Wan Chai Guide: Restaurants, Bars, Cafes & More

Wan Chai district never gets old. Scroll through for our favourite Wan Chai restaurants, cafés, bars and shops.

Best known for its vibrant nightlife, Wan Chai has evolved to become an eclectic melting pot of stylish boutiques, diverse eateries, hip cafés, local markets and more. We’ve thoroughly explored the area (though there’s aways more to discover!) and collected recommendations from friends living in the area, like local influencer and Wan Chai veteran Cecilia Ngan, to bring you the best hidden gems in the area! Scroll through for where to eat, drink and shop in Wan Chai.

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Wan Chai Restaurants
Wan Chai Bars & Cafes
Wan Chai Shops
What To Do In Wan Chai

Read More: Your Neighbourhood Guide To Causeway Bay

Wan Chai Restaurants

Sophia Loren House

Wan Chai’s four-storey heritage building Woo Cheong Pawn House has been taken over by the first international outpost of legendary Italian actress Sophia Loren’s burgeoning restaurant empire. The themed restaurant comprises four dining concepts: a street-level Neapolitan pizzeria, an Italian seafood restaurant on the first floor, a retro 1970s-themed dance floor on the third floor, and a cocktail bar on the rooftop.

Sophia Loren House, Woo Cheong Pawn House, 62 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3594 6199, www.sophialorenhouse.com

Read More: The Best Italian Restaurants In Hong Kong

Bakehouse

Occupying a stretch of Tai Wong East Street, join the queue to pick up everything from freshly baked sourdough to buttery croissants, quiches and cookies, or ask for a table to start your day with a cosy breakfast or brunch.

Bakehouse, 14 Tai Wong Street East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.bakehouse.hk

Read More: The Best Bakeries In Hong Kong

Banh Mi Niem

Fancy a bite of banh mi? This fairly new takeaway shop imports its cold cuts, marinated pork skewers, pork floss and pâté from Vietnam daily to stuff into fresh crusty baguettes. With Vietnam-native Kiki Phung running the store, head here to pick up some authentic banh mi as well as cold vermicelli bowls and Vietnamese-style coffee.

Banh Mi Niem, 247-249 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 9899 1247, www.instagram.com/banhminem.hk

Read More: The Best Vietnamese Restaurants In Hong Kong

Holy Gaw

Featuring fresh, filling and flavourful Philippine-inspired fusion food, Holy Gaw is a rare (and slightly hard-to-find) gem located on busy Swatow Street. With satisfying portions and surprising bursts of flavours, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is what to order next. To round off your meal, make sure you end with a homemade ube ice cream sandwich.

Holy Gaw, Shop 4, G/F, 15 Swatow Street, Wan Chai,  2782 3988, www.facebook.com/HolyGaw

Read More: 10 Must-Try Filipino Dishes In Hong Kong

Bàrbar

At this convivial Spanish wine and tapas bar on Star Street, you’ll find an extensive selection of Spanish wines available by the glass, alongside a contemporary, ingredient-driven tapas menu created under the direction of Pica Pica’s Chef Edgard Sanuy Barahona.

BÀRBAR, Shop A, G/F, Pinnacle Building, 9 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2810 0008, barbar.hk

Ichitora Ramen

We’re big fans of this ramen joint’s black garlic-infused tonkatsu broth but the menu also offers a fiery spicy soup for those who like it hot! Customisation is the order of the day here, as you can choose everything from your noodle thickness and texture to how much oil is added and which toppings you desire.

Ichitora Ramen, 23 Amoy Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2808 0635, www.facebook.com/IchiTora.Ramen.at.Wanchai

Cheung Fun Wong

You’re sure to find a small crowd of people outside this neighbourhood snack shop, with its dirt cheap prices and cheung fun platters that always hit the spot. Add on a portion of siu mai or curry fishballs for extra fuel before you continue exploring the area.

Cheung Fun Wong, Shop D, G/F, 177-179 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong (closed Sundays)

jean may

Tucked behind the market stalls of Gresson Street, this quaint French bistro delights with home-style comfort eats crafted by Michelin-trained chef Tiff Lo. The modest menu includes classic staples like Duck à l’Orange, Steak Tartare, Chicken Liver Parfait and more.

jean may, Shop A, 14 Gresson Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 3590 6033, www.facebook.com/jeanmayhk

22 Ships

Whether you fancy a front-row seat to the chefs cooking up a storm in the open kitchen, or simply want to sip on sangria and people watch, it’s easy to while away lunch or dinner at this trendy tapas restaurant. We recommend the Black Octopus Paella and Roasted Suckling Pig.

22 Ships, 22 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2555 0722, www.22ships.hk

HANU

This humble-looking spot specialises in the highest grade 1++ Korean beef (equivalent to A5 grade Wagyu beef), with mouth-watering steak sets starting from $298. Order the Premium K-Steak Set to savour two different top-grade cuts, alongside soup and unlimited banchan and rice. In addition to beef, HANU also offers a Korean pork belly set for samgyeopsal fans.

