Hong Kong is a city that is renowned for its culinary scene, with a diverse range of cuisines available in every corner of the city. One of the most popular cuisines in Hong Kong is undoubtedly Hong Kong-style barbecue, which is characterized by its succulent, crispy meats that are cooked to perfection. Whether you are a local or a tourist, there is no better way to experience the best of Hong Kong cuisine than by sampling its delicious barbecue restaurants.
In this article, we will be exploring 12 of the most scrumptious Hong Kong-style barbecue restaurants that are must-visit destinations for foodies. From Kam Wah Cafe’s famous buttery pineapple buns to Mott 32’s innovative fusion dishes, these restaurants offer a range of delectable dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you are looking for a casual lunch spot or a fancy dinner venue, these restaurants are sure to impress with their mouth-watering barbecue dishes that are a testament to the city’s culinary prowess. So, get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey as we explore the best Hong Kong-style barbecue restaurants that the city has to offer.
Key Takeaways
- Hong Kong-style BBQ offers a diverse culinary scene with unique blends of flavors using diverse ingredients and cooking techniques.
- Affordable options are available due to the use of cheaper cuts of meat and generous portions, with cash payments being common in small businesses and food stalls.
- Standout dishes include char siu pork, roast goose, and traditional Cantonese flavors such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and fermented black beans.
- Upscale Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants offer a combination of traditional techniques with modern culinary innovations, with reservations highly recommended for popular restaurants.
Kam Wah Cafe
Kam Wah Cafe, a renowned establishment in Hong Kong, offers a delectable array of Hong Kong-style BBQ dishes that are sure to tantalize one’s taste buds. This eatery has been serving locals and tourists alike since 1956, and it has earned a reputation for its delicious BBQ pork buns. These buns are made with soft, fluffy bread and filled with succulent, sweet BBQ pork that is cooked to perfection.
Kam Wah Cafe also offers other BBQ dishes, such as roasted pork and soy sauce chicken, which are equally mouthwatering. Aside from its BBQ dishes, Kam Wah Cafe is also known for its traditional Hong Kong-style milk tea. This tea is made with evaporated milk and black tea, giving it a creamy and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet pork buns.
The cafe’s cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Overall, if you are looking for a scrumptious Hong Kong-style BBQ experience, Kam Wah Cafe should definitely be on your list of places to try.
Yat Lok Restaurant
Yat Lok Restaurant is a renowned establishment in Hong Kong that has won numerous awards for its roast goose.
The restaurant is known for its traditional Cantonese flavors, which are prepared using authentic cooking techniques.
It’s important to note that Yat Lok Restaurant is a cash-only establishment, so visitors should be prepared to pay in cash.
Award-Winning Roast Goose
One of the standout dishes at Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants is the award-winning roast goose, which has earned its reputation for good reason.
The dish is prepared by first marinating the goose in a combination of spices and sauces such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and five spice powder. It is then roasted until the skin becomes crispy and golden brown, while the meat remains juicy and tender.
Roast goose is a dish that requires a great deal of skill and experience to prepare correctly. It is often served with a side of rice or noodles and a dipping sauce made from plum sauce or soy sauce.
Although many restaurants offer roast goose on their menu, the truly exceptional ones are those that have won awards for their version of the dish. For those looking to experience the best of Hong Kong-style BBQ, a plate of award-winning roast goose is a must-try.
Traditional Cantonese Flavors
Cantonese cuisine is renowned for utilizing a diverse range of ingredients and cooking techniques to create a unique blend of flavors that are both savory and complex. The dishes from this region often feature a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors, along with a variety of textures.
Traditional Cantonese flavors are characterized by the use of ingredients such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and fermented black beans, which add depth and complexity to dishes.
One of the most popular Cantonese dishes is char siu, which is a type of barbecued pork that is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and then roasted until it is tender and caramelized.
Another classic Cantonese dish is stir-fried beef with oyster sauce, which is made by cooking thinly sliced beef with vegetables and a rich oyster sauce that adds a salty and savory flavor to the dish.
Other Cantonese favorites include steamed fish with ginger and scallions, sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves, and siu mai, which are steamed dumplings filled with pork and shrimp.
Overall, Cantonese cuisine is a rich and flavorful culinary tradition that is loved by food lovers around the world.
Cash Only
When dining at some traditional Cantonese establishments, it’s important to note that they may only accept cash as a form of payment. This can come as a surprise to some diners who are used to paying with credit cards or mobile payment methods.
