Sai Ying Pun. One of the oldest areas of Hong Kong. Once infamous for segragating the Europeans above High Street while the Chinese were excluded below, now a booming hub filled with a diverse collection of residents, bars, restaurants and cafes.
Between all the Western installations, the smell of fresh meat from the wet market and roasting Char Siu from the remaining Dai Pai Dongs spreads through the street, creating a truly multisensory experience.
Jack, 21, moved to Hong Kong only 7 months ago
Claiming to bring the “New Zealand-ness” to the area, Jack can be found behind the counter at Winston’s Coffee where he is the day manager or off camping in Sai Kung or hiking up Dragon’s Back enjoying the more peaceful and natural sides of Hong Kong. His laid back philosophy is contagious as he talks about the wonderful contrast of traditional to modern in the area and his love for Chinese street food.
Winston’s Coffee | @winstonscoffee
http://www.winstonscoffee.com/index.html | Shop 4, 213 Queen’s Road West | Daily 7am – 11pm
Tucked away by the flashy new MTR exit A2 is the 40’s cinema-esque sign welcoming an all-day selection of coffees and cocktails. Famous for their cold-brew and Espresso Martini, this cafe entices a range of young professionals swinging by morning and night for these energising brews.
Potato Head
http://www.ptthead.com/ | 100 Third Street | Tues – Sun 5pm – 11pm
This Tiki Tiki style bar reflects Jack’s chilled and laid back style. Its fresh atmosphere and large space boasts both a restaurant and a cocktail bar suitable for any day of the week.
Ping Pong 129
http://pingpong129.com/ | 129 Second Street, LG Nam Cheong House | Daily 6pm – 11pm
Be on the look out for a red door down Second Street with a subtle 129 sign to find this hot spot. Down in the basement hides this cool little Gintoneria. If you aren’t a fan of gin concoctions, there is a range of Spanish beers and wines to go along with the Tapas style dining.
Wivina, born in HK and raised in the UK
Wivina loves ‘The Pun’ (pronounced ‘poon’) for its similarity to Central, but more chilled and neighbourhood atmosphere. The convenience of the MTR along with all the new shops and restaurants popping up makes it a great place to live and the friendly wait staff are always ready for a good catch up. Between cooking, eating, reading and travelling, Wivina spends her days off enjoying some quality time with her family on Kowloon side.
Tak Kee Restaurant Shop
G/F, Back Portion, 406C Des Voeux Rd West, Western District
It’ll take a few visits to get to try all the authentic local desserts served in this little shop. Be sure to try the coconut sago pudding with little sticky balls of the pomelo mango dessert. Super simple and super delicious.
Soo Viet
247 Des Voeux Rd West, Western District
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its range of interesting and scrumptious dishes. Soup noodles with a side of grilled pork neck is the way to go here. Pho sure. Order online here.
Flying Pig Bistro
62 High Street | http://www.flyingpigbistro.hk/ | Daily 11am – 11pm
Up on high street where cool new eateries are popping up all around is the Flying Pig Bistro. A place for you to get your fill on pork knuckles, crispy suckilng pig, juicy pork chops and plenty more. Order online here.
Born in London and whisked away to Hong Kong at 2 years old, I have grown up surrounded by fast paced cultures and international events. They have shaped my attitude to the world from a young age: the world is small and I want to explore it all.
