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Modern-day Hong Kong may be best known for its glossy skyscrapers and world-class attractions, but to understand how the city became the bustling metropolis that it is today, one need only to pay a visit to Old Town Central.

One of the oldest yet also most dynamic districts in the city, Old Town Central — encompassing the sloped streets and small alleys of Central and Sheung Wan — encapsulates Hong Kong’s rich and diverse spirit. A place where century-old temples share the same streets as fashion-forward concept stores, or where authentic tea houses coexist with modern art galleries, this colourful neighbourhood is at once old and new while also being proudly local and unmistakably global.

Immensely walkable and brimming with attractions, this neighbourhood is perfect to experience on foot. There’s plenty to discover here, from heritage buildings and art institutions to local eats and fun souvenirs. Whatever your interests are, this guide will lead you to some of the best things that Old Town Central has to offer. Have fun exploring.

What to do & See?

Dining - A true food paradise, Old Town Central is a melting pot of flavours with something to sate all tastes. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Hong Kong, there’s plenty here that fits the bill, from traditional dim sum to baked treats sold at shops that have stood the test of time. Of course, the culinary landscape here is also influenced by Hong Kong’s status as a multicultural, trend-setting metropolis, and you’ll find plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as cutting-edge fusion cuisine and cocktail bars that rank among the best in the world.

Luk Yu Teahouse :  Established in 1933, this three-storey restaurant boasts plenty of old-world charm, especially with its colonial design juxtaposed with traditional Chinese furnishings. Luk Yu Teahouse is also one of the best spots in town for an authentic dim sum meal, served with a wide variety of expertly brewed teas. The restaurant also offers larger dishes for dinner, such as sweet and sour pork and roasted crispy chicken.
Add:  G/F, 24 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong Island

Lan Fong Yuen:  If you want a cup of authentic Hong Kong-style milk tea, Lan Fong Yuen is the place to go. The popular beverage was influenced by British culture but is made with evaporated milk and sugar. At Lan Fong Yuen, be sure to try the famous “silk stocking milk tea” which is passed through a fine mesh to give it a particularly smooth texture. While Lan Fong Yuen’s original street stall still stands today under the Central-Mid-Levels escalator, diners can also head to the sit-down restaurant right next door to enjoy dishes such as the chicken noodles with scallion oil.
Add: 2 Gage Street, Central, Hong Kong Island

Kung Lee Herbal Tea Shop : Founded in the 1940s, Kung Lee is still loved and frequented by many locals. The store retains many of its old-school features, including its wooden fixtures, ceramic tiles and ceiling fans. On the menu, the sugarcane juice is the bestseller. Peeled and steamed using traditional methods, the sugarcane is pressed with an antique juicer to produce a refreshingly sweet beverage that supposedly boasts a host of health benefits. Also, don’t miss the sugarcane pudding and various herbal teas.
Add: 60 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong Island

LPM Restaurant & Bar : This popular Niçoise restaurant has locations all over the world, including in London, Miami, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Like the original location in Nice, the Hong Kong branch serves delicious, French-Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients and authentic flavours. Signature dishes include escargots, whole roasted chicken stuffed with foie gras and, of course, the salad Niçoise.

The Iron Fairies: With sumptuous interiors by renowned designer Ashley Sutton, The Iron Fairies feels like it belongs in the pages of a fairy tale. The most stunning features here are the 10,000 butterflies that dangle elegantly from the ceiling, as well as the miniature, iron-wrought fairy figures that adorn the tables. It’s a wonderfully whimsical place to enjoy exquisite craft cocktails and comfort food such as mini grilled cheese sandwiches and handcrafted burgers.