An Insider’s Guide to Central, Hong Kong

There’s a whole lot more to Hong Kong’s Central district than high rises and harbour views. Check out our guide to Central for its best hotspots – from artisan coffee houses to old-school cocktail bars – to keep you entertained!

Hong Kong’s most iconic district is famous for its staggering high rises, hectic streets and tourist highlights. Look beyond the bustle, however, and you’ll find a thriving scene of excellent eateries just waiting to be discovered. Tucked away in the teeming streets just moments from the Hive Central x CCG Commons and the Hive QRC are hotspots for every budget and taste. Here are our favourites!

Best Coffee Shops in Central

APT

APT Coffee (A Personal Tailor) focuses on the little details that create a unique coffee and food experience. Well-loved for their expansive customisable menu, APT invites visitors to tailor their experience to their preference, and explore the vast options available to them. And this does not stop at their popular custom-made toast items, but design your own coffee with APT by selecting its blend, intensity, milk, and foam to reach optimal satisfaction. Get creative with APT and explore your new favourite flavour combinations! The Hive members are welcome to a 15% off dine-in, 20% off takeaway, and 30% off drip bags discount at APT.

Insider Tip: APT has a separate breakfast available before 11:30am and lunch menu available after 11:30am so be sure to drop by both to sample their different offerings. For our gluten-free readers, there is an all-day salad tailoring menu available to order as well.

Address: Shop C, 34 Cochrane St, Central (click here for other locations)
Open From: 7:30am-6pm

@apt.coffeeco

Cupping Room

Conveniently situated on a busy street corner in the heart of Central, Cupping Room Coffee Roasters is an award-winning small batch specialty coffee roastery. The Hong Kong-born roaster’s Central location is unique for its on-site bakery, perfect for grabbing a snack with your coffee on the go or sitting in for a tasty midday treat. Carrying vibrant coffees roasted from freshly harvested beans, Cupping Room boasts transparent flavours that have great aroma, sweetness, and clean acidity. Each of their roasts has its own unique characteristics that highlight its strengths and “Brewed like a champ!”

Insider Tip: Cupping Room Central has an upstairs dine-in area that is a quiet oasis from the busy city. Sit in and order from their delectable brunch and pasta menu.

Address: G/F, 18 Cochrane St, Central (click here for other locations)
Open From: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat-Sun 9am-6pm

@cuppingroomhk

Amber Coffee Brewery

A stark contrast to the bustling Des Voeux Road waking up outside its doors, the small Amber Coffee Brewery is a calm and relaxing spot to kickstart your early morning adventures. Thanks to award-winning barista Dawn Chan, the coffee here has its own little twist with original and unique blends (pineapple, anyone?) and is served up alongside breakfast options perfectly suited to a morning on the go.

Insider Tip: Order the house black and you’ll get yours in a neat, sake-inspired flask.

Address: 142 Des Voeux Road, Central
Open From: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm; Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm

Fineprint

Tucked away through an inconspicuous doorway in Soho, Fineprint is the place to head for a high-end and hip coffee experience. Serving up artisanal coffee and a no-frills menu of breakfast favourites such as their much-loved avocado toast, its communal table is packed each morning with regulars who wouldn’t start their day without a pit stop here – you’ll even find some perching on the stoop. Check it out after work for an extensive wine menu, making it a great place for your more relaxed meetings as the day progresses.

Insider Tip: Happy hour runs from a generous 4-8 pm, Mondays to Saturdays.

Address: 38 Peel St, Central
Open From: Mon 6am-6pm; Wed 8am-10pm; Thu 8am-12am; Fri-Sat 6am-12am

@amber_coffeebrewery
@fineprint.hk

Best Restaurants in Central

Chaiwala

If you spot a bright red door on Wyndham Street, that’s your gateway to Hong Kong’s finest destination for modern Indian cuisine. With a menu that spans all over India, Chaiwala is a great spot for vegetarian and non-vegetarians. You do not want to miss out on the zesty pani-puri with jal-jeera and Old Delhi butter chicken during your visit there. What’s even better, the Hive members are welcomed to enjoy a 10% discount at all Pirata Group restaurants, Chaiwala included!

