28 February, 2023
Wan Chai Guide: Wan Chai Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, What To Do In Wan Chai
Wan Chai Guide: Wan Chai Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, What To Do In Wan Chai
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Your Neighbourhood Guide To Wan Chai

28 February, 2023
Wan Chai Guide: Wan Chai Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, What To Do In Wan Chai

With so much on offer, Wan Chai district never gets boring. Scroll through for our favourite Wan Chai restaurants, cafés, bars and shops.

Best known for its vibrant nightlife, Wan Chai has evolved to become an eclectic melting pot of stylish boutiques, diverse eateries, hip cafés, local markets and more. Scroll through our handy neighbourhood guide for what to eat, drink, shop and do in Wan Chai, featuring our favourite restaurants, cafés, bars and shops.

Jump To:
Where To Eat In Wan Chai
Where To Drink In Wan Chai
Where To Shop In Wan Chai
What To Do In Wan Chai

Read More: Where To Eat Like A Local – Wan Chai


Where To Eat: Best Wan Chai Restaurants

Wan Chai Guide, What To Eat: Bakehouse

Bakehouse

Tucked away on Tai Wong East Street, join the queue to pick up everything from freshly baked sourdough to buttery croissants, quiches and cookies, along with an ever-changing selection of daily specials. With Grégoire Michaud, the former Executive Pastry Chef of the Four Seasons, at the helm of this operation, quality is guaranteed.

Bakehouse, 14 Tai Wong Street East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.bakehouse.hk

Read More: The Best Bakeries In Hong Kong


BÀRBAR

At this hip new Spanish wine and tapas bar on Star Street, you’ll find an extensive selection of Spanish wines available by the glass, alongside a contemporary, ingredient-driven tapas menu created under the direction of Pica Pica’s Chef Edgard Sanuy Barahona.

BÀRBAR, Shop A, G/F, Pinnacle Building, 9 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2810 0008, barbar.hk


Burger Joys

Open from 11am to 2:30am daily, Burger Joys is a popular go-to spot after a late night out. Located on Lockhart Road, head here for a bite to eat after knocking back a couple of drinks, and make sure to order a side of wings.

Burger Joys, Shop E, De Fenwick, 42-50 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2787 1288www.burgerjoys.com

Read More: The Best Burgers In Hong Kong


Wan Chai Restaurants, What To Eat: Chotto Maki

Chotto Maki

When it comes to sushi with a creative twist, Chotto Maki is not here to play around. We especially love the Mango Dynamite — a tempura prawn, cucumber, mango and tobiko roll topped with unagi sauce. If you’re going plant-based, the Veggie Lover is a wonderful option comprised of shiso leaf and cucumber topped with Chotto Maki’s house special sauce!

Chotto Maki, G/F, 33 Amoy Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 8481 2861, www.chottomaki.com

Read More: The Best Japanese Restaurants For Sushi In Hong Kong


Cóm Bánh Mi

If you’re in the area around lunchtime and have a hankering for some quick and tasty Vietnamese grub, Cóm Bánh Mi is always a solid choice. The set menu includes your choice of a main dish (with the likes of pho, banh mi and chicken rice up for grabs), along with a side and drink. Priced at just $80, you can’t go wrong.

Com Banh Mi, 28 Tai Wong Street East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2528 9131, www.facebook.com/ComBanhMi


Crêpe Delicious

If you think good crêpes are hard to come by in the 852, Crêpe Delicious is here to prove you wrong. Located on Lee Tung Avenue, the charming cafe is known to offer a variety of offerings, ranging from decadent crêpes made from batter imported directly from Canada to smooth gelato and rich cups of cocoa.

Crêpe Delicious, Shop G26 & F26A, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2617 7880, www.facebook.com/CrepeDeliciousHK


Wan Chai Restaurants, What To Eat: Holy Gaw

Holy Gaw

Featuring fresh, hearty and tasty Philippine-inspired fusion food, Holy Gaw is a rare (and slightly hard-to-find) gem located on busy Swatow Street. With satisfying portions and surprising bursts of flavours, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is what to order next. To round off your lunch or dinner, make sure you end with a homemade ube ice cream sandwich.

Holy Gaw, Shop 4, G/F, 15 Swatow Street, Wan Chai,  2782 3988, www.facebook.com/HolyGaw


Honbo

Homegrown burger joint Honbo is a cool and casual spot that’s not to be missed. Found on quiet Sun Street, head here to treat yourself to some high-quality fast food, and make sure to wash it down with a beer from local brewery Moonzen.

