Looking for the best lunches in Central? Find sushi, Chinese fusion, Thai, bagels, sandwiches, salads, burgers, wraps, and much more!
We at Honeycombers Hong Kong have found the sweetest cakes, the best dim sum, and the most elegant fine dining restaurants in the city. And recently we’ve been scouting around Hong Kong for the best lunches to indulge in. For all you white collars in the area, check out our picks for the best lunches in Central to fill your belly during the week!
Best lunches in Central that’ll leave you happy and satisfied
1. Chaiwala
Seeking a restaurant in Central for a quick express lunch, sophisticated business meal, or team gathering? Find your way to Chaiwala, one of Wyndham Street’s best kept secrets! This restaurant showcases the breadth and depth of modern Indian cuisine with myriad offerings. For those pressed for time, go for the Dawath Express lunch menu (from just $148) and take your pick between chicken, lamb, fish, or vegetarian mains, generously served with a selection of small bites, freshly baked naan, dessert, and more.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, the Flavours of India menu (from $288) has you covered. The feast features the best of Indian street staples, such as pani puri, aloo tikki chaat, a Tandoor cage for sharing, and various regional curries. Finish off with a creamy mango panna cotta for a refreshing lunch in Central.
Chaiwala, Basement, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2362 8988
2. Uoharu
Famous for its A4 Wagyu Sandwich, Uoharu is a Japanese izakaya that offers all kinds of authentic nourishment. The variety of lunch sets here ensures you quality Japanese food such as Eel Rice Box, Wagyu Sukiyaki, and Seared Kaisen Don (seafood rice). While the set already comes with a salad, a few sides, and miso soup, you can add on a drink and a custard pudding (on limited supply) for a complete meal. That should leave you satisfied for hours!
Uoharu, 7/F, M88, Wellington Place, 2-8 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2217 8880
3. Treehouse
If you’re on the hunt for wholesome wraps, bowls, and burgers made with love, then you need to make a visit to Treehouse. With a completely vegetarian and vegan menu, you can choose from one of their signature combos (we love the Banyan and the Sakura) or design your own flatbread or salad bowl, filled with all your fave ingredients, like quinoa, tofu, eggplant, kale, and more. Don’t miss out on the sweet potato fries and the selection of sweets and fresh juices, too.
Treehouse, Shop 1, Ground Floor, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 3791 2277
4. R&R Bagels
Calling all lovers of bagels! Check out R&R Bagels in Central for lunch. The cafe caters to meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegan diets. Take your pick among a range of freshly made-to-order bagels like the English Breakfast that features pan-cooked omelette and smoky bacon; Bacon Jam BLT, made with R&R’s signature bacon jam and smoky bacon; and The Vegan, a healthy favourite featuring R&R’s house hummus and topped with arugula, coconut, almonds, and more. Pick up a drink as well to wash it all down.
R&R Bagels, G/F, 28 Li Yuen Street West, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2178 5168
5. Huong Vi Quan Viet Bac Vietnamese Flavor
This Vietnamese restaurant is tucked away along one of the side streets that branches out from Queen’s Road Central. Seek your way to Huong Vi Quan Viet Bac for a quick and no-fuss dining experience – ideal for workers on the go. Whether you’re craving crunchy spring rolls or a classic beef pho, this eatery has you covered. Psst, try to arrive early, as this place tends to get crowded during lunch hours!
Huong Vi Quan Viet Bac Vietnamese Flavor, Shop E, G/F, Willy Commercial Building, 28-36 Wing Kut Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2907 4955
6. Cornerstone
This little gem from Shane Osborn (the man behind Arcane) is a must-try for both lunch and dinner. Cornerstone Express offers a lunch menu that takes the hassle (and time) out of ordering, offering an appetiser and a main that changes weekly. Crafted from the freshest sustainable ingredients, expect seasonal delights that’ll make you happy and satisfied.
