Whether it is trying to get some alone-time in this hustling and bustling city, to catch up with some old friends, or to maintain a work-life balance, cafes are everyone’s go-to spot. It might be tedious to visit the same old coffee shops in Hong Kong, and it can be difficult to discover one with so many possibilities in town, so we’ve compiled a list of a few best cafes throughout Hong Kong.
Neighbourhood Coffee
This rustic cafe maintains its vintage decor and earthy tones throughout, from the exterior to the interiors, with concrete walls and wooden seating. Additionally, the cozy cafe appreciates and celebrates Hong Kong’s local history and culture with subtle hints through its retro decor. Their food is equally unalarming and delightful. Savor their newest addition to the menu, the black truffle sauce scrambled eggs on sourdough bread or in a croissant. This is paired well with their salted chocolate special drink.
Milk Bar
Image Courtesy Milk Bar’s Instagram
Tucked away secretly in the streets of Sham Shui Po, Milk Bar is a Korean-inspired minimalistic cafe. Being that it is two storeys tall, there is plenty of space to be seated. Their spacious bare concrete white walls are the perfect background for an Instagram story. Savor a beverage from the Milk Bar Special section such as the strawberry milk in a mini glass carton or the blue latte for your daily dose of caffeine. Paired with a side of any one of their signature fresh piping hot croffles, a combination of a croissant and a waffle, with a selection of savory and sweet to choose from.
NOC
This simple coffee franchise is widely popular among the youth given its aesthetic minimalistic vibe; it is completely white with accents of wood and greenery. NOC (which stands for Not Only Coffee) in Whampoa has floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the gorgeous sea-view that attracts not only tourists but locals too. However, given the popularity of this eatery, be sure to go there early for breakfast to avoid the queue. Famed for their hefty brunch delicacies, opt for their all-day breakfast or creme brulee pancakes, or try out both.
From Scratch
Recently opened, situated on a slope that is not too far from Sai Ying Pun MTR station, this cafe was started by two friends who returned from the UK. From Scratch is furnished with a meticulous selection of potted plants indoors and outdoors, creating a sense of urban leisure. Moreover, their open terrace space enables you to enjoy the industrial landscape of the city. Relish their sausage roll or, the vegetarian version, a funghi pie, common snacks in the UK. For all the people with a sweet tooth out there, their classic soft and chewy butterscotch mochi will not disappoint, with a cup of coffee.
Elephant Grounds
Image Courtesy of Elephant Grounds’s Instagram
The last one on the list is one of the most iconic and well-known cafes around the world. Internally furbished with wooden panels throughout, this chain of cafes serves coffee made from organically sourced coffee beans. Not only are they roomy, but all locations of Elephant Grounds have sockets and free wifi making it a work-friendly space. They serve a large variety of light meals and finger foods, as well as provide a brunch menu for the weekends. Sample their protein-packed poke bowl. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try their legendary OG buttermilk pancakes.