Hong Kong Food
When it comes to world cuisine, Hong Kong is a top destination. A recent survey of globetrotting gastronomes rated the territory among the world's best locations for food, second only to France and Italy.
Visitors really have no excuse not to sample the native Cantonese cuisine, which should win over even those who are convinced they "don't like Chinese food" after experiencing not-so-authentic takeaways in the UK. Diners can also enjoy a host of other Chinese specialties, including dishes from Sichuan, Chiu Chow, Beijing and Shanghai. Unsurprisingly, Asian foods from the wider region are also abundant in Hong Kong, with Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese particularly recommended.
Asian dishes in Hong Kong offer some more unusual options than the standard sweet and sour pork or chicken that many people may be used to. Frog, snake, pigeon and duck tongues are all local delicacies, along with the appetizing option of offal and chicken's feet for those cooking on a budget. Roast goose and barbequed pork are also traditional Hong Kong staples and may be more palatable to sceptical diners.
Dim Sum is another Hong Kong tradition and represents the Chinese side of the territory's heritage. Many visitors consider sampling Dim Sum an absolute must for the "authentic" Hong Kong experience and with a vast number of eateries across the city, travellers will be spoilt for choice. Dim Sum is more than just a food, representing as it does a culture as much as a nutritious meal. It's advisable to arrive early at Dim Sum restaurants in the city - preferably before 11:30 - with seating allocated on a ticketing basis, much like service in UK delis. Dim Sum restaurants offer an exciting, vibrant eating experience, typically buzzing with chatter from both locals and visitors. Traditionally one party at each table washes the necessary plates, bowls and chopsticks in tea before the food arrives, with the various dishes then brought to the table as quickly as possible.
For less adventurous eaters, the legacy of British rule in Hong Kong has left a number of Western-inspired eateries in its wake, with American and British cuisine readily available. For the full-on ex-pat experience, travellers should head to the Peninsula Hotel, where for decades Brits abroad have enjoyed high tea in homage to the tradition back home. Although it may seem a little unusual to opt for a traditional English tea when visiting Asia, the classy treat is a perennial favourite with tourists. Served daily from 14:00 to 19:00, guests can enjoy traditional finger sandwiches, pastries, chocolates, scones and jam and, of course, plenty of Earl Grey tea.
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Eating & Drinking