HANU, Shop 1 & 2, G/F, The Oakhill, 16 & 18 Wood Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 5599 8133, www.instagram.com/hanuhongkong

Read More: The Best Steakhouses In Hong Kong

WAKARAN

A recent addition to Wan Chai’s Ship Street, WAKARAN promises an experience like no other! This modern eatery combines global cuisines in a cross-cultural mashup, featuring an open kitchen that adds a touch of theatre and AI-generated abstract art gracing the walls. Led by seasoned Chef Tommy Tsui, WAKARAN serves up inventive mains, plus don’t miss the Ginger Rice Dumpling Bomb for dessert.

WAKARAN, Shop B, G/F, Pinnacle Building, 9 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2866 3681, www.instagram.com/wakaranhk

Morty’s

If you’re wanting to indulge, Morty’s is where to head. The New York-style deli serves up the goods when it comes to sandwiches, burgers and more. Exclusive to the Star Street branch is the whopping 1kg Reuben Challenge ($588), available every Monday. Finish this monster sarnie in half an hour and the meal is on the house!

Morty’s, 8-10 Wing Fung Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3665 0890, www.mortys.hk

Read More: Where To Find The Best Sandwiches In Hong Kong

Samsen Wan Chai

Serving authentic Thai noodles, alongside an array of Thai street food classics, this Michelin-recommended pick is not to be missed. The draw of the Wan Chai branch are the boat noodles but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Be prepared to wait in line (and a long one at that), as there’s a no-reservations policy.

Samsen, 68 Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2234 0001, www.samsen-hk.com

Read More: The Best Michelin-Recommended Cheap Eats In Hong Kong

Qi – House of Sichuan

If you’re looking for authentic dishes that satisfy the “seven flavours of Sichuan”, make sure to check out Qi – House of Sichuan. Its reasonable prices make this restaurant a great pick for dinner with a group of friends.

Qi – House of Sichuan, Shop 12, 2/F, J Senses, 60 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2527 7117, www.qi-sichuan.hk

Read More: The Best Restaurants To Book For A Crowd

Le Garçon Saigon

Le Garçon Saigon incorporates vibrant and fresh flavours of Saigonese cuisine in a cool and sophisticated Parisian-style brasserie! The perfect post-work watering hole, head here to enjoy a selection of wines and cocktails alongside some tasty Vietnamese dishes.

Sassy Tip: After a quick bite to eat? Check out next-door neighbour, and younger sibling, Le Petit Saigon, which serves up a mean banh mi.

Le Garcon Saigon, 12 Wing Fung Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2455 2499, www.legarconsaigon.com

The Optimist

The Optimist offers its patrons an authentic and unique Northern Spanish experience, with interiors that were designed to make you feel like you’re in a lively bar in Barcelona. Its weekend boozy brunch menu is a favourite in the city. Plus, did we mention this pick has a full gin menu? Consider us sold.

The Optimist, G/F, 239 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2433 3324, theoptimist.hk

Read More: The Best Brunch Spots In Hong Kong

The Spice House Restaurant

Situated on Wan Chai’s popular Amoy Street, this lively joint provides inexpensive and authentic Thai food. The menu offers a comprehensive array of dishes, including a few less-seen options; a perfect spot for a casual bite.

The Spice House, 35 Amoy Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2804 2522

Read More: The Best Thai Restaurants In Hong Kong

Rosita

The brainchild of veteran chef-founders Ricardo Chaneton (MONO) and Agustin Ferrando Balbi (Ando), Rosita offers a fresh take on New Latin American cuisine, alongside a stellar South American-focused wine list.

Rosita, 1-7 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9726 4188, www.rosita.hk

Wan Chai Bars & Cafes

The Wanch

Live music lovers head here to check out all the latest talent. It’s been Hong Kong’s home of live music for 30 years, and is considered by many to be somewhat of an institution. Best of all, we can experience original live music without having to pay a cover charge — that means an extra guilt-free round of drinks, right?

The Wanch, 1/F, Henan Building, 90 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3692 5933, www.thewanch.hk

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Carnegie’s

Carnegie’s is a beloved watering hole for many of the sports teams in Hong Kong. Another popular spot for live music — regularly hosting jam nights, live bands and open jazz sessions — it’s not uncommon for nights here to end with some dancing on the bar.

Carnegie’s, 53-55 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2866 6289, www.carnegies.com.hk

Read More: 10 Best Sports Bars In Hong Kong

Joint

Tucked away down the Morrison Hill end of Wan Chai, this small cafe is a great stop for a quality cup of coffee. Because it’s a little further away from the action, there will usually be space on one of their benches for you to relax with a book and enjoy your drink.

Joint, G/F, 8 Wood Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/jointhongkong

Read More: The Best New Cafes In Hong Kong – Wifi, Study Spots & Hidden Gems

Mizunara: The Library

If you’re looking for somewhere a little fancier to sit and drink, seek out this hidden Japanese whisky and cocktail bar. Expect no less than an extensive library of 700 odd labels, penguin-suited bartenders and a zen garden out back.

