A Guide to Hong Kong’s Best Cooked Food Centres in Wet Markets

Hong Kong’s cooked food centres, often located above or adjacent to wet markets, are a treasure trove of authentic, affordable, and delicious local cuisine. These centres offer a communal dining experience where you can enjoy a variety of dishes, from traditional Cantonese fare to international flavours. Here’s a guide to some of the best cooked food centres in Hong Kong’s wet markets:

1. Sheung Wan Cooked Food Market

Located in the bustling Sheung Wan district, this market is a favourite among office workers and locals. Highlights include Shui Kee Coffee, a decades-old institution known for its Hong Kong-style French toast and bottled milk tea. The market also features stalls like Dong Kee, offering fragrant dai pai dong dishes, and a mix of regional Chinese and international cuisines such as Thai and Japanese.

2. Queen Street Cooked Food Market

Just a few blocks from Sheung Wan, this smaller market is packed with culinary gems. ABC Eatery serves Italian-inspired dishes, while Chautari Restaurant offers authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine. For a taste of Teochew sweets, don’t miss Tsang Kee.

3. Tai Po Hui Cooked Food Market

This market is a must-visit for its wide variety of stalls, including dim sum parlours, seafood restaurants, and dessert houses. Try Sweet Bon Bon for Hakka-style mochi and Tung Kee for Shanghai-style noodles with fried pork chops. The market also features Golden Delicious Thai, known for its affordable and authentic Thai dishes.

4. Kowloon City Market and Cooked Food Centre

Known as “Little Thailand,” Kowloon City is a hub for Southeast Asian cuisine. The cooked food centre here is famous for Amporn Thai Food, which serves crowd-pleasing green curry, pad Thai, and sticky rice with mango. Fresh fruits like mangoes and durians are also a highlight.

5. Bowrington Road Cooked Food Market

Located in Causeway Bay, this market is a local favourite for its late-night dining options. Wai Kee is renowned for its halal roast duck and lamb dishes, while Kau Kee offers authentic beef brisket cart noodles. The market’s seasonal menu, including lamb casserole in winter, is a hit.

6. Mui Wo Cooked Food Market

Perched by the seaside, this open-air market offers stunning views and a focus on fresh seafood. Wah Kee Restaurant is a crowd favourite, serving dishes made with ingredients sourced directly from nearby fishing boats.

7. Java Road Cooked Food Market

In North Point, this market is home to Chuk Yuen, a humble eatery specializing in Chongqing-style ma la chicken casserole. While the famous Tung Po Kitchen has relocated, the market still offers a variety of local and regional dishes.

8. Ap Lei Chau Seafood Market & Cooked Food Centre

Known as the “Tsukiji of Hong Kong,” this market is a seafood lover’s paradise. Diners can pick fresh catches from the wet market and have them cooked upstairs at Pak Ke Seafood Restaurant. The lively atmosphere and fresh dishes make it a unique experience.

9. Sham Shui Po Cooked Food Centre

This two-story food court offers a wide range of street food, from roasted meats to dim sum. It’s a great spot to try classic dishes like congee and stir-fried noodles, paired with a cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea.

10. Nam Long Shan Cooked Food Market

Located near Ocean Park, this market is worth the trek for its mix of Cantonese and Thai cuisine. Green Curry House is a standout, offering dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and green curry.

Tips for Visiting Cooked Food Centres

- Timing: Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure the freshest dishes.

- Language: Most vendors have basic English skills, but learning a few Cantonese phrases can enhance your experience.

- Payment: Bring cash, as many stalls do not accept cards.

- Atmosphere: Embrace the lively, communal vibe—these centres are about more than just food; they’re a cultural experience.

Hong Kong’s cooked food centres are a testament to the city’s vibrant culinary culture. Whether you’re craving traditional Cantonese dishes or adventurous international flavours, these markets offer something for everyone. Enjoy your gastronomic journey!