18 December, 2020
Poho Guide: Square Street
Poho Guide: Square Street
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Your Neighbourhood Guide To Poho

18 December, 2020
Poho Guide: Square Street

Full of quirky cafes, independent boutiques, cosy restaurants and an array of street art, we’ve rounded up the best places to visit in Poho.

With its distinct neighbourhood vibe and sleepy streets, Poho is one of our favourite areas in the city to spend a lazy afternoon exploring. Referring to the area found “above” Sheung Wan, Poho includes the streets of Po Hing Fong and Tai Ping Shan, along with the surrounding area.

“Po” actually means treasure in Chinese, and wandering around the streets of Poho can feel like a treasure hunt of sorts, with its mix of quirky cafes, independent boutiques, galleries, cosy restaurants and an array of street art. Here are our favourite places to while away the afternoon…

Read more: Your Neighbourhood Guide To Kennedy Town

Jump to:
Where To Eat
Where To Drink
Where To Shop
What To Do

Where To Eat

Poho Guide: teakha

teakha

If you’re looking for relaxed vibes, freshly baked cakes and pastries, and plenty of tea, teakha is the place to head to in Poho. The indoor area is calm and cosy, but the small outdoor space is perfect to spend the afternoon with nothing but a book and a slice of cake (and your furry friend!). Along with a drinks menu of its own single-origin Plantation by teakha teas, teakha serves up baked goods such as salted caramel banana chiffon cake, ginger scones, cream cheese and kumquat chocolate cake and much more. And if you’re looking for brunch, dishes include everything from lemon ricotta pancakes to breakfast avocado tostada, homemade yoghurt and granola, teakha’s quiche Lorraine and more. Don’t leave without trying the masala chai.

Sassy Tip: Diners heading to teakha on weekdays can enjoy a free drink with the order of any breakfast item before 11am, and those looking for an afternoon treat can upgrade your tea order to include a freshly baked scone for just $15 extra.

Teakha, Shop B, 18 Tai Ping Shan Street, Poho, Hong Kong, 2858 9185[email protected], www.teakha.com

Crit Room

A creative concept made to foster ‘opinions and ideas’, Crit Room is a sleek, minimalistic restaurant expertly designed by Hong Kong architect, Barrie Ho. Its Italian fare does not disappoint, dishing up loved classics from its Premium Tasting Menu like Truffle Tagliatelle and signature seafood platter.

Crit Room, 30 Tai Ping Shan Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2366 9608, [email protected], www.thecritroom.com

3rd Space

Earl Grey pancakes are the order of the day at this cosy neighbourhood café. Adorned with colourful and eye-catching paintings of Japanese geishas, soak up the Instagrammable atmosphere and stop for a sweet or savoury brunch.

3rd Space, 16 Upper Station Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 9220 9785, www.facebook.com/3rdspacehk

Figaro

Figaro combines the unique flavours of French and Japanese cuisine. Served family-style, select from an expansive dinner menu of tapas, chicken, Iberico pork and beef signatures. Popping in for lunch? Opt for a mini soup and baked baguette or bistro Japanese style ramen noodles.

Figaro, 2 Shin Hing Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2985 8868, www.facebook.com/figarohk

Poho Guide: Oldish

Oldish

You have probably passed the vintage-looking exterior at the top of Tung Street in Tai Ping Shan, but ever wondered what’s on offer? Brimming with retro furniture, antiques, and old movie posters, Oldish is a trendy food spot that mixes Asian with Italian flavours and plates up an all-day brekkie. Some of its top recommended dishes include the Four Cheese Wagyu Beef Burger and breakfast fry up!

Oldish, 53 Tung Street, Tai Ping Shan, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2697 3313

Frantzén’s Kitchen

Opened by Michelin-starred Swedish chef, Bjorn Frantzén, Frantzen’s Kitchen serves up modern Nordic cuisine, with an Asian influence. If you’re in the mood to splurge on something a little different, be sure to opt for the Tasting Menu and sit at the kitchen counter for the full chef’s experience.

Frantzén’s Kitchen, 11 Upper Station Street, Tai Ping Shan, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2559 8508, www.frantzenskitchen.com

Homei

Another Poho favourite that gives us that casual family-run atmosphere, with a home-away-from-home vibe. The food menu is a little limited, but make sure to stop by here for a coffee and a freshly baked goodie – we love the chocolate and cashew nut cookies. For lunch, the café offers up sandwiches and a pasta and soup of the day.

