Read up on the best places to eat, shop, and explore in Mong Kok, where crowds, colours, and cultures collide.
Upbeat and always bustling, Mong Kok is at the centre of all the action in Kowloon. This hotspot is known for its numerous street markets with cheap places to buy electronics and knick knacks, late-night eats, and being a vibrant hub of Hong Kong’s street culture. While I’ve left the buzz of the neighbourhood behind for quieter, greener pastures in TKO, Mong Kok was my home for a brief yet memorable period. Whether you’re eager to explore the heart of Kowloon or have just learnt about “MK”, the notorious Hong Kong slang, follow me and navigate your way through the area in no time.
Your ultimate neighbourhood guide to Mong Kok
Mong Kok: The lore behind the “bustling corner”
Here’s a bit of culture trivia for ya: Did you know Mong Kok used to be called Mong Kok Tsui (芒角咀) before the 1930s? The area was named for the abundance of ferns (known as mong chou (芒草) in Cantonese) and the shape of its sharp coast before land reclamation. As the colonial government redeveloped most of Kowloon in the mid-1900s, many neighbourhoods acquired new names. Some stuck, some didn’t.
For instance, Prince Edward and Austin remained, with their Cantonese names being phonetic translations of their English names. On the other hand, Mong Kok was able to retain its indigenous name after a brief stint of being known as Argyle. As urban development gradually removed greenery in the area, authorities opted to change “mong” in Mong Tsui Kok to its homonym, “wong” (旺), while keeping its English name the same. Today, Mong Kok means “bustling corner”, which is an apt alias since it’s indeed always filled with hordes of people!
How to get to Mong Kok
As one of the busiest areas in Hong Kong, there are many ways to get to Mong Kok via public transport. The neighbourhood is conveniently connected to the MTR by the Tsuen Wan Line. If you’re coming from Central, hop on the train towards Tsuen Wan and simply get off at Mong Kok Station.
Various bus routes also run between Mong Kok and the rest of the city. If you’re coming from Island East, Bus 118 is your best bet, and from Island West, Bus 971. If you’re coming from East Kowloon, Bus 98C has proven to be faster than the MTR without traffic!
For more accurate information tailored to your trip, consider giving the MTR app, KMB app, or City Mapper a go.
Where to eat in Mong Kok: Best restaurants, cafes, and bars
1. For four-legged patrons: Poach
Is your fur baby tagging along for your neighbourhood exploration? Make your way to Poach for a pit stop. This pet-friendly cafe offers a diverse menu of sweet and savoury casual eats. Personally, I love kicking back with Poach’s signature Earl Grey Mochi Pancakes with your doggo in tow at the al fresco area.
Must-try dishes: Poach Bento, Pu’er Berries Tea Cocktail, Latte
Opening hours: 12 – 10pm every day
How much: Mains from $108
Address: Rooftop, 618 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
2. Casual cuppa and a bite: Grind Size
Fellow coffee fiends will love Grind Size, one of my favourite coffee shops in Mong Kok. This casual spot offers a laid-back atmosphere inside a minimalist interior. I’m a big fan of the Osmanthus Latte, but I’ve also heard good things about the cold brews. Whether you’re seeking a quick cuppa or a rejuvenating brunch spread, Grind Size has you covered.
Must-try dishes: Barbecued Iberico Pork Carbonara Tagliolini, Ricotta Cheese Sourdough, Avocado and Smoked Salmon Salad with Yuzu Vinegar
Opening hours: 12 – 10pm every day
How much: Starters from $68; mains from $98; drinks from $34
Address: G/F, 10 Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
3. Good vibes and out-of-this-world tipples: J.Moon
Savour unique cocktails in this luna-themed bar in Mong Kok! J.Moon is a local hotspot for drinks, small bites, and immaculate vibes. I’m over the moon about its wine-based Gemini cocktail, while J.moon and Taurus are notable signatures. And if you’re feeling peckish during your sip and yap session with friends, give its varied bar snacks and mains selection a try too.
Must-try items: Gemini, Cancer, All-day Breakfast, J.moon Pizza
Opening hours: Mon – Wed, 2pm – 12am; Thu, 2pm – 2am; Fri – Sat, 12pm – 2am; Sun, 12pm – 12am
How much: Cocktails from $128; starters from $68; mains from $128; desserts form 72
Address: Shop 10 – 11, 4/F, Pakpolee Commercial Centre, 1A – 1K Sai Yeung Choi Street South, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
4. Authentic Thai plates: Aroy Khao Man Gai
Mong Kok is where you’ll find some of the best Thai food in Hong Kong, second to offerings from Kowloon City’s Little Thailand. One of my faves is Aroy Khao Man Gai, a casual eatery offering authentic and value-for-money plates. The signature Pad Thai is a must-try, along with your usual Green Curry and Tom Yum Goong Soup being notable highlights.
