What Are the Top Places to Eat Solo in Hong Kong Without Feeling Awkward?

If you’ve ever craved TamJai’s signature zhajiang topping outside of noodle shop hours, your wish has just been canned, in the best way possible. TamJai Yunnan Mixian, Hong Kong’s cult-favorite noodle chain, has officially launched its first-ever canned zhajiang sauce. 

Priced at an affordable HK$18, this limited-release item is now available across all TamJai outlets in Hong Kong, offering fans a portable version of the savory meat sauce that’s long defined the brand’s mixian bowls. 

Zhajiang, literally “fried sauce” in Mandarin, is a rich, umami-packed blend of minced meat and fermented soybean paste. Originating in Shandong and popularized in Beijing as zhajiangmian, it’s often compared to a Chinese-style meat ragu. TamJai’s take leans into Hong Kong’s sweeter palate, with a smoother texture and a hint of sugar that makes it especially comforting. 

The canned zhajiang is designed for versatility. Spoon it over rice, stir it into instant noodles, or even spread it on toast. It’s said to be slightly thicker and sweeter than the freshly made version served in-store. 

No heating required, though warming it up can enhance the aroma and texture. The product is shelf-stable and travel-friendly, making it a perfect souvenir or care package item for Hongkongers abroad. It’s part of a growing trend where local brands are packaging iconic flavors for global reach without compromising on authenticity. 

Whether you’re stocking up for late-night cravings or gifting a taste of Hong Kong to friends overseas, TamJai’s zhajiang tin is a flavorful slice of local culture, now ready to travel. 

Check out TamJai Yunnan Mixan’s website and follow their Instagram for more information. 

After the success of its pop-up store at Harbour City last April and the popularity of its ongoing exhibition at K11 MUSEA, the beloved Japanese character Chiikawa is opening a themed ramen restaurant in Mong Kok!

Inspired by the popular “Ro” series ramen menu featured in the “CHIIKAWA” manga, Chiikawa Ramen Buta Hong Kong blends the whimsical charm of the Japanese comics with authentic Japanese flavors. Located in Langham Place, Mong Kong, the restaurant will officially open its doors on Aug. 16, marking its very first overseas branch.  

The Hong Kong branch aims to provide an unparalleled character-themed dining experience for fans and ramen lovers alike, making them feel as if they’ve stepped into the whimsical world of the manga. Guests will be welcomed by life-sized sculptures of the main characters, Chiikawa, Hachiware, and Usagi, and will surely be captivated by the adorable character illustrations and decorations around the dining space. 

But more than the charming venue and atmosphere, the restaurant guarantees an authentic Japanese ramen experience, serving their signature ramen made with ingredients and broth imported directly from Japan! Guests can choose from three ramen sizes: the mini Chiikawa (HK$115), the small Hachiware (HK$135), and the big Usagi (HK$150). Each ramen bowl is topped with a cute character fish cake and comes with a complimentary character-themed sticker. 

Drinks will also be available and served in CHIIKAWA-themed containers that customers can take home as souvenirs. Each beverage is priced between HK$38 to HK$68 and comes with a collectible character-themed transparent card. 

Speaking of souvenirs, Chiikawa Ramen Buta Hong Kong will also launch a series of merchandise, ranging from ramen bowls, beer glasses, water glasses, face towels, wristbands, T-shirts, logo stickers, ramen spoons, and melamine plates. 

The Chiikawa Ramen Buta was developed by Japan’s PARCO and first launched in March 2024 at Nagoya PARCO. It quickly became a hit among locals, expanding to four other PARCO branches across the country, including Osaka Shinsaibashi, Hiroshima, and Tokyo Ikebukuro. The Hong Kong branch will be hosted by Flames Concepts and will not only stand as the first overseas branch but also the biggest one to date, with over 87 seats. 

Whether you're a fan of CHIIKAWA or a ramen lover, you can't miss this dreamy experience! Bookings are patterned after Japan’s “reservation operation model” and will be done in rounds via KKDAY. Dates and opening times will be announced on Flames Concepts’ social media pages and KKDAY’s event page. Apart from selecting a time slot, each guest is also required to pre-purchase a bottle of Black Oolong Tea (HK$38) as a deposit, which will be distributed on the day of visit.

Bookings are now open with the next round of early bird dates opening on Sept. 1. You can book your slots here.

