Wondering where to get lunch in Central? These are our favourite cheap lunch deals that come in at under $100!
We often have an inner debate about lunchtime. Should I meal prep in the evening to save money, or should I splurge on a delicious meal? Luckily for you, these cheap lunch deals from our favourite Central restaurants give you the chance to feast on the food that you’ve been craving, without hurting your wallet. Whether you’re in the mood for a piping hot bowl of ramen, a filling salad, or a hearty banh mi, here’s where to get lunch in Central for under $100.
Read more: Our Favourite Cafes With Wifi: Hong Kong Island Edition
Editor’s Note: The situation in Hong Kong regarding closures and restrictions on opening hours due to the coronavirus is constantly evolving. Many businesses are taking extra precautions, but please make sure you follow the latest government advice and stay home if you have recently travelled overseas, have interacted with anyone who has been away, or display any symptoms.
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Something Healthy
Something Quick
Something Hearty
Sandwiches And More
Where To Get Lunch In Central For Under $100
Something Healthy
Fete Up
Craving a lunch that’s both healthy and satisfying? Well look no further than Fete Up. This Sassy-approved lunchtime staple specialises in a range of wholesome signature bowls that actually taste good too! Each bowl comes with a balanced portion of carbs, protein and vegetables to ensure optimum nutrition. Start with a base of brown or signature rice, soba or Asian salad, before filling up with a selection of colourful vegetables and lean protein. With plenty of vegan and low-carb options available too, there is sure to be something for everyone.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11:30am to 7:30pm
How much: Signature bowls from $58
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Takeaway or solo/small group group dining
Fete Up (Central), G/F, 31 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong (head here for other locations), 5688 1117, [email protected], feteup.com
Fresca
This friendly neighbourhood cafe is most famous for its vegetarian salad boxes. Each box at Fresca comes with a base of greens, rice, or a mix of both, and include various toppings (our favourites are the Korean Tofu, Greek Salad and Spiced Pumpkin, though the options change frequently). The nourishing soups are also great for lunch. And gluten-free foodies shouldn’t leave without grabbing a muffin, crepe or cookie!
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:30am to 5pm
How much: $87 for a regular salad box (with three toppings) or $110 for a large (with four toppings); $40 for a regular soup or $50 for a large; bakery items and snacks (including cookies and muffins) start at $16
Is dine-in available: Yes (but no table service)
Best for: Takeaway or solo/small group (e.g. up to two) dining
Fresca, 54A Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2770 2282, [email protected], www.frescahk.com
Healthy Chicken
If you’re on a health kick, budget, or just craving some good Peruvian style rotisserie chicken, you’ll enjoy this quick stop for lunch. All the ingredients here are naturally grown and raised, with no MSG, preservatives or additives. We’re fans of the classic Chicken Meal, which includes a piece of succulent chicken with rice, veggies, and a delicious sauce. If you don’t eat chicken, worry not! Seafood lovers can opt for Salmon, Shrimp or Basa Fillet instead, whilst vegetarians can pick up a Tofu Salad Meal. Beyond meal sets, Healthy Chicken’s burritos (from $68), burrito bowls (from $38) and quesadillas (from $50) are also delicious and very reasonably priced.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 10pm
How much: Chicken Meals start at $68 (for a 1/4 chicken, chicken breast, chicken wing or chicken leg); Seafood Meals are $88; Tofu Salad Meal is $78
Is dine-in available: Yes (but no table service)
Best for: Takeaway or solo dining
Healthy Chicken (Central), 19 Wing Wah Lane, Central, Hong Kong (head here for other locations), [email protected], www.facebook.com/healthychicken
KALE
As its namesake suggests, KALE champions a nutritious, fresh and clean flexitarian menu packed full of organic superfoods. We love the salad options, which come with a choice of protein (including Pesto Chicken, Seared Tuna, Crab Meat and more). Or, if you’re after something more filling, KALE’s hot meals come highly recommended. Think Cajun Chicken with Quinoa and Sweet Potato Fries ($98), Crab Kale Brown Rice ($98), Pumpkin Quinoa Risotto with Portabello ($98) to name but a few of the delicious choices available. With a range of vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, gluten-free and low-carb variations to choose from, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 9pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 5pm
How much: Hot dishes start at $88; small salads range between $70 and $98
Is dine-in available: Yes (but no table service)
Best for: Takeaway or solo/small group (e.g. up to two) dining
KALE, G/F, 26 Li Yuen Street West, Central, Hong Kong, 2511 1777, [email protected], www.facebook.com/kalelivenrocks
Maison Libanaise
We love being able to customise our lunch, so it’s no surprise that we’re huge fans of Le Comptoir’s Maison Libanaise and the handy takeaway lunch menu. Choose from a selection of delicious proteins, such as Maison’s Falafel ($78), Za’atar Fried Chicken ($98) and Harissa Roasted Cauliflower ($88). Next, decide whether you want the protein in a wrap, salad or rice bowl. Finally, top your meal off with some of its mouth-watering sauce options. We recommend the Cucumber Labneh or fiery Harissa.
