In the mood for some classic greasy spoon fare? Head to these American diners in Hong Kong to satisfy your burger and milkshake cravings.
The American answer to Hong Kong’s beloved cha chaan tengs (or the other way around depending on who you ask), the classic American diner has definitely nailed its spot into popular culture, one milkshake at a time. Although the 852 is well over 12,000km from the US of A, these casual eateries draped in Americana charm have popped up on this side of the pond as well. Serving up some of the best burgers and milkshakes in town, almost every comfort food craving can be satisfied by these groovy canteens. Next time you’re in the mood for some classic Yankee grub, step into these American diners in Hong Kong.
Live your Norman Rockwell fantasy at these American diners in Hong Kong
1. The Diner
This Central favourite is about as classic as you can get for American diners in Hong Kong – so much that it’s simply named The Diner. Striving to serve the same experience you’ll find in cities across the US, a good chunk of the menu is devoted to creative burgers made of 100% USDA Angus beef. Along with sandwiches and Blue Plate Specials, The Diner also has some healthy salad options, as well as an expansive breakfast and brunch menu for early risers. Don’t forget to top off your meal with Peanut Nutter Butter Milkshake, or even a boozy float for some icy cold calories that are more than worth it.
The Diner, G/F, Winning Centre, 48 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 3585 7455
2. Lady Gourmand
When it comes to American diners in Hong Kong, you can always trust the ladies – Lady Gourmand that is. This Sham Shui Po gem has it all: burgers that’ll get you deliciously dirty while eating, hot soup to warm your belly, grilled cheeses that pull at more than just your heartstrings, and much more. The best part? You can bring your fave furry friends to pig out side by side on the colourful plush seats!
Lady Gourmand, G/F, 86 Nam Cheong Street, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong, p. 6393 3317
3. No Milkshake No Life
As the name suggests, No Milkshake No Life does not mess around when shaking up these icy, creamy, and oh-so-sweet indulgences. Priding itself on serving quality comfort food without fussing with the frills, this local eatery embraces the carb life with its Wagyu Cheese and Egg Burger, Bacon Grilled Cheese, Signature Pancake Burger, and more. While No Milkshake No Life also makes some mean house-made sodas, highballs, and double-shot coffees, the milkshakes are, without a doubt, the main event here. Celebrate sugary decadence with a Caramel Peanut Butter Real Bacon Milkshake and booze it up with an Almond Caramel Baileys Milkshake after the clock hits 3pm.
No Milkshake No Life has several locations across Hong Kong.
4. Burger Circus
If you ever find yourself wandering the streets of Central after a tipple, you may find Burger Circus’ neon sign beckoning you in for some freshly ground smashed burgers. Bringing the mid-century spirit of American diners to Hong Kong, the dining car-inspired interior of Burger Circus transports you to a different time and place. Though this casual eatery is now famous for its 7oz diner-style smashed USDA Prime burgers and house-made sodas, the frosty milkshakes made with local ice cream shop Messina’s delectable scoops are certainly something to write home about as well – especially when you add a cheeky shot of whisky into the mix.
Burger Circus, 22 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2878 7787
5. Morty’s
Bringing a taste of NYC to Hong Kong, this modern American delicatessen delivers absolute quality meats. Honouring authentic deli traditions by smoking and curing the ingredients in house, Morty’s gives a clear call as to why diners and delis often go hand in hand. The Signature Reuben and Classic Pastrami smashes you with incredible flavours from Morty’s laborious 45-day meat ageing and 20-day curing process. Along with smoked meat sandwiches, you can indulge in specialty sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and poutines here. Health-conscious eaters can also dig into plant-based sandwiches and salads, alongside some highballs and rickeys to spritz your meal.
Morty’s has locations in Central and Wan Chai.
6. Mendel’s Delicatessen
Inspired by classic NYC Jewish delis, Mendel’s Delicatessen makes our list of amazing American diners in Hong Kong with its representation of the historically strong immigrant roots behind the sparkle of Americana diners and delis. Leaning into the American Jewish community’s connection to bagels, the iconic Mendel’s is where you can find signature bagel sandwiches, soups, salads, and even sweet bagels for dessert. Go classic with the House Smoked Salmon bagel or inject some 852 spirit into the deli experience with the Char Siu Bao-gel – a creative treat that you definitely won’t find every day on NYC streets.
Mendel’s Delicatessen, 66 Catchick Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, p. 9220 4344
7. Green Waffle Diner
Okay, although Green Waffle Diner is technically a Canadian diner, it’ll still fill up and satisfy you the same way the Americans can. You’ll find a little more variety here with pastas, grilled fish, and a kid’s menu for the little eaters. The most classic diner vibes will be felt with an order of Green Waffle Diner’s scrumptious waffles, while the frequent specials cooked up by the talented kitchen will more than entice you.
Green Waffle Diner has locations in Central and Causeway Bay.