For more information, check out the official website or follow Chiikawa Ramen Buta Hong Kong on Instagram. 

Weekend brunch just got a bold new twist in Tsim Sha Tsui. Mue Mue, the contemporary Thai restaurant tucked inside Mira Place One, is serving up a four-hour feast that’s anything but ordinary. Their new Thai-Tastic Weekend Brunch is a curated culinary journey through Southeast Asia, with a menu that’s playful yet refined. 

Start your brunch by choosing your appetizer, soup, main dish, and dessert. But that’s just the beginning. The real star of your dining experience is the unlimited spread of Thai snacks, like Thai-style pesto shrimp sashimi, charcoal-grilled pork neck salad, crispy shrimp toast, and deep-fried lemongrass chicken wings. Each bite is a celebration of bold flavors and fresh textures of Thailand. 

The brunch kicks off with a refreshing mango salad topped with lobster, followed by standout starters like beetroot-infused deep-fried tofu with caviar or Thai-style abalone in pesto sauce. Soup lovers can dive into the Royal Thai Tom Yum Kung, brimming with shrimp, octopus, and mussels, or go for the rich braised crabmeat soup. 

Main courses offer a modern take on Thai classics. The Thai-style Hainan chicken is served with a hot and sour chili sauce, while wok-fried prawns with salted egg yolk and oatmeal deliver crunch and umami in equal measure. Other highlights include Thai curry beef with pancake and grilled fish with lemongrass and chopped pepper. 

Dessert rounds out the experience with two indulgent options: mango sticky rice with ice cream and coconut milk, or coconut ice cream with brown sugar, longan, peach gum, and crispy shredded coconut. 

Priced at an affordable $328 per person (unlimited Thai snacks included!), the brunch runs every Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday from noon to 4 pm. For those looking to elevate the experience, a $150 add-on unlocks free-flow drinks including selected beers, house wines, and a welcome cocktail. Pre-ordering through Mira eShop waives the service charge, making indulgence even more tempting. 

Follow Mue Mue on Instagram here for more details and make your bookings here. 

Mue Mue  

Location: Shop 302, 3/F, Mira Place 1, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong 

Opening Hours: 11:30 PM to 3 PM; 6 PM to 10:30 PM 

There’s no better feeling than enjoying a gelato under the heat with a perfect view of the Victoria Harbour. A

From August 4 to September 21, 2025, Regent Hong Kong's Lobby Lounge is hosting Italian Gelato, French Sparkle: A Refined Summer Ritual, a summer afternoon tea collaboration with artisanal gelato brand Lavoratti and champagne house Moët & Chandon. 

The Lobby Lounge itself is a cinematic destination that’s framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that offer uninterrupted views of Victoria Harbour and city’s skyline.  

The experience continues with a vibrant amuse-bouche: rhubarb and datterino tomato compote layered with burrata foam and tomato powder, a creamy, tangy opener that sets the tone for the afternoon. A quartet of finger sandwiches follows, each crafted with precision and seasonal flair. Guests can savor cage-free egg mimosa with chive and Persava caviar, smoked trout with avocado guacamole and olive pearls, butcher ham with pommery mustard and beetroot pickles, and brie cheese with cucumber, Granny Smith apple, and dill. Each bite offers contrast and harmony, balancing richness with refreshing notes. 

Executive Pastry Chef Andy Yeung’s dessert creations are another highlight, as the Mango Pomelo reimagines a tropical favourite with citrus and cream, while the Strawberry Basil dessert adds a herbaceous twist to a classic pairing. The White Peach Oolong pastry marries floral tea aromas with the soft sweetness of summer fruit. Classic scones are served warm with clotted cream, homemade lemon curd, and red fruit jam. 

The Lavoratti Frozen Gelato Bonbon brings Italian artistry to the table, with Fior di Latte and Blood Orange flavors encased in crisp chocolate shells. Guests can also enjoy a scoop of gelato or sorbet in a cup, brioche, or waffle, choosing from pistachio, hazelnut, chocolate, mango, or strawberry. A striped gelato cart stationed at The Lobby Lounge adds a whimsical touch, offering also single scoops for spontaneous refreshment on the go. 

