Must-Try Foods in Hong Kong

Dim Sum

• Dim sum is a classic Cantonese cuisine that originated in Hong Kong and has become a staple in the city’s culinary culture. These bite-sized portions of food are served in small bamboo steamers and are perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.

• From fluffy steamed buns filled with barbecue pork (char siu bao) to delicate shrimp dumplings (har gow) and steamed rice noodle rolls (cheung fun), dim sum offers a wide variety of options to satisfy your taste buds.

Roast Goose

• Roast goose is a beloved dish in Hong Kong, and there are numerous eateries across the city that are known for their succulent and flavorful roast goose. The goose is marinated in a blend of Chinese spices and roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy.

• It’s usually served with a side of plum sauce and rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Egg Waffles

• Also known as “gai daan jai” in Cantonese, egg waffles are a popular street food in Hong Kong. These crispy and fluffy waffles are made using a special gridded pan that gives them their distinctive bubble-like shape.

• They are often served piping hot and are perfect for snacking as you explore the streets of Hong Kong. You can find them in various flavors, such as chocolate, matcha, and taro, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to this beloved treat.

Pineapple Bun

• Don’t let the name deceive you – pineapple buns (bo lo bao) do not actually contain pineapple. These sweet and savory buns are a staple in Hong Kong bakeries and are known for their unique texture and flavor. The bun is soft and fluffy on the inside and topped with a crumbly and buttery crust that resembles the texture of a pineapple, hence the name.

• They are often served with a slice of butter in the middle, making them a perfect snack or breakfast option.

Claypot Rice

• Claypot rice, or “bo zai fan” in Cantonese, is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those seeking comfort food. It’s made by cooking rice with various ingredients, such as marinated meats, mushrooms, and vegetables, in a clay pot.

• The dish is then cooked over high heat, creating a layer of crispy, caramelized rice at the bottom, known as the “golden crust.” The combination of flavors and textures in claypot rice make it a must-try dish in Hong Kong.

Fish Balls

• Fish balls are a popular street food in Hong Kong and can be found in many street stalls and food markets across the city. These bouncy and flavorful balls are made from fish paste that is shaped into small spheres and then boiled or deep-fried.

• They are usually served on skewers and can be enjoyed on their own or in a bowl of steaming hot fish ball noodle soup. Fish balls are a fun and delicious snack that you shouldn’t miss while exploring the vibrant streets of Hong Kong.

Milk Tea

• Hong Kong-style milk tea, also known as “si mut naai cha” in Cantonese, is a beloved beverage that combines strong black tea with evaporated milk or condensed milk. The tea is brewed using a special cloth bag filter that gives it a distinctive flavor and smooth texture. The result is a creamy, and aromatic tea that is a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.

• Hong Kong-style milk tea is a staple in Hong Kong’s cha chaan tengs, or traditional tea houses, and is often served hot or iced.

• It’s a must-try for tea lovers or those looking for a refreshing beverage to accompany their meal.

Beef Brisket Noodles

• Beef brisket noodles, or “ngau lam mein” in Cantonese, is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender slices of beef brisket with chewy egg noodles in a rich and aromatic broth.

• The beef brisket is often slow-cooked in a flavorful broth until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the noodles are cooked to perfection.

• It’s a popular dish in Hong Kong and can be found in many local eateries or noodle shops. This hearty and delicious bowl of noodles is a must-try for those seeking a comforting and satisfying meal.

Curry Fish Balls

• Curry fish balls are a popular street food in Hong Kong that combines the flavors of Southeast Asia with Cantonese cuisine. These fish balls are made from minced fish paste that is shaped into balls and then boiled or deep-fried. They are then served in a thick and fragrant curry sauce, which adds a spicy and savory kick to the dish.

• Curry fish balls are a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and they make for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer.

Stinky Tofu

• Stinky tofu, or “chou doufu” in Cantonese, is a unique and polarizing dish that you either love or hate. This fermented tofu is known for its pungent smell, but its taste is surprisingly delicious. The tofu is deep-fried to perfection, creating a crispy exterior with a soft and creamy interior. It’s often served with a variety of condiments, such as pickled vegetables and spicy sauce, which add layers of flavors to this distinctive dish.

• If you’re feeling adventurous, stinky tofu is a must-try food in Hong Kong for a truly unique culinary experience.