There is no shortage of luxury meals in Hong Kong; a region composed of so many cultures, cuisines and chefs, deeming it as one of the best destinations in the world for exquisite dining.
Cultural influences are prominent throughout, an East-meets-West (with reference to its colonial era) blend from classic Cantonese restaurants to elegant afternoon teas. Food connoisseurs and fine diners flock here to taste some of the Michelin-starred venues and decadent world-famous chef creations for an experience one will not be disappointed by.
Hong Kong, after all, is an international hub for work and play, so why not dine your way through some of the most exquisite locations across town? Read on for your ultimate guide to luxury dining in Hong Kong.
Contemporary Chinese at Mott 32
Enter Mott 32 to be awestruck by the extraordinary interiors designed by Hong Kong-based Joyce Wang. After a dramatic spiral staircase with dangling chandeliers, diners are greeted with a symmetrically-perfect, visual interpretation of Chinese New York back in the 1800s. But there’s so much more to this fine dining restaurant than its exquisite interiors; the menu offers some of the best Peking duck and dim sum variations in town. Be sure to try the scrumptious cocktails too for the full experience.
Address: Standard Chartered Bank Building, 4-4A Des Voeux Rd Central, Central, Hong Kong
Elegant Thai cuisine at Aaharn
Besides the accommodating, friendly staff at Aaharn, the Thai restaurant serves some of the most delectable cuisine on its menu, offering a refreshing mix of what Thai food does best; sweet, salty, sour and spicy all in one experience. Whether you’re looking for a rich curry or a refreshing salad, Aaharn caters to your appetite. Founded by Australian chef David Thompson, Aaharn holds a Michelin Star, and understandably so. If you have a low spice tolerance, then don’t fret, the restaurant can reduce the level of spice in its dishes to ensure you leave with a satisfied grin.
Address: 1/F Armoury Building, 02 Tai Kwun Centre, 10 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
French-meets-Asian fare at VEA
Proudly holding a Michelin star, VEA uses creativity and innovation to curate its dishes. The fine dining eatery is headed up by chef Vicky Cheng, who combines Asian cuisine with French finesse – something which is considerably difficult to master, yet achieved by the team here. The menu is constantly updated based on seasonal produce and ingredients, so be sure to check in on what to expect (or leave it to a delightful surprise) before making your reservation.
Address: 29 & 30/F, 198 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
Modern Japanese cuisine at Zuma
One of Hong Kong’s most popular and internationally-acclaimed restaurants, Zuma, remains amongst the most prestigious, be it any occasion and time of day. The luxury eatery hosts weekend brunches, an al fresco cocktail space, and decadent tasting menus for dinner. Initially founded by Rainer Becker in London, Zuma sustains its well-achieved reputation worldwide, and Hong Kong is no exception. Indulge in some of the best tasting dishes from the vast sashimi and sushi selection for a taste of Japanese cuisine with a modern twist—all served with the most divine presentations. If you’re also a whisky or sake drinker, this is the place to be.
Address: Level 5&6 Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
Upscale French Mediterranean dining at LPM Restaurant and Bar
The London-based French-Mediterranean restaurant’s debut in Hong Kong was nothing short of impressive. Named LPM Restaurant and Bar, the space is populated with contemporary art on its walls (and menu) with a pastel-theme running through, creating an inviting atmosphere for its diners. Staff here are very upbeat and cater to your every need — a mood inspired by the bustling beaches at Cote D’azur. Housed in the arts building H Queen’s (in Central) guests are recommended to visit the numerous galleries only a lift ride away from the restaurant. Onto the food, the cuisine is French, serving delectable classics with a LPM interpretation. Recommendations include the delectable warm prawns with olive oil for appetisers, followed by the entrecôte 400g steak for mains, paired with a wine. For dessert, try the scrumptious French toast for a sweet treat.
Address: Shop 1, H Queen’s, 23-29, 1/F Stanley St, Central, Hong Kong
Colonial charm at The Chinese Library
Aqua group’s The Chinese Library presents colonial fare in a contemporary setting. For those new to Hong Kong, visiting the historical compound (previously a British police headquarter), Tai Kwun, is a must. Dine at this restaurant for a taste of authentic Chinese food with a Western touch, reminiscent of the old British rule over the city where cultures would meet to provide a new take on traditional dishes. Order the infamous chrysanthemum ‘thousand cut’ silken tofu, and an assortment of dim sum.
