Where to find the best cafes in Central, Hong Kong

Grab your laptop or camera, snag a seat by the window, and get ready to sip on a seriously good cuppa in Central.

Where to find the best cafes in Central, Hong Kong
Source: Pexels/Helena Lopes

If you're on the hunt for the perfect cup of joe in Hong Kong's bustling Central district, you're in luck. Coffee culture in this neighborhood is serious business, and there's no shortage of cozy cafes to fuel your caffeine cravings. Whether you're in need of a morning pick-me-up with an Instagrammable backdrop to settle in or a cozy spot for a productive work session, Central has you covered with these seven cafes. So grab your laptop or camera, snag a seat by the window, and get ready to sip on a seriously good cuppa while soaking in the vibrant bustle of the city.

Melrose Coffee

Melrose Coffee is like a slice of sunny California right in the midst of Central's hustle and bustle. With its breezy, beach-inspired vibe and pops of vibrant coral, it's hard not to feel instantly transported to the West Coast. Treat yourself to a cup of specialty coffee sourced all the way from Honduras, paired perfectly with vegan pastries from Ovule Bakery or signatures like Spinach Bacon Frittata and Royal Potato Rosti. At Melrose Coffee, whether you're a laid-back Angeleno missing home or a curious Hong Konger in search of a taste of LA, you're sure to find yourself soaking up the sun-kissed spirit of the Golden State.

Quick facts

  • Where – G/F, 46 Elgin Street, Central
  • When – Monday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Wednesday to Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Closed on Tuesday
  • Price – $$ - $$$
  • Menu

Ralph’s Coffee

Check out Ralph's Coffee on Central’s Chater Road, where the iconic American fashion house Ralph Lauren has brought its signature style to the cafe scene. With locations in Harbour City and Landmark Prince's, stepping inside feels like you're part of a Ralph Lauren photo shoot, thanks to the art deco vibes. Sip on their custom coffee blends roasted in-house, from classics like flat whites and lattes or classy cuppas like espresso tonics and enjoy artisanal chocolate bars from Brooklyn-based chocolatier Fine & Raw. And while you're there, don't forget to check out their collection of Polo apparel and accessories, including hats, tees and totes.

Quick facts

  • Where –  Shop M12-16, M/F, Prince's Building, 10 Chater Road, Central
  • When – Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Price – $$
  • Phone – +852 2325 4473
  • Menu
  • Website

Solebrew

Looking for a chill spot that combines sneaker culture with cafe-bar vibes? Look no further than Solebrew. Founded by Lokman Yeung, the brains behind Mirror, this place is more than just a hangout for sneakerheads – it's a haven for anyone who loves cool kicks and good coffee. During the day, kick back and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while sipping on specialty coffees and munching on delicious Lotus Biscoff Bagels. But as night falls, Solebrew transforms into a relaxed bar, serving up signature cocktails like the whisky-infused "Solebrew" coffee and the unique "Blue Soul." Oh, and don't forget to take a peek at their "Shoe Wall" – it's got over 100 unique sneakers, including classic Air Jordans and rare Louis Vuitton collabs.

Quick facts

  • Where – G/F & B/F, 23 Staunton Street, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 7:30 - 2 a.m.
  • Price – $$ - $$$
  • Menu 
  • Facebook

Kahu

For a chill spot where you can hang out with your furry friend, check out Central’s Kahu, which is all about creating a laid-back vibe for both humans and pets. The name Kahu, meaning equality and coexistence in Hawaiian, says it all – it's a place where everyone is welcome, whether you've got a pup in tow or not. Step inside and you'll be greeted by a cool mix of greenery and modern decor that sets the scene. And when it comes to grub, they've got a tasty selection, from hearty options like Tuna Melt Focaccia and Pistachio Mortadella Focaccia to sweet treats like Japanese Cheesecake.

Quick facts

  • Where – 17 Wa In Fong East, Central
  • When – Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Price – $$ - $$$

On The Hill Coffee Bar

Looking for a quirky coffee spot with a touch of history? On The Hill is nestled within Tai Kwun's E Hall, once part of the former Victoria Prison. And this cafe operates right out of a former jail cell. While it may take some searching to find, the novelty is worth it. Enjoy standard coffee offerings alongside their signature Thai Dirty – a sweet blend of espresso, milk and condensed milk. You're free to grab a seat nearby or wander around the cell block, soaking in the unique atmosphere and admiring the architecture.

Quick facts

  • Where –  G/F, Hall E, Block 1, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
  • Price – $$ 
  • Phone – +852 9841 4827
  • Menu
  • Instagram

Pâtisserie Millefeuille

Craving a touch of Parisian elegance right in the heart of SoHo? Pâtisserie Millefeuille is your ticket to a sweet escape to France without leaving Hong Kong. Led by pastry virtuoso Chef Lionel Bodros, this charming spot serves up an array of French treats, like their signature Millefeuilles, each a masterpiece of seasonal flavors like Vanilla Caramel and Pistachio Raspberry. Or enjoy other handcrafted specialties like their Strawberry Dacquoise or Le Mont Blanc. Plus, you can relax in their dog-friendly outdoor seating area if you've brought your pooch along.

Quick facts

  • Where –  16 Staunton Street, Central
  • When – Tuesday to Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Price – $$ 
  • Phone – +852 9317 1023
  • Menu
  • Website

Bacha Coffee

Legendary Moroccan brand Bacha Coffee has landed in Hong Kong, bringing over a century of coffee expertise to Central on Finance Street. At their IFC Mall flagship boutique, there are over 200 single-origin Arabica coffee varieties to choose from, all sourced from 35 different corners of the globe. You'll feel whisked away to Marrakech with every sip, thanks to their intricate Moroccan-inspired decor, gifts and tableware. And let's not forget about their mouth-watering pastries, like Pistachio Croissants, Kougiofs and their signature 1910 Coffee and Chocolate Croissants.

Quick facts

  • Where –  Shop 1063, 1/F, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  • Price – $$ 
  • Phone – +852 2301 1910
  • Menu
  • Website