There's nothing better than indulging in a piping hot bowl of flavorful rice to beat the winter chill! Claypot Rice, topped with ingredients ranging from salted fish to tender chicken and coated in sweet soy sauce, is the authentic local dish that warms everyone's heart. Many people flock to restaurants for this seasonal treat, and one of the most well-known is Hing Kee, which spans two streets and six separate branches around Temple Street! They understand that you wouldn't want to wait in long queues during the cold winter months.

The Street Vibe of Claypot Rice

In Cantonese, we call it "Bo Jai Fan" (煲仔飯), which literally means "rice in a small claypot." It was considered a lazy dish in the past, as people wanted to cook everything in one casserole over a charcoal flame. Despite a modern twist in flavors, its popularity never wanes. Although many restaurants have switched to gas stoves for easier kitchen ventilation, Hing Kee remains one of the few that insist on using charcoal fire.

Food Recommendation

With more than 70 options priced between $50 - $100, Hing Kee's Claypot Rice menu is quite affordable compared to others in town. While it may be challenging to choose just one dish, especially for indecisive eaters, Claypot Rice with Octopus & Diced Chicken（章魚雞粒煲仔飯）and Claypot Rice with Foie gras Sausage & Chinese Sausage（臘腸潤腸煲仔飯）are always a hit and safe choice for foreigners. The intense smoky aroma and the sizzling sound of the rice make it extra comforting.

 The intense smoky aroma and the sizzling sound of the rice make it extra comforting. Be sure to mix well so each grain is coated in dark soy sauce (but be careful don't be too greedy because it may make your rice too salty!) and don't forget to dig deep for the crispy layer of rice at the bottom of the clay pot!

Hing Kee's Deep-Fried Oyster Omelette (煎蠔餅) is also worth trying. The golden stack of pancake-like omelettes filled with baby oysters is crusty and crunchy on the outside, while soft and tender on the inside. The oysters add a hint of sweetness to the dish, and dipping it in fish sauce makes it burst with flavors.

Although winter is the best season to enjoy Claypot Rice, no one will blame you for craving it on regular nights. Don't forget to explore Temple Street as well, where street vendors might surprise you with some delightful local treats!