Mong Kok is one of the busiest neighbourhoods in Hong Kong and is mostly famous for its markets. But if you know where to look, there are also some delicious dining destinations. Here’s where to find the best restaurants in Mong Kok.
Capital Cafe
Cafe, Chinese, British
One of Hong Kong’s best food experiences is lunch in a cha chaan teng, a Cantonese term which literally translates to ‘tea restaurant’. These sorts of diners typically serve fusion dishes that were cooked up during the British colonial period. But what’s special about this particular chain is that it’s co-owned by Swadiq Khan, Eddie Pang and Edmond Leung, who are famous singers and producers in Hong Kong’s music industry. Signature dishes to try at this casual restaurant include the scrambled eggs topped with perigod truffle, Principal’s toast (so-called as it was tailor-made for the singer, Alan Tam, whose nickname is ‘Principal’), and of course, the sweet milk tea.
The neighbourhood in Mong Kok is synonymous with street food, and arguably the most popular stall to try it is Fei Jie – which literally translates as ‘fat lady’. Signature sticks include the chicken kidneys, pig intestines and octopus, all braised in their special sauce. If you can’t tell which parts are which, go for whatever everyone else is ordering. Top off your snack with a drizzle of sweet soy sauce and a dash of hot mustard.
This open-air restaurant (dai pai dong) is popular among locals for its casual atmosphere and fresh ingredients. Part wet market, meat market, and hotpot restaurant, Market Hotpot is a unique foodie experience. Order a pot of their warming chicken and fish maw soup and then add fish, meat or veg to cook in the broth. Expect to sit on wooden stools at tables covered in thin sheets of plastic. Interiors are plastered with flyers and mismatched posters, but the restaurant’s rough and tumble look is all part of the experience.
Ming Court is a one-Michelin-starred, Cantonese fine dining restaurant which serves up a modern interpretation of traditional banquet fare. But what really sets it apart is its cellar of over 400 wines from over 100 places. The list is paired with every dish on the menu, so you’ll know exactly which vintage should accompany your barbecued meat or abalone dish. Specialities on the à la carte menu include the drunken sea prawns cooked in Shaoxing wine, and the roasted crispy chicken. Choose from two dining rooms: Ming Sun offers a more intimate setting while Ming Moon is better for larger groups.
Bar, Restaurant, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Tapas, $$$
Alibi occupies 5,500 square feet of the fifth floor of the Cordis Hotel. The moody interiors are designed by the Stickman Tribe, the brains behind the Fairmont Fujairah in the UAE. The food features an array of Western and Asian flavours and the menu changes seasonally, making use of ingredients ranging from Hereford beef, fresh seafood and Spanish charcuterie. Bespoke cocktails are crafted depending on your tastes, so just tell the bartender your favourite flavour profile, fruit or spirit.
Occupying the top floor of Nathan 726, Sky 726 offers diners and drinkers some stunning views of the Mong Kok neighbourhood through its floor to ceiling windows. The food is French with a contemporary twist and the menu changes seasonally. This kitchen and bar is a great spot for vegetarians, offering à la carte menus for both carnivores and herbivores, as well as a more cost-efficient set meal option for dinner. Decor is sleek and chic, and is fitting for almost any occasion at every time of the day.
