Taste of Hong Kong: Three Ideas for special Valentine's Day
As 2024 rolls on into February, love is undoubtedly in the air in Hong Kong. The cooler weather offers plenty of opportunities to snuggle up to your sweetheart; while at the same time the vibrant city offers a plethora of ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
In this article, LocalHood Volunteer Renee Reimi, a self-proclaimed foodie - covers three date ideas that capture the essence of Hong Kong. Each of these has been tailored to different budgets (from a simple, intimate evening to a lavish experience) while also offering our readers different tastes of the unique Hong Kong dining culture.
An (Affordable) Affair to Remember
Head over to Kowloon for a budget-friendly yet authentic Hong Kong experience at Tim Ho Wan, the famed Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant. Known as one of the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants in the world despite being founded by a former Four Seasons chef, its flagship restaurant in Olympian City offers a casual, no-frills dining experience with top-notch dim sum. Make sure to try their baked BBQ Pork bun and Pan Fried Carrot Cake!
Afterwards, take the MTR over to Kowloon Station to admire the stars from the beautifully manicured West Kowloon Art Park, and consider taking a HK$5 Star Ferry ride to truly appreciate the beauty of Hong Kong’s harbour!
Address: Shop G72A-C, G/F, Olympian City 2, 18 Hoi Ting Road, Tai Kok TsuiLink: https://www.openrice.com/en/hongkong/r-tim-ho-wan-the-dim-sum-specialists-tai-kok-tsui-hong-kong-style-dim-sum-r124908
Mid-range Match Made in heaven:
Before your meal, take a stroll (to build us your appetite) with your lover through the vibrant streets of Soho (Yes, finally it's back in action), soaking in the eclectic mix of old and new that defines Hong Kong. The area is known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and a lively atmosphere that's perfect for an evening walk. Admire the modernised architecture of old Hong Kong at PMQ or Tai Kwun, both of which have been revitalised and are home to a number of great bars for your aperitivo (or digestivo!) of the evening!
For dinner, head down the red carpeted stairs at Ho Lee Fook. With its cheeky name apparently meaning ‘good fortune for your mouth’, this contemporary Hong Kong restaurant offers sophisticated interpretations of Hong Kong classic dishes. Look out for their Iberico char siu and steamed fish!
Address: G/F, 1-5 Elgin Street, Soho, Central
A Luxury Liaison
For an opulent and luxurious date high among the clouds of Hong Kong, make your way to the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong. Start your evening with a cocktail at Ozone, the highest bar in the world situated at 1608 feet above sea level. Each signature cocktail has been inspired by one of the 5 elements: Gold, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth.After taking in the unforgettable view, make your way down to the 102nd floor to enjoy exquisite Cantonese cuisine at Tin Lung Heen: do as the Hongkongers do by enjoying delicacies such as abalone and bird’s nest!Address: 102/F, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha TsuiLink: https://www.openrice.com/en/hongkong/r-tin-lung-heen-tsim-sha-tsui-guangdong-dim-sum-r50748
BONUS SUGGESTION: A Cozy Night In
Recognizing that Hong Kong's dining scene can be pricey (as well as hard to reserve!) and that some couples may prefer a quieter celebration, consider a snuggly night in instead! Order your favorite dishes from Foodpanda or Deliveroo, and pair it with a romantic Hong Kong movie. This simple yet intimate option allows you to enjoy the comfort of your home while still making the day special.
Here are some classic Hong Kong romantic movies that are sure to make for a perfect Valentine’s Day movie night:
1. In the Mood for Love (2000):
A classic tale of love and longing set in the sepia-tinged hues of 1960s Hong Kong. The film's stunning visuals, as well as amazing performances by local legends Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung, make it a timeless romantic masterpiece.
2. Chungking Express (1994)
This quirky film offers a heartwarming look at love in the bustling streets of 1990s Hong Kong, capturing the city's pre-handover charm in a unique dual-storyline narrative structure. Try to listen for Faye Wong’s cover (entitled “夢中人”) of “Dreams”by The Cranberries!
3. Love in a Puff (2010)
A modern romantic comedy that showcases the story of two young smokers brought together by serendipity… as well as by Hong Kong’s 2007 ban of all indoor smoking.
Which every idea you adopt for your Valentine's Day, hope it is memorable and full of love. From, @ Team LocalHood, have a VERY Happy VALENTINE's people