Honbo, G/F, New Sun House, 6-7 Sun Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2567 8970, www.honbo.hk


Ichitora Ramen

We’re big fans of the black garlic-infused tonkatsu broth but the menu also offers a fiery spicy soup for those who like it hot! Customisation is the order of the day here, as you can choose everything from your noodle thickness and texture to how much oil is added and which toppings you desire.

Ichitora Ramen, 23 Amoy Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2808 0635, www.facebook.com/IchiTora.Ramen.at.Wanchai

Read More: The Best Ramen In Hong Kong


Wan Chai Restaurants, What To Eat: Jean May

jean may

Tucked behind the market stalls of Gresson Street, this charming French bistro delights with home-style comfort eats crafted by Michelin-trained chef Tiff Lo. The modest menu includes highlights like Razor Clams with Parsley and Garlic, Steak Tartare, Chicken Liver Parfait and more.

jean may, Shop A, 14 Gresson Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 3590 6033, www.facebook.com/jeanmayhk


Le Bistro Winebeast

If you’re craving a cold glass of rosé and cheeseboard, head straight for this modern French restaurant. The seasonal menu here changes every six weeks to keep things fresh.

Le Bistro Winebeast, 35-45 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2782 6689www.lebistrowinebeast.com


Le Garçon Saigon

Le Garçon Saigon incorporates vibrant and fresh flavours of Saigonese cuisine in a cool, sophisticated and chic Parisian-style brasserie! The perfect post-work watering hole, head here to enjoy a selection of wines, cocktails, beer and great Vietnamese snacks.

Sassy Tip: After a quick bite to eat? Check out next-door neighbour, and younger sibling, Le Petit Saigon, which serves up a mean banh mi.

Le Garcon Saigon, 12 Wing Fung Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2455 2499, www.legarconsaigon.com


Wan Chai Restaurants, What To Eat: Morty's

Morty’s

If you’re wanting to indulge, Morty’s is where to head. The New York-style deli serves up the goods when it comes to sandwiches, burgers and more. Exclusive to the Star Street branch is also the whopping 1kg Reuben Challenge ($588), available every Monday evening. Finish this monster sarnie in half an hour and the meal is on them!

Morty’s, 8-10 Wing Fung Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3665 0890www.mortys.hk

Read More: Where To Find The Best Sandwiches In Hong Kong


The Optimist

The Optimist offers its patrons an authentic and unique Northern Spanish experience, with interiors that were designed to make you feel like you’re in a lively bar in Barcelona. Its weekend boozy brunch menu is a favourite in the city. Plus, did we mention this pick has a full gin menu? Consider us sold.

The Optimist, G/F, 239 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2433 3324, theoptimist.hk

Read More: The Best Brunch Places In Hong Kong – Free-Flow Drinks, Hotel Buffets & More


Pici

Pici serves a selection of traditional Italian starters, homemade pasta and arguably the best tiramisu in the city. Come hungry and go for the tasting menu to try out multiple sharing plates.

Pici, G/F, 16 St. Francis Yard, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2755 5523, pici.hk

Read More: Your Guide To The Best Italian Restaurants In Hong Kong


Wan Chai Restaurants, What To Eat: Pirata

Pirata

The first restaurant from Pirata Group, Pirata is ever popular with lunch and dinner guests, serving up a range of comforting Italian favourites. Despite its busy surroundings on Hennessy Road, once you take the lift up to the 30th floor you’ll feel worlds away.

Pirata, 29-30/F, 239 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2887 0270, www.pirata.hk


Rosita

The brainchild of veteran chef-founders Ricardo Chaneton (MONO) and Agustin Ferrando Balbi (Ando), Rosita offers a fresh take on New Latin American cuisine, alongside a stellar South American-focused wine list.

Rosita, 1-7 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9726 4188, www.rosita.hk


Wan Chai Restaurants, What To Eat: Samsen

Samsen

Serving authentic Thai noodles, alongside an array of Thai street food classics, this Michelin-recommended resto is not to be missed. It’s famed for its boat noodles but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Be prepared to wait in line (and a long one at that), as there is a no-reservations policy.

Samsen, 68 Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2234 0001, www.samsen-hk.com

Read More: The Best Thai Restaurants In Hong Kong


22 Ships

Whether you fancy a front-row seat to the chefs cooking up a storm in the open kitchen, or simply want to sip on sangria and people watch, it’s easy to while away lunch or dinner at this trendy tapas restaurant. We recommend the Blue Lobster Paella and Roasted Suckling Pig.

22 Ships, 22 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2555 0722, www.22ships.hk


The Spice House

Situated on Wan Chai’s popular Amoy Street, this lively joint provides inexpensive and authentic Thai food. The menu offers a comprehensive array of dishes, including a few less-seen options; a perfect spot for a casual dinner or lunch.