However, it’s important to understand that this is a common practice in Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants, where the emphasis is on the food rather than the payment method.
One reason why these restaurants may only accept cash is to keep their prices competitive. By avoiding credit card fees and other transaction costs, they can keep their prices low and attract more customers. Additionally, some owners may prefer cash because it allows them to keep better track of their income and expenses.
While this may inconvenience some diners, it’s important to remember that paying with cash is a small price to pay for the delicious and authentic Cantonese flavors that these restaurants offer.
Joy Hing Roasted Meat
Joy Hing Roasted Meat is a renowned restaurant in Hong Kong that is famous for its mouth-watering char siu pork. The succulent pork is slow-roasted over a charcoal fire and glazed with a sweet and savory sauce, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy any meat lover’s cravings.
The restaurant is also known for its affordable prices, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. However, it is important to note that Joy Hing Roasted Meat is a cash-only establishment, so be sure to bring enough cash to enjoy this delectable experience.
Mouth-Watering Char Siu Pork
One cannot resist the succulent and perfectly caramelized char siu pork, a signature dish in Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants.
Char siu, which means ‘fork roasted,’ is made from pork shoulder or belly that is marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder before being roasted on a skewer over an open flame. The result is a tender and flavorful meat with a crispy, slightly charred exterior.
What sets Hong Kong-style char siu apart from other BBQ styles is its sweet and savory marinade that gives it a unique taste. The marinade also creates a beautiful reddish-brown color and a shiny glaze on the meat.
Char siu pork is commonly served as a main dish with rice or noodles, or as a filling in steamed buns. Some restaurants even offer char siu as a topping for dishes like congee or fried rice.
With its irresistible flavor and versatility, it’s no wonder that char siu is a beloved dish in Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants.
Affordable Prices
The affordability of the dishes in Hong Kong-style BBQ establishments is a notable feature, with reasonably priced options for those looking to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Despite being a popular cuisine, Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants are known for their affordable prices, making it an accessible dining option for everyone. This is particularly true for those who are on a tight budget but still want to experience the traditional flavors of Hong Kong-style BBQ.
One of the reasons for the affordability of Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants is the availability of cheaper cuts of meat that are still flavorful and tender. The chefs in these establishments have perfected their techniques to bring out the best in these cuts, providing customers with a delicious and satisfying meal.
Furthermore, the generous portions offered by Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants also contribute to their affordability, ensuring that customers get their money’s worth.
Overall, the affordability of Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants is one of the reasons why it has become a popular dining option, not just for locals, but for tourists as well.
Cash Only
Interestingly, many Hong Kong-style BBQ establishments only accept cash payments, which can be inconvenient for customers who prefer to pay with credit or debit cards. This practice is not unique to Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants, as many small businesses and food stalls in Asia still prefer cash transactions over digital payments. One possible reason for this preference is the cost associated with installing and maintaining electronic payment systems, which may not be feasible for small establishments that operate on slim profit margins.
For customers who are used to making payments electronically, the idea of carrying cash may be daunting or inconvenient. However, there are several advantages to paying with cash, including the ability to avoid credit card fees and the potential for discounts or better deals. Additionally, paying with cash allows customers to better track their spending and avoid overspending, as they can only spend what they have on hand. While the practice of only accepting cash payments may seem outdated to some, it is an important aspect of Hong Kong-style BBQ culture and adds to the unique experience of dining at these establishments.
| Pros | Cons | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avoid credit card fees | Inconvenient for customers without cash | |||
| Discounts or better deals | Challenging to track business expenses | |||
| Limits overspending | May not be feasible for small businesses | |||
| Cultural authenticity | Potential for theft or loss | Can help build customer loyalty | Not widely accepted in all countries or regions |
Tai Ping Koon
Tai Ping Koon is a renowned restaurant established in 1860, known for its authentic Hong Kong cuisine and fine dining experience.
This restaurant’s signature dish, Baked Pork Chop Rice, has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The restaurant’s rich history and reputation for exceptional food and service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Hong Kong.
Established Since 1860
Dating back to the year 1860, this Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering dishes that have stood the test of time. Established since the reign of the Qing Dynasty, Tai Ping Koon has become a household name in the city of Hong Kong.
The restaurant’s signature dish, the roasted pigeon, is a must-try for any food enthusiast. The bird is roasted to perfection, with crispy skin and tender meat that melts in your mouth.
