Cherry Chan

Though we're always delighted to revisit Hong Kong's best eateries, we've always got one eye on the latest openings. If you're looking for places to celebrate your festive gatherings, make sure to be the first ones to book these hottest new places in town. From a new Italian restaurant showcasing spectacular vistas of Victoria Harbour, Korea's popular fried chicken chain, and a new Latin American restaurant from two big names in the F&B industry, and more – Hong Kong's food scene is offering so much for us to check out this season.   Think we missed a new great dining place in Hong Kong? Shoot us an email at info.hk@timeout.com so we can check it out! RECOMMENDED: Need more dining recommendations? From well-seasoned stalwarts to tasty newcomers, check out our pick of the 50 best restaurants in the city. 

Hong Kong welcomes an overwhelming number of new cafes and coffee shops every month, that's why we’ve picked out some of the most unique ones that you should visit. Whether you're in dire need of some seriously good coffee or just looking for a gram-worthy pic for your feed (we don’t judge), there’s something for every cafe-hopper out there. RECOMMENDED: Get ready for the festive season with the best sweet treats and desserts to indulge in this Christmas. Book a stay in one of these cosy Airbnbs.

We're getting much cooler days as the winter season begins. Ward off the chills with these boozy drink releases. From festive Champagne packs, sake, ultra-premium Cognac, zero-sugar spiked cola, gin, IPA, and alcohol-free pilsner, here's a list of new products to catch in the market. RECOMMENDED: Want to head out for drinks instead? Grab a few drinks from the best rooftop bars in the city. 

The holidays are just around the corner, and so are these big cinematic surprises which are arriving on the silver screen this December.  From Avatar’s sequel showing us Jake Sully and his family as well as the challenges they face, Santa Claus seeking vengeance for those on his naughty list, to a loose re-telling of Steven Spielberg’s adolescence, these are some of the films that you’ve got to look forward to in December! We'll be regularly updating this list, so be sure to bookmark the page and check back for more updates. And don’t worry, no spoilers ahead – well, no promises, but we’ll try our best. (Release dates may be subject to change)RECOMMENDED: Check out these new shows and movies coming out on Netflix this month.

Ever since the ban on live music performances was lifted, along with the easing of Covid-19 measures for Hong Kong arrivals, the city's music scene has been thriving with activity. From homegrown talents performing at intimate venues to international stars taking on the big stage, there's much to look forward to for eager concertgoers. If you want to be in the know on all the latest concerts and gigs happening around town, bookmark this page and come back regularly for more updates.  RECOMMENDED: In the meantime, check out our list of the best live music venues in Hong Kong. 

While we’re sure you’ve got plenty of things to be jolly for this Christmas, the sweet treats and desserts that come with the holiday season are definitely something that will put a smile on everyone’s faces – even the Grinch himself. Whether you want to enjoy festive desserts in an afternoon tea experience or you’re looking for a centrepiece for your Christmas feast, these spots around town will get you your sugar fix for the Yuletide season. RECOMMENDED: Book your reservations for the best Christmas brunches and buffets around town.

Ready to have a holly jolly Christmas and feast until your buttons burst? We’ve rounded up Hong Kong’s best Christmas brunches and buffets for you to indulge in.RECOMMENDED: Still shopping for Christmas? Check out our list of the most impressive hampers to send.

As the weather starts to get a little chilly, most people like to share a bubbling hotpot with family and friends. However, another seasonal treat that many Hongkongers love to indulge in during the colder months is claypot rice. With piping hot ingredients laid over a bed of fluffy rice and drizzled with sweet soy sauce, what more could you ask for? Take a look at our list of the city’s best claypot rice restaurants down below. RECOMMENDED: Take a look at our list of the best places to have Christmas lunch and dinner in Hong Kong.

