6 Sep 2018 | Veronica
This article has been years in the making. I personally have done the very hard work of eating countless delicious meals to bring you this list. I have done that, for you, new-arrivals-in-Hong Kong (and you, been-in-Hong Kong-for years-but-never-leave-the-island)! You’re welcome in advance.
Here are my top foods to try in Hong Kong. I’m not a food blogger, so hard core foodies do continue to look to the proper experts. But for those of you who just enjoy a good meal and want to know what foods to try in Hong Kong, here you go!
1. Bo lo bao (pineapple bun)
Look no further than your closest local bakery to find this delicious, doughy treat. Don’t be fooled – there is no pineapple component other than the formation of sugar on top which gives its name. For those wanting an extra boost, ask for a bo lo yauh – the same thing but stuffed with a thick chunk of butter. They cost around $3.5 – 7 HKD ($0.45 – 0.90 USD) and are the perfect breakfast or snack on-the-go!
2. Char Siu
Everyone’s got their idea of which restaurant does char siu, Hong Kong’s barbeque pork, the best – eat it lots to find your favourite! The best char siu is the perfect mix of sweet and savoury, crispy and soft texture on point. For a delicious fusion order Bak Gwai at Alvy’s pizza in Kennedy town for that incredible char siu… on pizza.
3. Soup Noodles
Soup noodles make the list because they should really become a staple in your diet. Typically, restaurants will have a menu where you “build” up your soup. Choose a soup broth then noodle type then which ingredients you want inside (think fish balls, beef, veggies!). With so much variety in flavours and toppings I could eat these every day of the week. Actually, I often do.
4. Biang Biang noodles
Named for the sound the noodles make being slapped on the counter when stretching them out, it would be more apt to call this dish “biang biang noodle”, in the singular form. Masterful chefs will serve one singular impossibly long noodle equivalent to a whole bowlful. My favourite can be found at Yau Yuen Siu Tsui in Jordan or LKF.
5. Ma la – spiced food
The first time I ate hot pot with this spice (a mix of Sichuan peppers and chilli peppers) I thought I was having an allergic reaction despite having no allergies. It’s numbing, giving a nice tingly sensation to your food. Whether you love it or hate it, foods with this spice are definitely foods to try in Hong Kong!
6. Dim Sum
This goes without saying, so I’ll just give my recommendation for the best dim sum here: Dim Dim Sum. They have multiple locations, English menus, unique dishes, and in my opinion far surpass the overly hyped Tin Ho Wan. Order the seafood stuffed eggplant and crispy rice rolls for an unforgettable Hong Kong brunch!