Opening hours: The Le Comptoir menu is available Sunday to Thursday, 11am to 10.45pm; Friday to Sunday, 11am to 11:45pm
How much: Vegetarian options start at $78; meat options start at $88.
Is dine-in available: Not for this menu. If you dine-in, you will be required to order from the Lunch Set Menu which starts at $158.
Best for: Takeaway
Maison Libanaise, 10 Shelley Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong, 2111 2284, [email protected], www.maisonlibanaise.com.hk
MANA! Fast Slow Food
Who says fast food can’t be healthy? A verified lunchtime staple, MANA! was one of the first in the city to cook up plant based foods that are good for both the environment and your health! We love the delicious flatbreads here, which are baked in the restaurant’s own brick oven before being smothered in “zaatar” (a combination of sesame seeds, thyme, sumac and sea salt). Try out one of the Signature Flats or opt for a Salad Box, which includes a selection of daily salads. You can also create your own Flat, complete with up to four toppings of your choice.
Editor’s Note: MANA!’s new Soho location will open in May 2020.
How much: Flats are $50 for half or between $9o and $95 for full; salads are $80 for small or $135 for large
Is dine-in available: Yes (but no table service)
Best for: Takeaway or solo/small group (e.g. up to two) dining
MANA! Fast Slow Food (Soho), 8 Staunton Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong (head here for other locations), [email protected], www.mana.hk
TREEHOUSE
Located in Central’s H Code, TREEHOUSE is a favourite go-to for a healthy lunch in Central. This pick serves up an eco-friendly, plant-based menu consisting of healthy bowls, sourdough flatbreads, burgers and salads made from local and organic whole food ingredients (which are free from preservatives, refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, food dyes, trans-fats, soy-isolates, bleached flour and more). While the burgers deserve an honourable mention, it’s the flatbreads which are the star of the show here. Take your pick from the restaurant’s signature combos or create your own. Pair with a Cold-pressed Juice ($65) and you’re good to go.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am to 10pm
How much: Flatbreads start at $60 for a Short or $98 for a Long; Burgers are $98; Grain and Salad Bowls are $128
Is dine-in available: Yes (but no table service)
Best for: Takeaway or small group dining
Treehouse, Shop 1, G/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong, 3791 2277, [email protected], www.facebook.com/treehouse.eco
Uma Nota
Delicious fresh salads with a Japanese twist await at Uma Nota. Tuck into soba noodles with edamame and a sesame dressing, roasted miso eggplant, fresh greens and more for just $95 at the restaurant’s unlimited salad bar. There are also options to tag on a bento style main or burger for an additional cost of around $25.
Opening hours: Lunch menu available Monday to Friday, 11:30am to 5pm
How much: $95 for Unlimited Salad Bar; $120 for Unlimited Salad Bar plus Bento or Burger Main
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Team lunches
Uma Nota, 38 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2889 7576, [email protected], www.uma-nota.com
Something Quick
Chotto Maki
Sushi lovers rejoice! The main draw of this Japanese resto is the option to create your own roll ($78). Choose from a wide array of flavours and ingredients, including tofu skin, kimchi, tempura and truffle mayo. Alternatively, opt for one of the delicious and experimental signature rolls, like the Chick Chick ($72) or the Beef-Iyaki ($72). For traditionalists, there are also a number of classic sushi and sashimi options too.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:30am to 7pm
How much: $78 for a customised roll; $68 to $72 for a signature and classic rolls (four pieces); sushi and sashimi from $29 (three pieces)
Is dine-in available: Yes (but no table service)
Best for: Takeaway or solo dining
Chotto Maki (Central), G/F, 3 Li Yuen Street West, Central, Hong Kong (head here for Wan Chai location), 5111 6074, [email protected], www.chottomaki.com
Cheung Hing Kee
This little restaurant on Lyndhurst Terrace cooks up unbelievably delicious Shanghai Pan Fried Buns. There are few things in life that compare to biting into these little pockets of goodness, which are filled with piping hot soup and mouth-watering pork. The dumplings are stuffed into a pan and cooked in big batches, causing the bottoms to become crispy and the tops to steam. We recommend trying the Signature Pork Buns ($35 for four) and the Truffle Buns ($17 for one). Don’t forget to douse them in vinegar and hot sauce for the perfect finish! If you’re feeling peckish, grab some noodles too. The Stirred Noodles With Scallion, Oil and Pork Chops ($45) hit the spot, as do the Pork and Vegetable Wontons With Soup ($36).
