Set on a group of islands under mainland China, Hong Kong is a beautiful mix of cultured history and metropolitan lifestyle. The city state is set into hills rising out of the Indo-Pacific and has evolved from a fishing village to a British colonial outpost to the bustling city it is today. The people here are fashionable, with a vibrant art scene and modern western architecture and yet there is something unique to Hong Kong. They also know how to eat well. If you find yourself in HK here are three dishes you should not miss.
Din Tai Fung: Black Truffle Pork Soup Dumplings
Din Tai Fung might be a Taiwanese institution but it’s the Hong Kong branches of this restaurant that have won a Michelin star for five years in a row. Soup Dumplings are their speciality and the black truffle pork is the jewel in this crown. There is something incredibly unexpected about the way black truffle and pork, both strong flavours, complement instead of competing. The richness of the pork brings out a pungency in the truffle, the steamed dumpling keeping it from becoming too heavy. It helps that the dumplings are perfectly bite sized.
#Spoontip: Definitely place the dumpling on your soup spoon and poke it open with chopsticks as instructed, you might burn your mouth otherwise.
Lan Kwai Fong: Hong Kong Craft beer
Rejoice you filthy hipsters, Hong Kong has a craft beer scene. My favorite was the amber ale, which was the perfect strength with a flavor that was complex without being to hoppy, but there is a whole selection of different brews to choose from. Treat yourself to a night out at Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong’s nightlife hub and make your way through a few local beers. The best part? There are elevators going between the streets in this hillside neighbourhood so bar hopping will never be easier.
Tai O Fishing Village: Egg or Bubble waffles
Bubble waffles are a popular street snack in HK, the shape of the griddle means your waffle comes out looking like rows of eggs and the leavened dough leaves it airy and melt in your mouth. While these waffles are available all over the city, if you make it out to the Tai O fishing village in Lantau you will be greeted by the local waffle man, something of a legend. Allow the scent of charcoal and cooking waffles to lead you to his store and watch, mesmerized as he prepares waffles one at a time. The waffles were easily the best I’ve had, perfectly rich with just the right amount of sugar, and gone in the blink of an eye.
There is no shortage of good food in Hong Kong and everything from street food to fancy restaurants is really good quality. Do not be scared to try new or strange dishes here and with this list to lead you around the city you will have a great time.