Gone are the days when Wong Chuk Hang in Hong Kong was sidelined for being a mundane industrial area. Now, it’s a buzzing neighbourhood filled with galleries, hidden eateries and cafes, and boutiques. Its proximity to Ocean Park and Aberdeen also makes it a viable pit stop for a trip. With the opening of the MTR and The Southside, there’s really no excuse why anyone would pass on the chance to explore this cool neighbourhood. Read our guide to Wong Chuk Hang in Hong Kong on where to eat, drink, shop and the best things to do.
Wong Chuk Hang in Hong Kong’s Southside was once a booming industrial hub. At its peak, it had over 1,190 factories. While visitors can still see remnants of its former glory, the neighbourhood has also undergone quite a transformation. The gentrification of the area might not be so bad because it gave way to cool galleries, hip restaurants, and stunning hotels. The result? An area once forgotten is now an up-and-coming neighbourhood for daytrippers.
There’s also something brewing in Wong Chuk Hang with new developments coming in fast. The Southside is one and we anticipate it is just one of the many. So, the next time you’re looking to explore the neighbourhood, our Wong Chuk Hang guide will come in handy. Find out the best spots to eat, drink, shop and the things to do in Wong Chuk Hang.
Your ultimate guide to exploring Wong Chuk Hang: The top-rated restaurants, cafes, and bars
Where to eat in Wong Chuk Hang Hong Kong?
Your culinary journey at Wong Chuk Hang should start at Nam Long Shan Road Cooked Food Market. After all, it’s one of the first things you’ll see once you exit the MTR station. The rundown two-storey cooked food centre is more than meets the eye. Despite its appearance, it’s super popular for its affordable food options from dai pai dongs to Thai favourites like the famous Green Curry House. Also, a must is the Aberdeen Fish Market which supplies the majority of the city’s seafood. So, if you’re on the lookout for jet-fresh, high-quality yet wallet-friendly seafood, the Yee Hope Seafood Restaurant is the place to be. Everything’s here, from crab, squid, fish, clams, and more, all available in Cantonese-style dishes.
Wong Chuk Hang is also home to plenty of hotels and you know what that means? More restaurants. For buffets, we absolutely love I-O-N at Nina Hotel Island South. The neighbourhood space also has an amazing noodle bar. Meanwhile, at The Fullerton Hotel Ocean Park Hong Kong, there’s Jade. Originally from the Singapore outpost, this restaurant brings authentic Cantonese fare to Hong Kong complete with a panoramic view where the mountain meets the sea. There’s also Lighthouse Lounge for afternoon tea, light bites, and lunch options.
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Over at boutique hotel The Arca, head over to Arca Society to enjoy all-day Asian and western dining. On the line of western delights, we recommend Flat Iron Deluxe at Southside by Ovolo. The all-day dining concept has a value-driven menu of comfort food which, of course, includes steak as well as the signature Flat Iron Steak. The opening of The Southside is also a treat for residents and Wong Chuk Hang dwellers, expanding their food options. Be spoiled for choice here from delicious steaks at Chef’s Cut to comforting meals at Brass Spoon, and flavourful dishes at Bamboo Thai. Check out our top food recommendations at The Southside here.
Make your way to One Island South for more gastronomic delights. An old but gold option is Beef & Liberty, known for its gourmet burgers with patties made from grass-fed beef. You can’t really go wrong with Japanese food in Hong Kong and when you’re in the neighbourhood, Ichijuissai is our go-to pick. You’ll also find some dining spots at Landmark South, a posh office building in Wong Chuk Hang. There’s Kikusan for Japanese food and Teapsy @ The Spin for Chinese fusion food.
Office workers swear by BIT Canteen, which has a good selection of local and western food. It’s not bad if you need a quick bite. For those who want a real sit-down meal though, Pomegranate Kitchen is the place to be. We love chef Maria Bizri’s mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes with the space even having a large outdoor terrace. Last but not least, a trip to Wong Chuk Hang is not complete without a meal (or drink) at Africa Tea & Coffee. Relish the flavours of traditional African dishes on top of Africa-sourced coffee, tea, and beer.