Mizunara: The Library, 4/F, Kiu Yin Commercial Building, 361-363 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3571 9797, www.mizunarathelibrary.com

Read More: The Best Whisky Bars In Hong Kong

LQV Wan Chai – Le Bar & La Cav

We love a good wine bar, and this cosy brasserie-esque Le Quinze Vins post is a favourite of ours. The bar offers an extensive selection of French wines, as well as cheese platters and cold cuts. If you’re looking for a heartier pairing, you can order a plate of steak frites to go with your glass of choice.

LQV Wan Chai – Le Bar & La Cav, 9 Swatow Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 

Read More: The Best Cheese Shops In Hong Kong

Tai Lung Fung Bar

A true Wan Chai hidden gem tucked away just off Queen’s Road East, this quirky bar harks back to Hong Kong’s past with its huge neon sign and nostalgic interior detailing. The prices are reasonable and there’s always a fun crowd with a common goal — to enjoy a drink after a long working day.

Tai Lung Fung Bar, The Archive, 5-9 Hing Wan Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2572 0055, www.instagram.com/tailungfung

Read More: New Drinks Menus This Month

Wan Chai Shops

Spirit Book Store (精神書局 – 灣仔店)

When we became privy to this well-kept secret (thanks to Cecilia Ngan!), we wished we knew about it earlier! Small but crammed to the ceiling with secondhand books starting as low as $10, Spirit Book Store is a must-visit for any book lover wandering through Wan Chai.

Spirit Book Store, 14 Wood Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/spiritbookstore

Read More: The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong

Oriental 188 Shopping Centre / Wan Chai Computer Centre

From stores selling video games and phone accessories to other hobbyist shops, this three-level electronics mall has everything you’d need to satisfy your inner computer geek. Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Try the Wan Chai Computer Centre down on 130 Hennessy Road (though you might find things are a little pricier there).

Oriental 188 Shopping Centre, 188 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

kapok Sun Street

A favourite shop for browsing in the area, kapok sells a cool range of lifestyle products and stylish accessories; think canvas tote bags, laptop cases and sleek stationery, along with trendy clothing, jewellery and home accessories.

kapok, 8 Sun Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2549 9254, ka-pok.com

Read More: 50+ Local Hong Kong Brands You Need To Know

Lee Tung Avenue

Lined with the likes of Benefit, Caskells, Hallmark, Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe and an array of places to grab a bite, Lee Tung Avenue is Wan Chai’s one-stop open-air shopping strip. During festivals and special events, the avenue is usually festooned with lights and festive decor, making it the perfect backdrop for a quick Insta snap.

Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3791 2304, www.leetungavenue.com.hk

Read More: 15 Underrated Instagram-Worthy Places In Hong Kong

Since Concept Store

Another wonderful recommendation from Cecelia, you may have passed this unique concept store on your way to Wan Chai’s Green Ladies branch, otherwise it may be completely off your radar. Since is a lovely space dedicated to promoting mental health through its thoughtfully curated range of products, exhibitions, talks and workshops.

Since Concept Store, C C Wu Building, 302-308 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 6024 9390, sinceconceptstore.com

Read More: 8 Tips To Make Your Home Better For Your Mental Health

Wan Chai Wet Market

Grocery shopping in Hong Kong can be expensive, so we take every opportunity we can to explore the local wet markets, and the Wan Chai Wet Market is one of the best. Bag everything from fresh vegetables, seafood, meat, eggs and more in this sprawling space, which also spills out onto the streets out back.

Wan Chai Wet Market, 258 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Read More: Your Guide To Wet Market Shopping In Hong Kong

King Tak Hong Kong Porcelain

Whether it’s a new knife, steamer baskets, cleaning products, or pretty much anything else you need for your kitchen, chances are you’ll be able to find it at King Tak. This well-stocked two-storey shop is also home to a huge selection of porcelain bowls and plates —  all at reasonable prices.

King Tak Hong Kong Porcelain, 128 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.kingtakhong.com.hk

What To Do In Wan Chai

Blue House

A popular backdrop for photos for its iconic bright blue facade, Wan Chai’s Blue House is listed as a Grade 1 historic building, being one of the few remaining balcony-type “tong lau” or tenement buildings in Hong Kong. Be sure to drop by Hong Kong House of Stories on the ground floor, a quaint museum showcasing the city’s vibrant past and culture.

Blue House, 72-74A Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Read More: 10 Revitalised Historical Buildings In Hong Kong

Southorn Playground

Located a stone’s throw from Wan Chai MTR exit B1, opposite Lee Tung Avenue, Southorn Playground is hard to miss. If you need a break from all your exploring, take a seat in the stands overlooking the soccer pitches and basketball court where a game will likely be in play.

Southorn Playground, 130-150 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2879 5602

Wan Chai Street Market (Toy Street)

Fondly known to locals as Toy Street, this is the go-to place for novelty gizmos and gadgets. Once you’re done shopping, pop into one of the local eateries lining the market streets, which offer a selection of traditional Chinese delicacies, including snake stews and herbal broths.

Wan Chai Street Market, 258 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Editor’s Note: “Wan Chai Guide: Restaurants, Bars, Cafes & More” was most recently updated in July 2024 by Nicole Moraleda. With thanks to Lydia Ching for her Contribution.