Insider Tip: Head over for their Lunch & Drunch menu where all day lunch is served with drinks on the house for 60 minutes!

Address: 55 Wyndham St, Central
Open From: 11am-6pm

@chaiwalahk

China Tang

The epitome of art deco elegance, this opulent, upscale Chinese restaurant is the ideal spot for financiers looking to impress. Conceived by legendary businessman Sir David Tang, the late founder of the China Club and Shanghai Tang, China Tang’s majestic décor just oozes glamour and luxury, instantly transporting you to 1920’s Shanghai. With signature dishes that range from the humble Char Siu (made from the belly underside of Kurobuta pork) to their famed Steamed Lobster Dumplings and Braised E-Fu Noodle with Langoustine, it’s clear that this is one restaurant that shows its weight both on its plates and on its walls.

Insider’s Tip: Their impressive wine cellar is notable for having received the ‘Best of Award of Excellence’ by Wine Spectator 2019.

Address: Shops 411-413 4/F Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Open From: 12pm-2:30pm, 6pm-10:30pm

Ciao Chow

If you fancy Italian food before your night out in Lan Kwai Fong, Ciao Chow is a sound choice. From its streetside location at the base of California Tower and in the heart of the action, this sleek Italian-style cafeteria serves up delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas and fuss-free pasta to a relaxed, happy crowd – plus, it’s got 25 craft beers on tap.

Insider Tip: Check it out at the weekends for its well-priced brunch, serving up all the classics.

Address: G/F, California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central
Open From: Sun-Thu 12pm-2am; Fri-Sat 12pm-4am

@ciaochow.hk

Ding Dim 1968

The winner of a Tripadvisor certificate of excellence for four years running, Ding Dim has made its mark as a traditional dim sum restaurant offering up simple and accessible fare. Coupling quality with reasonable prices, it’s an obvious and easy choice for anyone tempted by some Hong Kong dumplings – highlights being their classic Xiao Long Bao.

Insider Tip: The dishes here are often bigger than usual, so come hungry!

Address: 59 Wyndham Street, Central
Open From: Sun-Thu 11am-9:15 pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10:15pm

Ichu Peru

Bringing Peruvian flavours and plenty of South American party vibes to Hong Kong, Ichu Peru has become a firm, high-end favourite in the swanky foodie destination that is H Queen’s. From its earthy-meets-industrial space, this restaurant serves up a modern take on Peruvian cuisine – think sharing plates of delicious ceviche and mains such as banana leaf-wrapped sea bass and short ribs. Coupled with its extensive, speciality cocktail list and happening outdoor terrace where a DJ plays on well into the night, it’s a great spot for a glam night out.

Insider Tip: Take note of the Ichu Chilcanos, a signature cocktail which varies month by month according to seasonal fruits and different piscos.

Address: 3/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Open From: Mon-Thu 12-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm; Fri 12-2:30pm, 6-11pm; Sat 6-11pm; Sun 6-10:30pm

@ichu.hk

Kau Kee Restaurant

No trip to Hong Kong would be complete without savouring a steaming hot bowl of beef brisket noodles – and there’s nowhere that does it better than this legendary institution. Taking the top spot on many a foodie’s bucket list, Kau Kee has been serving up beef brisket for almost a century now, earning it a much-coveted spot on the Michelin-recommended ‘Bib Gourmand’ list for several years now. Boasting an impressive celebrity clientele to boot, popular orders here include the Beef Brisket with E-Fu Noodle in Broth and the Beef Tendon Noodles in Curry.

Insider’s Tip: This local, no-frills favourite is cash only and usually teeming with a constant stream of customers so be prepared to queue for your meal and share a table with other diners.

Address: G/F, 21 Gough Street, Central
Opening From: Mon-Sat 12:30pm-10.30pm

27 Kebab House

Kicking off with the basics, a visit to 27 Kebab House is a no-frills experience that punches well above its weight on taste. Located under Central’s escalators and a long-held local favourite, this hole-in-the-wall has been serving up classic kebabs to passing visitors, hungry workers and the late-night crowd for years. Casual, deeply satisfying and totally fuss-free, this is fast food that delivers.