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9am to 10pm
How much: Signature buns from $35 for four pieces; noodle dishes range from $22 to $58
Is dine-in available: Standing only
Best for: Takeaway
Cheung Hing Kee, Shop 1A, G/F, 52-60 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong (head here for other locations), 2690 0725
Mak Mak
Enjoy fresh Thai flavours to takeaway at Mak Mak’s “Grab & Go” counter. The menu rotates weekly, but expect a selection of small snacks, curries, stir fries and sweets. Rest assured, there are plenty of veggie options available too!
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11am to 3pm
How much: Menu items typically range between $35 and $90
Is dine-in available: Not for this menu
Best for: Takeaway
Mak Mak, 217A, 2/F The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, 2983 1003, [email protected], www.makmak.hk
NuNu
This small but mighty izakaya is tucked away on a side street by Lan Kwai Fong and does some of the best rice bowls in the city. Grilled eel, curry beef and truffle pork are just some of the tasty toppings available. Though slightly over $100, we’re fans of the cheese options for added indulgence. The only downside? The menu is very meat-based so this pick is perhaps not suitable for any vegetarians!
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:30am to 3:30pm
How much: Rice bowls range between $70 and $115
Is dine-in available: Yes (but be prepared to queue!)
Best for: Quick and casual solo/small group (i.e. up to two) dining
NuNu, G/F, 4-5 Wo On Lane, Central, Hong Kong, 9192 9294, www.facebook.com/OnlyNunusiu
Tsim Chai Kee
It’s no wonder this bustling wonton noodle restaurant has been Michelin recommended for the past 10 years. Locals and tourists alike frequent this famous establishment, which is packed daily and is perfect for a quick lunch in Central. Every dish on Tsim Chai Kee’s short menu has been perfected, but our favourite is the King Prawn Wonton Noodles ($33). All of the dishes are perfectly complemented by its famous chilli sauce.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9am to 9:15pm
How much: Noodle dishes range between $33 and $50
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Quick and casual solo/small group (i.e. up to four) dining
Tsim Chai Kee, 98 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2850 6471
What To Eat
A newcomer on Michelin’s Bib Gourmand list for 2020, What To Eat delights with an array of Taiwanese favourites including beef noodles (from $82), braised pork rice ($29), crispy popcorn chicken ($78) and more. The Egg Rolls (from $35) in particular come highly recommended, made with ingredients freshly imported direct from Taiwan.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm
How much: Noodle dishes range between $80 and $85; Egg Rolls range between $35 and $45; Bento dishes range between $68 and $128
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Quick and casual solo/small group (i.e. up to four) dining
What To Eat, Shop A, G/F, Carfield Commercial Building, 75-77 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2810 9278, www.facebook.com/whattoeat.77
Wang Fu
If you’re craving Chinese comfort food, this hole in the wall is famous for its Pekingese Dumplings and Beijing Stir Fry. Dig into a delicious plate of Pork and Chive Dumplings ($58) or Green Onion and Mutton Dumplings ($75). Alternatively, opt for the piping hot Spicy Minced Pork Noodle ($48), or cool down with Cold Noodle in Sesame Sauce ($42). Polish off your meal the right way with a glass of Soya Bean Milk ($10).
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am to 10pm
How much: Dumplings (10 pieces) from $58; noodle dishes from $42; noodles with dumplings (five pieces) from $50
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Quick and casual solo/small group (e.g. up to four) dining
Something Hearty
Bari-Uma
Few things are better than slurping down a bowl of ramen. If you find yourself craving some piping hot and extremely flavourful comfort food during lunch, make a beeline for Bari-Uma. If ramen doesn’t appeal during the hot and humid summer months, we suggest getting some Chicken Karage ($35) and an order of the Spicy Gyoza ($38).
