A Design Lover’s Guide to Hong Kong: The Insider Places to See, Stay, Eat, and Shop

In recent years, Hong Kong’s art, design, and architecture scene has flourished, sparked in part by the late 2021 opening of the M+ museum, designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Art Basel Hong Kong, launched in 2013, grows with each return and anchors satellite events such as Art Central and the Edible Art Fair. And the landmark architecture additions keep on coming: The city will soon be seeing the unveiling of the WestK Performing Arts Centre (WestK PAC) designed by UNStudio, joining the recently-completed, Zaha Hadid-designed tower known as The Henderson, home to Christie’s Hong Kong headquarters as well as Peridot, a lime-green, eye-popping wonder of a cocktail lounge."There’s the impression of Hong Kong as a hyper-efficient financial capital, all modern skyscrapers,” says interior designer and Hong Kong native Vincent Lim, who returned to the city in 2015 after a decade in New York. “But the Hong Kong we love is more textured than that.” Spend even a couple of days here and you’ll realize the glass towers are interspersed with traditional street stalls, wet markets, family-run businesses, and vintage cha chaan tengs, the Colonial-era cafés that still serve milk tea, toast, and pork chop rice. “The layering of the city is what makes it special,” Lim says.Laura Cheung, founder of decorative furnishings brand Lala Curio, agrees that it's the atmospheric little alleyways and decades-old shops with vintage neon signs that design-lovers find especially alluring. “I can’t think of another city where, in its prime commercial center, you still have these little family-run antiques shops and fruit stalls lined with red and blue canvas,” she says. “But then there’ll be a hidden door, and inside that, the chicest speakeasy lounge.” Cheung loves the mix of old and new, the humble and the high-flying, or, as she describes it, “the wonton noodle shop sitting beside a sleek new building.”To get our footing in this city of contradictions, we turned to five Hong Kong design insiders for their personal recommendations on where to stay, eat, shop and wander.Meet the expertsClockwise from top left: Pak Man Lee; Vince Lim and Elaine Lu; Frank Leung; Laura Cheung Pak Man Lee is the founder and CEO of Nuovo, a contemporary design gallery in the Central district known for its experimental exhibitionsVincent Lim & Elaine Lu are the husband-and-wife team behind Lim + Lu, an award-winning interdisciplinary interior design practice based in Hong KongFrank Leung is the founder and principal of architecture firm Via, known for its high-end residential, commercial, and hospitality work, including the Kimpton Tsim Sha TsuiLaura Cheung is the founder of Hong Kong-based luxury interiors brand Lala Curio, which specializes in bespoke handmade wallpapers and cloisonné tilesWhere to Stay in Hong KongWhere to Eat and Drink in Hong KongWhere to Shop in Hong KongMore to do in Hong KongHotelsRosewood Hong KongA guest room at Rosewood Hong Kong Photo courtesy Rosewood Hong Kong“We often recommend Rosewood Hong Kong for its exceptional attention to detail in both design and hospitality. The restaurants are among our favorites in the city, the harbor views are spectacular, and the level of service always feels warm and genuine.” —Elaine LuThe Upper HouseA view of the penthouse guest suite at the Upper House hotel Photo: Michael Weber“Designed by André Fu, it feels remarkably calm and residential despite being in the heart of the city. The restrained palette and thoughtful detailing demonstrates how architecture can create a genuine sense of serenity amidst one of the world’s busiest cities.” —Vincent LimThe Peninsula Hong KongThe pool at The Peninsula Hong Kong Courtesy of The Peninsula Hong Kong“I grew up coming to The Peninsula, and it remains one of Hong Kong’s great icons. Its colonial heritage, timeless architecture, and impeccable hospitality embody the city’s unique blend of British elegance and Asian warmth. And the sweeping Victoria Harbour views capture the city's romance like nowhere else.” —Laura CheungKimpton Tsim Sha TsuiA lounge area at the Kimpton Tsimshatsui Victor Vieaux“The