Must-try dishes: Stewed Pork Knuckle, Spicy Minced Pork Lettuce Wrap, Grilled Whole Fish
Opening hours: 12 – 11pm every day
How much: Appetisers from $68; mains from $90
Address: G/F, 97 Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
5. Value-for-money bowls: Issyokemen (一生懸麵)
Craving a warming bowl of noods? Make your way to Issyokemen for some quality Japanese ramen! This hole-in-the-wall joint serves up value-for-money and delicious bowls that satisfy with vibrant flavours. Whether you’re in for a quick lunch, chill dinner, or even late-night feast, this joint has you covered.
Must-try dishes: Shiro Broth Pork Bone Ramen, Shrimp Tsukemen
Opening hours: 12 – 10pm every day
How much: From $72 per person
Address: G/F, 73 Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
6. Finger-licking goodness: Yadllie Plate
While TST is the undisputed centre of Korean food in Hong Kong, Mong Kok also has several gems for K-food lovers. Make your way to Yadllie Plate for some finger-licking Korean fried chicken! This restaurant serves a menu of traditional Korean grub alongside a variety of fried offerings. I always kick off a meal with a freshly made basket of Yadllie Fried Chicken, before diving into a Bossam Pork Platter when the temperatures are high, and a bubbling Budae Jjigae when I’m in need of something to warm up.
Must-try dishes: Yadille Fried Chicken, Bossam Platter, Fish Cake Magma Bowl
Opening hours: Mon – Thu and Sun, 12:30 – 10:30pm; Fri – Sat, 12:30 – 11pm
How much: Mains from $85
Address: 11/F, CTMA Centre, 1N Sai Yeung Choi Street South, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
7. A taste of Thailand: Sawadee Thai
Another popular Thai restaurant in Mong Kok, Sawadee Thai, offers a menu of classic Thai dishes in a laid-back and casual interior. A great spot for group dining, I always turn to Sawadee when I’m meeting up with friends and family for a meal in the area. I do recommend making a reservation ahead of time for groups of five or more, as the restaurant gets pretty packed during dinner and on weekends.
Must-try dishes: Stir-fried Flat Noodle, Beef Tendon and Brisket in Yellow Curry, Pineapple Fried Rice
Opening hours: 12 – 11pm every day
How much: Mains from $98
Address: 2/F, 726 Nathan Road, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
8. Fiery feast: Mala Hotpot
While I’m not usually a fan of spice, Mala Hotpot has made an impression with its unique dishes infused with the tingling touch of mala. This hot pot restaurant is laid-back and bustling during meal times, making it an ideal place to catch up with friends over a feast. Signatures include its stir-fried dishes and mala pot, which you can customise from an authentic mala soup base.
Must-try dishes: Signature Mala Pot, Stir-fried Spicy Seafood, Fried Fresh Chili and Frog
Opening hours: 11 – 2am every day
How much: Signature Mala Pot from $150; starters from $38; mains from $72
Address: G/F, 198 Portland Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Things to do in Mong Kok
9. Take a walk along Shanghai Street
A history lesson is due with any mention of Shanghai Street. Originally named Station Street for its intersection with Yau Ma Tei Police Station, it was renamed Shanghai Street in the 1900s when the colonial government began naming streets in Kowloon after the major ports that were trading with Hong Kong. Even until today, Shanghai Street is characterised by Guangdong-style tong lau and stands out in parallel to its neighbour, Nathan Road, where Western architecture and newer buildings dominate.
From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, Shanghai Street was a trading hub for Chinese goods and services. Shops included qipao tailors, feng shui fortune tellers, and pawn shops. Nowadays, Shanghai Street houses a mixture of residential tong lau, old shops, and contemporary lifestyle stores, introduced alongside a revitalisation project: 618 Shanghai Street. We recommend checking this place out during your visit to Mong Kok!
