In Hong Kong, noodles are more than just a food item; they are a culinary adventure, often more beloved than rice. From flat noodles to egg noodles, rice noodles to vermicelli, the variety is endless. N oodles can be enjoyed in a hot soup, stir-fried, or simply tossed in a flavorful sauce, like Lo Mein. For travelers to Hong Kong, the options may seem bewildering, but a simple rule of thumb can guide you: think of this as ordering a pizza. You choose the dough, be it thin crust or normal crust (i.e. Flat Noodle, Egg Noodle), and then select the toppings, such as pepperoni, tomato, cheese, etc. (i.e. Beef Brisket, Wonton, Fishballs) Let's embark on a flavorful journey to explore the different types of noodle stores in Hong Kong.
Beef Brisket Noodle is a beloved dish in Hong Kong, offering tender stewed beef brisket and chewy noodles in a rich broth, with famous spots like Sister Wah, Kau Kee and Mak's Noodle known for it. Some versions of this dish include cartilage, a soft part of the meat that becomes chewy and adds a unique texture. The combination of flavorsome meat and cartilage creates an unforgettable taste and makes this dish a true representation of Hong Kong's love for noodles.
Wonton Noodles are an iconic Hong Kong dish, marrying delicate egg noodles with succulent shrimp or pork-filled wontons. Historically favored by the wealthy, wonton noodles were served in small portions and were called "Sai Yung" (細蓉), likened to an elegant young woman. Some good places to eat this are Mak's Noodle, Mak Man Kee and Chim Chai Kee. The balance between the silky noodles, tender wontons, and flavorful broth makes it a sought-after dish for locals and tourists alike.
Cart Noodles, originating in the 1950s in Hong Kong, were affordable dishes sold from wooden carts by Chinese refugees, becoming popular with the working class despite government restrictions. Known for their customization, the noodles can be topped with a variety of meats, offal, vegetables, and tofu, with options for adventurous eaters like pig's blood curd, and spices like curry fish balls. Now many cart noodles have moved to actual stores as Hong Kong outlawed street hawkers, but the locals still call them "cart noodles" for old times' sake. Some famous places for car noodles are Lam Kee, Fei Gung and Man Kee.
Mixian, a type of noodle known for its customizable spiciness levels, is a popular choice for those who enjoy bold flavors and textures in Hong Kong. This noodle soup dish, often associated with TamJai & SamGor, can be found in various eateries and is both spicy and savory, with flexible spice levels to suit everyone's taste. Although sometimes marketed as "Yunnan-style" noodles, this branding is merely a marketing gimmick, and Mixian is truly a style of noodles that is distinctively Hong Kong.
Hong Kong's noodles are special and there are many kinds to choose from. The Beef Brisket Noodle is warm and good, and Cart Noodles can be made by each person's taste. Anyone exploring Hong Kong's food should try these noodle dishes. There are many flavors and choices in Hong Kong's noodles. It is like making a pizza. Pick the noodles, then add what is liked on top. Enjoy tasting Hong Kong's best noodles!