Homei, G/F, 22-24A Tai Ping Shan Street, Poho, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/Homei-Cafe

Blue Supreme

This local dive bar pours an enviable selection of speciality beers categorised by intensity, flavour profile and origin. Ranging from locally brewed Hong Kong crafts to a wider selection of Belgian beers by the bottle or on draft, grab a cold one and select from its menu of elevated, modern American bistro bar bites and brunch classics. The Elvis Presley French Toast and Buttermilk Chicken Waffles will start your weekend right.

Blue Supreme, 21 Tung Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 5998 3088, www.bluesupreme.live

Sp_ce

This little coffee shop is located just below the steps leading up to Yoga Bam Bam and Yarn in the Works. The menu features an All Day Breakfast for $118, along with daily cakes for $48, sandwiches for $78 and coffees.

Sp_ce, G/F, 20 Po Hing Fong, Poho, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/sp__ce

Man Mo Dim Sum

Tucked away amongst the trinket shops on Upper Lascar Row, Man Mo Dim Sum serves contemporary East-meets-West dim sum, hitting the spot with its truffle brie dumpling and foie gras xiao long bao.

Man Mo Dim Sum, 40 Upper Lascar Row, Hong Kong, 2644 5644, manmodimsum.com/hongkong

Dandy’s Organic Café

Free from all gluten, chemicals, hormones and GMOs, Dandy’s Organic Café specialises in healthy, vegan-friendly meals that are not only low-fat but low GI and absent of nuts. Refuel with superfood salads, flu-fighting rice and pasta dishes. Those preferring meat can order high-protein options such as chicken and pork. Served up alongside Australian all-press coffee, this healthy hub is hard to beat.

Dandy’s Organic Café, 32 Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2838 6166www.facebook.com/dandysorganiccafe

Sweetpea Café

Packed full of gluten-free goodness, Sweetpea Café is well-known for its homey baked goods and customised cakes. Its drinks menu is bursting with colour (the Blue Dream Latte and Green Goddess will blow up your Instagram feed) and the brunch menu balances the sweet with delicious savoury brunch dishes and salad bowls.

Sweetpea Café, 4 Shin Hing Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 3689 7269, www.sweetpea-cafe-hk.myshopify.com

Congteakafe

Tucked away on Square Street, Congteakafe is best known for its affordable and tasty Hong Kong-style breakfasts and afternoon tea sets. Don’t miss its next-level pineapple buns chef breakfast specials!

Congteakafe, 24 Square Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 5909 9370

For Kee Restaurant

There are many great things on the menu at For Kee Restaurant, but we can’t get enough of the pork chop and rice (pro tip: ask for a fried egg on top for an elevated experience). It’s perfectly savoury, with plenty of soya sauce dousing the white rice and fried pork, and is the ultimate comfort food on a dreary day. Pair it with iced milk tea and a side of veggies, and you’re guaranteed to walk out satisfied. If you need a sweet treat to finish off your meal, the condensed milk thick toast will definitely hit the spot. This is a get in and get out quickly kind of joint, and you will definitely find yourself on a shared table, but that just adds to the experience. We recommend getting there right at noon for lunch, as the lines get long very quickly after.

For Kee Restaurant, 200 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2546 8947

Pinco Pallino

If you’re looking for cosy, family-style Italian vibes, then be sure to head to Pinco Pallino. The relaxed ambience is only complemented by its casual menu of Mediterranean fare, with the likes of fresh pizza, pasta and daily aperitivos. You can also buy cold cuts and cheeses to take away, if you’re wanting to recreate the relaxed vibe in the comfort of your own home.

Pinco Pallino, 6 Po Yan Street, Poho, Hong Kong, 9153 7186, capo.hk/capo-pinco-pallino-restaurant-bookings

Poho Guide: Rapha

Rapha

Cycling aficionados will know just how important coffee shop culture is to the world of cycling, and Rapha seamlessly combines both with its minimalist café and cycling store. Serving up coffees and other beverages (priced between $30 and $47), along with food items including homemade cakes and pastries, stop by here for a pit stop and come away with the latest cycling gear, or even sign up to one of its regular group rides!

Rapha, 56 Sai Street, Poho, Hong Kong, 9442 3507www.facebook.com/raphahongkong

Reserva Iberica

This tiny ham shop specialises in Bellota Ham. The staff are super knowledgeable and more than happy to help you find what you’re looking for. Opt to enjoy a glass of wine, and a cheese and ham board outside the shop, or take your purchases home with you.

Reserva Iberica, Shop C, G/F, 15 Upper Station Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2111 0066, www.reservaiberica.hk

Capo Panificio Bakery

The space that used to home to Po’s Atelier, is now the newly opened Capo Bakery. Serving up a range of Italian produce to take away, from fresh bread and pizza, to charcuterie and more, it’s sure to be a hit in the neighbourhood.

