Text by MOOK Editorial Team, Reported by Ren Xiang
Courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board
Hong Kong Island is the second-largest island in Hong Kong, after the Kowloon Peninsula. The densely packed skyscrapers and nostalgic old streets often seen in Hong Kong dramas can all be found here. Frequent visitors to Hong Kong are surely familiar with the SOHO area in Central. The SOHO district at night is even more enchanting than during the day, bustling with energy. If you're not particularly into nightlife, don’t miss Wan Chai, which represents Hong Kong culture, and the emerging POHO area south of Hollywood in Sheung Wan. The hidden gems tucked away on street corners often offer unexpectedly delicious treats.
The POHO area’s street corners are home to many charming eateries serving international cuisine, such as this Japanese-Western fusion izakaya, Tabibito. (Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
Sheung Wan – Chen Qin Ji Marinated Goose
Chen Qin Ji Marinated Goose is a long-established Cantonese delicacy in Sheung Wan. Even though owner Mr. Chen Guoliang’s hair has turned grey, the age of his signature braised goose broth still surpasses his own. This broth has been simmering non-stop for sixty years, and every slice of the restaurant’s signature marinated goose absorbs a full sixty years of flavor, richly infused.
Besides the marinated goose, the shop also serves a popular congee topped with minced oysters. It’s made with a base of dried fish and pork bone broth, then mixed with fresh oysters — a must-order for regulars. End your meal with a freshly made fried sweet taro dish that’s rich and aromatic, leaving a lingering taste in your mouth. No wonder the place is always packed during meal times. If you want to try these delicacies, be sure to come early to secure a spot.
(Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
(Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
After more than sixty years in business, Chen Qin Ji Marinated Goose has a new signboard, but its authentic and delicious flavors remain unchanged. (Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
Central – Prince’s Building SEVVA
Landmark is a haven for global luxury brands, including well-known names like Chanel, LV, Gucci, BURBERRY, Loewe, and POLO. Prince’s Building, not far from Statue Square, has a luxury brand mall spanning from the basement to the fourth floor. Together with Landmark, they form a shopping paradise in Central, connected by pedestrian bridges so you don’t have to worry about the rain.
Located on the 25th floor of Prince’s Building, SEVVA offers a fantastic view of the urban jungle. In the afternoon, it serves an array of upscale afternoon teas, and by evening, it transforms into a lounge bar. Sit on the terrace and enjoy the dazzling night views of Bank of China Tower, Legislative Council Building, and the harbor — the perfect accompaniment to your drink.
SEVVA offers a variety of cocktails, with classics like “Margarita” and “Cosmopolitan” being particularly popular. (Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
Wan Chai – Golden Phoenix Restaurant
If you want to try Hong Kong’s best milk tea, don’t miss Golden Phoenix Restaurant, which has been around for over half a century in Wan Chai. Its famous signature drink is the rich and creamy “Original Iced Milk Tea.” While most iced milk teas are cooled with ice cubes, Golden Phoenix’s version is chilled directly and made with imported European premium evaporated milk, resulting in an even more fragrant taste.
Golden Phoenix is not just known for its drinks — its sandwiches and egg tarts are also legendary. The Fresh Beef Sandwich, filled with silky scrambled eggs and beef, is not only delicious but also filling. The steaming hot French toast with honey and the buttery pineapple bun, with its generous slab of butter, are equally irresistible. And you can’t miss the freshly baked egg tarts — a single bite releases a fragrant aroma that lingers long after. No wonder locals, no matter how busy they are in the morning, love to come here for breakfast to start their day full of energy.
The small shop is packed from morning to night, with tea and dim sum beloved by foodies. (Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
Wan Chai – The Pawn
The Pawn is located in the former site of the Hong Kong-style arcade building and Hop Yat Building. Walk up the narrow stone staircase to the first and second floors, and you’ll find a surprisingly charming antique English-style bar. Designed by renowned Hong Kong artist Anothermountainman, the space is spacious, with a decor that blends modern and retro elements seamlessly.
It’s one of the few places in Hong Kong that serves British cuisine. The restaurant has brought in a British chef to ensure diners can enjoy authentic home-style British dishes. As night falls, the place fills with patrons looking to enjoy a drink. Head up to the third-floor terrace with friends, where you can take in sweeping views of Admiralty and Wan Chai — the perfect spot for catching up and enjoying the lively nightlife under the city lights.
(Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
(Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)
The vintage atmosphere created by leather sofas and uniquely styled tables and chairs, along with the sight of passing trams outside, gives the illusion of traveling back in time. (Photo provided by MOOK Editorial Team, shot by Ren Xiang)