Editor’s Note: Bari-Uma’s Central location is currently under renovation.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am to 1am
How much: Ramen dishes range between $78 and $118
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Quick and casual solo/small group dining
Bari-Uma (Central), G/F, 22 D’Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong (head here for other locations), 3101 0780, www.bariuma.asia
Shake Shack
For those days when you’re in need of a little comfort to make it through the afternoon ahead, get yourself over to Shake Shack. A burger, fries and shake will sort you out in no time. While you can’t go wrong with the signature ShackBurger ($50), the Chick’n Shack ($56) is a worthy alternative. Cheese Fries ($36) are a must, as is the classic Vanilla Hand-Spun Shake ($42).
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am to 10pm
How much: Burgers range between $50 and $86
Is dine-in available: Yes (but no table service)
Best for: Solo and small group dining
Shake Shack (Central), Shop 4018 Podium Level 4, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong (head here for other locations), 2522 5611, [email protected], www.shakeshack.com.hk
The Pizza Project
Feeling indulgent? The Pizza Project’s great value lunch set is perfect for a tasty end-of-week treat. For just $98 you can get an antipasti and pizza main! We highly recommend the Porchetta Tonnata to start, followed by the fiery Nduja Spicy Salami or classic Margherita. For those looking to really push the boat out, upgrade your pie to a calzone for an additional $25, or add on an extra $20 for a dessert.
Opening hours: Lunch menu is served Monday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm
How much: $98 for two courses or $118 for three.
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Team lunches
The Pizza Project, G/F, 26 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2311 1815, [email protected], thepizzaproject.hk
Sandwiches And More
Banh Mi Kitchen
Banh Mi Kitchen serves up hearty Vietnamese sandwiches in the heart of Central. The crispy subs are freshly baked daily, guaranteeing consistently high quality. If you’re a fan of the classic banh mi, opt for the Cold Cut Classic ($55). We also love the Char Siu ($58), Lemongrass Chic ($55) and Vegetarian Delight ($47). Don’t forget to add on a soup or hot drink for $12 more.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm
How much: Banh Mi range between $47 and $60
Is dine-in available: No
Best for: Takeaway
Banh Mi Kitchen, 22 Li Yuen Street East, Central, Hong Kong, 2328 9699, [email protected], www.facebook.com/hongkongbmk
NOC Coffee Co.
NOC’s coffee offering needs no introduction, but did you know that the insta-famous cafe offers a range of tasty brunch bites too? The Avocado Smash ($94) is a must-try. Think sourdough toast, piled with ripe smashed avocados and served with a sprinkling of feta cheese and pomegranate seeds. This perfectly balanced lunch option will fill you up, and still leave you change from $100!
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 6pm
How much: Food items range between $68 and $94
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Casual solo or small group (i.e up to four) dining
NOC Coffee Co. (Central), 34 Graham Street, Central, Hong Kong (head here for other locations), 2606 6188, [email protected], www.noccoffeeco.com
R&R Bagels
You can’t go wrong with a bagel. At R&R, they come freshly rolled and are baked in-house everyday. Favourites include the classic Smoked Salmon ($85), as well as the indulgent Bacon Jam BLT ($85). There’s also the option to build your own if that’s more your style.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 5pm; Saturday and Sunday, 8:30am to 6pm
How much: Bagel Sandwiches range between $65 and $85
Is dine-in available: Yes
Best for: Quick and casual solo/small group (e.g. up to two) dining
R&R Bagels, 28 Li Yuen Street West, Central, Hong Kong, 2178 5168, [email protected], www.facebook.com/randrbagels
Editor’s Note: This article was originally written and published by Heidy Choi on 30 August, 2017, and most recently updated in May 2020.
Featured image courtesy of Maison Libanaise via Instagram, image 1 courtesy of Fete Up, image 2 courtesy of KALE HK, image 3 courtesy of Chotto Maki via Facebook, image 4 courtesy of Mak Mak via Instagram, image 5 courtesy of What To Eat, image 6 courtesy of Bari Uma via Instagram, image 7 courtesy of The Pizza Project, image 8 courtesy of Banh Mi Kitchen, image 9 courtesy of R&R Bagels via Instagram.