The Legacy House

Legendary dim sum offering 

Sea Cucumber Dumpling, Matsutake Mushroom, Pork, Shrimp

Perched within the refined calm of the Rosewood Hong Kong, the Michelin-starred Legacy House leans into understated luxury rather than spectacle, with warm woods, soft lighting, and carefully framed views that remind you where you are without demanding your attention. There’s a strong sense of identity here, rooted in Cantonese culinary tradition but polished through a contemporary lens. That balance shows up not just in the food, but in the way the entire experience unfolds. You’re not rushed, not hovered over, and not left wondering what comes next. Instead, everything moves with a kind of quiet precision that allows the food to take center stage. And for the most part, it earns that spotlight.

Yat Tung Heen

Hallmark of classic Cantonese feast

Char siu bbq pork

Yat Tung Heen sits inside the Eaton Hotel in Hong Kong. The Michelin-starred hotel restaurant is very popular among both locals and tourists. On a weekday lunchtime visit, it was almost packed, which is unusual. The menu leans heavily into Cantonese classics, but there is a sense of restraint. Nothing feels overworked or overly modernized for the sake of trend. Instead, the kitchen seems focused on precision and consistency. For my second visit, I opted for a selection of dim sum dishes along with a char siu and a stir fry rice.

Tate Dining Room & Bar

Contemporary fusion cuisine

Alfonsino, Fish Bone Olive Sauce, Eastern Olive Leaf and Dracontomelon Jam

On my trip to Hong Kong, Tate has been high on my agenda list. I try to avoid western restaurants in Hong Kong as I found you can get better value elsewhere back in Europe. However, Tate is not like any other western restaurants. In fact, it has one of the most unique concepts, combing Chinese and French flavours in almost an art form with its predestination. Fusion is hard to get it right, and rarely you will find a restaurant that does Chinese and French fusion at a level that has landed itself a Michelin star. Chef-owner Vicky Lau has also been given the title as the best female chef from the Asia's 50 best awards, making Tate a hot dining destination in Hong Kong.

Yat Tung Heen

Refined Cantonese cuisine in Hong Kong

Yat Tung Heen

I usually avoid hotel dining and for good reason, there is a high chance the premium cost is down to location rather than the food itself, and that is especially true for restaurants inside a posh hotel. However, there are always exceptions of course, for example, both the 3 Michelin starred Caprice and Lung King Heen are within a hotel. Yat Tung Heen, located inside the Eaton Hotel in Kowloon is a 1 Michelin starred restaurant, offering modern Cantonese cuisine in a formal setting. The restaurant recently had an overhaul in design, using black as the primary colour to give it a contemporary and modern feel in the decor. The menu offering is very similar to many other Hong Kong Chinese hotel restaurants, mostly Cantonese dishes.

Ying Jee Club

Contemporary Chinese fine dining 

Steamed Grouper with Black Mushroom, Yunnan Ham and Bean Curd

The Hong Kong edition of Michelin Guide appears to be a massive fan of Chef Siu Hin Chi, the executive chef of the double Michelin starred Chinese restaurant Ying Jee Club in Hong Kong. He first gained 2 stars status at Tang Court, then another two at Duddell's. He left Duddell's to join Ying Jee Club less than 2 years ago and already reached 2 stars status again. Unlike many other fine dining Chinese out there, Siu Hin Chi's style is much more modern and elegant, using a range of top ingredients from around the world. The restaurant is located inside a shopping mall, it has a very club feels in design and somewhat western in the table layouts.

Imperial Treasure Fine Chinese Cuisine Hong Kong

Chinese fine dining with a fine view

Roasted suckling pig stuffed with gluten rice

Imperial Treasure is a collection of high-end Chinese restaurants from Singapore, with its restaurants spreading across South East Asia, Hong Kong, and China. The group decided to enter the EU market and has launched a new Imperial Treasure in London in late 2018, with Paris in mind for 2019. The group has won plenty of fantastic awards, featured in the Asia 50 Best list and the Hong Kong branch has won a Michelin star. On my trip to Hong Kong, I noticed the menu is not too different from the London's one and I decided to pay a visit for friends gathering.

Yat Lok

In demand roasted goose

Roasted goose and BBQ pork (Char Siu)

If you are traveling to Hong Kong and is a real foodie, the chance is Yak Lok is most likely to be high on your to visit list. The reason is simple, Yat Lok is renown for its legendary roasted goose, which the special cooking formula has been passed down by many generations. The family business is hugely popular, with people queuing every day no matter what time it is. The restaurant has also been awarded a Michelin star since 2016, taking its popularity to the next level and became one of the cheapest Michelin starred restaurant in the world.

