7 Must-visit spots for shopping and dining in Hong Kong
Shopping and dining in Hong Kong are experiences 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 showcases homegrown talents and small businesses such as Slowood and the HK Tram Store.
2. 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 with a secret sauce containing more than ten ingredients and fresh spring fish, making you crave more with every bite. They also offer a variety of snacks, such as 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 been restored with modern additions, including aesthetic murals that pay homage to the street’s history and independent local businesses selling a variety 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) has not backed down in the face of new competition.
Since its founding in 1986, HFT has evolved into a modern wellness concept store that brings together Western and Chinese food cultures.
Besides 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 (pronounced hɑ hɑ) is a Spanish word that inspired the restaurant to represent a vegetarian establishment celebrating happiness. A meat-free dining spot, this is perfect for visitors looking to try gourmet vegetarian meals.
Curated to suit the tastes of the young and trendy, this spot will have you ‘feed’ your cameras 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 you must visit in Hong Kong is the Cruise Liner Mall. Part of a larger mall called The Whampoa, the Cruise Liner Mall is relatively less known but carries a meaningful history.
The mall is set on what used to be the largest and busiest shipyard in Asia in the early 20th century, and, as the name suggests, is shaped like a cruise liner.
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)