Best for: Culture lovers and admiring a piece of living history
Insider tip: Each time of day offers a different feel to Shanghai Street and adds to your experience
How to get there: Take the MTR Tsuen Wan Line to Mong Kok Station for Exit E1
10. Visit Goldfish Street and snap some pics
Goldfish Street is a section of Tung Choi Street in Mong Kok, home to one of the most famous street markets in Hong Kong (we’ll get to that later). This section is, of course, named for the goldfish vendor stalls lining both sides of the road. You might not be able to bring home a fish or two from Goldfish Street, but you certainly can pose for a picture with them. This place is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Hong Kong, so there’s no shame in getting snappy here!
Best for: Photographers and getting a taste of local culture
Insider tip: Do inquire about each stall’s policy on photographs before taking a picture and avoid flash photography
How to get there: Take the MTR Tsuen Wan Line to Mong Kok Station for Exit B3
11. Hunt for bargains at local markets
Mong Kok is where you’ll find some of the most frequented street markets in Hong Kong. Heading northeast from Mong Kok MTR Station will take you to Mong Kok Flower Market, where gorgeous blooms are on offer at wholesale prices. Going south towards Argyle Street will take you to Sneakers Street, where you’ll find stores selling branded shoes at fabulous discounts. Finally, Ladies Market lies on the southern end of Tung Choi Street and remains to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong.
Best for: Bargain finds and immersing yourself in local culture
Insider tip: If you’re trying to haggle, start at 30% of the selling price and settle for 60%
How to get there: Take the MTR East Rail Line to Mong Kok East Station for Exit D (Flower Market). Take the MTR Tsuen Wan Line to Mong Kok Station for Exit E2 (Sneakers Street) Exit B3 (Ladies Market).
Address: Mong Kok Flower Market, Flower Market Road, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Sneakers Street, 71 – 73 Fa Yuen Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Ladies Market, Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
12. Go shopping at Moko, Langham Place, or Grand Plaza
If you want to splurge in a glitzy mall, then Mong Kok is the neighbourhood for you. In the centre you have Langham Place, a one-stop shop for a variety of luxury international fashion and beauty brands. Complete with a series of dining destinations, Langham Place is a great pit stop during a day of neighborhood exploration.
For those seeking a more down-to-earth shopping experience, make your way to Grand Plaza. This old-fashioned mall offers a number of affordable fashion and beauty staples like Cotton On, Decathlon, and Mi Ming Mart. In addition, you’ll also find a couple of local eateries and jewellery specialists here.
And if you’re headed east, stop by Moko at Mong Kok East for an AC stop on a hot summer’s day. Not only does this mall stock all of your usual luxury brands, but it’s also less crowded than malls in central Mong Kok. What’s more, the walk from Mong Kok to Mong Kok East is sheltered if you make use of the footbridge between Mong Kok Road and Sai Yee Street, making it extra convenient for you to access Moko and its nearby train stations.
Best for: Shopping for bargain finds and high-end luxuries
Insider tip: Visit these destinations during the week to avoid crowds
How to get there: Take the MTR Tsuen Wan Line to Mong Kok Station for Exit C3 (Langham Place) or Exit E1 (Grand Plaza). Take the MTR East Rail Line to Mong Kok East Station for Exit C (Moko).
Address: Langham Place, 8 Argyle Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Grand Plaza, 625 & 639 Nathan Road, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Moko, 193 Prince Edward Road West, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Langham Place website Grand Plaza website Moko website
Which neighbourhood should I hop to next? DM @honeycombershk on Instagram or drop me an email at celia.lee@thehoneycombers.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get around Mong Kok, and what's the best way to navigate the busy streets?
Mong Kok is a very walkable district, and the best way to get around is on foot. The MTR (subway) is the most convenient way to get there, with Mong Kok and Mong Kok East stations serving the area. To navigate the crowds, it's often best to plan your route in advance, especially on weekends, and be aware of your surroundings as the streets can be very packed.
What's the main difference between shopping at the street markets and in the shopping malls?
The street markets, like Ladies' Market and Sneakers Street, offer a classic Mong Kok experience with a wide variety of goods, often at negotiable prices. Shopping malls like Langham Place and Moko, on the other hand, provide a modern, air-conditioned environment with fixed prices and a mix of international and local brands. The markets are great for unique souvenirs and bargains, while the malls are better for a more organised and comfortable shopping experience.
What are the must-try street food items in Mong Kok?
Mong Kok is a paradise for street food lovers. Some of the most popular items you should try include classic Hong Kong curried fish balls, egg waffles (which are a light and fluffy local snack), and fried skewers. The area around Fa Yuen Street and Tung Choi Street is particularly known for its abundance of street food stalls.
