As part of the Portier Explorer, our CEO, Deniz Tekerek, recommends six of the city's best restaurants – and the list is reflective of Hong Kong's diverse population! The best travel tips, for many people, come in the form of a food map like this one... Read on to discover his selections:
1. Yau Yuen Siu Tsui
Michelin recommended Yau Yuen Siu Tsui is one of Hong Kong’s spiciest fares! The restaurant is an homage to Shaanxi Province’s diverse cuisine, and every dish is bursting with unique flavours. We recommend the signature Biang Biang noodles, known for their distinctive flat shape and seemingly endless length – or the cumin lamb, a dish rousing memories of the famed Silk Road. Go “very spicy” if you dare, to achieve the top travel experience.
The tiny restaurant is a short walk from Central MTR station’s exit D, and is hidden at the end of Wo On Lane. It typically opens between 11:30am and 9:30pm every day.
2. J48
If you’re after some casual yet authentic South Korean food, look no further than Maru & J48. This is a restaurant and pub that draws in Hong Kong’s Korean residents with its genuine and heartfelt cuisine. Go for a Bulgogi Stew on one of the cooler nights, or treat yourself to their spicy chicken wings on a brave day – many praise it as Hong Kong’s best Korean chicken!
Run by a dynamic group of South Korean expats, the restaurant is located on 48 Staunton Street (hence the number 48 in the name) in Hong Kong’s trendy SoHo district. Not only do they deliver through their flavours, they are also recognised for their lively atmosphere – so don’t forget your order of Soju to turn your visit into to a proper K-Experience.
3. Qi - House of Sichuan
Whilst Sichuan food might arguably be one of China’s most prominent food exports, it’s rare to experience the province’s spicy dishes in a Michelin-starred setting. That’s where Qi enters the scene. As possibly Hong Kong’s best Sichuan restaurant, the House of Sichuan takes every guest on a journey of intense flavours, accompanied by their excellent service.
Get your hands greasy on slow-cooked Mala beef ribs, or simply enjoy Hong Kong’s best Mapo Tofu, right n the centre of the bustling Wan Chai neighbourhood. Either way, be prepared for intense spice levels!
Located at the JSENSES building, the restaurant can easily be reached by foot via Wan Chai MTR exit A3. You can enjoy both indoor and outdoor terrace seating.
4. Surya Indian Restaurant
Hidden on the 6th floor of 10 Prat in TST, the restaurant claims to serve TST’s best Indian food, but we think the folks here are underestimating themselves. Rather, the paneer dishes (Palak Paneer & Mutter Paneer) are likely to be among the best across the globe! The freshly made bread selection combines incredibly well with the curries they have on offer. Whether you’re up for mild or truly spicy dishes – vegetarian or meat! – Surya has you covered. As far as we're concerned, this is a restaurant that should be on the top of every list of best travel tips.
The restaurant is a 5-minute walk away from TST MTR’s exit A2, and can be reached via the lift in the lobby of 10 Prat on Prat Avenue. Head here after a day of shopping in Tsim Sha Tsui, a district packed with malls and street vendors.
5. Rajasthan Rifles
There’s no better comfort than the Anglo-Indian food from Rajasthan Rifles, a restaurant you can find at the end of a hike up to The Peak – which happens to be one of Hong Kong’s most popular sights. Drawing inspiration from the cultural melting pot of 1920s British-Indian mess halls, Rajasthan Rifles certainly delivers Hong Kong’s best version of fusion-style dining. Isn't the top travel experience one that incorporates both historical culture and modern trends?
The likes of the Keema Anda Pau (spicy mutton and scrambled eggs) and their remarkable Club Sandwich surprise with an explosion of flavours. While you're at it, go for some Masala Fries on the side too.
If you don’t fancy the hike, simply take a taxi or the famous Peak Tram to reach The Peak, and you’ll find the restaurant at “street level”, right next to the Peak Galleria.
6. Tenkai
Tempura might just be one of the most famous dishes associated with Japanese cuisine. As far as authentic dining experiences are concerned in Hong Kong, nothing beats Tenkai regarding tempura cuisine. The space here is limited, the lines are long, and lunch and dinner sets run out quickly – but the quality and taste of the food makes up for any queues!
Go for the Wasabi Tendon Set at an affordable HK$180 to enjoy one of Hong Kong’s most praised Japanese dishes.
Pre-bookings aren't an option, so you’ll have to join the craze and line up for a coveted spot at one of their tables. If you arrive around 11:15am, your chances of getting lunch here will improve. You’ll find Tenkai on 17 Aberdeen Street just below Hollywood Road, and the walk from Central MTR station exit D is about 10 minutes.
Have you been to any of these restaurants before? Let us know if you visit them for a meal – we'd love to hear your opinion on our mini guide. Look out for more from the Portier Explorer in the coming weeks!