While regular coffee options are available, there is a selection of Tea by Tea Leaves like herbal tea, black tea, and the seasonal exclusive summer peach tea. Or, to elevate the experience, for HK$130, guests may opt for a nostalgic milkshake in chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry. For a tipsy moment by the sea, for HK$298, guests are recommended to upgrade to two glasses of Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial. With its vibrant fruit character and cooling finish, it’s the perfect toast to a harborfront afternoon. 

Served daily, the tea set is priced at HK$888 for two or HK$488 for one, with optional enhancements available. With its blend of culinary artistry, seasonal charm, and sublime views of Victoria Harbour, this summer ritual is a sensory escape that’s both elegant and indulgent.  

Make your reservation now via Regent Hong Kong’s online booking platform here and follow their Instagram here for more info. 

Regent Hong Kong Lobby Lounge 

Location: 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong 

Opening Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM (Daily); 12 PM to 6 PM (Afternoon Tea) 

It's that time of the year again Mid-Autumn Festival season is almost upon us!

RÚ, Nina Hospitality’s flagship Chinese restaurant, and Nina Patisserie, is unveiling two exclusive mooncake gift boxes, alongside a wonderfully curated selection of festive treats for this Mid-Autumn Festival. 

Thoughtfully designed for sharing with business partners, family, and friends, this new collection blends time-honored tradition with modern, seasonal elegance. 

In addition to the classic White Lotus Seed Paste with Two Yolks Mooncakes, this year introduces Assorted Mini Mooncakes in six vibrantly captivating flavors: Yogurt Custard with Strawberry, Green Tea Custard, Chocolate Custard, Earl Grey Tea Custard, Red Bean Paste with Mandarin Peel and Egg Lava Custard. Each bite offers a unique reflection on the festival’s warmth and spirit. 

Nina Patisserie is also sharing the seasonal warmth with a collection of hampers and gourmet treats, including the signature Nina Palmier, crisp Almond Puffs, and gift sets made for sharing joy. 

Enjoy up to 26% off on or before September 15, 2025 (anytime for CCG Hearts members). Pre-orders are now open via Nina Boutique for collection from September 22 to October 5 at select locations. Free delivery is available for purchases over HKD$2000, with delivery options across Hong Kong, Kowloon, New Territories, and special areas.  

Mooncake Gift Boxes

White Lotus Seed Paste with Two Yolks Mooncake (4pcs/box)

A traditional treat for a celebration of rich, timeless flavours that have been enjoyed for generations. Filled with premium lotus seed paste and authentic salted egg yolks, and wrapped in a delicate pastry skin to give a satisfying taste with every bite. 

Priced at HKD$398, with an early bird price of HKD$288

Assorted Mini Mooncakes (6pc/box)

The all-new Assorted Mini Mooncakes, a curated collection of six delectable flavours including: 

• Mini Red Bean Paste with Mandarin Peel
• Mini Egg Lava Custard
• Mini Earl Grey Custard
• Mini Green Tea Custard
• Mini Chocolate Custard
• Mini Yogurt Custard with Strawberry

Priced at HKD$378, with an early bird price of HKD$278.

Gift Hampers

Joyous Hamper

• Moët & Chandon Impérial (375ml)
• White Lotus Seed Paste with Two Yolks Mooncake (4pcs)
• Nuts Jar – Honey Roasted Cashew (1 jar)
• Assorted Cookies (40 pcs)
• Nina Palmier – Original Flavours

Originally priced at HKD$1392, with an early bird price of HKD$1098.

Exquisite Gift Bag

Packed in a stylish tote bag, including:

• Nuts Jar – Honey Roasted Cashew (1 jar)
• Assorted Mini Mooncakes (1 box)
• Almond Puffs (8 pcs)

Originally priced at HKD$664, with an early bird price of HKD$498

Festive Combo Set

Perfect for sharing with family and friends, or as a thoughtful gift:

• Nina Palmier – Original Flavours (12 pcs)
• Almond Puffs (8pcs)
• Assorted Cookies (40 pcs)

Priced at HKD$434

Visit the Nina Hospitality website here, the Nina Patisserie website here, and follow Nina Patisserie on Facebook and Instagram. 

The Doctor is back, now with a new address and a bold new chapter. 

After a brief hiatus, Dr. Robbern Fern has recently unveiled his newest concept: The Doctor’s Residence by Dr. Fern, now tucked inside the Pottinger Hotel. Following the success of his original Gin Parlour at Landmark, the new concept marks Volume II of his gin legacy. 

