Cat Street Hong Kong: Antiques, Coffee & More

Within Sheung Wan’s busy streets lies an area packed with a rich Hong Kong history, unique antiques, and stellar food and drink! But what about the cats?

Despite its name, Cat Street isn’t named after a cat café or a plethora of furry friends (though you might spot a few!). Cat Street – officially known as Lascar Row – earned its nickname in 1920s Hong Kong when this neighbourhood became a bustling market for second-hand (and often stolen!) goods. What was once home to lodging houses and brothels, Cat Street today has evolved into a trendy hotspot, best known for its antique markets, quirky art boutiques, and trendy cafes. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of history and modern flair!

Exploring Hong Kong and want to visit this famous street? Sassy breaks down the highlights from this must-visit shopping and historical haven! 

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Antique Stalls

The more you look, the more you discover! That’s not a riddle, but a fitting way to describe the eclectic makeshift stalls on Cat Street. From jade pieces and ancient coins to quirky Hello Kitty alarm clocks and iconic Bruce Lee posters, take your time and revisit the stalls; you’re sure to uncover a hidden antique gem on your third or fourth perusal! 

Sassy Tip: Always carefully inspect any piece you’re thinking of buying—replicas are everywhere!

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Bargaining

Whilst perhaps not officially considered an activity, don’t let a lack of Cantonese skills put you off from haggling for a great deal at Cat Street! With a little charm and persistence, you can snag discounts of 20% to 30% off on some stunning antiques just by bargaining. 

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Admire The View

It might be a love-hate relationship for architecture enthusiasts,  but the blend of old and new buildings is an undeniable feat to appreciate. One minute, you’ll be transported back to Hong Kong’s past, where many of the structures on Cat Street date back to the World War II era. 

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Man Mo Temple

Located nearby is Man Mo Temple, the largest temple on Hong Kong Island, dedicated to the civilian god (Man Tai) and the martial god (Mo Tai). As you approach, you’ll be greeted by a thick cloud of incense smoke, with incense spirals hanging from the ceiling that can burn for weeks. This temple is particularly famous for its association with academic success, making it a popular spot for students to pray. The most popular times to visit are during the Chinese New Year or three weeks before the school year kicks off.

For more information and dos and don’ts of the temple, click here. 

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Art Galleries

Sheung Wan is bursting with art galleries, and calling home on Lascar Row is Young Soy Gallery, showcasing works by some of Hong Kong’s freshest artistic talents. Here you’ll find pieces that challenge audiences and invoke conversations about Hong Kong life, culture and mental health. For anyone eager to dive into the art scene, Young Soy Gallery is wonderful place to visit. 

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Halfway Coffee & Halfway Museum – Coffee packed to the brim with character

Nestled appropriately between the unique shops is a Hong Kong gem: Halfway Coffee. Serving delicious coffee and drinks in vintage porcelain, it’s an aptly placed cafe among all the bric-à-brac collectable antique stalls on Cat Street. The cafe’s concept blends East meets West aesthetics; think vintage radios, old Monocle editions peeking from behind chairs, and an assortment of mismatched stools. Beloved by both locals and tourists, this nostalgic spot exudes a warm community vibe and quirky touches like a pulley cash system—you’ll have to visit (and pay in cash!) to experience it for yourself!

Its Sheung Wan location also proudly houses the Halfway Museum—a charming space showcasing cups and vintage memorabilia curated by the founder of Halfway Coffee. It’s important to note these pieces aren’t available for sale; if you’re looking to make a purchase, you’ll need to explore the stalls lining this street!

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Blue Supreme – Delicious food and drink, no matter the time of day

The eye-catching café Blue Supreme is a gem where the community is intertwined into the café’s structure. With stunning floor-to-ceiling windows and a smooth jazz soundtrack, this inviting spot on Cat Street is hard to resist. Blue Supreme serves up delicious classics like steak, waffles, and indulgent chocolate chip cookies, making its menu just as appealing as the selection of ales and beers on tap.

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Wah Lok Cafe – Authentic Hong Kong Dining

A Sheung Wan staple since the 1940s, Wah Lok Cafe is a must-visit for a taste of true Hong Kong history. You’ll find yourself situated mere steps away from stalls selling antique Bruce Lee memorabilia and vintage trading card stalls – it’s alfresco dining with a twist! Be sure to indulge in classic Cha Chaan Teng favourites, with notable dishes being satay pork bun, macaroni breakfast set, and the classic Hong Kong-style French toast.

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Lascar Lane 

Perfectly named for its location, Lascar Lane takes on a retro vibe, albeit infused with French characteristics. This alfresco dining spot captures the ambience of a Parisian street café, making it an ideal place for a leisurely meal.

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Secret Sassy Tips

• Unlike the dizzying streets of Mong Kok’s Ladies Market or Wan Chai Food Market, Cat Street offers an ideal place for the slow walkers among us to peruse the retro movie posters and second-hand cameras – so take your time and soak all the antiques in!
• While the street doesn’t have official hours, most antique stalls close around 6pm.
• If you’re a weekend explorer, Lascar Row is great to visit on Sundays, especially where flea markets from local brands and boutiques can be found on this popular street on the odd Sunday.

Editor’s note: While cats are not guaranteed to be spotted in Cat Street, don’t worry—Hong Kong is filled with adorable felines! Keep your eyes peeled for these furry friends in shops around the city.