Despite not containing any actual pineapples, we still love them to the moon and back. Here are our top picks of the best pineapple buns in Hong Kong.
Alongside cart noodles, dai pai dongs, and street food, we think the pineapple bun is one of the most iconic Hong Kong snacks. Much like Hong Kong-style breakfasts, the humble bao is a delicious fusion of Western and Chinese baking techniques. No doubt the best ones are usually from your neighbourhood bakery, with their nostalgic flavour, but we think these spots in town deserve a mention, too. Here’s where you can find the best pineapple buns in Hong Kong.
Our fave places to get pineapple buns in Hong Kong
1. Cheung Hing Coffee Shop
When it comes to pineapple buns in Hong Kong, you can’t go wrong with the ones from Cheung Hing Coffee Shop. This Happy Valley cha chaan teng has been baking up a storm since the 50s. Treat yourself to a freshly baked pineapple bun, paired with silky smooth Hong Kong-style milk tea. For extra indulgence, add a slab of butter to your bun, bo lo yau-style.
Cheung Hing Coffee Shop, G/F, 9-11 Yik Yam Street, Happy Valley, Hong Kong, p. 2572 5097
2. Red Bean Bakery
If you’re a pineapple bun lover like us, then Red Bean Bakery has just the thing for you. Its Giant Pineapple Bun recently went viral on social media, not only for its size, but for its delectable tastes, too. The 12-inch creation features a sweet and crunchy crust in a criss-cross pattern atop a fluffy bottom bun. Do keep in mind that this big bun requires pre-ordering with the bakery before it can be picked up from the stores.
Red Bean Bakery has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
3. V-8 Bakery
Craving the subtle sweetness of a freshly baked pineapple bun? V-8 Bakery in Sheung Wan is an ideal choice. This little bakery sits opposite the Sheung Wan Post Office and is frequented by workers in the area. Its pineapple buns are extremely wallet-friendly, going at under $10 a piece – perfect for a cheap breakfast or pick-me-up in the afternoon! V-8 refills its bread selection throughout the day, so you’ll find fresh items whenever you visit.
V-8 Bakery, Shop 8-9, G/F, 308 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, p. 2542 3890
4. Kam Wah Cafe
For an authentic pineapple bun, head over to Kam Wah Cafe in Prince Edward. This nostalgic local diner serves up some of the best pineapple buns in Hong Kong. Choose to have yours plain, with butter, or as a burger bun with various fillings.
Kam Wah Cafe, G/F, 47 Bute Street, Prince Edward, Hong Kong, p. 2392 6830
5. Cherry Bakery
It’s no secret that Yuen Long is home to many hidden gems – and Cherry Bakery is one of them. This neighbourhood bakery offers a diverse selection of Cantonese-style breads and pastries. Apart from pineapple buns, we also loved the bakery’s red bean glutinous cakes, fluffy sponge cakes, coconut rolls, and other quality local fare.
Cherry Bakery, 13 Yau San Street, Yuen Long, Hong Kong
6. Happy Cafe
A joint venture between historical bakery Happy Cake Shop and local cha chaan teng Shun King, Happy Cafe is the prime spot to sample classic Hong Kong food. You’ll find the pineapple bun featured in various dishes at Happy Cafe, from a Hong Kong-style all-day breakfast to a breakfast sandwich filled with gooey scrambled eggs and ham. Of course, you can also get your buns to go – simply order from the window counter on the shop’s facade.
Happy Cafe has locations in Causeway Bay and Sheung Wan.
7. Sam Chaan Cafe
Spice up your pineapple bun tasting experience at Sam Chaan Cafe! This retro cha chaan teng in Tsim Sha Tsui serves a menu of nostalgic Hong Kong dishes, such as baked pork chop rice, satay beef with rice, and Hong Kong-style French toast. You’ll also find a glammed-up version of the pineapple bun here: the Pineapple Bun Burger. Mouth-watering homemade beef patty is topped with jalapenos, cheddar, and bolognese sauce, and sandwiched between a freshly baked pineapple bun. If you love your bao savoury and sweet, this is the ultimate treat for you.
Sam Chaan Cafe, G/F, Tak Sing Alliance Building, 115 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2130 9302
7. Sleepy Head
Located in the Starstreet Precinct, Sleepy Head is a hip cafe serving up premium coffee and sandwiches with a distinct Hong Kong twist. On the menu, you’ll find drinks such as HK Milk Tea, as well as the beloved coffee and tea combo of HK Yuen Yeung. For food, go for the Pineapple Bun with Butter and choose between toffee coffee and cinnamon flavours. Alternatively, opt for the Char Siu Bolo Bun Sandwich for a hearty meal.
Sleepy Head, G/F, Shop C, 1-3 Moon Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, p. 6333 3514