Apart from the roasted pigeon, Tai Ping Koon’s menu also includes other delectable dishes such as their BBQ pork and grilled eel. Their BBQ pork is marinated with a special blend of spices that give it a distinct flavor, while the grilled eel is cooked to a crispy texture and served with a sweet and savory sauce.
The restaurant’s interior also adds to the overall dining experience, with its vintage décor and cozy atmosphere. Overall, Tai Ping Koon is a restaurant that embodies the essence of traditional Hong Kong-style BBQ and is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in some scrumptious cuisine.
Famous for their Baked Pork Chop Rice
One of the most sought-after dishes at Tai Ping Koon is their famous Baked Pork Chop Rice, which has garnered a reputation for being a must-try dish for food enthusiasts visiting Hong Kong.
This dish is a classic Hong Kong-style comfort food that has been enjoyed by locals and tourists alike for decades. The dish consists of a bed of steaming hot rice topped with a succulent, tender pork chop that has been marinated in a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey before being baked to perfection.
What sets Tai Ping Koon’s Baked Pork Chop Rice apart from other similar dishes is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rice is fluffy and fragrant, while the pork chop is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The dish is also served with a side of tangy tomato sauce that complements the savory flavors of the pork chop and balances out the sweetness of the marinade.
Overall, this dish is a true representation of the flavorful and comforting cuisine that Hong Kong has to offer. For those looking to experience a true taste of Hong Kong, Tai Ping Koon’s Baked Pork Chop Rice is a must-try dish that is sure to satisfy any food lover’s cravings.
Fine Dining Experience
Transforming from a casual eatery to a fine dining destination, Tai Ping Koon offers a sophisticated atmosphere with elegant decor and impeccable service. The ambience is grand yet welcoming, with soft lighting, plush seating, and an open kitchen that allows guests to observe the chefs in action.
The restaurant has a rich history dating back to 1860, when it was founded as a tea house by a Chinese herbalist. It then evolved into a Western-style restaurant, serving dishes that were a fusion of Chinese and European cuisines.
The menu at Tai Ping Koon is extensive, featuring a range of dishes that are perfect for a fine dining experience. The Baked Pork Chop Rice, which the restaurant is famous for, is a must-try. The dish is prepared with a generous portion of succulent pork chops that are baked with rice, tomato sauce, and cheese, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and flavorful.
Other popular dishes include the French-style Lobster Bisque, which is made with fresh lobster meat and cream, and the Baked Escargots, which are served in a garlic and butter sauce.
Overall, Tai Ping Koon is the perfect destination for those looking for a luxurious dining experience that combines tradition and innovation.
Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant
Located in the heart of Kennedy Town, Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant offers a delectable selection of Hong Kong-style barbecue dishes, including succulent roasted meats and fresh seafood. The restaurant is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and affordable prices.
The menu features a variety of dishes, from the classic roasted duck and crispy pork belly to the more adventurous options such as stir-fried squid and spicy salt and pepper squid. One of the standout dishes at Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant is the char siu (barbecued pork). The meat is cooked to perfection, with a crispy caramelized exterior and a juicy, tender center. The dish is served with a side of rice and a savory gravy that complements the sweetness of the pork.
Another must-try dish is the roasted duck, which is also cooked to perfection with a crispy skin and succulent meat. Overall, Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant is a great choice for those looking to sample some of the best Hong Kong-style barbecue dishes in town.
Kau Kee Restaurant
Kau Kee Restaurant is a long-standing eatery in Central Hong Kong that specializes in beef brisket noodles. Established in 1920, it has been serving its signature dish for over a century. Kau Kee Restaurant’s beef brisket is slow-cooked for several hours, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is complemented by the flavorful broth and springy noodles. The restaurant’s loyal customer base is a testament to the quality of its food, as it has managed to maintain its popularity over the years.
For those who are unfamiliar with beef brisket noodles, the following table provides a guide to the different components of this dish. It details the ingredients that go into the soup, the type of noodles used, and the different cuts of beef that are commonly used in the dish. This table can help diners appreciate the complexity of the dish and understand why it has become a staple in Hong Kong’s culinary scene.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Soup | Typically made with a combination of beef bones, spices, and herbs. The broth is simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor. |
| Noodles | A type of Chinese wheat noodles that are chewy and springy. They are often served in a soup and can be thick or thin. |
| Beef | Beef brisket is the most common cut used in this dish, but other cuts such as beef tendon, beef shank, and beef tripe can also be used. The beef is slow-cooked for several hours until it is tender and flavorful. |
| Condiments | Common condiments include hoisin sauce, chili oil, and soy sauce. These are added to the soup to enhance the flavor. |
Overall, Kau Kee Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Hong Kong-style beef brisket noodles. The restaurant’s long-standing reputation and loyal customer base are a testament to the quality of its food, and the dish itself is a complex and flavorful combination of ingredients that is sure to satisfy any food lover’s palate.
