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Header image courtesy of @linheunglau (via Instagram)
As one of the most iconic neighbourhoods in Hong Kong, Central has more than its fair share of eateries, ranging from Michelin-recognised restaurants to hole-in-the-wall joints. With so many options to choose from, it’s no wonder people always hesitate when having to decide on where to eat. Let us make things a bit easier for our indecisive friends out there with this (non-exhaustive) guide to the best restaurants in Central.
With its punny name, Ho Lan Jeng is the place to go if you want to spend a fantastic—or “jeng”—time! Although classified as a bar, its food is definitely worth trying; it elevates typical cha chaan teng food by fusing it with other popular dishes, such as the char siu bibimbap, seared Wagyu beef cheek with satay sauce, and the Chinese fermented bean curd in fromage blanc-style crème brûlée. Aside from its delectable dishes, the creative cocktails are also not to be missed. Remember to book ahead of your visit though, as it’s known to get crowded no matter what time of day.
Ho Lan Jeng, 2/F, LKF29, 29 Wyndham Street, Central | (+852) 2342 2224
Somebody definitely leaked the news about this local treasure, because queues for this classic dai pai dong can now be spotted from the next street over. With more than 60 years of experience under its belt, this local eatery has been consistent in both its efficiency and quality of food. Some must-try dishes are the tomato and beef macaroni, butter and honey with lemon on crispy bun, and its signature sandwiches, which are typically sold out by 9 am due to the office worker breakfast rush. Prepare yourself for a noisy atmosphere and plenty of diners, as busloads of tourists are also vying for a spot at the dai pai dong.
Sing Heung Yuen, G/F, 2 Mei Lun Street, Central | (+852) 2544 8368
Speaking of office workers, Eat Together is for sure the go-to lunch place for those working in Central. Its prices are customer-friendly, with a generous amount of side dishes per food set, plus portions large enough for multiple people. No matter if you want to try something new or simply enjoy a classic, its range of Japanese and Taiwanese foods will definitely be able to satisfy your appetite. Go for its iconic crispy salted chicken, or try out innovative items such as its soy-milk based udon, and its black sugar port cartilage rice.
Eat Together, G/F, 2 Queen Victoria Street, Central | (+852) 6722 1639
Just like a phoenix rising from the ashes, this historical teahouse has once again returned to serve hungry stomachs after closing down for the second time in its lifetime during the pandemic. With more than 100 years of history, its menu items are tried-and-tested dim sum dishes that are sure to make taste buds happy. Aside from traditional teas and dim sum, it also tries to cater to younger tastes with its introduction of hand-shaken drinks, so it’s suitable for multi-generational family gatherings.
Lin Heung Lau, 160–164 Wellington Street, Central | (+852) 2116 0670
Craving Korean food? It’s time for you to put your sneakers on (as a popular Itzy song says) and run, not walk, to Maru & J28! This eatery is like a gateway to Korea, with the latest K-pop songs on full blast, plus all the Korean food you can dream of. Opt for its signature fried chicken or the classic black bean paste noodles, or share a plate of cheese egg rolls with friends! Despite its popularity since opening in 2017, Maru & J28 has yet to move to a bigger location, meaning guests will have to book early to eat in the always-crowded restaurant and pub. The walls, covered in graffiti and scribbles, plus the open-air nature of the restaurant, makes for a chill atmosphere perfect for after-work hangouts or meet-ups with friends.
Maru & J28, G/F, 48 Staunton Street, Soho, Central | (+852) 2559 5288
Another bar-restaurant fusion, Acquasala is perfect if you want to feel like you’re in Italy, but without the hefty flight costs. It has indoors, semi-outdoors, and al fresco dining areas, providing a variety of seating options for guests based on their preferences (and, of course, the unpredictable Hong Kong weather!). Despite the traditionally Italian décor, the food is refreshingly unique, such as the roast beef-topped Japanese rice, and the tiramisu made according to a secret house recipe. Thanks to its large restaurant space, guests can sit comfortably and make conversation, without the over-crowding and noise levels typically found in most Hong Kong restaurants.
Acquasala, G/F & M/F, 13 Elgin Street, Soho, Central | (+852) 2895 0085
If you are looking for a restaurant with a lively ambience, Shahrazad Lebanese is the place to go. Lebanese cuisine is not widespread in Hong Kong, but this dining lounge hits the spot for those craving falafel, hummus, and kofta. Its interior is also distinctively Middle Eastern-themed; the lamps, windows, and furnishings all help create the illusion that you’ve been whisked away from Hong Kong while you dine. There’s a 20 percent off discount on the à la carte menu every Sunday to Wednesday right now, so make sure to go ASAP!
Shahrazad, 2/F, Carfield Commercial Building, 75–77 Wyndham Street, Central | (+852) 2330 0242
If there’s one place where you will never fail to see a line of hungry guests, its Grill ขุนทอง. As one of Lan Kwai Fong’s iconic food spots, it is a go-to restaurant for both Central office workers and LKF party-goers. The reason for its popularity is obvious—not only is the food delicious, but the portions are also generous, and the prices are reasonable, creating a perfect combination to satisfy customers. However, it’s worth noting that the restaurant is mainly takeout-based, and seating is limited, so you might have to eat while standing during the busier hours.
Grill ขุนทอง, G/F, 1 Wo On Lane, Central | (+852) 2530 1022
Craving sandwiches, but tired of Subway? Croque, the newest addition to Central’s sandwich scene, is the answer. Boasting an array of authentic yet trendy French sandwiches, Croque aims for both quality and affordability. Take a bite of the Classic, or the award-winning Angry Duck, or the similarly popular Mister Truffle. There’s even a limited duck foie gras sandwich on the menu right now—what are you waiting for?
Croque, G/F, 1 Lyndhurst Tower, 78 Wellington Street, Central | (+852) 5607 5586
If you’re indecisive on what type of cuisine you want to eat, why not just eat them all at once? Espuma is a fusion restaurant that focuses on a mixture of Asian, European, and Spanish cuisines. With so many different types of food in the mix, there’s no way you can’t find something that suits your palate. But if you want to try something new, then be sure to order the crispy fried prawn toast with Japanese wasabi mayonnaise, the salted egg tiger prawn cream spaghetti, or the homemade Wagyu meatball with Romesco sauce, all popular choices amongst those who have visited. Its desserts are not to be missed either, with the sexy rose waffle and the white rabbit toffee pudding being known for gorgeous aesthetics. Camera eats first!
Espuma, 17/F, M88, Wellington Place, 2–8 Wellington Street, Central | (+852) 2973 6088
Punita is currently an English major at Durham University. As a longtime bookworm, she is passionate about all forms of storytelling. When she’s not stuck in a bookstore or cheering for a celebrity, you can always find her wandering the streets of Hong Kong on the lookout for stray cats.
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