newest addition to Hong Kong’s hospitality landscape, the year-old Kimpton, which we helped design, boasts an impeccable location on the waterfront of Tsim Sha Tsui and panoramic island views. The arrival experience celebrates Hong Kong’s artistic spirit with a curation of pieces by local photographers and ceramicists. Besides the Hyrox-ready gym and Angsana Spa, don't miss the rooftop pool and lounge, which is amazing for cocktails at sunset.” —Frank LeungMandarin OrientalReception area of the spa at the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong Photo courtesy Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong“Hong Kong's grande dame, the Mandarin Oriental, is still the one that, to me, feels like the city itself. The heritage, the service, the sense of occasion—there’s nothing quite like it. I’m excited to see how it will turn out after their renovation.” —Pak Man LeeWhere to Eat in Hong KongYardbirdYardbird Photo: Frank Leung“This izakaya-style eatery in Sheung Wan is our favorite place to bring out-of-town guests. Chef-owner Matt Abergel and his team serve what we think is the best yakitori in Hong Kong. And don’t miss their fun merchandise, from hot sauce and bottled sake to t-shirts and socks.” —Frank LeungRoganic“We love Simon Rogan’s contemporary dining with a focus on seasonality. His restraint feels very aligned with our own design philosophy.” —Elaine LuJu Xing Home“For a local, down-to-earth evening, we love this gem of a place in Prince Edward. It’s many chefs’ favorite after work hang; all their seafood dishes, and the best ’boiled hand-cut beef’ are must-tries.” —Frank LeungYung Kee“If someone wants to experience a true Hong Kong institution, we’d send them to Yung Kee. The roast goose has become legendary for good reason, and generations of locals have celebrated family occasions there.” —Elaine LuChiuchownese Noodle Shop“For something much more local, we love this noodle place in Sai Ying Pun. It serves some of our favorite soup noodles in the city. It’s simple, comforting and always worth returning for.” –Elaine LuBest Hong Kong CafesMido Café“This cafe in Yau Ma Tei is worth visiting as much for the atmosphere as for a classic milk tea or French toast. Opened in the 1950s, its stained-glass windows, mosaic floors and timber booths have remained remarkably intact, making it feel like a living time capsule of old Hong Kong.” –Elaine LuCheung Hing Coffee ShopCheung Hing coffee shop Photo: Lim + Lu“No visit to Hong Kong feels complete without a pineapple bun. Cheung Hing Coffee Shop in Happy Valley makes our favorite in the city. We find ourselves returning whenever we’re in the neighborhood.” —Vincent LimCafé Causette, Mandarin OrientalThis is where my friends and I naturally gravitate for coffee, breakfast, or an afternoon catch-up; it has an effortless elegance that never feels formal. Nestled inside the Mandarin Oriental, it’s a timeless Hong Kong institution that makes you want to linger. —Laura CheungHalfwaySignage at Halfway Coffee Vintage stools on display at Halfway Coffee Photo: Frank Leung“With its vintage cups and salvaged furniture, Halfway reflects a true Hong Kong spirit. They have several locations, but the newest branch on the Peak, which has beautifully hand-sculpted counters, is one of the few cafes in the city where you can enjoy glorious sunset views.” –Frank LeungWhere to Drink in Hong Kongb.a.r. Executive Bar“This hidden, appointment-recommended Japanese-style bar in Causeway Bay is where I take visiting designers after dinner; no sign, no walk-ins wandering through, just some of the most precise drinks in Asia.” —Pak Man LeeParagon“Opened by chef David Lai—whose restaurant Neighbourhood is also one of our all-time favorites—this bar is named after the speakers that anchor the bar. Besides a great selection of vinyl records, it’s got a small but mighty cocktail menu and a fantastic beef sando. Plus: You can experience what’s been called the most comfortable chair in the world, the Karuselli Chair designed in 1964 by Yrjo Kukkapuro.” —Frank LeungBar Leone“Despite its international acclaim, Bar Leone remains wonderfully relaxed and unpretentious. I love bringing friends here for beautifully executed