Wall City Flavor

Classic Cantonese taste

Wall City Flavor

There are so many great Chinese restaurants in Hong Kong but is hard to find a very classical one that still champions traditional recipes while remaining decent value for money. Simply put, many restaurants care about the bottom line these days, so will always try to avoid dishes that are labor intensive with little return on investment. Lucky enough, I came across Wall City Flavor in Kowloon after noticed it has plenty of old school dishes on offer and been given many great reviews by the local bloggers and presses. Reading from the restaurant's testimonial, the restaurant combine flavours from primary South East China to create something authentic and timeless, with a modern touch make it more contemporary.

Ladies Street Sik Fan Co

New age Dai Pai Dong

Deep fried mango prawns with caviar

Located in the busy tourist district of Mong Kok in Hong Kong, where the popular "Lady Street" market is at, Ladies Street Sik Fan Co is a new restaurant only launched back in late 2018 but already created a massive buzz within the local communities. The concept of the venue is all about tracking back to the "Dai Pai Dong" era. Popular back in the 70s-80s, Dai Pai Dong is a type of open-air food stall in Hong Kong, dishing up classic Cantonese dishes in a casual environment. Sadly, due to government regulation and hygiene concerns, there are hardly any Dai Pai Dong left. The founder of Ladies Street Sik Fan Co committed to recreating the Dai Pai Dong atmosphere but within a restaurant space.

China Tang Landmark

Weekend lunch in style

Steamed Buns, Black Truffle, Black Mushroom

I have eaten at China Tang Landmark not long ago to experience what top class Cantonese fine dining dinner is all about. Top ingredients, executed in both classic and modern methods with a touch of refinement is what China Tang is all about. For my second visit, I returned to sample its lunch menu. Most Chinese restaurants have a massive difference in its lunch vs dinner offering, so I was keen to see what the lunch menu is like at China Tang. The menu is mostly dim sum, along with some small dishes that are tapas sizes which are great for sharing.

Social Place

The real social deal

 Flaming pineapple

Social Place is a mini restaurant chain in Hong Kong spreading across 3 sites. It is aiming toward a younger generation with a modern concept that uses classic Chinese cooking methods and blending in South East Asian cuisine characteristics with a creative touch. It is extremely popular with the locals with its fun and ever-changing dishes, providing major talking points for diners and created a real buzz on social media. while it is such a trendy venue, but what really matters to me is the taste, as you can fool people only once if the taste failed to match up the concept or the cost, so it was time for me to test the water when a local friend suggested to try it out with me.

Yum Cha

Quirky and creative dim sum

Hot custard buns

I am always on the hunt for good quality dim sum whenever I visit Hong Kong, and while I will always enjoy classic dim sum in traditional Cantonese tea houses, it is nice to have a change every once a while. Aiming toward a younger set of audience, Yum Cha is a modern dim sum joint that offers creative dim sum with a touch of a western twist. Its offering are playful in both the names and presentation, perfect for people to share on social media. Yum Cha has been opened since 2015 and is still going strong, and now becoming a mini-chain with four restaurants across Hong Kong.

VEA Restaurant & Lounge

Chinese fusion cuisine in style

Roasted sea cucumber, flowery crab, egg white, 22yrs hua diao wine

Fusion is not easy to get it right, there are so many fusion restaurants out there but few managed to lay down a marker and become truly a household name. VEA is somewhat a success story, the 1 Michelin starred restaurant in Hong Kong is renown for its creative approach in fusion Chinese and French cooking, located on the top floor of a skyscraper in Central with an open kitchen. Chef-owner Vicky trained in some of the very best kitchens in the world, including the then 3 Michelin starred Daniel in The USA. At VEA, using his western fine dining experience, Vicky has come up with a unique concept of making Chinese dishes with an innovative western refinement, aiming to create a special dining experience with a storytelling factor about Chinese food.

China Tang Landmark

Top-level Chinese fine dining in Hong Kong

Steamed crab claw with rice wine

Not to get mixed up with the China Tang in London inside the Dorchester hotel, China Tang Landmark is a fine dining Chinese restaurant located in the busy business hub in Central, Hong Kong. The interior of the venue really stands apart with its art deco design by Sir David Tang, China Tang Landmark is all about modern Chinese cooking, using the very best ingredients from around the world. Headed up by chef Albert Au, who is the youngest ever Chinese chef to gained 3 Michelin stars when he was at The Eighth restaurant in Macau. Albert now is the group executive chef for Chinese cuisine at Lai Sun Dining, a respected restaurant business with a selection of high-end restaurant brands such as the 3 starred 81⁄2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana and China Tang.

