Top Non-Halal Dining Recommendations in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a vibrant city known for its eclectic mix of cultures, and this is especially reflected in its food scene. While the city offers a vast array of halal-friendly options, it also has a rich tradition of non-halal dining that showcases the diverse culinary influences of Cantonese, Chinese, and international flavors. If you’re looking to explore the non-halal side of Hong Kong’s gastronomic delights, here are some top recommendations:
1. Yung Kee Restaurant
Location: 32 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
Yung Kee is a legendary restaurant in Hong Kong known for its signature dish: roast goose. A Cantonese specialty, this delicacy features crispy skin and tender meat that is marinated with a secret blend of spices. Yung Kee has been serving this iconic dish for decades and remains a must-visit for any meat lover. Apart from roast goose, their menu also features roasted duck, char siu (barbecued pork), and other Cantonese delights.
2. Mak’s Noodle
Location: 77 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
A visit to Hong Kong wouldn’t be complete without trying its famous wonton noodles. Mak’s Noodle is one of the most renowned spots for this quintessential dish. Their wontons are filled with plump shrimp, while the noodles are thin and springy. The broth is light, clear, and packed with umami, making it a perfect bowl of comfort food. The restaurant has been around since the 1960s and is still a favorite for both locals and visitors.
3. Joy Hing Roasted Meat
Location: 2/F, 265-267 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Joy Hing Roasted Meat is another iconic spot for roasted meats in Hong Kong. It’s especially famous for its char siu (barbecued pork), which is tender and slightly sweet. The meat is charred to perfection and served with a side of rice or noodles. For those who want to experience a true taste of Hong Kong, this is a great place to enjoy not only roast pork but also roasted duck and pork belly.
4. Fook Lam Moon
Location: 35-45 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Known as one of the city’s top Cantonese fine-dining restaurants, Fook Lam Moon has earned a reputation for serving some of the best roast meats and luxurious Cantonese dishes. While the menu is extensive, it’s their braised abalone, roast suckling pig, and sharksfin soup that stand out. If you’re looking for a more upscale, non-halal dining experience, Fook Lam Moon is an excellent choice.
5. The Garden Restaurant
Location: 3/F, 36-38 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
For those craving a hearty meal of dim sum and roasted meats, The Garden Restaurant is an excellent choice. The restaurant is known for its traditional Cantonese fare and offers a wide range of dim sum including siu mai (pork dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecued pork buns). Aside from dim sum, their roasted meats are a highlight, especially the roast duck and roast pork.
6. Australia Dairy Company
Location: 47-49 Parkes Street, Jordan, Hong Kong
If you’re looking for a true Hong Kong-style cha chaan teng (local diner) experience, Australia Dairy Company is the place to go. Famous for its hong kong-style breakfast sets, the menu includes classics like scrambled eggs with toast, spam and egg sandwiches, and milk tea. For lunch or dinner, they also serve a variety of meat dishes, including chicken chops, beef steaks, and pork cutlets. This bustling spot is loved by locals for its fast service and delicious, no-frills meals.
7. Brunch Club & Supper
Location: 1/F, 57-63 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
For those who want to step away from traditional Cantonese flavors, Brunch Club & Supper offers a more contemporary, Western-influenced menu. The restaurant serves a variety of non-halal dishes, with a focus on hearty breakfasts and comfort food. Try their beef burger, steak and eggs, or grilled cheese sandwich. The cafe’s cozy atmosphere and delicious food make it a great place for brunch or a late-night meal.
8. Tsim Chai Kee
Location: 98 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
Tsim Chai Kee is a popular spot for Hong Kong-style beef noodles. The restaurant is especially known for its huge portions of beef brisket noodles, beef balls, and beef offal served in a rich, flavorful broth. This no-frills noodle shop serves hearty, flavorful bowls that satisfy the appetite, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
9. Dai Pai Dong Street Food
Location: Various locations across Hong Kong
Dai Pai Dongs are open-air food stalls that serve traditional Hong Kong street food, often featuring pork, beef, and seafood dishes. These bustling food stalls offer a wide array of dishes like stir-fried beef with black pepper, pork chop rice, salt and pepper squid, and more. Eating at a Dai Pai Dong is a unique and authentic experience, offering a glimpse into Hong Kong’s culinary culture. Some of the most popular spots are located in the central districts of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.
10. Luk Yu Tea House
Location: 24-26 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong
Luk Yu Tea House is an institution in Hong Kong, especially known for its traditional Cantonese dim sum and tea. It’s a great place to enjoy a wide variety of non-halal dim sum such as steamed spare ribs with black bean sauce, har gow, and siu mai. The restaurant’s historic charm, coupled with its delicious offerings, makes it a must-visit spot for those who want to experience old-school Hong Kong dining.