Capo Panifico Bakery, 70 Po Hing Fong, Poho, Hong Kong, 6657 6700, www.capohk.com

Where To Drink

Poho Guide: halfway coffee

Halfway Coffee

You’ll be hard-pushed to find a coffee shop that disappoints in Poho, and Halfway Coffee is no exception to the rule. These beans are brewed to please with usual suspects on the drinks menu as well as speciality options such as its Black Sugar, Longan Honey, Rose and Matcha Lattes.

Halfway Coffee, 12 Tung Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 9511 7197, www.facebook.com/halfwaycoffeehk

Lof10

This laid-back coffee spot is the perfect pit-stop for a cuppa, any day of the week. Choose from a variety of freshly brewed coffees, tea or speciality sodas (yuzu and passionfruit are popular choices!) and pair with one of its pasta or sandwich sets for an accompanying bite.

Lof10, 1 U Lam Terrace, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2540 2210, www.facebook.com/Lof10hk

COA

Opened in 2017 by Jay Khan in a mission to bring agave spirits to the forefront of Asia’s cocktail scene, COA serves 100% agave tequila, traditional mezcal and cocktails inspired by the flavours of Mexico. The humble Mexican-inspired setting favours wood, brick and concrete elements, and is dimly lit by candles – perfect for weekend drinks and date night.

COA, LG/F, Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2813 5787, www.coa.com.hk

Cupping Room Coffee Roasters

Known for serving speciality coffee all over the city, this tucked away The Cupping Room location is perfect for a quiet morning working or out-of-office meetings. Open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and 9am to 6pm on weekends and public holidays. It’s also a solid choice for brunch in the city, with food items on offer such as avocado on toast, eggs Benedict, house cured salmon on toast, brioche French toast and scrambled or poached eggs on toast.

Cupping Room Coffee Roasters, Shop 8, Silver Jubilee Mansion, 62-72 Po Hing Fong, Poho, 3705 0208, www.cuppingroom.hk

Green Ginkgo Tea

As Hong Kong’s first hand-brew tea bar, this Japanese-style tea shop serves handmade drinks such as matcha lattes, hand-drip coffee and more, along with its own range of premium sencha tea, which can be ordered hot or cold. Although specialising in tea (and being limited on space!) the tiny café also serves food items that include avocado sourdough toast ($78), red bean matcha waffles ($78) and taro cream toast ($45),

Green Ginkgo Tea, Shop 1A, G/F, 1 Tai Ping Shan Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, www.greenginkgotea.com 

Whiskey and Words

Hong Kong loves its speakeasies and this travel book-themed whiskey den is one to add to the ever-growing list of dimly lit bars and quirky aesthetics. Dedicated to exposing its customers to over 300 whiskies from across the globe, it has crafted an array of bespoke cocktails and whiskey flights with expert staff on hand to help you order the perfect pour.

Whiskey and Words, G/F, 7 Shin Hing Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 9889 8590, www.whisky-and-words.com

Poho Guide: Craftissimo

Craftissimo

This gem of a craft beer bar claims “Good People Drink Craft Beer,” and it is the absolute perfect all-day outdoor hangout spot. Here you can browse a selection of over 280 international craft beers, and choose to either take away with you or enjoy your drinks in the small outdoor area. Featuring regular tap-takeovers from your favourite craft breweries, there are always great deals on hand here.

Craftissimo, Shop D, G/F, Tai Ping Building, Tai Ping Shan Street, Poho, Hong Kong, www.craftissimo.hk, 6274 3130

Read more: Craft Beer In Hong Kong: The Best Brews In The City

Elephant Grounds Roastery

No strangers to coffee-addicts across the city, Elephant Grounds is a firm favourite for those needing a caffeine fix and quick lunch. Now open on Hollywood Road, this location is larger than the rest and the perfect place to set up and smash out a few emails.

Elephant Grounds Roastery, G/F, Hollywood Centre, 233 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 3580 0554www.elephantgrounds.com

Where To Shop

Forest by K

If you’re on the hunt for beautiful blooms that make a statement, this hidden flower boutique on Tung Street creates bespoke bunches and flower arrangements for your home, weddings or special occasions.

Forest by K, 40 Tung Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, www.forestbyk.com

Squarestreet

On the hunt for some elegant timepieces? You’ve found the right place. Pairing contemporary pieces with minimalist modernity, the wristwatches here are both eye-catching and sophisticated. The shop also stocks a small range of other jewellery pieces, all with the same distinct Scandinavian touch as the watches.

Sassy Tip: Squarestreet has now opened a small café at the front of its shop. The coffee shop currently has no licence, so coffees are available for all Squarestreet shoppers and passers-by, and you can tip what you wish (around $30 is recommended).