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Where to drink in Wong Chuk Hang Hong Kong?
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You’re in luck because some of the biggest names in the local beer industry are in Wong Chuk Hang. Young Master Brewery is one of the city’s most popular breweries, offering a range of options from IPAs to pilsners, and even creative collaborations. On the other hand, Black Kite Brewery has more artisanal offerings like porters and ales. But any boozehound will love their eyebrow-raising flavours—if you’re up for the challenge. Besides the chance to drink, both breweries also host occasional tours to get more insight into the art of craft beer making.
Other drinking dens in the neighbourhood include Insanity and Prohibition Grill-house & Cocktail Bar. These two also have amazing food so even if you don’t want to drink, you can just sit back and eat instead. For al fresco drinking, head over to Above by Komune which also offers a nice view of the surrounding skyline.
When it comes to a different type of drinking, minus the alcohol, Wong Chuk Hang also has plenty of cafes and coffee shops. Matcha lovers can have their fill at Nana’s Green Tea while cult-brand NOC Coffee Co. also has a presence in the neighbourhood. Sensory Zero is a tried-and-tested name when it comes to artisanal coffees.
The best places to shop at Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong
Where to shop in the area?
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Wong Chuk Hang is not exactly a shopping destination but those who still want to shop in the area have a few options. The Southside, the hood’s lone shopping mall and the largest in the southern district has plenty to offer. Whether it’s daily essentials or outlets to freshen your wardrobe, this is the place to be.
Otherwise, boutique stores and independent brands take advantage of Wong Chuk Hang’s industrial buildings to create showrooms and hidden shops. When it comes to sustainable fashion, there’s Retykle. While they cater more for babies and children, you can still shop designer items for the little ones at an affordable price.
Being on the Southside, numerous shops are for outdoor enthusiasts. Float Captain brings the surf culture to the city with surfboards available on top of coastal-inspired apparel. Another option is APA Outdoor Shop which equips you with kayaks, camping gear, trekking equipment, and more. Those looking to cycle around the area can head over to Modern Classic Bicycle Company and look through their vintage and modern bikes. They also sell accessories and offer repairs on top of maintenance service.
Things to do and best places to visit in Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong
What to do in the neighbourhood?
Several galleries have tapped into Wong Chuk Hang’s reputation as an industrial hub brimming with factories and warehouses to give their spaces a creative spin. Over the years, galleries and art spaces have increased in presence, making it an ideal spot for gallery hopping. First on the list is de Sarthe Gallery which exhibits the works of local and international artists including Zao Wu-ki and Auguste Rodin.
Then, there’s Blindspot Gallery, which is one of the first galleries in the city to focus on showing photography and moving images. Meanwhile, its neighbour, Rossi & Rossi, specialises in classical and Asian art. Ben Brown Fine Arts exhibits modern and contemporary art, with a focus on German photography and Italian painting. Newer galleries to visit include Current Plans, an experimental art space dedicated to curation and production of contemporary art projects. They also regularly have creative workshops. Similarly, Podium showcases the works of up-and-coming local and overseas artists.
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For those into wellness and sports, there’s also something for you at Wong Chuk Hang. Red Doors Studio has a range of wellness experiences available from yoga to gong baths. Or you can enjoy a session at Flex Studio which has classes for yoga and Pilates among others. Thrill seekers can also try out indoor wall climbing at Attic V Climbing Gym. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the numerous hiking routes that pass through Wong Chuk Hang.
Channel your creative side at Artjamming which has an “unlimited paint buffet” available as a great bonding activity. Otherwise, Lump Studio is also a great alternative for those who want to get their hands dirty a bit more. Make your own bowl, plate, or cup at the pottery studio. Finally, enjoy a relaxing staycation at one of Wong Chuk Hang’s hotels. The Fullerton is just a stone’s throw away from Ocean Park while The Arca and Ovolo Southside are closer to the MTR. There’s also Nina Hotel Island South and Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel to choose from.
Remember to bookmark this Wong Chuk Hang guide to help with your planning.
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All images credit: Alison Pang/Unsplash
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong
