Why Hong Kong is a paradise for foodies and night owls
When the sun sets over Hong Kong's skyline, a world of possibilities opens up.
November 19, 2023
From rooftop bars and first-class restaurants to fascinating views and exciting hikes: Hong Kong is a metropolis full of life and unique experiences, especially after dark.
The promenade with the Observation Wheel and the skyline. © Hong Kong Tourism Board
Unmissable Attractions
As the sky slowly turns red in the at sunset and twilight sets in, Hong Kong is bathed in a veritable sea of colors and lights. Victoria Harbour, in particular, has a breathtaking illuminated skyline. On the other side of the river, on Hong Kong Island, sights such as the Observation Wheel, the centerpiece the waterfront promenade, light up.
A favorite Instagram spot with traditional charm and a must-see when visiting Hong Kong is the Temple Street Night Market with its lively street stalls selling authentic Cantonese delicacies. The perfect spot to sample street food and buy a souvenir or two.
If you'd prefer a break from the concrete Jungle, the Peak Circle Walk is ideal for a relaxing evening stroll with a great view of the skyline. For those who prefer a challenge, the ascent to Sunset Peak offers an excellent workout.
And if you're in town during the holidays, the New Year's Eve countdown and fireworks show on the promenade is an absolute must-see.
Both the natural surroundings and the cityscape are equally breathtaking. © Hong Kong Tourism Board
Michelin-starred cuisine
Hong Kong isn't just about street food, however: The city boasts its own unique cuisine with traditional flavors and regional ingredients. Typical Chinese restaurants include the "Lung King Heen" in the Four Seasons Hotel and the "T'ang Court" in Tsim Sha Tsui. Aside from the ever-popular Peking duck, the menu also includes lobster and other delicacies.
Those who prefer fine dining and experimental cuisine can pay a visit to Hong Kong's 77 Michelin-starred restaurants. A three-star restaurant as of 2023, one of the latest additions is "Ta Vie", which crafts extraordinary creations made from the finest fish and high-quality ingredients from Japan. "Mora", whose hyper-seasonal menu is defined by the versatility of soy, was awarded the Green Star for special sustainability and culinary excellence for the first time.
World-class nightlife
Several sky bars beckon with a breathtaking view of the skyline. © Hong Kong Tourism Board
When you think of Hong Kong, city lights and restaurants immediately come to mind – as does its famous nightlife. Above all, it is the variety on offer that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Particularly popular are the many rooftop bars, which provide magnificent views of the harbor and the sights. These include the "Ozone" in The Ritz-Carlton – the highest rooftop bar in Asia – which overlooks Hong Kong Island. Visitors can also enjoy the backdrop at Aqua, which is located nearby and serves a whole range of excellent cocktails. As Hong Kong's highest viewing platform, Sky Terrace 42 arguably has the best view of all – but, sadly, doesn't serve food to go with the vista.
In addition, "COA" in the city center was recently named the best bar in Hong Kong by "Asia's 50 Best Bars" for the third time straight. And that's by no means all: eight other bars from Hong Kong made it into the top 50, including "Argo" (8th place), "Darkside" (9th place), and "The Aubrey", which nabbed 17th place.
© Hong Kong Tourism Board
Arriving with Cathay Pacific
The flight from Frankfurt to Hong Kong takes twelve hours – if you choose the five-star airline Cathay Pacific, you can start on the culinary delights early. Read more
© Cathay Pacific
For more information on how to get to Hong Kong, where to stay and the many festivals and events, please contact the Hong Kong Tourism Board: discoverhongkong.com