Hong Kong’s food scene is famed for its diversity of cuisines and evolving culinary innovations, though tucked between the city’s bustling streets are historic restaurants and eateries that have stood the test of time. From teahouses still serving dim sum the old-school way to cha chaan tengs nostalgic tastes alive, these classic and beloved spots are more than just places to fill your bellies. Whether you’re craving comfort classics and wanting to satisfy childhood cravings, seeking a spot to enjoy a family gathering or introducing friends to local eats, these oldest dining destinations promise to deliver a taste of Hong Kong’s enduring flavors.
Tai Ping Koon
Founded in: Hong Kong branch 1938
Cuisine: Cantonese
Standout dishes: Swiss chicken wings, roasted pigeon, fried flat noodles with beef, baked soufflé, HK borscht soup
Vibe: Vintage 1930-1980s, wood paneling interiors
Location: Several branches (below are just some)
60 Stanley St, Central
40 Hong Kong, Granville Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui
6 Pak Sha Rd, Causeway Bay
Price: $$-$$$
Reservation policy: By phone or online
Peak Lookout
Founded in: Known as Old Peak Café in 1947
Cuisine: International
Standout dishes: Tandoori Chicken, Hainan chicken, Portuguese-style baked pork chop rice
Vibe: Rustic heritage cottage with garden seating area
Location: 121 Peak Rd, The Peak
Price: $$$
Reservation policy: By phone or online
Lin Heung Lau
Founded in: Hong Kong branch 1918
Cuisine: Cantonese
Standout dishes: Various dim sum trolley selections including steamed shrimp dumplings, pork and shrimp dumpling (siu mai), egg yolk lava buns
Vibe: Buzzy, old-school, communal dim sum atmosphere
Location: 160 Wellington St, Central
Price: $$
Reservation policy: By phone or online
Jimmy’s Kitchen
(Pre-renovation)
Founded in: 1928
Cuisine: Continental
Standout dishes: Sunday roast, Jimmy’s Madras curry, Chicken Kiev, Prince des Dombes, baked Alaska
Vibe: Re-opened in 2025 with elegant, modern touches
Location: M/F, Pedder Building, 12 Pedder St, Central
Price: $$$-$$$$
Reservation policy: By phone or online
Luk Yu Tea House
Founded in: 1933
Cuisine: Cantonese
Standout dishes: Classic dim sum dishes, pork buns, pork ribs, egg tarts, glutineous rice stuffed chicken. roasted meats
Vibe: Re-opened in 2025 with elegant, modern touches
Location: 24-26 Stanley St, Central
Price: $$$
Reservation policy: By phone
Mido Cafe
Founded in: 1950
Cuisine: Cantonese
Standout dishes: Cha chaan teng classics such as french toast, sandwiches, macaroni soup, milk tea
Vibe: Nostalgic Hong Kong
Location: 63 Temple St, Yau Ma Tei
Price: $
Reservation policy: Walk-in only
Amigo
Founded in: 1967
Cuisine: French fine dining
Standout dishes: Lobster bisque, fois gras, lobster and steak, lamb chops
Vibe: Old-world opulence, wood and velvet designs, with a live band during dinner service
Location: 79A Wong Nai Chung Rd, Happy Valley
Price: $$$$
Reservation policy: By phone or online (advanced booking suggested)
The Verandah
Founded in: 1933
Cuisine: Western/Asian
Standout dishes: Buffets, high teas
Vibe: Colonial grandeur, sea views, lush gardens
Location: 109 Repulse Bay Rd, Repulse Bay
Price: $$$-$$$$
Reservation policy: Booking in advanced by phone or online suggested