Need a cake in a quick fix? Luckily, Hong Kong has got plenty of cake shops that not only create sensational pastries, but are able to deliver to locations across the city. Whether you’ve forgotten someone’s birthday or need to bring a last minute party favour, we’ve got you sorted with the best cake shops that offer delivery in Hong Kong. RECOMMENDED: Check out our list of the best cake shops in Hong Kong

In need of a sweet fix? Thankfully, our city has some solid options when it comes to cake. From exquisitely decorated and decadent creations to rich and hearty slices of comfort, we have it all and then some. So, prepare to indulge your sweet tooth as we round up the best cake shops in Hong Kong.  RECOMMENDED: Take advantage of the breezy autumn weather and dine at one of these restaurants with outdoor seating.

Hampers are a brilliant way to give something impressive for Christmas. Be it for a business partner, parents-in-law, or a good friend that is in need of a thoughtful care package, a hamper is a treasure chest of goodies that are bound to please. Think gourmet food, wine, sweet treats and more. So, if you’re looking for a gift that gives it all, we’ve got you covered with the best Christmas gift hampers to buy in Hong Kong right now. RECOMMENDED: Check out the best Christmas lights and displays around town.

There’s nothing quite like the communal atmosphere of watching a major sporting event in a crowded bar. Whether it’s a weekly football match or a worldwide event, being surrounded by similarly passionate fans helps elevate the action to the next level. With the FIFA World Cup kicking off in Qatar from November 21 (HKT), here are the best sports bars in Hong Kong for you to catch the games.RECOMMENDED: Check out these other locations around town to watch the FIFA World Cup.

Watch the video below for a first look at Porkcentric:  This one’s for the meat-lovers, or specifically the pork lovers. Created by Bart Szyniec and Giuliano Dacasto, the founders of Deadly Rabbits Concepts, Porkcentric sends diners on a journey through Central Europe with hearty pork-based dishes. Priding themselves on their expertise in pork, Porkcentric sources their pork from five different pig breeds around the world –  American Duroc, English Hampshire, Japanese Kurobuta, Italian Cinta Senese, and Hungarian Mangalica. As the only spot in the city offering Polish cold cuts, Porkcentric’s dedicated salumeria offers unique cuts of meats such as Slovenian deer salami, Italian cinghiale boar salami and cooked Hungarian Mangalica shoulder. Complemented with a selection of cheeses, select your choice of three or five cuts ($198/$298) of cured meats for your tasting platter. With a high marbling content, their Hungarian pork chop tomahawk (18/20 ounces, $568) has a melt-in-your-mouth consistency and is ridiculously tender. Housing a curated selection of craft beers from international breweries and local breweries like Moonzen – which comes from ceiling-mounted beer tanks each holding 500 litres of brewed beer – Porkcentric provides their diners with a large selection of beer to complement their pork-focused dishes.  

This Christmas, Shady Acres takes getting into the holiday mood to a whole new level. Their cool and grunge industrial space has transformed into The Shady Chalet, an Instagrammable Christmas cabin heavily decorated with colourful lights, pine cones, candy canes, baubles, and pine shrubbery. You'll also find Yuletide decorations inside their venue, such as Christmas portraits of the Shady Crew, a fireplace by the bar, and even a hanging mistletoe branch.  Festive decorations at Shady Acres | Photograph: Courtesy Monkey 47 The bar has collaborated with gin distillery Monkey 47 Gin to offer seasonal drinks, from classics like sloe mulled wine ($110), Ginger For Life ($110) with gingerbread and pumpernickel, and Schwarz Collins ($110) with spiced citrus tea and lemon, all of which are made with Monkey 47's gin. Along with the festive drinks, guests can also enjoy a classic gin and tonic ($75) at Shady Acres from now until December 24. Monkey 47 Sloe Gin mulled wine ($110) and Ginger for Life ($110) | Photograph: Courtesy Monkey 47 Aside from festive drinks and nibbles, Shady Acres will be celebrating the holidays with a month jam-packed full of fun activities such as carol performances on December 11, trivia quiz nights on December 7 and 14, a tropical-themed Christmas party on December 8, and many more. Additionally, guests can write Christmas wishes on the bar's festive postcards and pop them into the Shady Post Box outside the bar to spread the festive cheer by bringing

