Dai pai dongs, or 'hawker stalls', are a hallmark of Hong Kong's local street food culture. Recognizable by their semi-open kitchens, green exteriors, and canvas covers. They serve affordable, speedily prepared, and signature Hong Kong delicacies, including renowned drinks like milk tea and Cantonese stir fry dishes.

These stalls once flourished throughout the city, with many dotting across the city. However, as the government ceased issuing new licenses, their numbers began to decline. Today, only just over 20 remain, standing as symbols of a fading cultural tradition. 'Dai Pai Dong Siu Chow' is one that has moved from hawker stall to a restaurant setup in Wan Chai.

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Dai Pai Dong Style Stir-Fry King (大排檔小炒王)

The term "Stir-fry King," a cook who is adapt at quickly and skilfully stir-frying a variety of ingredients over high heat to create delicious dishes that are bursting with "wok hei"(鑊氣) - the sought-after, slightly smoky flavour that comes from cooking food quickly at high temperatures.

The colourful, flavourful stir-fry is a classic dish that makes a perfect match with beer. A good mix of various ingredients such as leek flowers, dried shrimps, and cashews brings joy to everyone.

Sweet & Sour Pork (拔絲咕嚕肉)

One of the most popular dishes here is the sweet and sour pork, the light crunch batter encased the juicy meat inside, then drenched in the sticky sweet and sour sauce.

Diced Beef with Sweet Potato (蜜薯牛柳粒)

This dish showcases tender morsels of beef that are stir-fried with chunks of sweet potato. The beef is often marinated to enhance its flavor and tenderness, while the sweet potato adds a hint of natural sweetness that balances the savory notes of the beef. 

Pepper & Salt Squid (椒鹽鮮魷)

This is a popular seafood dish in Dai Pai Dongs in Hong Kong. The squid is first cleaned, scored, and cut into bite-sized pieces, then lightly battered and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. It's then seasoned with a mixture of salt, pepper, and other spices, often including five-spice powder.

While exploring the bustling streets of Wan Chai or Causeway Bay, don't miss the opportunity to dine at Dai Pai Dong Siu Chow. This iconic eatery captures the essence of Hong Kong's fast tempo and offers an authentic local flavour.