Super-Local Wan Chai Restaurants | Best Cha Chaan Teng in HK!

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wanchai restaurant guide

Wan Chai evolved from a small fishing village several centuries ago, to a bustling urban hub. In fact, this part of Hong Kong has always been a melting pot of cultures.

This diversity is vividly expressed in its food scene, ranging from traditional Cantonese dim sum to contemporary fusion cuisine. The streets of Wan Chai are lined with eateries that tell stories of generations, blending age-old recipes with modern culinary trends.

Its historical significance as a trade and cultural crossroads has contributed to an eclectic food landscape, making Wan Chai a gastronomic paradise for food lovers.

In this blog post we will share our favourite restaurants in Wan Chai!

If you’re craving European or Japanese food then be sure to check our local Wan Chai Italian restaurant, Lucciola, and of course, Zoku, our Japanese restaurant.

Zoku Restaurant & Terrace – Outdoor Terrace

The Hari HK_Premium Corner Room – Night View

The Hari: Your Gateway to Exploring Hong Kong's Delights

Situated at the prime meeting point of Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, The Hari is the perfect hotel for exploring Hong Kong. Just a short stroll away, you’ll discover an array of authentic chaan teng restaurants, immersing yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere and savoring the true flavors of Hong Kong.

With its fantastic location near Wan Chai MTR station, tram stops, and the ferry terminal, The Hari offers easy access to other districts renowned for exceptional restaurants.

For international cuisine enthusiasts, The Hari proudly presents Zoku and Lucciola, where you can savor exquisite Japanese and Italian dishes. Indulge yourself in a variety of delectable treats that will create a truly memorable culinary adventure!

After a day of urban exploration, returning to The Hari feels like stepping into your own cozy haven. Take a moment to unwind at The Terrace, an enchanting outdoor dining venue nestled amidst lush greenery, where you can savor delightful cuisine while enjoying the night view of Wan Chai.

Afterward, you can retreat to your spacious room, where a comfortable bed awaits, inviting you to indulge in unparalleled comfort. It’s the perfect way to conclude a day filled with urban adventures.

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Notable (and Fascinating!) Cha Chaan Teng Facts

Origin: They originated in the 1950s as affordable alternatives to high-end European restaurants during British colonial rule in Hong Kong.
Name: The name “cha chaan teng” literally translates to “tea restaurant” in Cantonese.
Cuisine Fusion: Known for fusing Western dishes like macaroni soup, baked pork chop rice, and French toast with Cantonese flavors and ingredients.
Popular Dishes: Popular dishes include milk tea, pineapple buns, egg tarts, instant noodle dishes (“lo ding”), satay beef noodles, and spaghetti with Cantonese barbecued pork.
Atmosphere: Famous for their fast, no-frills service and casual, crowded atmosphere and, sometimes – brash service!
Evolution: Evolved from earlier “bing sutt” (ice rooms) that only served drinks and simple snacks.
Affordability: Remain an affordable dining option, with most dishes costing around HK$20-HK$40.
Challenges: Rising rents in Hong Kong have led to the closure of many long-standing and classic Cha Chaan Teng in recent years. This has significantly impacted the Wan Chai restaurant trade.

Our Recommended Wan Chai Restaurants

Our list includes some of the best cha chaan teng restaurants in Hong Kong. Cha Chaan Teng, a Hong Kong culinary institution, first appeared in the 1950s as low-cost cafes combining Eastern and Western flavors. They catered to the working class, serving quick and varied foods such as milk tea and pineapple buns.

These Hong Kong restaurants represent distinctive and unique cultural fusions that are the epitome of the city, and are still popular today.

If you’re visiting Hong Kong, we highly recommend you visit one (or more!) of the Cha Chaan Teng or Wanchai restaurants listed below.

Address: G/F, 17-18 St. Francis Yard, Wan Chai Tak Yu Restaurant (德如茶餐廳)

Tucked away in the lively lanes of Wan Chai, the Tak Yu Restaurant is a testament to time-honored culinary traditions. This cha chaan teng, known for its nostalgic ambiance, serves up classic Hong Kong-style comfort food. Don’t miss their signature milk tea and crispy toast, a combination that has been winning hearts for decades.

Address: 406 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, G/f, Hong Kong Keung Kee (強記美食)

Keung Kee stands as a beacon for food enthusiasts seeking authentic local flavors.