Insider Tip: Stop by on your way home after a night out to keep the wolf from the door, and consider getting their chicken doner for a juicy meal.

Address: Shop D-E, G/F, 27 Hollywood Road, Soho, Central
Open From: 10am-6am

Mak’s Noodle

Known for serving up the best wonton noodles in town, Mak’s Noodle is a bonafide Hong Kong institution – and quite rightly so. A third-generation establishment that’s run by the descendant of Mak Woon-chi, Guangchou’s ‘King of Wonton Noodle’, the recipe is the same as that which was once served to the former president of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek. There are some that grumble over the size of the wontons, and others who regard the eatery as being on the pricey side (a meal for one is around HKD 40), but for us, there’s no better place to savour our favourite slippery noodles. After all, if it’s good enough for Chiang Kai-shek…

Insider’s Tip: Given the ‘small’ portions, some recommend ordering an additional bowl if you’re hungry.

Address: 77 Wellington St, Central
Open From: 11am-9pm

Mott 32

A contemporary, upscale Chinese restaurant that’s commonly regarded to be one of the city’s chicest (and best!) dining experiences, Mott 32 is – and I hate to say it – sexy. A self-described celebration of Hong Kong culture and culinary tradition, stepping into Mott 32 is a feast for all the senses. An intricate fusion of East-meets-West that features silk-embroidered walls, Shanghai-style brickwork, mirrored panelling, and even a room lined with Chinese calligraphy brushes, diners will be hard-pressed to find a more stylish dim sum dining experience.

Insider’s Tip: We recommend ordering their renowned Peking Duck, Barbecued Iberico Pork with Yellow Mountain Honey, and Shanghaiese Soup Dumplings. Oh, and don’t forget to request a table in the train car-like side room when booking.

Address: Standard Chartered Bank Building, 4-4A Des Vouex Road, Central
Open From: 12pm-2:30pm; 6pm-11pm

Mr Wolf

Offering up the best of British cuisine, Mr Wolf is an all-day dining concept from the Castelo group that offers a stylish escape from the hectic streets below at any time of day. Open daily from 7 am, head to Mr Wolf for a hearty breakfast, or check it out throughout the day for its British bistro classics, cocktails served up from its terrace and an extremely popular weekend brunch featuring an all-you-can-eat British roast.

Insider Tip: Happy hour happens here seven days a week from 3 – 9 pm, starting at HK$45.

Address: 5/F Crawford House, 70 Queen’s Road, Central
Open From: 7am-12am

New Punjab Club

Understated from the outside but teeming with character on the inside, a visit to the New Punjab Club is a truly memorable experience. Awarded a Michelin star in the 2019 guide (the first Punjabi restaurant to win the accolade), the Black Sheep group’s small hotspot has quickly consolidated itself as a definitive highlight in Hong Kong’s food scene. Taking inspiration from post-colonial India and Pakistan, everything from its botanical gin and tonics to its wonderfully atmospheric decor, truly delicious dishes and traditionally-dressed doorman oozes swagger and style.

Insider Tip: It’s all about the tandoor here – and the exceptional gin and tonics.

Address: World Wide Commercial Building, 34 Wyndham Street, Central
Open From: Mon-Tue 6-10:30pm; Wed 6-11:30pm; Thu 12-2:30pm, 6-11:30pm; Fri 12-2:30pm, 5-11:30pm; Sat 5-11:30pm; Sun 5-10:30pm

@mrwolfhk
@newpunjabclub

Tai Cheong Bakery

Walk down adjacent Lyndhurst Terrace and you can’t miss the daily queues to be found outside the Tai Cheong Bakery. Famous for their traditional egg tarts, this spot has been a firm part of Hong Kong culture since opening its doors in 1954, dishing out sweet treats to visitors and locals who all flock here for their afternoon fix – and an Insta-worthy shot, or two.

Insider Tip: Avoid going at peak hours to skip the long queue, although it moves fast.

