Forget about white tablecloths and waiters in tuxedos. YP cadet Henry Lui has found original spots for tasty eats in Hong Kong
Fine dining is no longer just for the chi-chi-la-la crowd. Super high rents and ridiculous lack of space in Hong Kong have forced a growing number of restaurants to look to alternative venues, like industrial buildings, to serve their food. This lets them save money on rent, so they can use it to improve the quality of the food and the restaurant environment. If you're looking for a unique but affordable dining experience, here are seven of the coolest places, in the most unexpected locations, in Hong Kong you should try.
Kowloon East Kitchen
If you're willing to shell out a little bit more for better food, look to the East. Although their offerings are pricier, the quality is absolutely top-notch. It's the perfect place to take "important guests". The building is a bit shabby, but the restaurant itself is extremely well-decorated and very comfy.
Address: Shop C, 5/F, Howard Factory Building, 66 Tsun Yip Street, Kwun Tong
Tel: 3468 5383
Do try: smoked salmon three egg omelette
Fooody
This aptly named restaurant is the perfect place for foodies and hipsters alike. The atmosphere is one-of-a-kind, with décor that is the exact definition of "eclectic". The food is high standard, but nothing to write home about. Don't come here on a weekend if you're looking for a quiet place to chat.
Address: Shop 3, G/F, Leader Industrial Centre, 57-59 Au Pui Wan Street, Fo Tan
Tel: 3586 0863
Do try: Korean and Taiwanese fried chicken with rice
Fresh & Green
If Fooody is hipster, F&G takes it to a whole new level. Their vegetables are either from local farms, or their incubation facility at the back of the restaurant, so it's no surprise that their salads are far better than Starbucks'. The portions are quite generous - enough to keep you full all day. The place is quite homey, but can get busy.
Address: Room 203, 2/F, West Wing, World Wide Industrial Centre, 43-47 Shan Mei Street, Fo Tan
Tel: 3563 6036
Do try: Japanese curry chicken with rice (with complementary soup, salad, and drink)
8104 A Box of Life
This fine establishment strikes the perfect balance between quality and affordability. HK$60 is enough to get you a full set of food and drinks. Just like Fresh & Green, this restaurant feels very much like your hipster aunt's home. Get there before noon if you want a seat.
Address: Room 4, 1/F, Shing Yip Industrial Building, 19-21 Shing Yip Street, Kwun Tong
Tel: 3460 4111
Do try: mushroom spaghetti (with complementary soup, salad, and drink)
YC café
This place gives you the most bang for your buck. HK$50 gets you a big bowl of rice and access to the salad bar. Though the environment is rather mundane, it is quieter and tidier than some of the other restaurants here. Just don't expect the food to be too amazing.
Address: Flat AB, 16/F, Yue Cheong Centre, 1-3 Wong Chuk Yeung Street, Fo Tan
Tel: 3568 28435
Do try: smoked salmon salad croissant
Factory 99
If you're looking for a quick bite, Factory 99 is the place. Service is speedy and the food ain't half bad, either. But, the restaurant is usually very busy and the environment is slightly less refined than the rest.
Address: Room A, 1/F, How Ming Factory Building, 99 How Ming Street, Kwun Tong
Tel: 2345 8333
Do try: grilled Portobello mushrooms with cheese & tomato sauce and fries
Friendmily
As the name suggests, this restaurant is a great place for friends and family. The menu offers a wide range of selections, all of which are priced quite reasonably. It doesn't have too many seats, so be sure to make a reservation before you go.
Address: Flat A, 5/F, Wing Cheong Industrial Building No. 109, How Ming Street, Kwun Tong
Tel: 2388 1189
Do try: risotto with shrimp and mixed seafood