Tai O: ultimate neighbourhood guide

When in Tai O, sampling shrimp paste and dried seafood is a must. At Cheung Choi Kee, have a bite of its famous 'Husband roll', which consists of a mix of shrimp paste, minced pork, and shredded lettuce wrapped inside a roti. The flavours of the homemade shrimp paste stir-fried with juicy minced pork pack quite a punch. 

Fu Shan, also known as Tiger Mountain in Chinese, is not as intimidating as it sounds. In fact, the hiking trail to Fu Shan is just a short 15-minute walk from Kau San Tei Lookout Pavilion. Enter through a small gate and proceed up the stairs that lead to the top. The panoramic view of the sea makes for some impressive Instagram photos. At the end of the trail, you’ll be greeted by the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge on one side and Tai O Bay on the other.

Tucked away on Shek Tsai Po Street, Cha Kwo Choi is a renowned dessert store that sells cha guo (tea dumplings). This traditional Hong Kong dessert is made from glutinous rice flour and various Chinese herbs. A charcoal grill gives this beloved snack its distinct taste. Other famous sweet treats include soft-yet-chewy mochi with your pick of flavours such as peanuts, red bean paste, salted egg yolk, and minced pork.

Kwan Tai Temple is the oldest of temples in Tai O, and it is also listed as a Grade II historical Hong Kong building. Dedicated to honouring Kwan Tai, a brave and courageous military general of the Three Kingdoms era, the ancient temple was built during the Ming Dynasty. Inside the ancient temple, you will find statues of what is believed to be Kwan Tai's red hare and horseman, both of which are also worshipped by visitors.

Not only is Tai O a fishing village, but it's also an island of cats – they were originally used for pest control but have since populated the island. For the purrfect day out, pop into Tai O Fei Mao Li, which invites locals and visitors alike to gather at its shop to have a light meal and play with the cats. Don't miss the semi-regular workshops or special events that aim to promote and celebrate the culture of Tai O and its local artists too.

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For some of the best seafood in the ‘hood, head to Tai O Crossing Boat Restaurant. Using only local produce, this restaurant serves Cantonese-style stir-fry dishes in addition to other comfort food. Go for the house favourite charcoal-roasted goose, pan-fried cuttlefish patties, and steamed rice wrapped in lotus leaves. Every dish here incorporates Tai O’s best produce: shrimp paste, dried seafood, and pork.