Address: 35 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central
Open From: 8am-8:30pm

taoheung.com.hk

Tsim Chai Kee Noodle

Tsim Chai Kee Noodle has been around for over 20 years, making it a veritable Hong Kong institution. Inconspicuous from the outside, this tiny restaurant is frequented by locals and often only discovered by the more intrepid explorers. It’s well worth seeking out. Not only does this place serve up a slice of authentic local food culture, but its wontons are also truly delicious.

Insider Tip: Try the fish and beef ball noodles – a local favourite.

Address: 98 Wellington St, Central
Open From: 9am-10pm

Wingman

After bringing us our local favourite burger joint, Burger Joys, the boys are back with Wingman and their team of wing specialists. With 12 scrumptious flavours including cajun, lemon pepper and hoisin glazed with sesame, Wingman is definitely Hong Kong’s Lord of the Wings and the go-to spot for a zesty snack with saucy dips.

Insider Tip: Celebrate hump day at Wingman with HK$5 wings night!

Address: 6/F, Cheung Hing Commercial Building, 37 Cochrane St, Central
Open From: 12pm-11pm

@wingman852

Best Bars in Central

Behind Bars

For a truly original pre-dinner drinks spot, try Behind Bars, a cocktail bar located in amongst the old cells of the now-repurposed Tai Kwun Police Station. Setting itself apart from the saturation of drinking holes in the near vicinity thanks to its quirky location and sleek decor, this venture from dining empire the JIA Group serves up high-quality cocktails to guests sitting in booths housed in former cells and at a central communal table.

Insider Tip: Feeling peckish? You can order food in from other JIA locations such as the delectable Old Bailey restaurant next door.

Address: Shop 15, G/F, Barrack Block, 10 Hollywood Rd, Central
Open From: Mon-Thu 4pm-12am; Fri 3pm-2am; Sat 2pm-2am; Sun 2pm-11pm

@behindbars.hk

Bobby’s Rabble

Arguably one of the most welcoming bars in Central, Bobby’s Rabble prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere and anything-goes attitude. With two branches on offer, head to Wyndham Street for plenty of space, fun-loving crowds, a big selection of craft beers and live music events.

Insider Tip: Bobby’s Rabble offers a freeflow deal on Fridays at 6-8pm for HK$200.

Address: 46 Wyndham Street, Central
Open From: 5pm-2am

Draft Land HK

Originating from Taipei, Draft Land HK offers 40 unique cocktails on tap, over half of which are available daily. This popular destination is often overflowing with guests seeking a convenient, creative, and refreshing beverage. Staffed by friendly “Draftenders,” visitors are encouraged to taste Draft Land’s stock, until they find exactly what they were looking for. With so many options available, including nonalcoholic cocktails, as well as a tasty selection of fusion snacks, Draft Land is the destination for everyone.

Insider Tip: Draft Land’s cocktails feature an array of Hong Kong flavours- try the Guk Bo with pu erh and chrysanthemum or the Oolong Tea Collins with oolong and lime.

Address: 63 Wyndham St, Central
Open From: Fri-Sun 12pm-6pm

@draftlandhk

Perfume Trees Gin

Immerse yourself in Hong Kong botanicals and nostalgic flavours at Perfume Trees Gin, a Hong Kong-based craft gin’s flagship bar in Central Market, the city’s newest food, drink, and culture destination- a refurbished wet market. Explore old Hong Kong with craft gin cocktails such as the Herbalist Lo, Greengrocer Lin, Butcher Wing, Fruit Vendor Fei, and Fishmonger Shing. Savour in the homegrown gin brand’s homage to Hong Kong in a dining destination paying the same tribute. The Hive members are welcome to enjoy a 10% discount at all Central Market restaurants.

Insider Tip: Served in a traditional Chinese medicine bowl, the Herbalist Lo, made with Perfume Trees Gin, jasmine tea, white chamomile, elderflower, and CBD, is a healing cocktail and a must try!

