Sheung Wan is one of the oldest and most charming neighbourhoods in Hong Kong. It is where the British first landed in 1841, and where the city's history and culture began. Today, Sheung Wan is a vibrant and eclectic area that blends tradition and modernity, local and international, cheap and chic.
Whether you are looking for delicious food, trendy bars, unique shops, or cultural attractions, Sheung Wan has something for everyone. In this guide, we will show you where to eat, drink, shop, and explore in Sheung Wan, and why it is the coolest neighbourhood in Hong Kong.
Eating in Sheung Wan
Sheung Wan is a foodie's paradise, with a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit every taste and budget. From local to international, from cheap to fine dining, from traditional to modern, you can find it all in Sheung Wan. Here are some of the best places to eat in Sheung Wan:
Kau Kee Restaurant:
This is one of the most famous and popular noodle shops in Hong Kong, serving beef brisket noodles in clear broth or curry sauce. The noodles are thin and springy, and the beef is tender and flavourful. Be prepared to queue up and share tables, as this place is always crowded and noisy. But trust us, it is worth the wait. Address: 21 Gough Street, Sheung Wan.
Little Bao:
This is a hip and trendy restaurant that serves fusion bao, which are steamed buns with various fillings. The bao are soft and fluffy, and the fillings are creative and delicious. Try the pork belly bao, the fried chicken bao, or the ice cream bao for dessert.
Address: 66 Staunton Street, Sheung Wan.
Yardbird:
This is a stylish and modern restaurant that specializes in yakitori, which are grilled skewers of chicken and other meats. The yakitori are cooked over binchotan charcoal, giving them a smoky and juicy taste. The menu also features other Japanese dishes, such as rice bowls, salads, and sashimi.
Address: 154-158 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan.
Chachawan:
This is a colourful and lively restaurant that serves authentic Thai food, with a focus on the northeastern region of Isaan. The food is spicy and tangy, with fresh herbs and ingredients. Try the som tum (green papaya salad), the larb gai (minced chicken salad), or the pla pao (grilled fish with salt crust).
Address: 206 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan.
Drinking in Sheung Wan
Sheung Wan is also a great place to enjoy a drink or two, with some of the best cafes and bars in Hong Kong. Whether you are looking for coffee, craft beer, wine, or cocktails, you can find it in Sheung Wan. Here are some of the best places to drink in Sheung Wan:
The Cupping Room:
This is one of the best coffee shops in Hong Kong, serving specialty coffee from around the world. The baristas are skilled and friendly, and the coffee is smooth and aromatic. You can also enjoy some light snacks and pastries, such as croissants, muffins, and sandwiches.
Address: 299 Queen's Road Central, Sheung Wan.
Craftissimo:
This is a craft beer shop and bar that offers a wide selection of local and imported beers. You can find beers from Hong Kong, Japan, Australia, Europe, and more. The staff are knowledgeable and helpful, and the atmosphere is cozy and relaxed. You can also buy bottles to take away or enjoy on the spot.
Address: 22-24 Tai Ping Shan Street, Sheung Wan.
Le Boudoir:
This is a hidden gem that transports you to a French boudoir, with velvet curtains, chandeliers, and vintage furniture. The bar serves classic and creative cocktails, as well as wine and champagne. The music is jazzy and soulful, and the vibe is romantic and elegant.
Address: Basement, 65 Wyndham Street, Sheung Wan.
Ping Pong 129 Gintonería:
This is a quirky and cool bar that occupies a former ping pong hall. The bar serves gin and tonic, as well as other drinks and snacks. The gin and tonic are made with premium gin and tonic water, and garnished with fresh fruits and herbs. The decor is retro and funky, with neon lights, ping pong tables, and art pieces. Address: 129 Second Street, Sheung Wan.
Shopping in Sheung Wan
Sheung Wan is also a shopper's heaven, with some of the most unique and trendy shops in Hong Kong. You can find everything from antiques, art, fashion, and lifestyle products in Sheung Wan. Here are some of the best places to shop in Sheung Wan:
Cat Street:
This is a street market that sells antiques, curios, and souvenirs. You can find items such as porcelain, jade, coins, stamps, posters, and more. The market is also a good place to observe the local culture and history, as some of the vendors have been there for decades.
Address: Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan.
PMQ:
This is a creative hub that houses over 100 local designers and artists. You can find products such as clothing, accessories, jewellery, homeware, and more. The hub also hosts events, workshops, and exhibitions, showcasing the talent and diversity of Hong Kong's creative scene.
Address: 35 Aberdeen Street, Sheung Wan.
Kapok:
This is a lifestyle store that sells products from local and international brands. You can find products such as bags, shoes, sunglasses, stationery, and more. The store also has a cafe and a gallery, where you can relax and enjoy some coffee and art. Address: 3 Sun Street, Sheung Wan.
The Armoury:
This is a menswear store that sells classic and elegant clothing and accessories. You can find products such as suits, shirts, ties, shoes, and more. The store also offers bespoke and made-to-measure services, as well as grooming and styling advice.
Address: 307 Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Sheung Wan.
Exploring in Sheung Wan
Sheung Wan is also a cultural and historical hotspot, with some of the most interesting and beautiful attractions in Hong Kong. You can discover the heritage and spirit of Sheung Wan by visiting these places:
Man Mo Temple:
This is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Hong Kong, dedicated to the gods of literature and war. The temple is a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture, with ornate carvings, paintings, and lanterns. The temple is also filled with incense smoke and candles, creating a mystical and serene atmosphere.
Address: 124-126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan.
Tai Kwun:
This is a former police station, prison, and court complex that has been transformed into a cultural centre. The centre showcases the history and stories of the site, as well as contemporary art and performances. You can also enjoy some food and drinks at the cafes and restaurants, or shop at the boutiques and bookstores.
Address: 10 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan.
Graham Street Market:
This is one of the oldest and most lively street markets in Hong Kong, selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, and more. The market is also a feast for the eyes, with colourful stalls, signs, and murals. The market is a great place to experience the local life and culture, as well as to taste some of the best street food in Hong Kong.
Address: Graham Street, Sheung Wan.
Ladder Street:
This is a steep and narrow street that connects Sheung Wan and the Mid-Levels. The street is named after the stone steps that make up the street, which are over 100 years old. The street is also lined with old buildings, shops, and temples, giving it a nostalgic and charming feel. The street is a good place to explore the history and architecture of Sheung Wan, as well as to enjoy some of the best views of the city.
Address: Ladder Street, Sheung Wan.
Sheung Wan is a neighbourhood that has it all: history, culture, food, drinks, shopping, and entertainment. It is a place that reflects the diversity and dynamism of Hong Kong, as well as its charm and character. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, you will always find something new and exciting in Sheung Wan.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Sheung Wan today and discover why it is the coolest neighbourhood in Hong Kong.