This fun cha chaan teng eatery, with its unassuming charm, specializes in dishes that are both simple and bursting with flavor. Their stir-fried noodles and succulent pork chops are not just meals; they’re a culinary experience that embodies the spirit of Wan Chai.

Address: G/F, Spring Garden Mansion, 41 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai Kam Fung Restaurant (金鳳茶餐廳)

At Kam Fung Restaurant, every dish tells a story of Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage. Known for its bustling atmosphere and friendly service, this affordable cha chaan teng is a favorite among locals.

The star of the show here is their legendary pineapple bun, perfectly crispy on the outside and soft inside, best enjoyed with a slab of butter melting within.

Address: 66-68 Queen's Rd East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island Happy Bakery (快樂麵麭)

Happy Bakery, formerly known as Happy Cake Shop, is a cherished establishment in Wan Chai. Despite facing challenges, including a closure in 2022 due to rent issues, it fortunately reopened in early 2023 under the new name. The bakery continues to offer beloved nostalgic treats like cream cones, sa yung (Chinese-style doughnuts), century egg pastries, and more.

Address: 265-267 Hennessy Road corner Stewart Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Island Joy Hing Roasted Meat (再興燒臘飯店)

This restaurant in Wan Chai is a renowned eatery celebrated for its traditional Cantonese roasted meats, including char siu, siu yuk, and roast duck. Recognized in the Michelin Guide, it offers a no-frills, authentic dining experience at affordable prices.

Despite its simplicity, the restaurant is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, often characterized by its busy atmosphere and quick service. Located in the bustling Wan Chai district, it’s a quintessential example of Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage.

Address: 20 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Sun King Yuen Curry Restaurant (新景園咖喱小廚)

For those with a penchant for spicy flavors, Sun King Yuen Curry Restaurant is a paradise among Wan Chai’s eateries. Famous for its curry dishes, this cozy spot stands out as one of the best places to eat in Wan Chai, offering a delightful blend of spices in every dish.

Other Notable Cha Chaan Tengs in Hong Kong

We’ve added a bunch more cha chaan teng restaurants to our list that are not in Wan Chai, but our equally awesome!

Address: G/F, 2 Gage Street, Central, Hong Kong Lan Fong Yuen, Central (蘭芳園)

One of the oldest cha chaan tengs in Hong Kong, Lan Fong Yuen is renowned for its ‘silk stocking milk tea’, a staple in the Hong Kong cha chaan teng experience.

Address: G/F, 63 Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei Mido Café, Yau Ma Tei (美都餐室)

Mido Café, with its classic Hong Kong films fame, offers a diverse menu that includes everything from traditional cha chaan teng fare to Western-inspired dishes.

Address: G/F, 47 Bute Street, Prince Edward Kam Wah Cafe, Prince Edward (金華冰廳)

Kam Wah Cafe is celebrated for its boloyau, a crispy sweet pineapple bun with butter, a delicacy in the world of cha chaan teng cuisine.

Address: Shop 1, G/F, Block 41, Mei Ho House, 70 Berwick Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong Garden at Mei Ho, Sham Shui Po (美荷冰室)

This cafe offers a unique twist on cha chaan teng dishes, blending Thai, Japanese, and Singaporean flavors with traditional Hong Kong cuisine.

Address: 226-228 Lai Chi Kok Rd, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong Lo Fung Restaurant, Sham Shui Po (老鳳冰室)

Lo Fung Restaurant provides a nostalgic dining experience, combining traditional dishes with innovative culinary techniques.

Address: Shop C&D, G/F, Fashion Walk, 57 Paterson Street, Causeway Bay Cafe Match Box, Causeway Bay (喜喜冰室)

Cafe Match Box, inspired by Hong Kong culture, is a must-visit for those seeking classic cha chaan teng dishes in a nostalgic setting.

Address: 47-49 Parkes Street, Jordan, Kowloon, Hong Kong Australian Dairy Company, Jordan (澳洲牛奶公司)

Known for its breakfast offerings, this cha chaan teng is a favorite for its creamy, fluffy eggs and thick cut toast.

Various locations Waso Cafe (華嫂冰室)

Waso Cafe offers a range of local favorites, including pineapple buns, sandwiches, and noodle dishes. This 70-year-old cha chaan teng is a favorite for its comfort food and nostalgic ambiance.

Various locations Tai Hing (太興)

Tai Hing, a household name in Hong Kong, serves traditional barbeque pork and cha chaan teng comfort food across various locations.

bowrington-road-cooked-food-centre-1920×1080

Address: 21 Bowrington Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Bowrington Road Cooked Food Centre

Bowrington Road Cooked Food Centre is a bustling cooked food centre adjacent to Morrison Hill Road on the edge of the Wan Chai neighbourhood.

