Hong Kong Food Guide: 10 Local Delights to Try

In Hong Kong, dining options range widely, encompassing Western and Middle Eastern cuisine as well as flavors from various regions of China. Whether you prefer Michelin-starred restaurants or street food stalls, there are choices to suit all tastes and budgets, making it a culinary paradise for visitors from around the world.

Of course, while in Hong Kong, trying the local cuisine is a must. Hong Kong's local dishes and snacks are diverse and plentiful. Wondering what the most popular local foods in Hong Kong are? Let's take a look!

Dim Sum (点心)

Dim Sum

Dim sum is a representative Cantonese cuisine, typically served as small, delicate portions in bamboo steamers. The most famous dim sum dishes are shrimp dumplings and siu mai, but there are dozens of other varieties, including congee and desserts. The focus is on fresh, natural flavors, avoiding heavy oil and strong spices.

Despite its colonial history separating Hong Kong from Guangdong, Hong Kong remains a vital part of Cantonese culture. Dim sum was brought to the world by hardworking Cantonese immigrants over a century ago. Today, you can find dim sum in many Chinatowns worldwide. However, if you visit Hong Kong, it's well worth tasting the authentic dim sum in its place of origin.

Wonton Noodles (云吞面)

Wonton noodles consist of chewy thin noodles paired with wontons, which are dumplings filled with shrimp and pork wrapped in a thin dough. Authentic wonton noodles feature tender wontons, springy noodles, and a clear broth made from shrimp shells and fish.

Due to its quick serving time and balanced combination of carbs and protein, wonton noodles are a beloved everyday food among locals. Even Hong Kong movie stars, including Jackie Chan, are known to enjoy wonton noodles.

Siu Mei (烧味)

Siu Mei

Siu mei is a category of Cantonese barbecued meat dishes, including char siu (barbecued pork), roast goose, roast duck, and crispy roast pork. Unlike typical barbecue, siu mei has a savory-sweet flavor without a strong smoky taste. The meat is often served with rice or noodles.

Siu mei is a popular and affordable street food, but it also features prominently in wedding banquets and religious ceremonies. Street vendors often display siu mei in glass cases to attract customers, offering combo meals with two or three types of siu mei so diners can mix and match their favorites.

Hong Kong Egg Tarts (港式蛋挞)

Hong Kong egg tarts, also known as Cantonese egg tarts, originated in Guangzhou in the early 20th century as a variation of English custard tarts. With the influx of Guangdong immigrants to Hong Kong, the egg tart became a local favorite. Made with milk, eggs, and sugar, Hong Kong egg tarts are less sweet than their Western counterparts, appealing to local tastes.

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Egg Waffles (鸡蛋仔)

Egg waffles are a popular street food originating from Hong Kong. They are made by mixing eggs, sugar, butter, flour, and evaporated milk into a batter, which is then cooked in a mold with bubble-shaped compartments. Loved by locals, especially children, the traditional egg waffles were originally sold by street vendors with pushcarts, but now they are typically found in shops. Some ice cream parlors even use egg waffles instead of wafer cones. Beyond the traditional flavor, you can also find egg waffles in various flavors like matcha and chocolate.

Curry Fish Balls (咖喱鱼蛋)

Curry Fish Balls

Curry fish balls are another iconic Hong Kong street snack. They are made by mixing fish meat and flour into balls, which are then cooked in a curry sauce with coconut milk. These fish balls have a slightly spicy but savory flavor. They can be served as a topping for noodles or enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item. While you can find curry fish balls in convenience stores like 7-Eleven, the tastiest ones are usually hidden in local eateries.

Cart Noodles (车仔面)

Cart noodles get their name from the small carts used by vendors in the past to sell this street food, often at the risk of being caught by the police. These makeshift mobile kitchens were fitted with stoves and sold noodles on the streets. Nowadays, cart noodles are served in proper storefronts, though typically in humble neighborhood shops rather than upscale restaurants.

Cart noodles are a customizable dish. Diners can choose their preferred meats, vegetables, noodle thickness, and soup base, making each bowl unique.

Claypot Rice (煲仔饭)

Claypot Rice

Claypot rice is made by cooking rice in a clay pot with various meats and vegetables. The most famous varieties include preserved meat claypot rice, beef and egg claypot rice, and spare rib claypot rice. The cooking process takes about 30 minutes. When served, a special sauce is poured over the dish. The top layer of rice is soft and flavorful, while the bottom layer forms a crispy crust. Originally a winter dish, claypot rice is now enjoyed year-round.

Tofu Pudding (豆腐花)

Tofu pudding, or "doufu fa," is enjoyed across many regions of China, with very different regional variations. In Sichuan, for example, tofu pudding is savory, often served with chili and soy sauce. In Hong Kong, however, tofu pudding is sweet, accompanied by syrups or sugar. Shops that sell tofu pudding often offer other traditional desserts like herbal jelly and mung bean soup, as well as snacks like fried tofu. These treats are a cherished part of many Hongkongers' childhood memories.

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Hong Kong-Style Milk Tea (港式奶茶)

Hong Kong-Style Milk Tea

Hong Kong-style milk tea, also known as "silk-stocking milk tea," was inspired by the British afternoon tea culture but is a uniquely Hong Kong creation. The name "silk-stocking milk tea" comes from the fine mesh filter used to strain the tea leaves, which, after repeated use, takes on a color and appearance similar to nylon stockings.

Another popular Hong Kong-originated drink is "Yuenyeung," a blend of coffee and milk tea. Both of these beverages are commonly found in Hong Kong restaurants, typically served as accompaniments to meals.

Tailor Your Hong Kong Food Tour

Hong Kong's culinary scene is vast and varied. While this list highlights some iconic dishes, your perfect food adventure depends on your personal tastes. If you are looking for a personalized food tour in Hong Kong, feel free to contact us. Our seasoned local expert will create an itinerary based on your preference.