Jardin de Jade

Refined Shanghainese cuisine in Hong Kong

Stemmed crab sticky rice, wrapped in lotus leaf

I rarely return to a restaurant in Hong Kong as I have limited time and there are so many restaurants on my wish list, so unless it is amazing value for money or exceptional in taste, I would not bother. Jardin de Jade, the 1 Michelin starred Shanghainese restaurant fits the bill for me, I got nothing but love for Shanghainese food, and I really enjoyed my first encounter at Jardin de Jade, not to mention the price is not all that expensive for a high-end restaurant in one of the most prestige districts in Hong Kong. For my second visit, I went in a large group and had the chance to sample most of its signature dishes on the menu.

Peking Garden

Fine Beijing cuisine in Hong Kong

Peking Garden

I am a massive fan of Beijing cuisine, besides the famous Peking Duck, there are plenty more exciting dishes from the capital of China. Beijing cuisine is all about rich taste with the use of top fresh ingredients, as it has greatly influenced by the Chinese imperial cuisine; the empire's kitchen for the royal family, which was also based in Beijing. Peking Garden was open in 1978, renown for its popular Peking duck and is now a household name in Hong Kong, loved by the locals and many rated as one of the best restaurants in Hong Kong. It has since expanded into a mini-chain, the flagship store in Central is located within the luxury Alexandra House shopping mall, and it has been awarded a Michelin star for 3 years since 2016.

Kam's Roast Goose

King of Cantonese roasted meat

Kam's Roast Goose

Whenever I visit Hong Kong, Cantonese style roasted meat has always been high on my agenda to try. While there are plenty of Chinese restaurants in the UK that also offer Cantonese roasted meat, the quality is just not the same. Also, the really special roasted meat, which is the goose, it is just not possible to get hold of it in the UK. So what is the big deal about Kam's Roast Goose? It is one of the most popular roasted meat joint in Hong Kong, you will see a long queue every day no matter if it is a Monday or a Saturday, it is also one of the cheapest Michelin starred restaurants in the world, with a meal can cost less than £10. It is a very casual restaurant with a no booking policy, and you would be expected to pay up and leave as soon as you are done eating.

8 great Hong Kong cheap eat spots

For a taste of authentic Chinese food, Hong Kong is one of the best cities. Hong Kong is full of great classic restaurants and many are very affordable. Below are some of the best casual dining spots that would cost you less than £10 per visit.

Kam Wah Cafe & Bakery

Pineapple buns and egg tarts at Kam Wah Cafe

A classic Hong Kong tea house located in the busy district of Prince Edward, Kam Wah Cafe is a fast-paced casual dining joint that brings you the true taste of the city. This place is all about its legendary milk tea and its finely baked pastries. They have some of the best egg tarts in Hong Kong, and the classic "pineapple bun", a baked bread roll that topped with honey and sugar for the extra crispness and sweetness. This is the perfect spot for breakfast or afternoon tea.


Average cost without drinks and services:
£5


47 Bute St, Prince Edward, Hong Kong

https://www.openrice.com/en/hongkong/r-kam-wah-cafe-prince-edward-hong-kong-style-r11293 

Tim Ho Wan

Chiu Chow dumpling at Tim Ho Wan

Tim Ho Wan as a business really has grown from strength to strength, now 5 stores strong in Hong Kong with also oversea joints in the USA and South East Asia. The popularity has a lot to do with its Michelin star status that is has won from its Sham Shui Po branch. I personally enjoy dining at the Central branch as it is less busy than the others. The must-try item is the baked bun with BBQ pork, it has a lovely crispy pastry texture with a mouthwatering filling of sweet Canton style BBQ pork. All the dim sum here are made fresh on site to ensure high-quality standard.


Average cost without drinks and services:£10

Shop 12A, Hong Kong Station Podium Level 1, IFC Mall, Central. Hong Kong

http://www.timhowan.com.hk/

Hung's Delicacies

Goose in Lo mei sauce

Another restaurant gained success after it was awarded a Michelin star at its flagship branch (which is now closed). The Hung's Delicacies branch inside the Hong Kong airport is well worth a visit for anyone who is a fan of classic Cantonese "lo mei", a slow cooking style using a sauce that contains spices and soy sauces. The most popular lo mei has to be the goose, with all the lovely spices aroma blended inside the meat in harmony. If you are feeling brave and willing to explore, try the cuttlefish, duck feet or pork intestines.


Average cost without drinks and services:£10

1 Sky Plaza Rd, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong

https://www.hungsdelicacies.com/



Mak's Noodle

Wonton at Mak's Noodles

Wonton noodles is a must try item if you visit Hong Kong, and not many places can do it as good as Mak's Noodle which is now 7 branches strong. Loved by both locals and tourists, this casual noodle house is renowned for its shrimp wontons in a light but flavorsome fish-stock. The wontons are smooth in texture with an umami bomb of filling containing whole shrimp and pork. Be prepared to queue as it could get very busy in the evening, best to visit in the afternoon if you can afford to do so.


