Hong Kong is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of traditional Cantonese flavors, street food delights, and international fusion. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these must-eat dishes will give you a true taste of the city's vibrant food culture.
1. Dim Sum
Dim sum is the heart of Hong Kong’s food scene. Served in bamboo steamers, these bite-sized delights include siu mai (pork dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), char siu bao (BBQ pork buns), and cheung fun (rice noodle rolls). Dim sum is best enjoyed in a lively teahouse, where servers push around carts filled with an array of freshly steamed and fried delights. For an authentic experience.
2. Roast Goose
Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, roast goose is a Hong Kong specialty that you can’t miss. The meat is marinated with a blend of aromatic spices before being roasted to perfection. Try it at Yat Lok or Kam’s Roast Goose, both Michelin-recommended spots known for their rich, flavorful goose served with plum sauce.
3. Wonton Noodles
A comforting bowl of wonton noodles features delicate shrimp dumplings and springy egg noodles in a rich, umami-packed broth. The best versions use shrimp-heavy wontons with a thin, smooth wrapper that bursts with flavor.
4. Egg Tarts
Hong Kong-style egg tarts have a flaky pastry crust and a silky-smooth custard filling. Originating from British influence, these tarts come in two styles: the buttery shortcrust pastry or the crispy, flaky puff pastry. For the best versions.
5. Pineapple Bun (Bo Lo Bao)
Despite its name, this bun doesn’t contain pineapple. Instead, its golden, sugary crust resembles the fruit’s texture. Best enjoyed warm and fresh, it is often served with a thick slab of butter in the middle, making it a heavenly snack.
6. Claypot Rice
Cooked in a traditional claypot, this dish is topped with Chinese sausage, spare ribs, or salted fish, then drizzled with soy sauce. The slow-cooking process creates a crispy layer of rice at the bottom, adding an extra texture to every bite.
7. Fish Balls
A staple Hong Kong street food, fish balls come in two varieties: deep-fried curry fish balls, which are spicy and flavorful, and bouncy white fish balls in soup, which are more delicate in taste. These are a must-try snack often found in bustling food stalls. Find them at Dai Pai Dongs and Temple Street Night Market.
8. Milk Tea
Hong Kong-style milk tea is strong, silky, and perfectly sweetened, made with a blend of black tea and evaporated or condensed milk. The brewing process involves filtering the tea multiple times to create a smooth, rich texture. Get yours at Lan Fong Yuen or Tsui Wah.
9. Beef Brisket Noodles
Slow-cooked until tender, beef brisket is served over noodles in a rich, aromatic broth. This dish is often paired with flat rice noodles or traditional egg noodles to soak up the deep flavors. Kau Kee and Sister Wah are famous for their versions, with queues forming daily.
10. Stinky Tofu
A must-try for the adventurous eater! This deep-fried fermented tofu has a strong aroma but a surprisingly delicious taste, featuring a crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful inside. Typically served with hoisin or chili sauce, it is a favorite at local night markets.
Exploring Hong Kong through food is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant or grabbing a snack from a street vendor, each bite tells a story of the city’s rich culinary heritage. What’s your favorite Hong Kong dish?
Let us know in the comments below!