Capital Cafe, alternatively known as Chrisly Café (華星冰室), holds a prestigious spot among the famous cha chaan tengs of Hong Kong. Originating in 2010 in the lively Wan Chai district of Hong Kong Island, it quickly became a renowned hotspot.
A visit here is a must for lovers of canton pop, being opened by an individual from the entertainment scene. Among the co-owners, EO2 member and actor, Eddie Pang, established this restaurant as an homage to the brilliant era of Capital Artists Music Limited, a leading record company from the 1970s-80s. The decor includes autographed photos and memorabilia from a wide array of Hong Kong celebrities, transforming this cafe into a captivating tribute to the local entertainment industry.
A renowned favorite at Capital Cafe is scrambled egg toast with black truffle accompanied by milk tea. The toast is crispy, but not greasy. However, the star attraction is the creamy scrambled eggs topped with black truffle, lifting this humble dish to extravagant heights. The milk tea, a regular in any cha chaan teng (茶餐廳), is renowned at Capital Cafe for its full-bodied, velvety taste, a product of careful brewing and a blend of different tea varieties.
Another item on the menu, Principal’s Toast (校長多士) (cheese and truffle toast), was initially custom-made for Alan Tam, a leading artist in the 1980s. Affectionately dubbed “the Principal,” Tam played a guiding role for many emerging artists in the cantopop music industry. An insider joke about Tam remaining 25 years old annually is the reason behind the toast's price tag of $25.
Devils Submarine (魔鬼潛艇) is another cherished snack, named for its resemblance to a submarine or, in more common terms, a hotdog. This traditional term for a hotdog from the 1960s-70s is due to its elongated, oval shape. A deviation from the standard ketchup and mustard dressing, the Devils Submarine is served with wasabi mayonnaise. The spicy kick might induce a tear or two, but the unique experience makes it more than worthwhile.
Visiting Capital Café is not merely dining, but an immersive journey into the golden years of Hong Kong’s pop culture. Everyone is encouraged to experience the magic and nostalgia that this unique establishment has to offer.