Cornerstone, 49 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, p. 6809 9771
7. Orka Restaurant, Bar & Cafe
In search of a healthy lunch in Central? Orka will be the ideal spot. Aiming to provide delicious and nutritious meals for vegans and non-vegans alike, this cafe and restaurant offers a two-course Healthy Set Lunch Menu, featuring the Cream of Cauli Soup and Falafel and Hummus Plate to start with, followed by a choice of mains such as Peruvian Chicken Breast, Salmon Couscous Delight, and Vegan Tagliatelle Pasta, and more. Add on desserts and drinks to make an even more filling meal. Want something a little different? Orka also has an extensive all-day menu available from 12 to 6pm, with gourmet burgers made with house-made patties and superfood-infused buns; wholegrain sourdough wraps; and more to keep you going for the rest of the day.
Orka Restaurant, Bar & Cafe, G/F, 36 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 3489 1217
8. Frenchies
When it comes to lunch in Central, you can’t go wrong with a toastie from Frenchies. Located along Hollywood Road, this quaint neighbourhood cafe offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, toasties, and coffee. All the fillings are stellar here, but we especially recommend the Chicken and Brie with Truffle Toastie and the Mushroom and Spinach Toastie.
Frenchies, G/F, 39 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
9. Spiga
A main course, plus unlimited salads and desserts? Yes, you can satisfy your huge cravings at Spiga’s lunch buffet. Smoked salmon, parma ham, coffee tart, coconut cream… There are a variety of appetisers and sweets that go well with the extensive list of mains. We know it’s tempting to try everything at the buffet, but make sure to leave some space for the pizzas and homemade pastas!
Spiga, 3/F, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2871 0055
10. Tsim Chai Kee Noodle
For another quick and easy lunch spot in Central, check out Tsim Chai Kee Noodle on Wellington Street. This local cha chaan teng-style noodle joint offers a simple menu. You can order a hearty bowl of soup noodles with one or two of three topping choices: dace balls, shrimp and pork dumplings, and sliced beef. What’s more, with such a straightforward menu, this is the best time to practise your lingo skills by ordering in Cantonese! Finally, remember to bring cash, as Tsim Chai Kee doesn’t take cards.
Tsim Chai Kee Noodle, Shop B, G/F, 98 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2850 6471
11. Croque
Croque is another prime spot for sandwiches for lunch in Central. This lively eatery combines the flair of French cuisine with the down-to-earth nature (and price tag!) of any neighbourhood bakery. Chow down on signatures like The Classic with cooked ham, emmental cheese, Mornay bechamel, and pickles. On the other hand, vegetarian options like the Veggie Trotter are equally appetising. And don’t forget to leave room for dessert – Croque’s take on the classic Hong Kong-style French toast is to die for. Talk about toast-ception!
Croque, 78 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 5607 5586
12. Basehall and Basehall 02
Not sure if you’re craving for a hearty bowl of noodles or an indulgent burger? Head to Basehall and its counterpart, Basehall 02. This food hall presents a diverse line-up of vendors, ranging from Moyo for Korean grub; Benko by Nüte for healthy options; Porker for juicy Japanese tonkatsu; Bengal Brothers for vibrant Indian street food; and more. In addition to the variety of options, we love the friendly, casual vibe here.
Basehall, LG/F, Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong
13. Bedu
Fancy some middle-eastern delights for your lunch? Try the weekday lunch set at Bedu, which offers a starter and a main. The Grilled Baby Squid with basil and coriander hummus is a good choice to start with, but we simply can’t pick a favourite for the mains! Opt between Grilled Chicken, Garlic Prawn Mujaddara, and Roasted Local Eggplant. Finally, if you’ve got room for dessert, the Baghlava Millefeuille is the perfect way to round off your lunch.
Check out our full review on Bedu.
Bedu, 40 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong
14. Nood Food
Looking for a light but tasty lunch in Central? Find Nood Food on Hollywood Road, serving great salads, tender chicken pieces, vegetable soup, fresh fruit smoothies, and cold-pressed juices. Sit inside the brightly lit cafe and enjoy the street view, or take away your lunch in recyclable containers.