The quality of the food and the prices are better in the Cooked Food Centre than in neighbouring restaurants in the market, which is why this place is often full while the restaurants have empty tables.

Neighborhood Guide: Super-Local Wan Chai Restaurants

wanchai restaurant guide

The Hari: Your Gateway to Exploring Hong Kong's Delights

Notable (and Fascinating!) Cha Chaan Teng Facts

Our Recommended Wan Chai Restaurants

Address: G/F, 17-18 St. Francis Yard, Wan Chai Tak Yu Restaurant (德如茶餐廳)

Address: 406 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, G/f, Hong Kong Keung Kee (強記美食)

Address: G/F, Spring Garden Mansion, 41 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai Kam Fung Restaurant (金鳳茶餐廳)

Address: 66-68 Queen's Rd East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island Happy Bakery (快樂麵麭)

Address: 265-267 Hennessy Road corner Stewart Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Island Joy Hing Roasted Meat (再興燒臘飯店)

Address: 20 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Sun King Yuen Curry Restaurant (新景園咖喱小廚)

Other Notable Cha Chaan Tengs in Hong Kong

Address: G/F, 2 Gage Street, Central, Hong Kong Lan Fong Yuen, Central (蘭芳園)

Address: G/F, 63 Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei Mido Café, Yau Ma Tei (美都餐室)

Address: G/F, 47 Bute Street, Prince Edward Kam Wah Cafe, Prince Edward (金華冰廳)

Address: Shop 1, G/F, Block 41, Mei Ho House, 70 Berwick Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong Garden at Mei Ho, Sham Shui Po (美荷冰室)

Address: 226-228 Lai Chi Kok Rd, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong Lo Fung Restaurant, Sham Shui Po (老鳳冰室)

Address: Shop C&D, G/F, Fashion Walk, 57 Paterson Street, Causeway Bay Cafe Match Box, Causeway Bay (喜喜冰室)

Address: 47-49 Parkes Street, Jordan, Kowloon, Hong Kong Australian Dairy Company, Jordan (澳洲牛奶公司)

Various locations Waso Cafe (華嫂冰室)

Various locations Tai Hing (太興)

Address: 21 Bowrington Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Bowrington Road Cooked Food Centre

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Neighborhood Guide: Super-Local Wan Chai Restaurants

wanchai restaurant guide

The Hari: Your Gateway to Exploring Hong Kong's Delights

Notable (and Fascinating!) Cha Chaan Teng Facts

Our Recommended Wan Chai Restaurants

Address: G/F, 17-18 St. Francis Yard, Wan Chai Tak Yu Restaurant (德如茶餐廳)

Address: 406 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, G/f, Hong Kong Keung Kee (強記美食)

Address: G/F, Spring Garden Mansion, 41 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai Kam Fung Restaurant (金鳳茶餐廳)

Address: 66-68 Queen's Rd East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island Happy Bakery (快樂麵麭)

Address: 265-267 Hennessy Road corner Stewart Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Island Joy Hing Roasted Meat (再興燒臘飯店)

Address: 20 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Sun King Yuen Curry Restaurant (新景園咖喱小廚)

Other Notable Cha Chaan Tengs in Hong Kong

Address: G/F, 2 Gage Street, Central, Hong Kong Lan Fong Yuen, Central (蘭芳園)

Address: G/F, 63 Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei Mido Café, Yau Ma Tei (美都餐室)

Address: G/F, 47 Bute Street, Prince Edward Kam Wah Cafe, Prince Edward (金華冰廳)

Address: Shop 1, G/F, Block 41, Mei Ho House, 70 Berwick Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong Garden at Mei Ho, Sham Shui Po (美荷冰室)

Address: 226-228 Lai Chi Kok Rd, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong Lo Fung Restaurant, Sham Shui Po (老鳳冰室)

Address: Shop C&D, G/F, Fashion Walk, 57 Paterson Street, Causeway Bay Cafe Match Box, Causeway Bay (喜喜冰室)

Address: 47-49 Parkes Street, Jordan, Kowloon, Hong Kong Australian Dairy Company, Jordan (澳洲牛奶公司)

Various locations Waso Cafe (華嫂冰室)

Various locations Tai Hing (太興)

Address: 21 Bowrington Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Bowrington Road Cooked Food Centre

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