Hong Kong is known for its hawker centers; people dine and socialize in a relaxed atmosphere for a low price. Food courts, which had fallen out of favor for years. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend for more premium food halls, that will give the typical food court a little more panache. This is due to a shift in youth’ dining preferences toward inexpensive, high-quality ideas presented in one accessible location. Listed below are some of our favorite upscale food halls in Hong Kong.
Graham Street Food Hall
Photo: @grahamstfoodhall (via Instagram)
Residing in SoHo, on its namesake street, this all-day dining food hall offers international comfort food from five different vendors. Whether it’s Japan’s Hamburg donburi or San Sebastián’s Basque burnt cheesecake, their vendors provide sweet and savory comfort flavors from across the world. Graham St Food Hall is not only spacious, but it also has free internet access and charging outlets and plugs, making it a work-friendly environment. Uplifting the vibe at this food hall is a bright blue neon sign that reads the name. They also have Al Fresco seats where you can enjoy a relaxing supper under the sky.
Dockyard
One of the very first pioneers to hop on the trend of the high-end food hall is Kerry Hotel with the introduction of Dockyard. Located in Hung Hom, right across the waterfront, diners can enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s landscape. A fully equipped bar and quick-service global eateries are housed in this modern industrial-inspired setting. The innovative idea to use kiosk-style outlets inspired few additional luxury food halls. Moreover, the inclusion of a foosball table, darts, and a stage set up for live music display the added oomph to an otherwise traditional food court.
Joint Asian Market (J.A.M)
Photo: @j.a.m.hk (via Instagram)
The first upscale Asian food market is located in Nexxus Building, Central. With Michelin-stared Pan-Asian restaurants, J.A.M includes contemporary, upraised interpretations of native comfort meals, as well as local restaurants and street vendors. Four skilled chefs helm this modern and vibrant food market. Korean, Vietnamese, Cantonese Dim Sum, and Singaporean cuisines are served at separate stations in this cross-cultural food hall, thus the name. The geometric logo expands onto the interior design of this food market, giving it an artisanal touch.
Food Playground
Part of one of the most prestigious, artistic shopping centers in Tsim Sha Tsui, K11 Musea, Food Playground. It is filled with varied options to choose from, hence why it is a popular spot for people of all ages. Italio Wok, Piggy Smoke, Soul Jook, and Bot Noodles are just a few of the eateries on the menu. The plants fixed onto the walls like the mall itself are maintaining the urban green aesthetic and natural decor.
Basehall
Photo: @basehallhk (via Instagram)
Basehall is burrowed in the basement of Jardine House, where previously Grappa’s Cellar took up the historic spot. This stylish, gourmet food hall provides an array of cuisines from some of the quirkiest restaurants around Hong Kong, such as Honbo, Co Thanh, Treehouse. Inspired by Hong Kong’s vast culinary creativity, Basehall provides a platform for both established and emerging FnB concepts can come together and collaborate for the epicures of Hong Kong. The vendors at this food hall are ever-changing, so be sure to check out who is available during that month. DJ sets and live concerts use this sophisticated, well-lit hall as an event venue at night.
Eaton Food Hall
Nestled in noisy Nathan Road, is Eaton Hotel’s Food hall. Recently refurbished in Jordan, Eaton Hotel followed the unique concept of an upscale food hall. With nine different international caterers and The Astor buffet, you’re sure to depart with a full stomach. This dining hall has vintage vibes overall, with bright neon signage adorning the inside. The founder, Katherine Lo’s pleasant childhood recollections of the town, from family gatherings at neighborhood retro eateries to Wong Kar Wai’s 1990s films, were partly the inspiration for the establishment. This dining hall takes a step further in addressing significant social concerns. The frequent art and cultural events here maintain the vibrant spirit of this the nostalgia-driven design community