Squarestreet, G/F, 15 Square Street, Poho, Hong Kong, www.squarestreet.se

Khromis

This chic eyewear store will have you covered, whether you’re looking to pick up some new sunglasses or frames. The unique designs will ensure you stand out from the crowd, with the brands focusing on using natural acetate and metal materials. The Poho flagship store also features a Hazel & Hershey coffee shop inside.

Khromis, 1 Tai Ping Shan Street, Poho, Hong Kong, www.khromis.com

Poho Guide: Mount Zero

Mount Zero

Found right next door to InBetween, Mount Zero is one of our favourite spots in Poho. The small bookstore features a cosy reading area upstairs, where guests are invited to take time out and read, with free wifi and cold drinks available. Open from 11am to 6pm daily, Mount Zero also occasionally acts as a local exhibition space, hosting everything from book launches, to locally made ceramics.

Mount Zero, Tai Ping Shan Street, Poho, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/mountzerobooks 

Read more: The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong

Château Zoobeetle

No trip to Poho is complete without checking out the stylish and chic Château Zoobeetle. This is the only store in Hong Kong that features the entire collection of the Parisian leather goods brand ZOOBEETLE Paris, along with a hand-curated selection of goods, ranging from music, cosmetics and books, to even stylish, ready-to-wear outfits.

Château Zoobeetle, 38 Sai Street, Poho, Hong Kong, 2559 8555www.facebook.com/chateauzoobeetlewww.zoobeetle.com

Emma Wallace

Emma Wallace is a women’s ready-to-wear brand that delivers a seamless blend of Western and Eastern influences. Pop into the Poho store to browse the collection of pieces, featuring the brand’s signature Kimono-style jacket.

Emma Wallace, Shop A, G/F, Po Hing Mansions, 2 Po Hing Fong, Poho, Hong Kong, www.emma-wallace.com.hk

Parfumerie Trésor

If you’re looking for that one-of-a-kind fragrance, Parfumerie Trésor is where to head. The Poho shop stocks a huge range of creative and unique fragrances that won’t be found anywhere else in the city.

Parfumerie Trésor, G/F, 18 Upper Station Street, Poho, Hong Kong, www.parfumerietresor.com

Poho Guide: Jess

What To Do

Tung Yao Ceramics

After a different way to spend your weekends? Tung Yao Ceramics offers a range of workshops, suitable for beginners and those who more advanced at ceramics and pottery making. Throwing trial classes start from $290 (plus $180 per extra item), and throwing and glazing workshops are priced at $720 (plus $180 per extra item), with more information available on its website.

Tung Yao Ceramics, 4 Po Yan Street, Poho, Hong Kong, 2989 2300, www.tungyaoceramics.com

Yoga Bam Bam

This yoga studio is unique as it operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, with no memberships needed! Dedicated to offering high-quality classes, with all classes kept to small groups, the studio offers everything from AcroYoga and Aerial Skills, to Flow Yoga, Hatha and more.

Yoga Bam Bam, 28 Pound Lane, Poho, Hong Kong, www.yogabambam.com

Found

Hong Kong’s first dedicated CBD cafe and shop, Found, offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality CBD and hemp-derived products. From oils, capsules, tinctures to coffee, beer and CBD-infused dog treats, there’s plenty to explore. Brands at Found include: Felix & Company, providing edible and topical CBD products (with natural botanicals), and Life CBD, offering CBD powder and liquid (we recommend a few drops in your morning brew).

Found, Unit A, G/F, 8 Tai On Terrace, Sheung Wan Hong Kong, 5288 2281, [email protected], www.instagram.com/found_in_hk, www.facebook.com/found.in.hk

Read more: Your Guide To CBD: Quick Facts, Where To Buy It & More

 

Editor’s Note: This post was originally written by Poppy Mason-Watts and was published on 27 April, 2017 and was most recently updated in December 2020 by Lexi Davey.

Featured image courtesy of Sassy Media Group, image 1 courtesy of teakha via Instagram, image 2 courtesy of Oldish via Instagram, image 3 courtesy of Blue Supreme via Instagram, image 4 courtesy of Sweetpea Café via Instagram, image 5 courtesy of Rapha via Instagram, image 6 courtesy of Halfway Coffee via Instagram, image 7 courtesy of COA via Instagram, image 8 courtesy of Green Ginkgo Tea via Instagram, image 9 courtesy of Craftissimo by Sassy Media Group, image 10 courtesy of Mount Zero via Instagram, image 7 courtesy of Sassy Media Group, image 12 courtesy of Found via Instagram.

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