If you want to get into the Yuletide spirit by watching Christmas films, then head to The Grounds at AIA Vitality Park from December 5 to 18, where a range of holiday movies will be shown on their giant LED screen. Gather your loved ones as you cosy up in your seating pods and watch classic heart-warming movies like Home Alone, Elf, Love Actually, and many more.During the festive period, guests will get to enjoy complimentary mulled wine and mince pies upon entrance, created by executive chef Cary Docherty and beverage manager Paolo De Venuto from Salisterra at The Upper House. To add to the holiday mood, guests will also get to enjoy carol performances from local choir groups before each movie screening. Find the full lineup of holiday movies on The Grounds’ website and purchase your tickets on Zicket.  Related stories:New Netflix shows and movies you need to watch this DecemberBest new cafes and coffee shops to visit in Hong KongArgo launches a new cocktail menu inspired by Hong Kong’s culinary traditionsFollow us on Youtube, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.

Hong Kong’s social calendar has been teeming with live music events, and concertgoers are buzzing with excitement as they look forward to some of their favourite international artists arriving in the city to perform. Just days before Blackpink performs at AsiaWorld-Expo, K-pop girl group Mamamoo will also be hitting the stage in Hong Kong on January 7 as part of their ‘My Con’ tour around Asia.  If you want to witness Solar, Wheein, Moonbyul, and Hwasa as they sing and dance to their hit tracks like Decalcomanie, Starry Night, Hip, and Illella, then be sure to get tickets as soon as they’re out. The concert venue and ticket prices are yet to be confirmed, so stay tuned to this page and come back for more information in the upcoming weeks.Recommended articles:Chivas XV and Balmain’s limited edition bottle is now available in Hong KongTseung Kwan O welcomes a new cycle track and footbridge, and Hong Kong's first marine viaductYoshinoya opens new Japanese cafe-style concept store in Tsim Sha TsuiFollow us on Youtube, Facebook, and Instagram, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.

Hong Kong’s new Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin tunnel and the Cross Bay Link in Junk Bay is finally open. The Tunnel and Cross Bay Link were constructed in order to improve Hong Kong’s transport network, as well as provide a new path between Tseung Kwan O and Eastern Kowloon areas, ultimately reducing travel time by 20 minutes for those living in the respective areas. Photograph: Courtesy Gov HK The tunnel and Cross Bay Link has a total length of 3.8km and consists of two structures. The Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin Tunnel is a dual-lane highway that measures approximately 2.2km long and connects areas such as the Eastern Harbour Crossing together with Tseung Kwan O and Eastern Kowloon. The Cross Bay Link measures approximately 1.8km and operates as a carriageway that not only connects the Tunnel with Lohas Park but also functions as a footpath and makes up part of a 5km long cycling track within Tseung Kwan O. The Link is also designed with viewing platforms on the bridge, allowing visitors to appreciate unobstructed views of Junk Bay and the EasternChannel. Photograph: Courtesy Gov HK  The tunnel and link is now open for use and is toll-free. Additionally, there will be five new bus routes that pass through the tunnel, which include 96, 290E, 298X from KMB, as well as 790 and 795 from Citibus, which will make your public commute more convenient and reduce your time spent on the road. Recommended stories:Yoshinoya opens new Japanese cafe-style concept store in Tsim Sha TsuiDarkside

Since their opening in 2020, Basehall has become a hotspot for hungry Hongkongers, serving them great bites from some of the best restaurants in the city. Continuing with this success, Basehall is set to open a new sister venue, Basehall 2, in Jardine House mid-December. Housing 13 independent food and beverage concepts under one roof, the new venue will be a unique epicentre of culinary talents. Rendering of Basehall 2 | Photograph: Courtesy Basehall Designed by Sean Dix, Basehall 2 is decked out with elements such as custom Chinese tile work, Japanese hand-chiselled oak panels, and more. The dining space will also house an event space – created in partnership with Test Kitchen Hong Kong – an 18-seat chef’s counter, as well as a hidden speakeasy-style concept designed by NCDA which is opening in early 2023.  Rendering of Basehall 2 | Photograph: Courtesy Basehall Basehall 2 will be split into designated areas to direct crowd flow. Diners sitting at the Central Counter kiosks will be able to enjoy popular late-night Japanese and Korean bites while watching chefs preparing their food, while those at the Dice Kiosks can savour dishes from Michelin Guide-recognised eateries in Hong Kong. Rendering of Basehall 2 | Photograph: Courtesy Basehall Additionally, Basehall 2 will operate with sustainability in mind. Apart from being stylish and modern, the venue will also be using low-consumption lighting and upcycled elements in their design in order to reduce their carbon foot