Average cost without drinks and services:£10

37 Leighton Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

https://www.openrice.com/en/hongkong/r-maks-noodle-causeway-bay-guangdong-noodles-rice-noodles-r121176



Crystal Jade

Aubergine in a soy and vinegar dressing at Crystal Jade

A multinational chain from Singapore that has over 10 branches across Hong Kong. Xiao long bao here is the signature dish of Crystal Jade, a steamed dumpling that filled with pork and a rich tasting pork stock. The Crystal Jade version stick to the traditional style and are freshly made each day. Other items worth trying are the pan fried dumpling and cold aubergines in a soy and vinegar dressing. The one located in Hong Kong airport is especially ideal for travelers who are in a rush but seek good quality Chinese food.


Average cost without drinks and services:£10

Level 5 Arrival Hall, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok

http://www.crystaljade.com.hk/

Ho Hung Kee

Wok fried beef noodles at Ho Hung Kee

Along with Tim Ho Wan, Ho Hung Kee is the cheapest restaurant in Hong Kong with a Michelin star. Ho Hung Kee is all about good old-fashioned Cantonese cuisine with not a great deal of refinement and is fairly rustic. Noodle is the hero item on the menu, the wok-fried soy noodles with beef is a must try if you ever visit the restaurant, the beautiful wok aroma, together with the richness from the soy sauce, result in some of the finest wok noodle dishes you find in Hong Kong. Canton style congee is also another popular choice, especially for the locals at breakfast time.


Average cost without drinks and services:£10

Causeway Bay, Hennessy Rd, Hong Kong

https://m.facebook.com/hohungkee/?locale2=zh_HK



Chrisly Cafe

Hong Kong milk tea and canteen breakfast at Chrisly Cafe

When you ask a local to suggest a classic Hong Kong cafe, Chrisly Cafe would usually be the first choice. It is one of those old-school Hong Kong cafes that are loved by the locals but might be off-putting to some tourists thanks to its super fast pace style. The waiters would expect you to know what you would like to order as soon as you sit down and pay up and leave as soon as you have finished the meal. Put that issue aside, Chrisly Cafe serves some of the finest scramble eggs and Hong Kong style milk tea. The intense tea aroma and the silkiness of the milk tea are what makes this place so special and still going strong after so many years.


Average cost without drinks and services:£5

Kwong Sang Hong Building, 6 Heard St, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

http://www.chrislycafe.com.hk/




Yee Shun Milk Company

Milk puddings at Yee Shun Milk Company

There are many great Hong Kong desserts, but the best dessert for me has to be the hot steamed milk pudding. Yee Shun is a milk pudding specialist and is also renown for its creative take of the dessert with innovation such as ginger milk pudding and coffee milk pudding. For me, the original is still the best, creamy but not heavy with a fine taste of milkiness and softness, this is what comfort food is all about. Best visit in a group of friends to ensure you get a chance to try out another style of milk puddings.


Average cost without drinks and services:£5

506 Lockhart Rd, Causeway Bay

https://www.openrice.com/en/hongkong/r-yee-shun-dairy-company-causeway-bay-hong-kong-style-dessert-r11167


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Tono Daikiya

Japanese buffet heaven

Sashimi selection

Usually I shy away from buffet restaurants, the reason is simple, there is a high chance the quality of the cooking, as well as the ingredients, are no where near as good as cook to order dishes, and most buffet dishes would be pre-done so the freshness can be very questionable. However, a close friend of mine strongly suggested Tono Diakiya, a Japanese restaurant that offer premium buffet experience in Hong Kong, all you can eat, as well as drink (beer, house wine and sake) for £30 is something I am more happy to give it a go. The selection of food is massive, ranging from sushi to plenty of hot dishes, such as pan fried beef and baked scallops.

The Chairman

Refined Cantonese cuisine 

Steamed Fresh Flowery Crab with Aged ShaoXing Wine,
Fragrant Chicken Oil & Flat Rice Noodles

Listed in the 50 best Asian restaurants for 3 years running, The Chairman is one of the few Hong Kong restaurants specializing in Cantonese cuisine featured in the list. It has not been a must visit list for me, as funny enough, I have yet to find a very solid high end Cantonese restaurants. I couldn't agree anymore with the motto of The Chairman regarding "as long as the ingredients are fresh, the sauces are outstanding, simple cooking will rule". Cantonese cooking doesn't need to be complex or fancy plating to make it exquisite and special. In the usual fine dining fashion, the restaurant offer a numbers of tasting menu, as well as a standard a la carte.