Hong Kong is undoubtedly a culinary wonderland that ignites your senses; after all, it is an iconic global destination for foodies who want nothing but the best. Visitors who flock here are always impressed by the mesmerising flavours, ranging from delicious dim sum and other street food delights to its Michelin-starred marvels. Yet, amidst these gastronomic delights, you’ll find a few elusive culinary treasures that remain a well-kept secret among locals. From humble cafes serving up local and Asian fare to obscure speakeasies mixing innovative cocktails, these secret restaurants and bars in Hong Kong offer a glimpse into the hidden pulse of the city’s culinary scene, reserved for those who want to venture beyond well-trodden paths.
1. Congteakafe
The Sai Ying Pun neighbourhood is home to plenty of colonial history and impressive dining establishments, but it’s also where you’ll find criss-crossing little pedestrian-only lanes and back alleys. Hidden along one such nondescript alley just off of Third Street in Sai Ying Pun is Congteakafe, a homespun eatery that is beloved by locals for its delicious and affordable all-day breakfast sets. These are served in either Western- or Hong Kong-style, so take your pick from the extensive menu, which features everything from pork chop and scrambled egg on toast to fried noodles, pineapple bun burgers and more. If the weather permits, take a seat outdoors where you can idle over your cup of frothy milk tea or try a glass of iced Ovaltine, which is a childhood drink that is still sentimental for many Hongkongers.
2. Cô Thành
Combine two vacations into one at this authentic Saigon-style eatery that has two branches: foodie-focused Pacific Place and Jardine House, a modern skyscraper that serves up unmatched views of Victoria Harbour. Dressed up to look like a typical pho eatery in Ho Chi Minh City, this compact dining space features recipes from Nguyen Thi Thanh, better known as The Lunch Lady, whose scratch-made Vietnamese noodle soups drew praise from celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain during an episode of No Reservations: Vietnam back in 2009. Over 70 percent of the ingredients used here are imported directly from Vietnam to ensure authentic taste, aroma and texture. Pull up a seat on one of the plastic chairs lined outside the eatery and slurp your way through their selection of noodle soups. Herbivores aren’t left out either – the restaurant has recently launched the Omni Pork Banh Cuon, which features minced Omni Pork served atop steamed rice noodle sheets, wood ear mushrooms, fried shallots and a vegan dipping sauce.
3. The Diplomat
If it’s hip you’re looking for, The Diplomat has you covered. This speakeasy-style cocktail bar is tucked away on the lower-ground floor of trendy shopping mall H Code along Pottinger Street. It’s surrounded by art spaces and galleries, which might explain its impeccable sense of style. Featuring a liberal use of brass, leather and timber, the bar-within-a-bar includes a cosy gastropub at the front that is open to the general public and a back bar that has its own entrance, a separate drinks menu and a DJ booth for private music events. With award-winning mixologist John Nugent (formerly of Lily & Bloom) heading the bar, expect unique riffs on classic cocktails such as the Boulevardier, which uses a rye-bourbon blend and has a rich, oaky flavour. The front bar also offers a decent selection of gourmet pub grub, ranging from truffle fries to the more substantial Cubano and Reuben sandwiches or the indulgent Diplomat Burger. Pair any of those with a serving of its ever popular Irish Coffee, made with an indulgent mix of Jameson whisky, Martell VSOP, cold cream and demerara.
4. Foxglove
Disguised as an umbrella boutique along Ice House Street in bustling Central Hong Kong, this dapper space brings to mind scenes from Kingsman, the 2014 action spy comedy film starring Colin Firth and Samuel L. Jackson. Access this stylish Hong Kong hangout through Fox Shop, a narrow boutique with brass-edged wall cabinets lined with silver-handled umbrellas. You’ll have to touch a particular umbrella handle in order to open the doors to the bar. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by a glamorous and cavernous interior inspired by first-class aeroplanes and vintage cars. In the main lounge, the deep blue of the plush leather seats complement cream walls and silver-grey marble counters. The private lounge mimics the interiors of a First Class train cabin, and features a vivid crimson palette, hardwood floors and custom-made lamps. Foxglove is not all looks and no substance, however. They offer a sumptuous selection of modern Cantonese fare alongside a contemporary cocktail menu. Don’t miss out on the ultra-secret Frank’s Library – it’s hidden behind one of Foxglove’s closed curtains and an elevator panel you’ll need to figure out – where you’ll sip on tantalising tipples fit for every debonair gent.