Mido Cafe has officially reopened! Following their previous announcement just a few months prior that the restaurant would be closing its doors, the cha chaan teng has recently reopened once again on October 28, with a notice on their front door that read “We said we’d definitely meet again”, referencing their previous farewell notice which ended with the sentence “If fate favours us, we’ll definitely meet again”.  Mido Cafe had temporarily closed during Hong Kong’s fifth pandemic wave. The cafe later reopened in May, before once again announcing its closure in July. After the news broke, many took to the internet to have their say. Some expressed their dissatisfaction with Mido Cafe's decline in food quality and service in recent years, while others reminisced on times when they visited to take snaps for Instagram.  Although there may be mixed opinions about this famous local cha chaan teng, with its stained glass windows, ceiling fans, and authentic cha chaan teng dishes, Mido Cafe is certainly a landmark in the city, one that welcomes foodies and shutterbugs from Hong Kong and across the globe. Related stories:Top art exhibitions and displays to catch in Hong Kong right nowYing’nFlo debuts in Hong KongSurround yourself with gin lovers at Gin Fest 2022 Follow us on Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.

Hairy crabs are a popular dish that many enjoy during the cooler months. Many top restaurants in the city have prepared the creamiest hairy crab dishes for the season. And while some restaurants offer sumptuous Chinese dishes featuring the crab’s creamy roe, Italian pasta bar chain Pici is putting their twist on the seasonal delicacy. From November 5 during dinner service, Pici will offer Chinese flavours reinvented with Italian culinary techniques in Pici Hairy Crab ($260). Pici’s executive chef Davide Borin combines thick-cut pici pasta with a velvety hairy crab roe and crab meat dressing, along with garlic, a rich ginger clam stock, and Shaoxing wine to create a dish that’s equally decadent and irresistible.  Photograph: Courtesy Pici Only 30 portions of Pici Hairy Crab will be served per night at select Pici locations across town, so be sure to stay up to date with Pici’s Instagram to find out where you can order the seasonal dish.  Recommended articles:Heritage of Mei Ho House reopens after a year of renovationBest new cafes and coffee shops to visit in Hong KongBest events happening in Hong Kong this November Follow us on Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.

As part of the government’s gradual easing of Covid-19 social distancing measures, authorities announced today that public barbecue sites will reopen and operating hours for restaurants and clubs would be extended from November 3. Additionally, individuals will be allowed to remove their masks during group photos at events and catering premises, such as weddings.  Currently, restaurants are allowed to open only until midnight with a maximum of 12 diners at a table, while bars can operate until two in the morning. Barbecue pits have remained closed indefinitely since 2020 in order to maintain social distancing.During the press conference, health authorities noted that the new measures would be implemented between November 3 and November 16. This announcement comes as Hong Kong anticipates the Global Financial Leaders’ Summit, which will take place from November 2 to 3. With 200 participants from global banking and finance institutions attending, the summit will be one of Hong Kong’s biggest events in the last three years.  Recommended storiesYour guide to celebrating Halloween in Hong KongThe best sports bars in Hong KongA look into Chinese opera, one of the oldest dramatic arts in the worldFollow us on Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.