Sun Hing Restaurant
Sun Hing Restaurant is a well-known dim sum establishment in Hong Kong that has garnered a reputation for its fresh and flavorful dishes. Located in Kennedy Town, this restaurant has been operating for over 20 years, drawing in locals and tourists alike with its delicious offerings. The restaurant has a simple, no-frills décor, with a focus on the quality of the food rather than the ambiance.
One of the standout dishes at Sun Hing Restaurant is their steamed pork dumplings, which are made fresh daily. These dumplings are filled with a juicy pork mixture and are served piping hot.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other dim sum options, including siu mai, har gow, and char siu bao. Each dish is made with care and attention to detail, resulting in a truly scrumptious dining experience.
Overall, Sun Hing Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to sample authentic and delicious dim sum in Hong Kong.
Mott 32
Mott 32 is an upscale dining experience that is renowned for its signature dish, the Applewood Roasted Peking Duck.
This Hong Kong-based restaurant chain has made waves in the culinary world for its sophisticated ambiance and authentic Cantonese cuisine.
If you plan on visiting Mott 32, it is highly recommended that you make reservations in advance to secure a table at this popular eatery.
Upscale Dining Experience
For those seeking an elevated dining experience, there are several upscale Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants that offer a sophisticated atmosphere and delectable cuisine. These restaurants provide a unique combination of traditional Chinese barbeque techniques with modern culinary innovations, resulting in a dining experience that is both luxurious and satisfying.
Here are some of the best upscale Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants to try:
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Yat Tung Heen: Known for its elegant décor and impeccable service, Yat Tung Heen is a must-visit for anyone looking for a refined dining experience. Their signature dishes, such as the crispy roasted pork belly and barbecued Peking duck, are expertly prepared and bursting with flavor.
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Mott 32: As one of the most well-known upscale Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants, Mott 32 offers a luxurious dining experience that is hard to beat. Their menu features a range of inventive dishes that combine traditional Chinese flavors with contemporary cooking techniques.
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Tin Lung Heen: Located on the 102nd floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, Tin Lung Heen offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, making it the perfect place for a special occasion. Their barbecued meats, including the succulent char siu and crispy pork belly, are among the best in the city.
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One Harbour Road: Situated in the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, One Harbour Road is a refined Chinese restaurant that serves up some of the most delicious Hong Kong-style BBQ in the city. Their roasted meats are cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and tender, juicy meat that is sure to leave you wanting more.
Overall, these upscale Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants offer a dining experience that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a sophisticated night out, these restaurants are sure to impress.
Famous for their Signature Applewood Roasted Peking Duck
One of the most well-known dishes of upscale Hong Kong-style dining establishments is the signature applewood roasted Peking duck, which is expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. This dish is a true masterpiece of culinary art, with its crispy skin and succulent meat that is perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs.
The applewood roasting technique imparts a unique smoky flavor to the duck, making it a must-try for any food lover.
The preparation of the applewood roasted Peking duck is a meticulous process that requires great skill and attention to detail. The duck is first marinated with a special blend of spices and herbs, then hung to dry for several hours to achieve a crispy skin. It is then roasted in a special oven that uses applewood chips to impart a smoky flavor to the meat.
The result is a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It is no wonder that this dish has become a signature of Hong Kong-style dining and a favorite of foodies around the world.
Reservations Recommended
Moving on from the famous roasted Peking duck, it is important to note that many of these scrumptious Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants are often packed with long queues and waiting times. Hence, it is highly recommended to make reservations beforehand to save time and avoid disappointment. These restaurants are often fully booked during peak hours, and reservations can be made through their official websites or by phone.
One such restaurant that highly recommends reservations is the Yat Lok Roast Goose. This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its succulent and crispy roast goose, which is marinated for hours and roasted to perfection using traditional charcoal ovens. The restaurant’s small and cozy setting only adds to the charm of this popular eatery, and reservations are necessary to secure a table.
