What Food To Try in Hong Kong and Food Prices

Congee - 粥 (savory rice porridge) - A steaming bowl of rice porridge, often topped with ingredients like scallions, pickled vegetables, or preserved egg. Locals usually enjoy it for breakfast, sometimes pairing it with fried dough sticks.

Fish Balls - 魚蛋 (street food staple) - Chewy fish balls served on skewers, often with a spicy dipping sauce. A common sight at street stalls, it’s a popular snack especially during late-night outings with friends.

Peking Duck - 北京烤鴨 (crispy duck) - A whole duck roasted till the skin is beautifully crispy, then sliced and served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and cucumber. Usually reserved for celebratory dinners, this dish invites shared joy among diners around the table.

Beef Brisket Noodle Soup - 牛腩面 (hearty noodle dish) - Tender beef brisket served in a rich, fragrant broth with noodles and leafy greens. Often eaten during weekdays for lunch, it's a comfort food that brings many back to childhood memories of family meals.

Pineapple Bun - 菠蘿包 (unexpectedly delicious) - A sweet bun topped with a crunchy, crumbly crust that resembles a pineapple's spikes, but surprises you with no fruit flavor inside. Enjoy it with a slab of butter for a satisfying afternoon snack, although it’s often mistaken for a fruity pastry.

Soy Sauce Chicken - 豉油雞 (classic specialty) - Whole chicken marinated in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and scallions, producing tender meat with deep flavors. Best enjoyed at lunch, it's a favorite among locals who savor it with rice and stir-fried greens.

Water Chestnut Cake - 馬蹄糕 (seasonal treat) - A thin, gelatinous cake made from ground water chestnuts, often served during festivals. It’s a refreshing dish that locals enjoy in the cooler months, particularly during Chinese New Year celebrations.

Milk Tea - 奶茶 (silky tea beverage) - A fragrant blend of strong black tea and evaporated milk, sweetened to taste. Locals enjoy this iconic drink anytime throughout the day, often standing at small stalls where they can watch the dramatic pouring method that aerates the tea for a delightful frothiness.

Kai Tan Tsai - 餐蛋 (eggy street snack) - These soft scrambled eggs are served atop fluffy toasted bread, creating a warm, comforting treat. This favorite is often enjoyed at breakfast or as a late-night snack at local cha chaan teng (tea cafes), with many opting to add a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for a unique twist.

Pineapple Bun - 菠蘿包 (sweet bread roll) - A soft, sweet bun with a crispy, crumbly topping that resembles a pineapple crown (though there’s no actual pineapple). Best enjoyed warm, it’s a common afternoon snack, often served with a slab of butter inside for extra richness. An interesting tidbit is that the top crust contains no pineapple; the name simply comes from its look!

Mango Sago - 芒果西米露 (refreshing dessert) - This cold dessert consists of sweet mango puree, sago pearls, and coconut milk, served over ice for a revitalizing treat. It's especially popular during the hot summer months and frequently savored in dessert shops after dinner, making great use of the city’s abundant fresh mangoes.

Baijiu - 白酒 (strong liquor) - A clear spirit made from fermented grains, it's often enjoyed straight, especially in celebratory settings. You’ll find it at special occasions or while toasting with friends, but be careful — many mistakenly assume it’s just like whiskey!