Just over a month ago, Hongkongers were devastated to know that iconic dai pai dong Tung Po Kitchen closed their doors on September 2 due to the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) stating that the local eatery violated the terms of their tenancy agreements.  While it was bittersweet to reminisce over Tung Po Kitchen closing its doors, every cloud has its silver lining, and we’ve got good news. According to local media outlet HK01, Tung Po’s manager Robby has spoken out and said that the dai pai dong will relocate to a new venue on Jaffe Road in Wan Chai. Preparations are underway and he hopes to reopen the restaurant in November at earliest. Looks like we’ll be able to enjoy Tung Po Kitchen’s unforgettable dining experience and gulp down endless beers out of porcelain fighter bowls once more. Recommended articles:The best Halloween parties and dinners in Hong KongScary shows and movies to watch on Netflix this HalloweenSuper Junior comes to Hong Kong this November Follow us on Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.

Located in an old building in Jordan, Biu Kee Mahjong has created hand-carved artisan mahjong tiles for over half a century across three generations. Sadly, the handicraft store announced last night on their Facebook page that they will soon be closing by the end of October. Biu Kee revealed that they received an eviction notice from the Buildings Department in September, stating that their store at 26 Jordan Road would be removed as the store was identified as unauthorised building work due to it being located at the foot of the building’s staircase.   Photograph: Calvin Sit   While the piece of news has been hard for the store to come to terms with, Biu Kee says they are grateful to all of their supporters and customers over the years. In their Facebook post, Biu Kee’s current owner Cheung Shun King, or affectionately known as ‘Uncle King’ said that he wishes to continue creating hand-carved mahjong tiles, until he gets too old to do so. The post also says “we sincerely hope the related departments in the government can deal with the situation in order to keep Biu Kee Mahjong in its current location and to allow the traditional art form of hand-carved mahjong tiles to be passed down.” While Biu Kee is unsure if they will ever reopen again, it’s devastating to know that the city will see another iconic establishment close down.Recommended stories:Walla-Walla boat tours now available at the Revitalised Typhoon Shelter PrecinctTwo Hong Kong bars make it on to the World's 50

With Hong Kong finally lifting mandatory quarantine rules, a lot of us are getting excited with the prospect of travel. More so, as neighbouring country Japan, a favourite destination for Hongkongers, is finally relaxing border control protocols. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced that Japan is to reopen for international tourism on October 11. Short-term tourists will be able to enter Japan without applying for a visa, while independent tourists can finally enter the country without booking their visits and accommodation in advance via travel agencies. Japan’s daily cap for travellers is also scrapped. Japan is also getting rid of its colour-coded entry regulations for tourists depending on whether they are from red, yellow, or blue countries. Tourists will no longer be required to undergo quarantine, unless they show symptoms of Covid-19. Those who already received three doses of Covid-19 vaccination can come to Japan without the need for pre-arrival PCR tests, but non-vaccinated tourists are still required to submit a negative RT-PCR test result.  Additionally, Japan will accept vaccinations from Sinopharm, Sinovac, and Convidecia vaccines when it reopens to international tourism. Keep your eyes peeled on this page for more details soon. Recommended storiesTravelling to Hong Kong? Here's what you need to knowBest quarantine hotels in Hong KongThings you need to know about Hong Kong's social distancing restrictions Follow us on Youtube, Facebook, Instagra

Following the release of their Asian flavour inspired highballs earlier this year, Young Master Brewery launches a new single hop IPA series. The new release, Hop Terrace, features four new IPAs that highlight a variety of individual hops, each with a fun and distinctive flavour. The Hop Terrace collection will be gradually released from September to December, so keep your eyes peeled for any announcements from Young Master. Photograph: Courtesy Young Master As the first IPA in the Hop Terrace Collection, No.1 features Idaho 7 hops, which contains notes of grapefruit and candied peaches, with a subtle bitterness that’s well balanced with fruity flavours. Hop Terrace No. 1 is now available for purchase exclusively at selected Circle K outlets across Hong Kong, stay tuned for Hop Terrace No. 2, 3, and 4 in the next few months.  Recommended stories:Basehall’s annual Oktoberfest returns in OctoberThe Grounds at AIA Vitality Park reopens to the public on October 13Party with evil villains at Hong Kong Disneyland this HalloweenFollow us on Youtube, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.