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Originally published by Malin Angell. Last updated by Jen Paolini.
A good view can look different to different people. It could be the view of the blue, foaming sea or a buzzing street in the middle of the city. A pleasant view can calm your mind, help you unwind, and relieve the stresses and unpleasantness of life.
Hong Kong is a concrete city surrounded by sea and forest with a wide variety of views on offer. No matter if you enjoy people-watching, studying the waves, or smelling nature, we got you covered with this list of some of the best cafés with breathtaking views in Hong Kong.
One of the most iconic views in Hong Kong is found at Victoria Peak. Overlooking Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour, and Kowloon, this location occupies a worthy spot on our list. On Victoria Peak, in a corner of the Peak Tower, is Pacific Coffee—a familiar chain in the city, but a less-famous branch. Have some of their classic coffees and teas while enjoying the 180-degree view of the surrounding greenery and the city.
Pacific Coffee, Shop G10, G/F, The Peak Tower, 128 Peak Road, The Peak
For a view that is out of the ordinary, head to Solo Café located in the fishing village of Tai O. While the entrance is not much to brag about, walk through and you will be left speechless. Hidden on the other side of the building is a stunning balcony overlooking the stilt village houses complete with water and mountains. Solo Café is not only famous for its view, but also for its tiramisu and speciality coffees, which includes drip coffee and espresso. If dessert is not enough, try one of the shrimp roe noodles.
Solo Café, G/F, 86–88 Kat Hing Street, Tai O
If you want to escape the city, then The Hideout is the place for you. Hidden away in the middle of the jungle in Mui Wo, you can enjoy your food and drinks at the lakeside café facing the mountains. Western classics like avocado toast and all-day breakfast are available, plus dishes with a hint of Asian flavours. From time to time, live concerts take place, as well as arranged cultural activities that can be booked online.
Just a 10-minute walk from the ferry arriving from Central, enjoy the view of the mountains and farm animals on your way with ease. Remember to book in advance as this place is popular and usually packed.
The Hideout Hong Kong, Ngan Kwong Wan Road, Mui Wo
Looking for another escape from the city? Why not go on a biking trip to Tai Mei Tuk and ride on the famous reservoir dam? After spending your energy cycling your way around, there is nothing better than sitting down and enjoying some food and a good drink. To make it even better, add a beautiful view.
Relax B and M is located on the first floor of a three-storey house, where the second floor is a cat house and the third is for Thai massages. The patio and the rooftop, however, are dedicated to the guests of the café wanting to enjoy fish and chips or lamb rack and coffee with a view of the newly developed beach, mountains, and greenery. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset after a long day outside.
Relax B and M, G/F, Mai Village, 165A Lung Ting Kok Road, Tai Po
Few things beat the sunset scene in West Kowloon Cultural District, and now Cupping Room has opened its doors at the Palace Museum in the park. Located on the ground floor of the museum and facing the sunset, this café is a must-visit for catching the sunset while sipping on your coffee.
Inspired by Chinese architecture and history and paired with a modern aesthetic, the café is filled with daylight flowing through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The menu at the new branch is inspired by Chinese cuisine and the speciality is the steamed buns, with fillings such as slow-cooked Chinese BBQ pork belly, scallop and avocados, and more. The tea bar is also another speciality with a wide range of different teas.
Cupping Room, LG/F, Hong Kong Palace Museum, West Kowloon Cultural District, 8 Museum Drive, West Kowloon
If you are a sucker for an urban view, the sound of a buzzing city, and something unique, head over to The Library, a Western-style restaurant and bar at night and a café during the daytime. It is hidden in a high-rise building on Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui with an amazing view of the mosque and Kowloon Park. Enjoy their sunny balcony with a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and, of course, coffee.
Library Restaurant and Bar, 3/F, Manson House, 74–78 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Facing Nathan Road with panoramic windows, this Starbucks is a must-visit for anyone who loves people-watching. Located on a high floor, the bar seats are placed against the window, making it a bright place to work, read, listen to music, or just unwind while looking at life outside. Enjoy some classic Starbucks drinks from their regular counter or indulge in their special Teavana selection from the counter in front of the store. The design of the branch takes inspiration from the diverse neighbourhood of Tsim Sha Tsui and features photographs that tell stories of the ethnic minorities living in Hong Kong.
Another special Starbucks location is the one located at the Avenue of Stars. Chill out on the huge patio and rooftop balcony facing the harbour and enjoy the view with a refreshing drink and something to bite into.
Starbucks iSquare, Shop LB02, Lobby Floor, iSquare, 35–79 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Starbucks Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Tsim Sha Tsui
Hidden away in an outlet building in Ap Lei Chau is Tree Café, which also doubles as an all-in-one, eco-friendly wooden furniture store. Facing the sea with a view of the green Lamma, guests can tuck into Western dishes like pasta, sandwiches, and salads as well as sweet treats. This is the perfect place to dine with kids, as a corner of the café is a dedicated playing area. Kids also get free babyccino or bananas to enjoy while playing. A café well-lit by natural sunlight and made warm and cosy from all the wood furniture, this is a place worth visiting for the stunning view of the sea.
Tree Café, 28/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau
Covering the hottest new eats, the best places to play, offbeat takes on local culture, and so much more, Localiiz is every Hongkonger’s destination for how to live a well-rounded life in our vibrant city. Why the strange spelling? Well, Localiiz is designed to be your “local eyes”—and for that, you need two i’s.
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