Noodles have long been a staple in Hong Kong's vibrant culinary landscape, representing a blend of traditions, flavors, and innovative craftsmanship. From the bustling street-side eateries serving up time-honored favorites to Michelin-starred restaurants offering gourmet interpretations, the city offers a gastronomic adventure with noodles at its core that beckons both locals and tourists alike.
Whether it's the iconic beef brisket noodles of Kau Kee, the extra-large prawn wontons of Tsim Chai Kee, or the traditional craftsmanship of Mak Man Kee, these establishments collectively narrate the rich tapestry of Hong Kong's food culture. Join us on a flavorful journey through these must-visit culinary destinations in the city.
Kau Kee, has been serving a signature Cantonese dish, beef brisket noodle, since the 1920s. Nestled on Gough Street, a short walk from Central or Sheung Wan MTR Station, Kau Kee is immensely popular, and one may have to join a queue that can last up to 45 minutes. A great variety of combinations of parts, noodles, and broths (curry is their signature) is available. Make sure you order quickly to not fail the Central pace.
Read more: Kau Kee 九記牛腩
Tin Hau’s all-time favorite eatery offers the Beef Brisket Noodle Soup at its best. The dish diverges from the norm of heavily-seasoned brisket, allowing the inherent savoury goodness of the beef to take center stage instead of being shrouded by a thick sauce. Fine cuts on the meat's surface enhance its absorption of the delectable broth, resulting in a tender, easily digestible dish that you won't want to share.
Read more: Sister Wah 華姐清湯腩
Having earned the Michelin Star, Mak’s Noodles serves the perfect form of “Sai Yung” (細蓉), a small bowl of wonton noodles popular in the old days. It comes with a mouthful of al dente noodles and four shrimp dumplings in golden-yellowish broth. The Wontons are plump and delicate, filled with chunky shrimp and pork. Beef brisket or shrimp roe noodles are also worth trying.
Read more: Mak's Noodles 麥奀記 (Jordan)
Mak Man Kee Noodle Shop, established in the 1940s on Parkes Street in Jordan, is renowned for its signature Shrimp Wonton Noodle Soup. Originating from a hawker stall, it offers limited seating and boasts unique tiles that enhance its authentic ambiance. The restaurant's success lies in its time-honored recipes from Mak Woon-chi, a celebrated Cantonese cook, and the expertise of the chefs in crafting perfect wontons, making it a must-visit for an authentic Hong Kong culinary experience.
Read more: Mak Man Kee 麥文記麵家
This no-frills restaurant will surprise you with its signature king prawn wonton noodle recommended by Michelin Guide for many years. Their extra-large dumplings are fully packed with fresh chunky prawns and minced pork, giving you an unforgettably crunchy, flavorful experience. The restaurant is right across the street from Mak’s Noodles, so why not have a wonton face-off on Wellington Street in Central!
Read more: Tsim Chai Kee 沾仔記
Sham Shui Po, an intriguing district in Hong Kong, provides an authentic experience of the city's traditional culture and cuisine, particularly through Man Kee Cart Noodle, a restaurant famous for its blend of classic and contemporary offerings. With two unique dining settings - a traditional outlet for a quick meal and a modernized shop for a more relaxed experience - Man Kee presents a myriad of choices for its signature cart noodles, catering to a diverse range of preferences and dietary requirements.
Read More: Man Kee 文記車仔麵
Lam Kee Cart Noodles, a cherished eatery in Sai Wan Ho neighborhood, was founded by a former street hawker couple and has been providing an engaging dining experience for nearly 30 years, where customers can choose from a vast selection of noodles and toppings. Located in the street food haven of Tai On Building, it offers a unique insight into Hong Kong's local cuisine and culture, though it is advised to visit during off-peak times due to its popularity.
Read more: Lam Kee 林記車仔麵
Fei Gung, a popular cart noodle eatery located at the crossroads of Mong Kok and Prince Edward in Hong Kong, entices patrons with numerous options for toppings and a light yet flavorful broth, all at pocket-friendly prices. With an outdoor Dai Pai Dong setting and quick turnarounds, this cherished spot has been serving its customers for over 30 years with consistently high-quality food.
Read more: Fei Gung 肥公車仔麵