Italian food, exceptional cocktails, and the atmosphere that feels lively without trying too hard.” —Laura CheungBest Neighborhoods for WanderingTsim Sha Tsui EastThe atrium of the Royal Garden hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui East, built in 1981 Photo: Pak Man Lee“Nostalgic ’90s Hong Kong at its best: hidden gems like Sabatini at the Royal Garden, the Hong Kong Science Museum, Champagne Court, Tai Ping Koon Restaurant, Snooker Bar, and the kind of old-school energy quietly still harbored on the Kowloon side.” —Pak Man LeeThe stairway at the Tsim Sha Tsui East outpost of Tai Ping Koon, which opened in 1994 Photo: Pak Man LeeAp Lei Chau & Wong Chuk Hang“Hong Kong’s Southside art district. Take the freight lifts and you'll find some of the most serious galleries in Asia stacked floor by floor: Gold, Exit, Empty, WKM, Axel Vervoordt, Podium, Ben Brown, AIG, all within a few blocks of each other. It’s where the city’s art world actually lives. Besides that, you have Horizon Plaza for Lane Crawford and Joyce Warehouse, among many other brands.” —Pak Man LeeSheung WanMan Mo Temple in Sheung Wan Photo: Lim + Lu“Sheung Wan is where we often take visiting friends first. We usually begin at Man Mo Temple, one of Hong Kong’s most atmospheric temples, before wandering along Hollywood Road and its surrounding streets for antique shops, independent galleries, coffee roasters and the beautifully weathered tong lau buildings sitting comfortably alongside contemporary architecture.” —Vincent LimSham Shui PoA storefront in Sham Shui Po “Sham Shui Po remains one of the most inspiring neighborhoods for designers. It’s still a working district, known for textiles, leather, ribbons, hardware and electronics, but in recent years it has also become home to a community of independent cafés, design shops and creative studios. We love wandering Tai Nan Street, observing the layers of old and new that make the neighborhood so distinctive.” –Elaine LuStar Street Precinct“This little corner of Hong Kong feels like a hidden village tucked into the city, with independent cafés, fashion boutiques, art galleries, and some of my favorite restaurants. Wander over to Kiang Malingue, then spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding streets and enjoying one of the wonderful Black Sheep restaurants nearby.” —Laura CheungWhere to Shop in Kong KongCrack and AnecdoteCrack and Anecdote Detail from Crack and Anecdote “This shop on Ap Lei Chau has one-of-a-kind vintage design finds. It’s the kind of place you leave with something you didn't know even existed.” —Pak Man LeeSelect 18“For Chinese antiques and true one-of-a-kind treasures. Give yourself an hour and wander the surrounding streets after.” —Pak Man LeeHK Tram StoreHK Tram Store in Central for unique tram-themed toys and souvenirs Courtesy HK Tram Store“Hong Kong-inspired retro toys. It’s the Hong Kong gift shop to find something you can't get anywhere else." — Pak Man LeeG.O.D. Goods of Desire“The homewares, accessories and lifestyle objects play off everyday Hong Kong iconography, like mahjong tiles, traditional textiles, and local typography. It’s perfect for souvenirs that feel both contemporary and uniquely Hong Kong.” —Elaine LuPedder ArcadeFine menswear mecca the Pedder Arcade on the fifth floor of the Pedder Building Photo: Frank Leung“Headlined by Mark Cho’s The Armoury, this European-inspired shopping arcade occupies the entire 5th floor of the Pedder Building. You’ll find tailoring, ready to wear, rare books, watches, and eyewear, as well as the Whiskey Library and The Armoury Study.” —Frank LeungYuet Tung China WorksYuet Tung China Works, established in 1928 Photo: Frank LeungVintage Ceramics at Yuet Tung Photo: Frank Leung“Located in Kowloon Bay, this is a treasure trove for vintage ceramic lovers. Ask their helpful staff to help pick out the hand-painted neo-vintage pieces that are becoming harder and harder to find.” —Frank LeungYat Pit“For uniquely Hong Kong fashion that reinterprets Chinese heritage through a contemporary lens. Their collections are primarily available through their online store, but visiting one of their stockists is well worth it to experience the work in person.” —Vincent