The Spice House, 35 Amoy Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2804 2522


Wan Chai Restaurants, What To Eat: Trattoria Kagawa by Mihara

Trattoria Kagawa by Mihara

This quaint “wa-modern” Italian-Japanese Teppanyaki concept showcases culinary delights and fresh produce from Chef Terufumi Mihara’s home prefecture (more than 80 percent of the ingredients used here hail from Kagawa!) and fuses it with traditional trattoria fare.

Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 2pm, and 6pm to 12am

Trattoria Kagawa by Mihara, G/F, 18 Ship Street, Wanchai, Hong Kong, 5394 3690, www.facebook.com/trattoria.kagawa


Qi – House of Sichuan

If you’re looking for authentic dishes that satisfy the “seven flavours of Sichuan”, make sure to check out Qi – House of Sichuan. Its reasonable prices make this restaurant a great pick for dinner with a group of friends.

Qi – House of Sichuan, Shop 12, 2/F, J Senses, 60 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2527 7117, www.qi-sichuan.hk


Xuân

Named after 18th-century female poet Hồ Xuân Hương, whose bold and forward-thinking works established her as a national icon, Xuân takes a similarly progressive approach towards Vietnamese cuisine. Head here for elevated Vietnamese fare with a northern influence.

Xuân, G/F, 24 Lun Fat Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2891 1177, www.xuan.com.hk


Where To Drink In Wan Chai: Wan Chai Bars & Cafes

Between Coffee

The immense popularity of Between’s original Tai Kwun location spawned a second opening in Wan Chai just months after, and after sampling its range of contemporary Japanese-inspired brews, we can see why. Though the star of the show here is the coffee (the cafe’s house blend, “No.10” is not to be missed!), we also love the non-coffee options, including the Matcha or Turmeric Latte, or Sesame Mountain.

Between, Shop G03-04, G/F, 248 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, between.life

Read More: The Best Coffee Shops In Wan Chai


Carnegie’s

Carnegie’s is a beloved watering hole for many of the sports teams in Hong Kong. A popular spot for live music — regularly hosting jam nights, live bands and open jazz sessions — it’s not uncommon for nights here to end with some dancing on the bar.

Carnegie’s, 53-55 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2866 6289, www.carnegies.com.hk


Mizunara: The Library

If you’re looking for somewhere a little fancier to sit and drink, seek out this hidden Japanese whisky and cocktail bar. Expect no less than an extensive library of 700 odd bottles, penguin-suited bartenders and a zen garden out back.

Mizunara: The Library, 4/F, Kiu Yin Commercial Building, 361-363 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3571 9797, www.mizunarathelibrary.com


Omotesando Koffee

Along with top-notch brews, this Tokyo export is admired for its minimalist aesthetic. The coffee doesn’t come cheap, but the quality here is of a consistently high standard. Omotesando also serves up a small menu of savoury items, as well as its signature “kashi” — small baked custard squares that pair perfectly with a hot cup.

Omotesando Koffee, Shop 24-25, G/F, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2601 3323, www.ooo-koffee.com


Wan Chai Guide, Where To Shop: Tai Lung Fung Bar

Tai Lung Fung Bar

This is another Wan Chai hidden gem. Tucked away just off Queen’s Road East, this quirky bar harks back to Hong Kong’s past with its cute interior detailing. The prices are reasonable and there is always a fun crowd with a common goal — to enjoy a drink after a long working day.

Tai Lung Fung Bar, The Archive, 5-9 Hing Wan Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2572 0055www.facebook.com/TAI-LUNG-FUNG

Read More: New Drinks Menus This Month


THAIWAN

Thaiwan is a great neighbourhood bar situated on Ship Street which combines the owner’s Thai and Taiwanese backgrounds to create this quirky and causal drinking spot. The staff are always friendly, there’s a wide variety of craft beers on offer, and there’s normally at least one dog sat outside — what’s not to love?

Thaiwan, 31 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3709 6595, www.facebook.com/thaiwan.co

Read More: The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants, Beaches, Hikes & Parks In Hong Kong


The Wanch

Live music lovers head here to check out all the latest talent. It’s been Hong Kong’s home of live music for 30 years, and is considered by many to be somewhat of an institution. Best of all, we can experience original live music without having to pay a cover charge — that means an extra guilt-free round of drinks, right?

The Wanch, 1/F, Henan Building, 90 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3692 5933, www.thewanch.hk


Wooloomooloo

A classic Hong Kong rooftop bar with insane views, this pick was made for impressing your out-of-town guests. Drinks are Wooloomooloo are affordable, and there’s nothing quite like sipping on a G&T as the sun goes down panoramic style over your city.

