Hong Kong hotpot guide – 4 must-try restaurants in Central

When the weather gets chilly in Central, there's one thing that Hong Kongers love: hotpot.

Hong Kong hotpot guide – 4 must-try restaurants in Central
Source: Pexels/Markus Winkler

When the weather gets chilly, there's one thing that Hong Kongers love: hotpot. And let’s be real, in a neighborhood like Central, where the food scene is as diverse as its population, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to hotpot spots. From spicy Sichuan to traditional pork bone – we've got you covered if you aren't sure where to start. So, grab your chopsticks and read on for our top picks for the best hotpot in Central.

Yi Hung Yuen

Head down to Wyndham Street in Central and swing by Yi Hung Yuen for something a little different. This brothel-themed hotpot joint brings an array of creative originals to the menu (or "prostitution contract") like the Baked Cheese Lobster and Walled City Thick Satay to your table, paired with a variety of toppings such as Drunken Chicken, Deep-fried Spam or Spanish Iberico Pork. Feeling a bit peckish while waiting for your broth to boil? They’ve got you covered with a selection of bites while waiting, from the Cold and Spicy Jelly Fish to a sashimi selection or the Togarashi Fried Tofu. Plus, the whole place is decked out with camera-worthy elements, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends for a feast.

Quick facts

  • Where – Shop B-C, G/F & Shop 102-4, 1/F, Yu Yuet Lai Building, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 3 p.m. - midnight
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 3101 9968
  • Menu
  • Website

Uncle Fong Chongqing Hotpot

When the craving for fiery hotpot strikes, make a beeline for Uncle Fong Chongqing on Queen's Road. With nine branches scattered across Hong Kong, including their newest spot in Central, this beloved Chongqing hotpot chain is a must-visit for spice buffs. Their star of the show is the numbing spicy Jiugongge hotpot, guaranteed to set your taste buds ablaze. If you're a fan of all things spicy, be sure to try the Authentic Chongqing Spicy Broth or Carina’s Favorite for an extra kick. And for a tasty drink, consider their Gekkeikan Kanjuku or their Shang Yangtai Maotai-flavored (53% ABV) to add a boozy twist to your meal.

Quick facts

  • Where –  14/F, The L. Place, 139 Queen's Road Central, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 2338 1788
  • Menu

Hot Pot Land

Craving late-night Taiwanese-style Sichuan hotpot? Hot Pot Land in Central's the spot to hit up. They're open until 3 a.m. daily, so you can satisfy those midnight cravings. Choose from homemade soup bases like the Numbingly Spicy Soup with Ancestral Recipe, Healthy Vegetarian Soup or their signature Chicken and Pork Tripe Pot with Pepper. Can’t decide? Opt for the two-sided pot with two bases of your choice for an extra HK$30. Then, dive into their selection of pork, beef, seafood and fried bites like the Deep-Fried Bombay Duck with Garlic Salt.

Quick facts

  • Where – 3/F, Winning Centre, 46-48 Wyndham Street, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 5:30 p.m. - 3 a.m.
  • Price – $$$
  • Phone – +852 9363 8980
  • Menu 
  • Facebook

Big JJ Seafood Hotpot Restaurant

As one of the city's oldest hotpot joints, Big JJ Seafood Hotpot on Central’s Wo On Lane is a must-visit hotspot. Despite proudly labeling themselves as "Noisy, Rude, Overrated," don't let that fool you – they're a local favorite. Situated near the lively laneways of Lan Kwai Fong, this place is always buzzing with eager patrons craving their signature broths. Big JJ recommends their crowd-favorite Signature Pot with Pork Bone, Knuckle, and Clam, or for something with a kick, go for the Drunk Appetizers like Fried Lamb Ribs. But what steals the spotlight is their incredibly fresh, locally sourced Yellow Beef – it's so good that you'll need to book a day in advance to secure a portion.

Quick facts

  • Where –   G/F, 9 Wo On Lane, Central
  • When – Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 6 - 8:20 p.m., and 8:40 - 11 p.m.; Saturday, 6 - 8:20 p.m. and 8:40 - 11 p.m.; Closed on Sunday
  • Price – $$$ - $$$$
  • Phone – +852 2388 6982
  • Menu
  • Website