Address: Block 01, Tai Kwun, Police Headquarters, 10 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Brunch at Duck and Waffle
London-born restaurant Duck and Waffle expanded its second branch opening in Hong Kong, withholding its reputation status. Those familiar with the British flagship would know what the signature dish is (hint, it’s in the name). Although this is usually the crowd favourite, there’s a lot more to try from the menu, just as worth the hype, like the beef tartare, corn ribs and cheesy fried polenta. The restaurant also hosts a weekend brunch menu for late risers.
Address: Shop 1081, Podium Level 1, ifc mall, 8 Finance St, Central, Hong Kong
Panoramic views at HEXA
HEXA, meaning hexagon in English, and rich man’s house in Chinese, is a rare find. Most diners here find out about the restaurant through word of mouth or if they’re familiar with high-end dining in Hong Kong. Situated on the reclaimed land space at the end of Harbour City shopping mall, the eatery offers a spectacular, 270-degree view of the skyline. Head here during sunset for a decadent meal with some of the best delicacies from regions in China. We recommend the Iberico pork with honey sauce and the 48-Hour slow-cooked beef for a succulent taster of traditional cuisine.
Address: Shop OTE 101, Canton Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Italian fine dining at Tosca di Angelo
The Ritz Carlton Hong Kong boasts some of the most spectacular, high-rise views of Hong Kong (and has the highest bar in the world, Ozone). A few floors below, on the whopping 102nd floor, sits the Michelin-starred Tosca di Angelo, most popular amongst the elite of Hong Kong. Although the fine dining restaurant offers some of the most gourmet dishes, it stays true to its Italian roots, offering Chef Angelo Agliano’s favourite traditional home-cooked specialities. The mezzi paccheri Sicilian shrimps is a must, and for the antipasti, the beef carpaccio is delightful and best matched with the wine pairing suggested by the in-house experts.
Address: 102 Floor, International Commerce Centre (ICC), 1 Austin Rd W, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine at T’ang Court
Sweeping the Michelin holy grail of three stars, T’ang Court masters Cantonese cuisine in an elegant, traditional environment. With decades of culinary expertise under its belt, the restaurant maintains consistency and high standards in its dishes, having the same Chinese master chef, Kwong Wai Keung, of the Langham since its opening in 1988 (and Wong Chi Fai since 2000). “Traditional Cantonese cuisine emphasises the changes in seasonality,” says Wong. “By pairing up fresh, seasonal ingredients with traditional cooking techniques, we can provide our guests with something new – a fresh take – without sacrificing tradition.” We recommend the specialities, including the baked seafood rice with cream sauce in crab shell and the fried diced cod with honey syrup and barbecue pork.
Address: 1F and 2F, The Langham, Hong Kong, 8 Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Homemade dim sum at Man Ho
Inspired and modelled as a traditional Chinese garden, Man Ho’s interiors use natural elements and motifs from the earth to construct an elegant theme. One of the main highlights, however, is the chandelier display from the ceiling, made from 6,638 morning glory glasses tinted in champagne gold to transform the restaurant into blossoms. Helmed by executive chef Jayson Tang at JW Marriott, the restaurant’s signature dishes include dim sum, steamed egg with flathead lobster, and steamed minced garoupa and coriander dumpling.
Address: JW Marriott Hotel, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong
Surf and turf at Bostonian Seafood and Grill
If you’re looking for a steak in Hong Kong, Bostonian Seafood and Grill, at The Langham hotel, will treat you well. The modern steakhouse offers a selection of delectable meats and sustainable seafood in a shipyard-like setting. Contemporary art (many from renowned Chinese artists) fills the walls, showcasing the hotel owner’s passion for art collecting. It’s dimly lit here, which lends a musky ambience for its diners. Every week, the restaurant hosts a Sunday brunch, which includes towers of fresh catches from the sea, a palette buffet of cured meats and cheese, four mini dishes brought to the table during your experience, followed by a main course of your choice. There’s also an option for bottomless Champagne — it is Sunday, after all.
Address: Lower Lobby, The Langham, Hong Kong, 8 Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Gourmet buffet at JW Café
Hong Kong is known to have some of the best buffets in the world, spanning its cuisine from Eastern to Western specialities. Luxury hotel JW Marriott’s JW Cafe boasts a generous space, and featuring a buffet selection of seafood, curries, sushi, meats, and more, to cater to every taste. Diners flock here from locally and abroad to fulfil a hungry appetite.
Address: JW Café. Level 5, JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong
Sky-high dining at Aqua
Towering over the iconic Victoria Harbour, Aqua’s high-glass panoramic windows show the city in all its glory. The restaurant blends Japanese and Italian cuisine, perfect for date night or with friends and family. Tourists and locals alike come here to admire the stunning backdrop of the restaurant, whilst indulging in some of the finest cuisine in Hong Kong.
Address: One Peking, 29+30F, Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