"Patients" can expect emotionally complex cocktails, eccentric G&Ts, and umami-laced bites crafted for the chronically curious. Still prescribing gin and botanicals, Dr. Fern offers personalised “treatments” infused with fresh, local herbs and premium spirits, now served from the comfort of his private residence. 

Bar Manager Babit Burathroki leads the charge, preparing the physician’s concoctions with meticulous care and expertise for their esteemed guests. “Dr. Fern continues to dish out 'unusual prescriptions' according to symptoms, thoughtfully handpicking all ingredients and mixing them according to preferred flavor profiles,” said Babit. 

10 Prescriptions, Different Altered States of Mind

Part cocktail list, part patient file, each drink comes with a satirical prescription label, complete with diagnosis, dosage, tasting notes, side effects, and clinical absurdities. Expect unconventional ingredients such as squid, bacon, jellyfish, pickled watermelon rind, and floral compounds inspired by literary hallucinogens. 

Highlights include: 

• Brinewashed (HK$130): perfect for times “when your neurons want a day off.” Tamras gin, coriander extract, house chilli brine, mint, lemongrass, and clarified watermelon juice.
• Shroom Service (HK$130): Native Australian gin, Fernet Hunter, calamansi, almond liqueur, coconut oil, topped with an aged Chinese mushroom foam for an umami-laced, tropical high.
• Sultan Serum (HK$130): Oriental Gunpowder gin, Plantation Pineapple rum, Averna, Iron Buddha Tea, Cocchi Storico vermouth, raw cacao, cocoa butter, and garnished with a crown of orange peel. Side effects include “main character energy, fluent in pyramid schemes.”
• The Jellyfish Material (HK$130): Squid distilled gin, thyme sous vide, Mancino Secco vermouth, sake, jellyfish, cucumber bitters, and saline solution, garnished with delicate mini blue jellyfish drops. 

A Gin Library like No Other

The Doctor’s Residence boasts an unrivalled collection, housing over 400 types of gin, an extensive library of rare labels and botanicals bottled for every type of patient. Making its Hong Kong Debut is the Ortiz IV Gin from Germany, a crisp, small-batch London Dry inspired by Philippine gin traditions. 

Alongside it are rare and remarkable labels, including Citadelle Rouge from France and Ornabrak from Ireland. 

Each G&T is paired with bespoke garnishes like elderflower tonics, pineapple gelees, micro herbs, and galaxy raspberries — all served in custom-etched glassware. Guests can also opt for Dr. Fern’s signature Floral Glow Ice (+HKD$40) in any G&T, a botanical ice block that slowly transforms the G&T into a blooming botanical 

Food for the Chronically Curious

The bar bites at Dr. Fern’s are umami flavour bombs designed to satiate the appetite, each with their own witty moniker. These include:

• Whipped Green (HK$80): Asian-spiced whipped edamame, with housemade fermented chilli oil and crispy lotus chips
• Codependent Fish Burger (HK$120): Curry-spiced fish fillet, shredded slaw, pickles, and salmon roe on brioche
• Say Cheese (HK$90): Queso fresco and burnt corn croquettes, ancho chilli mole sauce with housemade pickles
• Double Smashed Buns (HK$160): Two smashed beef patties, chipotle mayo, caramelised onions, cheese on brioche

Inside the Doctor’s Residence

A whisper of the 1970s, the indoor lounge pairs retro-chic emerald velvet seating, fern-patterned wallpaper, lava lamps, and vintage furnishings. Outside, the leafy terrace offers a tranquil hideaway, perfect for unfiltered conversations and sunset prescriptions. Dr. Fern’s Residence hosts up to 120 guests, complete with a DJ booth. 

“Inspired by the era of being wild and free, The Doctor’s Residence by Dr. Fern is less of a bar and more of a lucid dream with a gin fixation,” says Babit. “It’s a surrealist clinic where botanicals are medicine, flavours are feelings, and the only side effect is wanting more.”

For more information, follow The Doctor’s Residence by Dr. Fern on Instagram. Reservations are available here.

