If you've been looking for a complete guide to Shek Tong Tsui, then you're in the right place
We’ve already given you the ultimate guide to Sai Ying Pun, Sheung Wan, and Wong Tai Sin, so it’s time for another neighbourhood deep-dive. If you agree that west is best, then you’ll want to get acquainted with our guide to Shek Tong Tsui, the little hood sandwiched between SYP and K-town that we love.
Guide to Shek Tong Tsui: Cafés
1. Brew Bros
This is where we go when we’re hungry for brunch in Shek Tong Tsui. The sister brand of the Sheung Wan original, Brew Bros serves perfectly brewed coffee and has a menu that any antipodean cafe fiend will love. Scrambled eggs with salmon and a side of smashed avo, anyone?
Brew Bros Coffee, 53 Hill Road, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2803 2323
2. Plantation by Teakha
The coolest little tea shop can be found in the neighbourhood too. Head over to Plantation by Teakha and spend some time sampling tea from across the world. The experienced staff can fill you in on all the details, and it’s the kind of place you’ll definitely want to linger.
Read our full review of Plantation by Teakha.
Plantation, 18 Po Tuck Street, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong, p. 3482 2660, 西環西營盤保德街18號
3. ARF Cafe
Mugs, mugs, and more mugs! This industrial-style cafe serves an impressive menu and if you’re stopping by, it’s a must to try their waffles (the sea salt caramel cafe ooof!). Pair it with a unique blend of charcoal latte or cappucino brulee (you can add extra flavours for just five bucks).
ARF Cafe, 23 Po Tuck Street, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2548 3261
4. Artisan Room (CLOSED)
Our fave cafe in Shek Tong Tsui, Artisan Room makes a great cup of coffee and also has a selection of sweet treats for when you’re feeling naughty. Grab a seat outside under the umbrellas and while away the afternoon with friends.
Artisan Room, 8 South Lane, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong
Guide to Shek Tong Tsui: Restaurants/Bars
1. No Milkshake No Life (NMNL)
Milkshake fans are going to want to get here quick. A popular spot with the neighbouring HKU students, NMNL serves up tasty milkshakes (our fave is Peanut Butter) and a selection of dishes for brunch, lunch and dinner. Try the buttermilk bacon pancakes or indulge with a grilled cheese in hand.
No Milkshake No Life, G/F, 31-37 Hill Road, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 6471 3339
2. Jiang’s Hunan Chef
Serving up a selection of spicy (and some non-spicy) Xiang cuisine, Jiang Hunan Chef is one of fave places to eat in Shek Tong Tsui. Book with a group and sample as many dishes as you can, the friendly staff can make suggestions so that everybody is happy. We love the stir-fried clams with black bean sauce, the eggplant and long beans, and all the different kinds of greens.
Jiang’s Hunan Chef, Fu Ga Building, 13 Yat Fu Lane, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 3956 8873
3. Po Lin Yuen Vegetarian
This is THE place for takeout Cantonese-style vegetarian food in Shek Tong Tsui. Grab a box of the gluten meats (including sweet and sour and Peking duck) and tuck into some dim sum, including dumplings, bean curd rolls, and cakes. They also have a full menu of deliciousness; we particularly love the salt and pepper mushrooms and the Buddha’s Delight with noodles.
Po Lin Yuen Vegetarian, 604 Queen’s Road West, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2517 1178
4. The Junk Yard Dog
This little bar is the afterwork hangout for most in Shek Tong Tsui. It’s all about cheap and cheerful drinks and a casual feel here, with customers spilling onto the street on busy nights.
The Junk Yard Dog, Shop 1A, 14-16 Woo Hop Street, Shek Tong Tsui (entrance on South Lane), Hong Kong, p. 2817 7898
5. Cafe Malacca
Without a doubt, Cafe Malacca serves some of the best Malaysian food in Hong Kong. This restaurant tucked away inside Hotel Jen Hong Kong (see below) serves up all your faves, including laksa, mee goreng, and nasi lemak. The pandan crepes are a perfect way to finish off your meal.
Café Malacca, 508 Queen’s Road West, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2213 6613
6. Saam Hui Yaat
On our list of best dim sum in Hong Kong, Saam Hui Yaat is a popular local hang out that serves tasty Cantonese fare. While the menu is written entirely in Chinese, you can easily point to what everyone else is having. Be sure to try the har gow.
Saam Hui Yaat, 11 Pok Fu Lam Road, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p.2547 3917
7. COBO House by 2am Dessert Bar (CLOSED)
Definitely the fanciest menu on our list, COBO House creates an array of beautiful and delicious dishes, using herbs from their own rooftop garden. Enjoy a selection of pastas, before tucking into the main event: dessert! This is where you go to take Instagram pictures that will wow your followers. Try Pop Mountain, a tall mountain of popcorn with corn ice cream or sample the deep-fried tofu ice cream with brownie waffle; whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.
COBO House by 2am Dessert Bar, G/F & 1/F, 8-12 South Lane Sai Wan, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2656 3088
Guide to Shek Tong Tsui: Gyms
1. CrossFit Cavaliers
Looking to get shredded in Shek Tong Tsui? The team at CrossFit Cavaliers will get you into shape in no time with their classes to suit everybody.
CrossFit Cavaliers, 533 Queen’s Rd W, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, p. 6413 9938
2. Ursus Fitness
Get in shape at Ursus Fitness. Offering strongman, bear camp, boxing, and mobility training, the professionals here will have you shredded in no time, and best of all you’ll be having fun too.