Address: Shop G15A, G/F, Central Market, 80 Des Voeux Road Central and 93 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Open From: 11am-6pm

@tankyudistillery

Quinary

Molecular mixology bar Quinary creates a multisensory experience, combining flavour, aroma, texture, appearance, and even sound to challenge the traditional interpretation of the cocktail. Helmed by award-winning Antonio Lai, Quinary is ranked 50th in the World’s Best 50 Bars 2021, and 25th in Asia.

Insider Tip: Their signature Earl Grey Caviar Martini, made with orange liqueur, citrus vodka, elderflower syrup, topped with Earl Grey caviar “air”, made through the process of spherification, invites you to embark on an otherworldly experience.

Address: 56, 58 Hollywood Rd, Central
Open From: Fri-Sun 12pm-6pm

@quinaryhk

Whisky and Words

Calling all whisky aficionados, Whisky and Words is your next stop speakeasy for a ritzy evening out. Boasting an extensive list of more than 300 whiskies to choose from that come from all over the world, ranging from the 21-year old Japanese Suntory Hibiki (a classic!) all the way to the 17-year-old Scottish Highland Park, it’s time to up your game and sip like a pro.

Insider Tip: Staring from HK$60, you’ll never find a whisky bar offering happy hour this cheap.

Address: 7 Shin Hing Street, Central, Hong Kong
Open From: 5pm-1am

What To Do in Central

Central Market

With an 80-year long history, Central Market is the product of conservation and revitalisation efforts of the grade three historic wet market situated in the heart of the city. An easily recognisable landmark to anyone in the city, Central Market has now been transformed into a “Playground for All” with exhibition, performance, retail, F&B, recreational, green, and community spaces. Hong Kong’s newest hotspot, immerse yourself in the city’s rich history in a celebration of old and new. The Hive members are welcome to enjoy a 10% discount at all Central Market restaurants.

Insider Tip: Central Market has interactive exhibits spotted throughout the location, not only a retail or F&B destination, get to know Hong Kong culture and history during your visit.

Address: 93 Queen’s Road Central, Central

Open From: 10am-10pm

@centralmarkethk

Central Mid-Level Escalators

Situated on an overpass spanning the Hong Kong hillside the length of Jubilee Street, the Central Mid-Level Escalators are more than just a mode of transport. Providing an elevated view of the chaos below, as well as a break from all that pavement pounding, they’re the beating heart of this district and a great place to get your bearings from.

Insider Tip: Keep your camera at the ready… you never know what you’re going to pass by.

Address: Jubilee Street, Central
Open From: 10:15am-12am

PMQ

Once the city’s Police Married Quarters, PMQ is a cultural and shopping destination packed with small, boutiquey finds and creative spots perfect for finding small gifts, trinkets and mementoes. While you’re here, 794729 Metalwork is worth a visit, producing lovely and individualised silver, copper and gold accessories, while Chailie Ho, Loom Loop, and Sake Central are other interesting boutiques. And, if all that retail therapy makes you peckish, head to Sohofama, an offshoot of Locofama, for some healthy dumplings or Jason Atherton’s Aberdeen Street Social for a cocktail and bites.

Insider Tip: There’s a lot to explore here, so consider taking a break at the Loupe Teahouse where they serve some delectable craft deserts and teas.

Address: 35 Aberdeen Street, Central
Open From: 7am-11pm

Tai Kwun Police Station

Hong Kong’s latest dining and cultural hotspot, Tai Kwun on Hollywood Road reopened in May 2018 after over a decade of refurbishment. Once the city’s Central Police Station, incorporating parade ground, prison cells, offices and more, this network of stunning heritage buildings has now been restored to create a hub packed with excellent food and drinking spots, great shops and cultural exhibits. Start off your visit in the central courtyard with a cappuccino at Cafe Claudel to get your bearings before checking out the exhibitions tucked away in the complex’s corridors, exploring each floor to discover great shops and excellent dining that ranges from the fast to the fancy.

Insider Tip: Looking for a great spot for alfresco evening drinks? Tai Kwun is awash with options. Our favourite is Ashley Sutton’s Dragonfly with its utterly captivating and otherworldly green decor.

Address: 10 Hollywood Road, Central
Open From: 10am-11pm