8 must-visit spots for shopping and dining in Hong Kong

Shopping and dining in Hong Kong is an experience like no other. With a seemingly endless variety of shopping and dining options, you can find anything you’re looking for, and more.

For shopping, Hong Kong is home to some of the world’s most iconic shopping brands, as well as more unique, local boutiques. You can find everything from high-end designer labels to affordable fast fashion, and everything in between. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, Hong Kong’s markets are a must-see. From the bustling night markets of Mong Kok to the more traditional Chinese markets, you can find just about anything.

When it comes to dining, Hong Kong has something for everyone. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall local spots, there’s something for every taste and budget. And with Hong Kong’s diverse population, you can find cuisines from all over the world. Whether you’re in the mood for Cantonese cuisine, Sichuan food, or something else entirely, you’ll be able to find it in Hong Kong.

Here are eight of the best shopping and dining spots in Hong Kong that you won’t want to miss.

1. Central Market: Giving tradition a modern twist

Central Market, Hong Kong’s first modern wet market, has been a vital part of the community for almost two centuries. The market was originally opened in 1842 and functioned for over 60 years before being revitalized and reopened in 2021. Central Market has been transformed into a vibrant hub with excellent dining and retail options. While the interior of the building appears modernized, its exterior still retains its nostalgic charm.

Some of the notable F&B offerings you can visit at the market are Winelog, Mak’s Beer, and I-O-N.

The Central Market also focuses on showcasing homegrown talents and small businesses such as Slowood and the HK Tram Store.

2. Tea Chateau: First #MadeInHK tea capsules

Thanks to modernization, tea lovers can now rejoice and enjoy traditional Chinese tea within 30 seconds! The latest trend in Hong Kong, Tea Chateau brings you traditional Chinese tea culture, but in a capsule. Not only can you get your tea-to-water ratio to perfection, but the advanced packaging will ensure your tea leaves stay fresher for longer.

3. Fishball Gor: A taste of Hong Kong in every bite

The hunt for Hong Kong’s authentic delicacies won’t be complete without cart noodles and fish balls.

Fishball Gor’s famous curry fish balls are made of a secret sauce with more than ten ingredients and fresh spring fish meat, making you crave more with every bite. They also host a plethora of snacks like glutinous rice, fried noodles with soy sauce, and squid curry. Safe to say, you will be spoiled for choices!

4. Shanghai 618: Old meets new at the heart of Mong Kok

Shanghai 618 was once a strip of waterfront shophouses or tong lau selling sweetened fruit tobacco, electrical appliances, medicinal tea, and leather goods. A century later, it has since been restored with modern additions such as aesthetic murals paying homage to the street’s history, and independent local businesses selling all kinds of goods. You can also marvel at the architectural upgrades made to marry the street’s old and new charms.

5. Hung Fook Tong Life: Where east meets west over a cup of tea

Over the years, modern cafes have sprung up like mushrooms, and the traditional herbal tea shop Hung Fook Tong (HFT) did not back down from its new competition. Since its founding in 1986, HFT transformed into a modern wellness concept store, bringing together Western and Chinese food cultures.

Apart from their signature additive-free soups and healthy drinks, HFT also serves fresh baked goods from local partner bakeshop “Handmade Bakery”.

6. JAJA: A treat for the eyes and the tastebuds

JAJA is a Spanish word pronounced as [ˈhɑːhɑː], that inspired the restaurant to represent a vegetarian restaurant celebrating happiness. A meat-free dining spot, this is perfect for visitors looking to try gourmet vegetarian meals.

Curated to fit the tastes of the young and trendy, this spot will get you to ‘feed’ your cameras first before yourself.

7. Await Café & Studio: Top-notch lunch staples and good coffee

If you enjoy café-hopping and you happen to be in the Kowloon area, you will not want to miss out on Await Café. With a wide selection of pastries and comfort food paired with good coffee, this café makes the perfect lunch spot.

Located just a few minutes away from the Prince Edward MTR station, get your daily dose of caffeine at Await Café to keep you going on your Hong Kong adventure.

8 . Cruise Liner Mall: A ship-shaped shopping mall

Another place that you must pay a visit to when you are in Hong Kong is the Cruise Liner Mall. A part of a bigger mall called The Whampoa, the Cruise Liner Mall is relatively lesser known, but carries a meaningful history.

The mall is set at what used to be the largest and busiest shipyard in Asia in the early 20th century, and as the name suggests, is fashioned in the shape of a cruise liner!

With all these places ready to welcome visitors back, Hong Kong is more than excited to create new adventures with you at every turn. It’s never too early to plan the itinerary for your next Hong Kong holiday. Find out more about what you can explore in Hong Kong at New Adventures at Every Turn.

Featured image: The Whampoa shopping, dining and entertainment center in Kowloon, Hong Kong (Credit: The Whampoa)