Location: The Doctor’s Residence by Dr. Fern, SHOP NO.4, 3/F, The Pottinger, 74 Queens Road, Hong Kong

Opening Hours: 5 PM onwards (Monday to Sunday) 

If your idea of a balanced diet is just food in both hands, then cancel your plans from August 14 to 18 and head straight to Wan Chai. 

The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) is about to transform into a food paradise as the 35th HKTDC Food Expo kicks off, and you already know it’s not just another food fair- this is a full-blown flavor festival, where self-control is politely asked to wait outside. 

Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), this year’s Food Expo is set to be another successful edition of the annual- and heavenly- culinary spectacular, featuring over 1,890 exhibitors from 35 countries and regions. From Brazilian barbecue to Mongolian dairy, Zimbabwean delicacies to ASEAN street eats, the event promises to bring guests on a global tasting tour.  

Running concurrently with the Beauty & Wellness Expo, Home Delights Expo, and the 16th Hong Kong International Tea Fair, the Food Expo is part of a five-fair lineup that’s as much about lifestyle as it is about eating. Expect curated themed days, interactive games, lucky draws, and a whole lot of chewing. 

For F&B veterans, the third edition of Food Expo PRO opens its doors with a new Coffee Zone that’s brewing up excitement. For example, Yunnan’s Pu’er City will showcase its finest beans, and baristas will battle it out in a coffee cupping competition. Meanwhile, the Food Science and Technology Zone will spotlight health-forward innovations like cognitive supplements. 

For Muslim visitors and those interested in halal cuisine, the Expo is stepping up its game with over 120 halal exhibitors and seminars promoting Hong Kong as a Muslim-friendly destination. Local restaurants will even receive halal certifications during the event, making it a milestone moment for inclusive dining. 

Admission is priced at HK$30, with discounted rates for tourists. Tickets are available at the venue and convenience stores across the city. For information about the event, check out HKTDC’s official website here. 

If you can’t resist the scent of a freshly baked croissant and don’t mind a spontaneous gourmet discovery, you should check out Oliver’s The Delicatessen, Hong Kong's beloved premier gourmet destination since 1981, which has recently reopened in Central! 

Located on the third floor of Landmark Prince’s, it has unveiled a refreshed 7,000-square-foot concept store that blends international flavors with a modern, inviting shopping experience. 

Reflecting the brand’s heritage of gourmet sophistication, the new space features interiors adorned in natural wood, marble, and cream-colored tones. The store offers over 7,000 curated products, including fresh and premium meats, specialty groceries, more than 100 ready-to-eat dishes, and more. 

Signature offerings include the Roasted Danish Chicken Set (HK$95), Roasted Australian Sirloin Beef Set (HK$105), and the Five-Color Jewel Donburi (HK$168), featuring sea urchin, scallop, and salmon roe.  

Inside the store are a variety of dedicated areas, and there are sections featuring more than 100 exclusive delicacies. The Chef’s Pantry elevates the local “rice with 2 sides” meal box with gourmet twists like Braised Oxtail in French Red Wine and Fried Pork Tenderloin with Italian Balsamic. 

Other highlights include the Salad Bar with over 30 varieties, the Sushi Bar with up to 50 seasonal options, and Brew & Bake’s fresh pastries like Pistachio Floral Tarts and Caramelized Croissants. For quick bites, Oliver’s Hot Takes offers grab-and-go dishes such as Duck Breast with Teriyaki Sauce and Braised Beef Cheek with Mashed Potato. 

Home cooks will appreciate The Butcher’s Table, featuring Australian 40 Days Dry Aged Beef Tomahawk at 35% off (only HK$324) and WBI U.S. Prime steaks at 10% off until September 4. A5-grade Japanese Wagyu is also available in Yakiniku and Shabu-Shabu platters. 

The Cellar showcases over 700 wines and rare spirits, including boutique Australian labels and Japanese whiskies like Hibiki 21-Year-Old. 

To complement the in-store experience, where limited-time promotions are available, Oliver’s has launched Oliver’s Gourmet Online, offering same-day delivery on Hong Kong Island and free delivery for orders over HK$600. 

For more details, visit Oliver’s The Delicatessen’s official website or follow them on Instagram. 

Location: Shop 322–328, 3/F, Landmark Prince’s Building, Central 

Opening hours: 8 AM to 9 PM (Mon - Fri); 830 AM to 8 PM (Sat, Sun & Public Holidays)