Other restaurants that require reservations include Kam’s Roast Goose, Joy Hing Roasted Meat, and Tai Hing. These restaurants are highly sought after by locals and tourists alike, and it is essential to make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history behind Hong Kong-style BBQ and how did it become popular?
Hong Kong-style barbecue has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century when Cantonese immigrants brought their culinary traditions to Hong Kong. The cuisine combines Chinese and Western cooking techniques, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors.
Hong Kong-style barbecue became popular in the 1950s and 1960s when the city’s economy began to grow rapidly. As a result, people had more disposable income to spend on dining out, and Hong Kong-style barbecue restaurants began to flourish.
Today, Hong Kong-style barbecue is a beloved cuisine in Hong Kong and around the world, thanks to its delicious flavors and unique cooking methods.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at these BBQ restaurants?
In general, Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants are known for their meat-centric menus, with a focus on pork, chicken, and duck. However, there are some options for vegetarians and vegans at these establishments.
Some restaurants may offer vegetable skewers, tofu dishes, or stir-fried vegetables as alternatives to the meat-heavy options. It’s important to note that the availability of vegetarian and vegan options may vary from restaurant to restaurant, so it’s always a good idea to check the menu or ask the staff for recommendations.
Overall, while Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants may not be the go-to choice for vegetarians and vegans, there are still some options available for those looking to try this cuisine.
What is the average cost per person at these restaurants?
The average cost per person at Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants can vary depending on the location, menu offerings, and the overall dining experience. However, on average, one can expect to pay around HKD 150-250 per person for a meal at these establishments.
Some restaurants may offer set menus or all-you-can-eat options, which can be more cost-effective for larger groups or those looking for a more indulgent meal. It is worth noting that certain premium items, such as wagyu beef or seafood, can significantly increase the overall cost of a meal.
Ultimately, the cost per person at Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants is reflective of the quality of the food, service, and ambiance, making it a worthwhile dining experience for those looking to indulge in some delicious barbecue cuisine.
What are the restaurant hours and days of operation?
To answer the current question of the restaurant hours and days of operation, it is important to note that most restaurants in Hong Kong operate daily, with some exceptions on public holidays.
The specific hours of operation may vary depending on the location and type of restaurant. Some may open early in the morning for breakfast and close late at night, while others may only open for lunch and dinner.
It is recommended to check the individual restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm their hours of operation.
Overall, Hong Kong has a vibrant dining scene with plenty of options available to satisfy any culinary cravings.
Do any of these restaurants offer delivery or take-out options?
In terms of dining preferences, some people may prefer to enjoy their meals in the comfort of their own homes rather than dining in at restaurants. As such, it is important to consider the availability of delivery and take-out options when choosing a restaurant.
While it cannot be certain whether all of the 12 scrumptious Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurants to sample offer delivery or take-out options without further research, it is likely that some of them do. It is common for restaurants, especially those in urban areas, to offer such services in order to cater to the needs of their customers.
Therefore, it is recommended that interested individuals contact the restaurants directly or check their websites for information on delivery and take-out options.
Conclusion
Hong Kong-style barbecue is a cuisine that is widely popular among people all over the world. The delectable dishes prepared using various meats and seafoods are sure to leave one craving for more.
In this article, we have explored twelve of the most scrumptious Hong Kong-style barbecue restaurants that one must sample.
Kam Wah Cafe is a must-visit for their signature barbecue pork buns and egg tarts, while Yat Lok Restaurant is renowned for its juicy and flavorful roasted goose. Tai Ping Koon’s barbecued chicken is a crowd favorite, and Joy Hing Roasted Meat serves up succulent char siu pork. Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant is known for its crispy-skinned roasted suckling pig, whereas Kau Kee Restaurant is famous for its beef brisket. Sun Hing Restaurant offers a unique twist to the traditional barbecue, with their steamed rice rolls filled with juicy barbecued meats. Mott 32 is another must-visit restaurant, whose barbecued pork is a must-try.
In conclusion, Hong Kong-style barbecue is a cuisine that one must experience while visiting the city. Each of the twelve restaurants mentioned in this article offers a unique and delectable take on this cuisine, making it difficult to choose just one favorite.
Whether it is the succulent roasted goose at Yat Lok Restaurant or the signature barbecue pork buns at Kam Wah Cafe, these restaurants are sure to leave you satisfied and craving for more.
So, head out and explore the flavors of Hong Kong-style barbecue at these amazing restaurants.