Nood Food also makes it to our guide of best juice bars in Hong Kong.
Nood Food, 2/F, Kinwick Centre, 32 Hollywood Road, SoHo, Central, Hong Kong, p. 8199 8189
15. Morty’s Delicatessen
Sandwiches are a classic lunch option, and Morty’s Delicatessen in Jardine House delivers. Find smoked meat sandwiches like Classic Pastrami and the California, as well as speciality sandwiches like Smoked Truffle Chicken; Egg Salad and Pickled Tomato; and The Ultimate Grilled Cheese. Every sandwich also comes with your choice of side (French fries, anyone?) and unlimited pickles – talk about a great lunch in Central!
Morty’s Delicatessen, Shop 12-14, LG/F, Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong, p. 3665 0900
16. Mak Mak
When it comes to the best lunches in Central, what list would be complete without this joint? Head over to Landmark for some great Thai food at Mak Mak. This restaurant not only caters to meat eaters, but also has menu items that will appease every vegan needs. Get your classics in like Tom Yum Goong, Pad Thai, and green curry. We definitely recommend their pomelo salad and their wok-fried crispy soft crab. Moreover, the grab-and-go station out the front has a selection of curries, stir-fries, and sweets for those looking for an easy lunch on the go.
Mak Mak also makes it to our list of restaurants with secret vegan menus, so that the whole crew can be fed.
Mak Mak, Shop 217A, 2/F Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2983 1003
17. Uma Nota
Bringing the flavour (and value) to your lunchtime, Uma Nota’s weekday lunch concept is a must-try for those who love fresh and tasty cuisine with friendly service to boot. From 12 to 3pm, enjoy unlimited starters to share, followed by a main, with choices such as Ipanema Baby Back Ribs, Roasted Salmon, and Beef Donburi. Add a sweet treat, coffee, or tea, and you’ll be all refreshed to bring your A-game back to work in the afternoon.
Uma Nota, 38 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2889 7576
18. Barkada
Experience an exciting gastronomic adventure at Barkada, Central’s latest modern Filipino dining sensation. Founded by Filipina-American cookbook author Jen Balisi in collaboration with Singular Concepts, Barkada – meaning “group of friends” in Filipino – welcomes you to a unique blend of authentic and globally inspired Filipino flavours. The menu, inspired by the Filipino tradition of “pulutan” (small plates designed to be enjoyed with beverages), offers a diverse array of regional classics and inventive spins on traditional dishes. Catering to various dietary requirements, Barkada’s lunch selection ranges from vegetarian options to hearty Filipino classics.
Barkada, UG/F, 46-48 Cochrane Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2663 0238
19. The Pizza Project
The affordable weekday lunch set at The Pizza Project got us feeling fusilli! Plunge into your favourite Italian comfort foods from 12 to 3pm. While the menu changes weekly, there will always be an appetiser, a classic pizza of your choice, and a dessert to make lunch hour worth looking forward to (even more). You may have to throw in a couple extra bucks if you plan on going for the Carbonara Pizza – but it’s worth it!
The Pizza Project made it into our list of the best pizzas in Hong Kong.
The Pizza Project, G/F, 26 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2311 1815
20. The Monogamous Chinese
Tucked away beneath the Mid-Levels escalator, you’ll find a gem of a lunch spot in Central: The Monogamous Chinese. This restaurant serves up a blend of Sichuan and Peking cuisine in a setting that exudes a unique charm. The interior marries retro 1950s style with modern aesthetics, featuring traditional decor accentuated by contemporary artworks. We can’t help but admire the vibrant mixed-media image of a Chinese opera singer and the striking portrait of Chairman Mao, crafted entirely from patrons’ business cards! With affordable three- and four-course lunch sets that come with jasmine tea, The Monogamous Chinese brings classic dishes like Mapo Tofu, Dan Dan Mian, and Xialongbao to your table.
The Monogamous Chinese, G/F, 59 Caine Road, Mid-Levels, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2523 2872
[This article was originally published in May 2018 and updated in 2024 by Celia Lee.]