5. Hong Kong Taste
Created by a group of Hongkongers passionate about their city’s culture, this small but mighty eatery pays homage to the ubiquitous cha chaan teng (tea restaurants) found across Hong Kong but with a contemporary twist. It’s housed in the smaller locality of Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon, where you’ll find a harmonious blend of old and new in Hong Kong. When you’re done exploring the various historical buildings in the area, sit down to authentic Hong Kong-style comfort food – think rice and sweet sour prawns, fried noodles and more. Russian airbrush artist Boldyrev Vladimir has covered the walls of the restaurant with nostalgic scenes of old Hong Kong, giving you a peek into the city’s heady days of yore.
6. House Welley Whisky Bar
Hidden between busy stalls and non-stop traffic is the Welley Building. Anyone walking past this battered multi-storey development in central Hong Kong might be forgiven for doubting the existence of a hidden whisky bar within – and yet, nestled discreetly inside is the House Welley Whisky Bar. An elegant sanctuary built by three dedicated whisky connoisseurs – Vincent Leung, Eric Ho, and Jason Ngai – this secret bar features tranquil environs that invite patrons to unwind and indulge in a meticulously curated whisky collection. The shelves are filled with an extensive assortment comprising hundreds of whiskies, ranging from revered classics such as The Macallan to elusive independent bottlings, limited editions, and even coveted vintage treasures from distilleries like Clynelish and Bowmore. It’s a bolthole that’s suited to both discerning connoisseurs and curious novices alike, as you’ll find a blend of options to suit your individual preferences.
7. Mizunara: The Library
Continuing the trend of upscale Hong Kong bars hidden in unremarkable buildings, Mizunara: The Library oozes a certain Ginza-inspired elegance. Wan Chai may have a reputation for being raucous given how it is the former haunt for all things seedy in Hong Kong, but this bar tucked away in one of the district’s sleepier corners oozes an air of exclusivity. Patrons can expect over 150 varieties of Japanese whiskies alongside a few rare gems sourced from Scottish distilleries. Lesser-seen treasures from India and Taiwan will also captivate the discerning palate. Fancy something more than a measure of whisky? Opt for one of Mizunara’s bespoke cocktails, mixed and served by mixologist and owner, Masahiko Endo, who artfully blends distinctive ingredients to create concoctions that ignite your senses. And if you ask nicely, he’ll even explain how everything is blended together to create your drink. While Mizunara’s commitment to excellence is evident, it comes as no surprise that such an elevated experience comes at a higher price.
8. Rollin Roll Bar
Who says food and fashion can’t go hand in hand? LANDMARK is one of the buzziest malls in Hong Kong right now, and it’s where art, fashion and food come to co-exist. Rollin is one of its many tenants, and this Korean food and lifestyle brand recently took up space at its first outlet in the basement of LANDMARK’s new urban wear retail concept Belowground. Diners that want a quick snack flock here for delicious rice rolls that come in an assortment of flavours – faves include the Donkatsu or Truffle Beef Rice, each individually served in brightly-hued sneaker boxes. In addition to its K-rolls, Rollin also carries a line of streetwear ranging from T-shirts to caps and hoodies. This hidden gem also holds pop-ups regularly; follow them on socials to see where they’ll set up shop next.
9. The Wilshire
Kennedy Town may have once been the king of hole-in-the-wall eateries and lifestyle establishments, but these days, it’s dishing out feel-good vibes with gorgeous sunset views, trendy boutiques and laidback dining. However, that doesn’t mean Kennedy Town doesn’t have its own little secret. Only accessible to those in the know, The Wilshire is a secret Hong Kong cocktail bar that’s hidden within Mexican restaurant 11 Westside. With dark, moody lighting that’s conducive for intimate conversations and a pool table in the middle of the space, it’s easy to see why The Wilshire touts itself as a neighbourhood bar. Previously operating with a menu-free concept, The Wilshire now offers a limited menu of contemporary and classic cocktails that rotates frequently depending on which ingredients are in season. Beverage manager Jonathan Ching says, “We focus on high quality, fresh ingredients, but also the philosophy of keeping things simple, but doing simple right.”
Originally published in 2021 by Vanessa Tai. Updated in June 2023 by Hazel Vincent De Paul.
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