Ursus Fitness, Units 2-4, GF, 64-68 Pok Fu Lam Road, Hong Kong, p. 2803 2774
3. Goji Elite (CLOSED)
Head over to Goji Elite for a range of classes, including Muay Thai, boxing, HIIT, and circuit training. It’s conveniently located next to Yata supermarket so you can grab some healthy things for dinner on the way home too.
Goji Elite, Shop 118, Floor 1, Hong Kong Plaza, 188 Connaught Rd W, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong
Guide to Shek Tong Tsui: Shopping
1. Ethos
Part lifestyle store/part cafe, Ethos is one of our favourite places in Shek Tong Tsui. The store stocks a selection of refined and elegant brands from designers across the globe, with particular emphasis on pieces by Asian designers. You’ll find bags, watches and gorgeous homewares here.
Ethos, 93-99 Hill Road, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 5403 0543
2. Wellcome Superstore
You may think it strange to have Wellcome on the list here, but here us out. This isn’t your average garden variety Wellcome: no, no, no. This Superstore is huge and has everything (or at least most things) you need all in one place. Looking for refried beans? They got those! In the mood for baking up a storm? The Superstore has you covered. Plus, their booze section is gigantic, so there’s that.
Wellcome Superstore, 8 Belcher’s St, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong
3. Shek Tong Tsui Market
If you live in the area, then this is where you will want to go for all your veggie needs. You can do your weekly haul here for less than half of the price of the supermarket, and the vendors often throw in extras for you to try. There’s also a great Thai stall on the upper levels that has all your herbs and spices for any Thai meal.
Shek Tong Tsui Market, 470 Queen’s Road West, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong
4. Yata
Oh, Yata! How we love thee. This Japanese supermarket is spread over two floors with candy, chips, booze, and drinks on the lower levels and fresh things on top. We love Yata because you find a selection of products you can’t anywhere else, including loads of frozen vegan brands, a selection of unique fish/seafood products, and an interesting array of Koran, Japanese, and Taiwanese goods.
Yata, 188 Connaught Road West, Sai Wan, Hong Kong
Guide to Shek Tong Tsui: Things to do
1. The University of Hong Kong
Be sure to take a visit to the historic University of Hong Kong during your visit to Shek Tong Tsui. Founded in 1911, it’s the oldest tertiary institution in town and has history of excellence in Medicine, English, and Research.
The University of Hong Kong, 90 Bonham Road, Hong Kong
2. Instagram Pier
So famous, it’s now known as Instagram Pier, this pier is stunning no matter what time of day you visit. We particularly like to go down and watch the sunset here.
Take a look at our guide to best Instagram spots in Hong Kong too.
West District Public Cargo Depot (AKA Instagram Pier), 8 Fung Mat Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
3. Central and Western District Promenade
Connecting Instagram Pier with Central and beyond, you can now walk all the way from Kennedy Town to Central along the waterfront. Along the way, you’ll find a range of play areas, green space for picnics, and stunning views of the harbour.
4. Kennedy Town Swimming Pool
With both indoor and outdoor pools, this is the newest public pool in Hong Kong and is a wonderful facility in the neighbourhood. There’s even two hot pools for when you need a touch of relaxing.
Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, 2 Sai Cheung Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong
5. University Museum and Art Gallery
Home to a selection of prints, ceramics, sculptures, and paintings, this is an art gallery we enjoy spending time at. Along with the collections, regular exhibitions happen here that are often quite different and immensely enjoyable.
University Museum and Art Gallery, 90 Bonham Road, University of Hong Kong
6. Juju Flowers
Looking for some blooms in Shek Tong Tsui? Juju Flowers has everything from bunches to baskets (and everything in-between). They even host workshops such as floral art, ikebana, and wreath-making during the festive season.
Juju Flowers, Shop 2-3, Jadeview Court, 38 Hill Road, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2521 9911
7. St. Anthony’s Church
This Grade II historic building is a popular piece of architecture in the area. With its yellow exterior, it stands out from its location and is a Catholic church frequented by many. Originally, it was built in 1864 by the priests of Milan Mission, but has morphed and changed over the years to cope with growth in parishioners.
St. Anthony’s Church, 69A Pok Fu Lam Road, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2546 6221
Guide to Shek Tong Tsui: Hotels
1. Hotel Jen Hong Kong
A contemporary brand from Shangri-La, Hotel Jen Hong Kong is a great place to stay in Shek Tong Tsui. From the rooftop pool to the club lounge with sweeping views of the harbour, they have everything you need for the perfect HK vacay.
Read our full story on Hotel Jen Hong Kong.
Hotel Jen Hong Kong, 508 Queen’s Road West, Western District, Hong Kong, p. 2213 6626
2. West by Oootopia
Introducing our world in Oootopia West: a sleek and cozy lifestyle that also brings you all the luxuries and comfort that you desire in a home.
Posted by Oootopia Hong Kong on Friday, April 24, 2020
These serviced apartments are heavenly! You’ll need to book for a minimum of a month here, but you’ll love the interior design and proximity to everything you need. There are four different room types here, each of which includes a Murphy Bed to make use of the space.
West by Oootopia, 10 Yat Fu Lane, Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong
3. One Eight One Hotel & Serviced Residences
With amazing views of the harbour and elegant contemporary interiors, One Eight One Hotel & Serviced Residences is a boutique hotel with 183 guest rooms. The Common Room is a gastropub serving a selection of British dishes all-day, while The Tea Room offers a selection of Hong Kong-style favourites.
One Eight One Hotel & Serviced Residences, 181 Connaught Road West, Sai Wan, Hong Kong, p. 3181 1688
