Situated high above the bustling cityscape of Hong Kong, The Peak stands as an unparalleled tourist attraction, captivating visitors from all walks of life. At the heart of this mesmerizing location lies the enigmatic "red brick house," a structure that exudes historical charm and allure.
Boasting a rich historical legacy spanning over a century, the red brick house was received its Grade II historic building status in 1981. Its construction dates back to 1888 when it served as a central meeting place for British engineers involved in the Peak Tram project.
In the late 1890s, a significant number of Europeans residing in Hong Kong moved to higher altitudes to distance themselves from the Chinese population. As the ethnic Chinese community continued to grow in the city, reaching Victoria Peak became the ultimate limit. Consequently, the Hong Kong Government decided to reserve the Peak for Europeans as the beginning of racial seggregation in Hong Kong. In 1901, the site of Peak Outlook was transformed into a shelter and resting area for sedan chair carriers/coolies, serving the transportation needs of the European.
Following the conclusion of the Second World War, Chinese residents were permitted to live on Victoria Peak, leading to the conversion of the sedan chair shelter into the charming Peak Cafe. The arches of the building were later replaced with wood and glass doors, while wooden flooring was added atop the original concrete floor at a later date. With these minor modifications, the building stands today as a testament to its original construction, preserving its timeless allure.
The restaurant housed within this colonial gem entices visitors with a delectable array of nostalgic dishes. While its roots lie in British culinary traditions, the menu also pays homage to the flavors of India, a nod to the Indian soldiers who introduced their rich culinary heritage to Hong Kong during the colonial era. As a result, this distinguished establishment serves a delightful fusion of Indian, Singaporean, and Western cuisines.
When you find yourself on the terrace of the Peak Lookout, you can relish in a refreshing drink while gazing out over the southern side of Hong Kong Island. In this moment, the restaurant's ambiance transports you to a nostalgic environment, far removed from the highly touristy atmosphere found near the Peak Tower. For those seeking to prolong this colonial vibe and escape the tourist traps, we highly recommend embarking on the Peak Circle Walk, a leisurely stroll that will immerse you further in the enchanting surroundings of The Peak.