a side of boiled greens.
6. Fish Balls (魚蛋)
A street food favorite, fish balls are one of the most iconic snacks in Hong Kong. These springy, bouncy balls are made from fish paste and served in different ways:
- Curry Fish Balls – Deep-fried fish balls drenched in a spicy, flavorful curry sauce.
- Boiled Fish Balls – Served in soup or dry with noodles.
- Stuffed Fish Balls – Filled with meat or roe for an extra burst of flavor.
You can find the best fish balls at:
- Dai Pai Dongs and Street Stalls in Mong Kok or Sham Shui Po
- Chung Kee Dessert, which offers unique variations like cheese-stuffed fish balls.
7. Claypot Rice (煲仔飯)
A hearty dish perfect for cooler months, claypot rice is a comforting, one-pot meal cooked over an open flame. The rice is cooked in a traditional claypot, absorbing flavors from a variety of toppings such as:
- Chinese sausage (lap cheong)
- Marinated pork ribs
- Chicken with mushrooms
- Salted fish
The best part? The crispy rice crust at the bottom of the pot!
Where to try it:
- Kwan Kee Claypot Rice (a Michelin-recommended eatery)
- Four Seasons Claypot Rice (known for its flavorful sauces)
Pro tip: Ask for extra soy sauce to drizzle over your rice for an even richer taste.
8. Hong Kong-Style French Toast (西多士)
Hong Kong’s French toast is an indulgent treat that differs from its Western counterpart. Instead of plain bread, this version is made by deep-frying thick slices of bread stuffed with peanut butter or condensed milk, then topping it with butter and golden syrup.
It’s a decadent, must-try dish that pairs perfectly with Hong Kong-style milk tea.
Best places to try it:
- Australia Dairy Company (famous for its silky scrambled eggs and French toast)
- Tsui Wah Restaurant (a popular local cha chaan teng)
9. Snake Soup (蛇羹)
A traditional delicacy with over 2,000 years of history, snake soup is considered a health-boosting dish in Hong Kong. Made with shredded snake meat, chicken, and various Chinese herbs, it has a rich, slightly herbal taste.
Where to try snake soup:
- Ser Wong Fun (a famous spot for traditional Cantonese dishes)
- She Wong Lam (a historic restaurant serving authentic snake soup)
Locals believe this dish helps boost immunity and warms the body during winter.
10. Milk Tea (奶茶)
Finally, no Hong Kong food experience is complete without a cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea. This beloved beverage is made with a strong black tea blend and evaporated or condensed milk, creating a rich, smooth, and slightly sweet flavor.
Best places for authentic Hong Kong-style milk tea:
- Lan Fong Yuen (one of the oldest milk tea establishments)
- Kam Wah Café (a great spot for both milk tea and pineapple buns)
Pro tip: Try the “silk stocking” milk tea, named after the fine mesh strainer used to brew the tea, resulting in an ultra-smooth texture.
Conclusion
Hong Kong’s food scene is a delicious blend of traditional Cantonese flavors, colonial influences, and innovative culinary creations. Whether you’re savoring dim sum, slurping on wonton noodles, or indulging in a pineapple bun, every bite tells a story of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Next time you visit Hong Kong, make sure to explore these 10 must-try foods and immerse yourself in the city’s unforgettable gastronomic adventure!
