Indulge in the sweet delights of Hong Kong's dessert scene with this guide to the top dessert spots in the city. From steamed milk puddings to soul-warming sweet soups, these dessert establishments serve up traditional flavors with a dash of nostalgia. So grab a spoon and get ready to embark on a deliciously sweet journey!
Most come for the signature Steamed Milk (雙皮燉奶), a custardy dessert originated from Guangdong in 1850s. The Chinese name literally translates as double-layer steamed milk- the top milk skin is fragrant and sweet, the second layer is a tender and smooth milk pudding. For more flavor, go with the Ginger Steamed Milk (薑汁燉奶), which is a popular choice in autumn and winter.
Read More: Yee Shun Dairy Company
Up on the slope of Elgin Street, the green metal sheet Dai Pai Dong serves traditional sweet shop in an expedient manner. Leaf Dessert maintains a true street food stall ambiance, so anticipate a more casual atmosphere rather than the refined service found in upscale eateries.The Cold Green Bean Soup With Seaweed (凍海帶綠豆湯) is the best choice in summer that helps clear your ance and detox after an all-nighter!
Read More: Leaf Dessert
A small shop in Tin Hau with a strong sense of belonging to the city, Stand By You is known for its specially-handcrafted local desserts. The Eight Treasures Herb Jelly is a classic Taiwanese dessert well mastered by Stand By You. Their Crème Brûlée series and the Horlick flavored one are particularly tempting!
Read More: Stand By You
Selling more than 500 bowls per day, this traditional sweet spot is recognized by the Michelin Hong Kong street food guide for 6 consecutive years. Freshly hand-made desserts like Black Sesame Paste and Sweet Sesame Glutinous Rice Ball in Ginger Sweet Soup are irresistibly hearty.
Read More: Kai Kai Dessert
Established in 1955, Hop Shing is in Kowloon City is one of the few dessert places in Hong Kong that specializes in Chiu Chow (Teochew) desserts. Offering more than 90 types of delicious, soul-warming sweet soups with which you are free to mix and match, the shop is most famous for their lotus seeds and traditional jelly cubes.
Read More: Chiu Chow Hop Shing
Of course there are many dessert places in every part of the city. Some incorporate modernized recipe or fusion in their menu so you can expect shaved ice, cream, and pastry. Feel free to explore and go with your instinct. Just note that shops are usually small and sharing table with others is common. Avoid going to a dessert place after dinner time or you will have to have your sweet experience light-speed after waiting at the door for quite a while.