Wooloomooloo, 31/F & Rooftop, The Hennessy, 256 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2893 6960, wooloo-mooloo.com

Read More: Top 20 Rooftop Bars And Al-Fresco Terraces In Hong Kong


Where To Shop In Wan Chai

Wan Chai Guide, Where To Shop: kapok Sun Street

kapok Sun Street

A favourite shop for browsing in the area, kapok sells a cool range of unisex products; think canvas tote bags, laptop cases and sleek stationery, along with stylish clothing, jewellery and home accessories.

kapok, 8 Sun Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2549 9254, ka-pok.com

Read More: 50+ Local Hong Kong Brands You Need To Know


King Tak Hong Kong Porcelain

Whether it’s a new knife, steamer baskets, cleaning products, or pretty much anything else you need for your kitchen, chances are you’ll be able to find it at King Tak. This convenient two-storey shop is also home to a huge selection of porcelain bowls and plates —  all at reasonable prices.

King Tak Hong Kong Porcelain, 128 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.kingtakhong.com.hk


Wan Chai Guide, Where To Shop: Lee Tung Avenue

Lee Tung Avenue

Lined with the likes of Benefit, Caskells, Hallmark, Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shop and an array of eateries, Lee Tung Avenue is Wan Chai’s one-stop open-air luxury shopping destination. During festivals and events, the Avenue is usually decorated with lights and festive decor, making it the perfect backdrop for a quick Insta snap.

Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3791 2304, www.leetungavenue.com.hk


Oriental 188 Shopping Centre / Wan Chai Computer Centre

From stores selling video games and phone accessories to other hobbyist shops, this three-level electronics mall has everything you’d need to satisfy your inner computer geek. If you’re after something in particular, make sure you ask around to compare prices! Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Try the Wan Chai Computer Centre down on 130 Hennessy Road (though you might find things are a little pricier there).

Oriental 188 Shopping Centre, 188 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong


Wan Chai Wet Market

Grocery shopping in Hong Kong can be expensive, so we take every opportunity we can to explore the local wet markets, and the Wan Chai Wet Market is one of the best. Bag everything from fresh vegetables, seafood, meat, eggs and more in this sprawling space, which also spills out onto the streets out back.

Wan Chai Wet Market, 258 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Read More: Your Guide To Wet Market Shopping In Hong Kong


What To Do In Wan Chai

What To Do In Wan Chai: Blue House

Blue House

We’re sure you’ve spotted this iconic bright blue building on your feed. It’s one of the few remaining balcony-type “tong lau” or tenement buildings in Hong Kong and is listed as a Grade 1 historic building. Be sure to drop by Hong Kong House of Stories, a quaint museum showcasing Hong Kong’s vibrant past and culture which occupies one of the ground floor shop houses.

Blue House, 72-74A Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Read More: 8 Historic Revitalised Buildings In Hong Kong


Southorn Playground

Located a stone’s throw from Wan Chai MTR exit B1, opposite Lee Tung Avenue, Southorn Playground is hard to miss. If you need a break from all your exploring, take a seat in the stands overlooking the soccer pitches and basketball court where a game will most likely be in play.

Southorn Playground, 130-150 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2879 5602


Wan Chai Street Market (Toy Street)

Known to locals as Toy Street, this is the go-to for novelty gizmos and gadgets. If shopping’s not your thing, park yourself at one of the local diners lining the market streets, which offer a selection of Chinese delicacies, including snake stews and herbal broths.

Wan Chai Street Market, 258 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong


Editor’s Note: “Your Neighbourhood Guide To Wan Chai” was most recently updated in February 2023 by Nicole Moraleda. With thanks to Lydia Ching for her Contribution.

 

Video property of Sassy Media Group. This content may not be reproduced without prior permission.

Main image courtesy of William Markezana via Getty, image 1 courtesy of Bakehouse via Instagram, image 2 courtesy of Chotto Maki via Instagram, image 3 courtesy of Holy Gaw via Instagram, image 4 courtesy of jean may via Instagram, image 5 courtesy of Morty’s via Instagram, image 6 courtesy of Pirata via Instagram, image 7 courtesy of Samsen via Instagram, image 8 courtesy of Trattoria Kagawa by Mihara via Instagram, image 9 courtesy of Between via Instagram, image 10 courtesy of Tai Lung Fung Bar via Facebook, image 11 courtesy of kapok via Instagram, image 12 courtesy of Lee Tung Avenue via Instagram, image 13 courtesy of CHUNYIP WONG via Getty.

 

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