Wan Chai restaurants 2023 – try these authentic Hong Kong dining experiences

Wan Chai's culinary landscape is ever-changing, with new dining spots regularly popping up.

Wan Chai restaurants 2023 – try these authentic Hong Kong dining experiences
Source: Pexels/Jimmy Chan

Wan Chai, a true Hong Kong gem, effortlessly blends its historical charm with modern vitality. Right in the heart of the city, Wan Chai is a fun food adventure waiting for you. Here, Michelin-starred restaurants coexist with humble dai pai dongs (open-air food stalls), delivering both luxury and authenticity. Wan Chai's culinary landscape is ever-changing, with new dining spots regularly popping up. So, even if you've been here before, there's always something new and tasty to try.

JOM

Jom, which means "let's go" in Malay, is a Malaysian restaurant that invites your taste buds on a flavorful journey. Their menu is filled with comforting home-style dishes that capture the friendly culture of Southeast Asia. Explore their sambal stingray, a rare find in Hong Kong, and savor traditional Malaysian delights like char kway teow, nasi lemak and prawn mee. To satisfy your sweet tooth, wrap up your meal with their beloved desserts – banana fritters and sago pudding.

Quick Facts

  • Where – Shop A, G/F, Wealthy Mansion, 7 Tai Wong Street East, Wan Chai
  • When – Monday to Sunday, noon - 10 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 6426 3084
  • Menu
  • Website

Samsen

Samsen, a beloved Southeast Asian spot in Hong Kong, stands out with its Thai authenticity that captures the spirit of Thailand. Inside, you'll feel like you're in a rustic street food scene, with tuk-tuk pictures, wooden chopsticks and plastic chairs adding to the charm. Their menu has classics like pad thai, curry soup noodles and the delightful sweet roti dessert. Remember to book ahead – this place is popular and fills up quickly.

Quick Facts

  • Where – G/F, 68 Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai
  • When – Monday to Sunday, noon - 3 p.m. and 6 - 10 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2234 0001 +852 2234 0001
  • Menu
  • Website

Burger Joys

Burger Joys is known for its gourmet burgers with creative twists. They're all about quality ingredients, unique flavors and paying attention to details. You'll want to keep coming back once you've tried this spot. They've got all kinds of burgers on their menu, from beef and chicken to fish and even vegan options. As for sides, they offer a selection of fries, wings, onion rings and drinks. This place is also rated among Asia's Top 5 burger joints.

Quick Facts

  • Where – Shop E, G/F, De Fenwick, 42-50 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai
  • When – Monday to Sunday, noon - 2 a.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2787 1288
  • Menu
  • Instagram

Pirata

Pirata embraces the heart of Italian cuisine, bringing its essence right to the city. Driven by a genuine love for good food and quality, this restaurant offers an excellent dining adventure. The pasta and risotto are a hit, and the menu evolves monthly, ensuring a diverse taste of Italian delights. Be sure not to miss out on the sweet finale – the panna cotta and tiramisu are the perfect endings to a delightful evening.

Quick Facts

  • Where – 30/F, 239 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai
  • When – Monday to Sunday, noon - 2:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. - midnight.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2887 0270
  • Menu
  • Website

22 Ships

If you're up for a laid-back night out with friends, 22 Ships might just hit the spot. It's a tapas bar that brings Spanish flavors to the table. Imagine savoring tasty meat skewers while sipping on their renowned cocktails. And if you're skipping the alcohol, go for their homemade sodas that are equally as refreshing. It's the ideal spot to unwind and hang out.

Quick Facts

  • Where – G/F, 22 Ship Street, Wan Chai
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 6 - 11 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2555 0722
  • Menu
  • Website

FRANCIS

At the heart of Wan Chai, you'll find FRANCIS, a local eatery inspired by Chef Asher Goldstein's fond memories of lively Tel Aviv streets brimming with delicious meze. Their menu boasts flavorful dishes like hummus, burnt eggplant, falafels and baby calamari. It's worth noting that this restaurant is vegan-friendly, offering a variety of meat-free options. So, if you or a friend have dietary restrictions, this is definitely a spot to keep on your shortlist.

Quick Facts

  • Where – G/F, 4-6 St. Francis Street, Wan Chai
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 3101 9521
  • Menu
  • Website