Home-grown and unmistakably homey, Venner in Sheung Wan brings a touch of Norwegian culture to the heart of Hong Kong.
As a certified coffee lover, I’m always on the lookout for an exceptional cuppa around town, from locally roasted beans to new cafe openings. My recent favourite is Venner, a Nordic-inspired neighbourhood cafe in Sheung Wan that’s won me over with quality brews, interesting Nordic sweet treats, and a laid-back ambience that offers a welcome respite from Hong Kong’s fast-paced life.
An honest review of Venner
The location
Founded by romantic and work duo Elin Fu and Nelson Htoo, Venner occupies the former address of their previous venture, Hjem. Although both establishments share a distinctively Scandinavian theme, Venner represents a personal return to roots for Fu, who spent her formative years in Norway. For me, this genuine connection infuses Venner with an authentic warmth and hominess that elevates the welcoming Scandinavian hospitality that Hjem was known for, creating an atmosphere that genuinely makes you feel at home.
The concept
Venner, meaning “friends” in Norwegian, is a space Fu and Htoo cultivate to promote slow living in Hong Kong, where everything happens at lightning speeds. “Our concept is all about hanging out, meeting with friends, and catching up in the middle of the city,” Htoo explains. “I think when someone walks into Venner, we just want to make sure they feel like they belong here.”
While locals are more familiar with grab-and-go coffee concepts, there’s a growing appreciation for slower-paced coffee houses like Venner. As Fu shares, “In Nordic cafe culture, when you grab a coffee, it’s not so much about a quick coffee run. You go there to actually see your friends and to hang out.”
The drinks
As a big fan of Hjem’s unique drinks menu, I’m personally excited to see a few signatures carry over to Venner’s core offerings. The vibrant Honey Golden Oat Latte remains a personal favourite. This turmeric-infused drink surprises with its versatility, delivering a refreshing kick when served cold and a comforting warmth when enjoyed hot. Another highlight is Venner’s new signature, Matcha Coconut, that seamlessly marries the velvety richness of matcha and the refreshing kick of coconut water – a perfect summer drink.
The rich and smoky aromas of coffee permeate every corner of Venner. It’s great to know the delicious flat white I enjoy here is made from ethically produced farm-to-roastery green beans, prepared daily by the local Phoenix Roastery in Kwai Chung.
The food
As someone who’s had experience with commercial baking (Covid really made entrepreneurs of us all), I admire the effort Venner puts into its ingredient-forward food items. The Cinnamon and Cardamom Bun is a must-try – a soft, pillowy sourdough creation where every bite packs a spicy punch unmatched by other bakeries in town (so good I forgot to take a picture before scoffing mine down!). Only 24 portions of these buns are available on weekdays, and 48 are served on weekends, so I highly recommend arriving early to grab one before they’re gone!
Another highlight for me is the Cheesecake. This savoury delight is gooey, indulgent, and pairs exceptionally well with Venner’s collection of natural wines. Unlike your usual New York-style or Basque burnt variants, this cheesecake is made with a house-made berry preserve, goat cheese, and ricotta on a crumbly, knackebrod-like crust. While I had mine for dinner, I can easily imagine it being part of a hearty lunch or a decadent afternoon snack.
Venner: Your urban retreat
I’ve rushed by Venner’s aesthetically pleasing facade many times before finally stepping in – and I’m glad I did. It had been a particularly demanding week when I visited, and the cafe’s soft decor with warm hues, wooden accents, and attentive service offered a much-needed respite, allowing me to pause, reflect, and return to work with clarity and enhanced productivity. Whether you’re seeking a caffeine fix, a glass of wine, or simply a cosy spot to decompress, stop by Venner when you’re in the neighbourhood!
Venner
Must-try items: Golden Honey Oat Latte, Matcha Coconut, Cinnamon and Cardamom Bun, Cheesecake
Opening hours: Sun – Wed, 8am – 6pm; Thur – Sat, 8am – late
Address: Venner, 161 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Which spot should I review next? DM @honeycombershk on Instagram or drop me an email at celia.lee@thehoneycombers.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Venner to secure a table or try the popular Cinnamon and Cardamom Bun?
Given the cafe's "slow-paced" concept and small size, it's a good idea to visit during off-peak hours on weekdays, such as mid-morning or late afternoon, to secure a table. Since some items are only baked in limited quantities, it's recommended to arrive early, ideally soon after the 8am opening, to ensure you get one before they sell out.
What are some of the most unique and must-try items on Venner's menu?
Standout items you shouldn't miss include the Honey Golden Oat Latte and the seasonal Matcha Coconut for drinks, and the Cinnamon and Cardamom Bun and Cheesecake for food.
Does Venner take reservations, and is it a good spot for working?
While Venner is a welcoming and calm space to read or work, it's best to be mindful of its limited seating, especially during busier periods.
