The top coffee shops in Hong Kong – where to go for a caffeine boost

Whether you're a devoted bean water enthusiast or simply looking to kickstart your day, Hong Kong's coffee scene has something brewing for you.

The top coffee shops in Hong Kong – where to go for a caffeine boost
Source: Pexels/Viktoria Alipatova

Hong Kong's vibrant cafe culture offers a caffeinated adventure like no other.  In this bustling urban metropolis, where time is a precious commodity, coffee helps Hong Kongers keep it moving. Whether you're a devoted bean water enthusiast or simply looking to kickstart your day, Hong Kong's coffee scene has something brewing for you. From the aromatic streets of Sheung Wan to the glittering skyscrapers of Central, the city's coffee culture has seen a remarkable transformation over the years. So, we've rounded up the top coffee shops around to grab your next cuppa.

Fineprint (Central branch)

Fineprint, an Australian-style cafe, has made its mark by focusing on simplicity and excellence. The cafe's journey began in 2016, born from the collaboration of two strangers turned friends, Scottie Callaghan and James Wilson. From sourcing and roasting its own coffee to freshly baking sourdough and homemade food daily, Fineprint strives to provide an exceptional experience. This cafe offers a haven of tranquility away from the bustling crowds, but it also has vibrant spaces for those looking to enjoy their time with friends and colleagues. Their Flat White is a must-try, known for its perfect balance of milk and coffee. Besides coffee and baked goods, they offer a selection of artisanal products like jams and wines.

Quick facts

  • Where – 38 Peel Street, SoHo, Central 
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. 
  • Price – $$ - $$$ 
  • Phone – +852 5503 6880
  • Menu
  • Website

HypeBeans

Hypebeans is a thriving community where like-minded individuals come together to celebrate culture, craftsmanship and aesthetics. Located within the Landmark Atrium, this unique space focuses on quality over quantity. It's a place where friendships are nurtured, inspired by the close bond between Kevin Ma and world-renowned barista Hiroshi Sawada. Initially connected through their passion for fashion and culinary arts, they created Hypebeans as a space for creative collaborations and community-building in the heart of the city. The menu is a blend of contemporary creations with a nostalgic touch, inspired by Hong Kong-style cafés and crafted with coffee beans roasted by Japanese artisans. Some signature drinks include the Spiced Espresso Yuenyeung, Ovaltine Espresso, Matcha Latte and the HYPEBEANS Cold Brew.

Quick facts

  • Where – B1/F, Shop B30, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central 
  • When – Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. 
  • Price – $$ - $$$ 
  • Phone – +852 2500 0555
  • Menu
  • Website

Knockbox Coffee Company

Knockbox, the charming coffee haven on Stanley Street in Central, offers a menu that caters to both your caffeine cravings and your taste buds. While their signature coffee creations are a definite highlight, they also serve up delectable paninis, like the roast beef, with fresh and flavorful toppings. Beyond the usual coffee fare, Knockbox's mocha stands out as a rich, chocolatey delight with a robust espresso kick. Besides excellent coffee, Knockbox also offers an all-day breakfast menu, which includes options like avocado toast, beans on toast and various pasta dishes. They've managed to craft a menu that strikes a balance between traditional and modern styles, making it an ideal spot for coffee aficionados and food lovers alike.

Quick facts

  • Where – G/F, Shop B, World Trust Tower, 50 Stanley Street, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Price – $$ - $$$ 
  • Phone – +852 2781 1255
  • Menu
  • Website

elixir

Elixir's journey began in Causeway Bay, but it found its current home in Sheung Wan in June 2019, steady on its mission to heal the modern soul through the power of coffee. The café offers a sleek, minimalist space that's a haven for Instagram enthusiasts, with its cool granite tones, glass doors and elegant pale wood accents. Elixir doesn't just serve coffee; they also have an array of teas, fresh juices and chocolate treats. For those steering away from coffee, the homemade Earl Grey Tonic stands out as a refreshing option. Their collection of single-origin coffees from farms around the world is a treat for coffee aficionados looking for unique flavors from nutty and sweet to citrusy. Elixir also caters to non-dairy milk lovers, offering almond, soy and macadamia milk by Milklab. Their in-house pastries, especially the scones, have also built up a loyal following.

Quick facts

  • Where – G/F, 9 Mee Lun Street, Central
  • When – Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Price – $$ - $$$ 
  • Phone – +852 6083 0915
  • Menu
  • Website

NINETYs (Central Branch)

NINETYs, located on Shelley Street in SoHo, Central, is a beacon of multicultural craftsmanship that has garnered prestigious MasterChef Recommendations in Asia for three consecutive years from 2019 to 2021. The team behind NINETYs includes sensory judges from international barista competitions and acclaimed latte artists from the US. As a leading specialty coffee brand, NINETYs' fruity blend achieved an exceptional rating of 95 points in Australia from COFFEE REVIEW in 2021, and their Choco blend earned an impressive 93 points. NINETYs Roastery's Fruity Espresso Blend is a medium-light roast made from coffees sourced from Panama, Ethiopia and Kenya, resulting in a richly complex espresso with delightful fruit notes, deep chocolate and aromatic wood undertones. It's a sensory journey worth savoring.

Quick facts

  • Where – 2-4 Shelley Street, SoHo, Central
  • When – Sunday to Wednesday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Thursday to Saturday, 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  • Price – $$ - $$$ 
  • Phone – +852 2701 0883
  • Menu
  • Website

Hazel & Hershey Coffee Roasters

Hazel & Hershey is a standout coffee shop in Hong Kong, known for its dedication to the art of coffee making. Located on Peel Street in SoHo, Central, this coffee haven offers a wide range of coffee-related products and services, from thoughtfully sourced beans to professional barista training. With a focus on quality beans and meticulous roasting, Hazel & Hershey delivers a coffee experience that's second to none. Their offerings, including the smooth latte and aromatic Nitro coffee, make it a must-visit spot for coffee lovers in Hong Kong. Don't miss their salted caramel muffin for an extra treat!

Quick facts

  • Where – Shop 3, 69 Peel Street, SoHo, Central 
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Price – $$ - $$$ 
  • Phone – +852 9628 2468
  • Menu
  • Website

Milligram Coffee

Tucked away in the hidden alleys of Central, Milligram Coffee offers a serene oasis inspired by traditional Japanese-style gardens. The intimate space features a dark wooden interior and décor influenced by the Taishō period, complemented by lush potted plants and pebble-filled beds, creating an atmosphere of calm and tranquility. While Milligram Coffee offers an array of different beverages, including espresso-based classics and trendy options like espresso tonic and matcha latte, their food selection is limited, featuring items like miso carbonara and all-day breakfast. It's a perfect spot for coffee lovers and those seeking a quiet place to relax within the bustling city

Quick facts

  • Where – G/F, Shop A, Wing Fai Building, 174-178 Wellington Street, Central
  • When – Monday to Sunday, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Price – $$ - $$$ 
  • Phone – +852 9357 8226
  • Menu
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