LimHak DeiHak Dei “This is one of those shops that celebrates beautifully made everyday objects. Rather than souvenirs, you’ll find timeless household pieces that tell a story about life in Hong Kong and across Asia.” —Vincent LimBeaureguards“Curated by fashion stylist Kim Bui Kollar, this boutique offers a beautifully edited selection of resort wear, accessories, and international designers. It feels intimate, personal, and effortlessly chic.” —Laura CheungLala CurioLala Curio flagship at The Peninsula Hotel All rights reserved“Our flagship at The Peninsula celebrates decorative arts through hand-painted wallpapers, couture embroidery, cloisonné, and bespoke surfaces that reinterpret centuries-old Asian craftsmanship with a whimsical contemporary spirit.” —Laura CheungPermanent ResidentPermanent Resident “One of my favorite design destinations in Hong Kong for thoughtfully curated furniture, artisan-made homewares, vintage finds, and beautifully crafted everyday objects.” —Laura CheungBest Museums and Galleries in Hong KongM+View of the roof of M+ museum designed by Herzog & de Meuron Photo: Lim + Lu“Opened in late 2021, the M+ is definitely one of Asia’s most important museums for contemporary visual culture, architecture, and design. I always recommend allowing plenty of time here—not only for the exhibitions but also for the remarkable Herzog & de Meuron building and its spectacular harbour views.” —Laura CheungNuovoKwangho Lee installation at Nuovo from March 2026 Photo courtesy Nuovo“This is our gallery in Central for collectible design and Italian masters. We have pieces you genuinely won't find in the States. Come say hello!” —Pak Man LeeOther must-see Galleries recommended by our panel:Alisan Fine ArtsHanart TZ GalleryKiang MalingueOra-OraTouch GalleryGrotto Fine ArtMore Travel Tips and Things to Do in Kong Kong“The best of Hong Kong hides upstairs — never judge a building by its street level. Take the freight lift.” —Pak Man Lee“Take the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour at least once. It’s still one of the most beautiful—and affordable—ways to experience Hong Kong, especially around sunset.” —Laura CheungA view of Stanley from the top of The Twins Photo: Frank Leung“One of the amazing things about Hong Kong is how close you are to nature. I cannot recommend enough the trails that allow you to experience the city from a different vantage point. I’d recommend the Wilson Trail on HK island (from Violet Hill to Repulse Bay is short and sweet) or Lo Fu Tau (Tiger’s Head) Trail on Lantau Island.” —Frank Leung“Visit the Tsz Shan Monastery in Tai Po for the serene contemporary Tang-style architecture beneath a colossal Guan Yin. You must book ahead, as the quota is part of what keeps it silent.” —Pak Man LeeA view of Tai Kwun Photo: Lim + Lu“One of our favorite places in Hong Kong, Tai Kwun combines great architecture with an equally strong cultural program of exhibitions and performances. Herzog & de Meuron’s intervention weaves contemporary architecture into the restored colonial buildings without competing with them. The architecture, landscape and culture come together effortlessly.” —Vincent Lim“A visit to Hong Kong would be incomplete without a ferry ride to one of the many outlying islands. Laid back village life, heritage sites and local customs bring another dimension to the rhythm of the city. For example, besides the Buddha and the cable car, Lantau Island is home to Tai O village, one of the best mountain trails and several amazing beaches. The famous Bun Festival also makes Cheung Chau a favorite destination.” —Laura CheungAsia Society building, designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects Photo: Lim + Lu“Hidden amongst lush greenery just minutes from Central, the Asia Society Hong Kong Center designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, is feels like a peaceful retreat and reminds visitors that Hong Kong is as much about landscape as it is about skyscrapers. It’s also one of the city’s best examples of adaptive reuse.” —Vincent Lim“For the experience of old Hong Kong at its best, do not miss Shun Kee Typhoon Shelter, a seafood restaurant on a boat in Causeway Bay.” —Pak Man Lee