Can’t make heads or tails of the hype around Kai Tak? Here’s the scoop on Hong Kong’s up-and-coming cultural and lifestyle hub.
We don’t get a new neighbourhood popping up in our city every day! And that’s why Kai Tak has been all the buzz in Hong Kong lately. Originally home to Kai Tak Airport (Hong Kong’s very first), the area is now home to modern residential buildings alongside glitzy shopping malls, cycling tracks, and plenty of restaurants and cafes. Let our guide help you explore with ease.
A local’s guide to Kai Tak
A brief history
Did you know the Kai Tak Airport was the predecessor of the Hong Kong International Airport in Chek Lap Kok? In operation from 1925 to 1998, the airport and its runways, terminals, and arrival and departure halls occupied the neighbourhood we call Kai Tak today.
Although surrounded by relatively open space, nearby residential blocks and commercial buildings posed great difficulties for pilots trying to take off and land their planes back in the day. In fact, Kai Tak Airport was the hardest airport to land a plane in the world up until its closure! The generation that used to live near the airport still recall fond memories of playing on the rooftop of their apartment blocks while planes flew (dangerously) above their heads.
How to get to Kai Tak
As the neighbourhood is well connected with public transport, it’s easy getting there. Simply take the MTR and ride on the Tuen Ma Line for Kai Tak MTR Station. Alternatively, several buses and minibuses will also take you to your destination. Simply look for routes that go to Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Kai Tak Station (Muk On Street), or Concorde Road (opposite Kai Tak Community Hall).
Best Kai Tak restaurants
1. Yuk Mi Jeong Dam (DongBaekk)
Hankering for some quality Korean barbeque? Head over to Yuk Mi Jeong Dam. Originating from Busan, this joint is best known for its 1+ Grade Pork Belly, Marinated Galbi, and Jeju Iberico Pork Collar. Whether you’re sharing a meal with the gang or just treating yourself, you’ll definitely have a great time.
Check out other quality K-BBQ restaurants in Hong Kong (tried and tested by us, of course!).
Yuk Mi Jeong Dam, Shop L506, 5/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 2330 1028
2. Luna
Make your way to Luna for some elevated Chinese fare. This upscale tea house serves a variety of local faves, including dim sum and Cantonese-style dishes. Popular items include the Iberico Char Siu glazed with French longnan honey, and the Stewed Abalone and Three Yellow Chicken Pot. The King Crab Crispy Rice in Broth is sure to impress, too.
Check out other top dim sum restaurants and places to go yum cha in Hong Kong.
Luna, Shop L301-L302, 3/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 2882 9283
3. The Cipollini Pizzeria
From pizzas to pasta to freshly made gelato, you can have it all at The Cipollini Pizzeria. With a cosy and rustic atmosphere, there’s no better place to savour some quality pies over lunch or after a long day out. Whether you’re a fan of thick or thin crust pies, Cipollini has you covered. Its hand- and house-made pizzas come with a diverse array of toppings, with the limited-edition All-Star Pizza being a must-try. In addition, the restaurant also has a pet-friendly outdoor space where your four-legged friends can relax as you dig into a hearty meal.
The Cipollini Pizzeria, Shop G012, G/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong
4. Burger’s Friend Forever
Seeking quality burgers in the neighbourhood? Burger’s Friend Forever has you covered. This wallet-friendly eatery serves up quality, no-fuss meals. While you’ll find plenty of options on the menu, you can’t go wrong with the Black Truffle Wagyu Beef Burger and a side of fries.
Check out the best places for burgers in Hong Kong.
Burger’s Friend Forever, Shop 5, G/F, K.Summit, 9 Muk Tai Street, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 7074 1852
5. Master’s Cauldron
If you’re big fans of Peking Duck like us, you’ll love what Master’s Cauldron has to offer. Specialising in Peking and Shanghainese cuisine, this Chinese restaurant is famous for its Beijing-style Lamb, the Sichuanese classic Ants Climbing A Tree (stir-fried vermicelli with minced pork), and – of course – Peking Duck.
Head to the best Chinese restaurants in Hong Kong the next time the craving strikes.
Master’s Cauldron, Shop L602, 6/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 2881 8336
6. 3.3 Cafe
Now, it’s time for some quality local fare. 3.3 Cafe is where you can savour local fast food specials in the comfort of a stylish shopping mall. Tuck into Baked Pork Chop with Rice, Sizzling Mixed Steak set, or French Toast with Desicated Coconut while enjoying 3.3’s laid-back atmosphere.
You’ll love the comfort food at these famous cha chaan tengs in Hong Kong!
3.3 Cafe, Shop B127, B1/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Kowloon City, Hong Kong, p. 2568 8068
Best Kai Tak cafes
1. Grind & Brew
Drop by to Grind & Brew for your pick-me-up. Serving quality brews made from premium beans, this coffee shop is where you can lazily sip on a Flat White or Long Black. Do give Grind & Brew’s pastries and snacks a try if you feel peckish – you won’t be disappointed!
Grind & Brew, Shop L218B-L218C, 2/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 3468 6436
2. Good Day Solar
This spot is perfect for a light or late lunch. Good Day Solar serves up delectable cafe fare at affordable prices. Highlights on the menu include Miso Risotto with Crab Paste, Crab Meat, and Soft-shell Crab, Mango Sticky Rice Waffle, and the Classic Cheeseburger with Truffle Sauce.
Good Day Solar, Shop 11, 1/F, K.Summit, 9 Muk Tai Street, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 9291 4116
3. Zeni Rone
Sporting laid-back vibes and sleek interiors, Zeni Rone is our fave place to relax after a long day. Signature drinks include the Yuzu Espresso Tonic and Sea Salt Lime Soda, although our personal go-to is the Flat White (the basic stuff is the best sometimes!). Zeni Rone also does pet food for your four-legged friends, so make sure to bring them along.
Get ready for dog-spotting galore at these pet-friendly cafes in Hong Kong!
Zeni Rone, Shop G011, G/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 9448 0764
4. Gooca
Gooca is not just your usual coffee hideout; it’s also a camping-themed cafe complete with tents, camping chairs, and other camp- or glamp-related decor. Tuck into a mouth-watering Black Truffle Egg Sandwich or Pesto Sauce Sous Vide Chicken Breast Pasta as you lounge back around an artificial fire.
Gooca, Shop L117, 1/F, Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 6652 9636
Things to do in Kai Tak
1. Kai Tak Stadium
Move over, AsiaWorld-Expo – we have a new mega event venue in town! Skip the long journey at Kai Tak Stadium, a brand new arena that’s set to become Hong Kong’s best venue for concerts, festivals, and major sports events. Keep an eye out for upcoming shows and events (with Coldplay kicking things off in April 2025)!
Kai Tak Stadium, Kai Tak Sports Park, 38-39 Shing Kai Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 9592 2585
2. Kai Tak Cruise Terminal Park
Located on the waterfront, atop the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, this park is an urban oasis. With scenery of the ocean and city skyline, its central lawn is the ideal picnic location. Perch on the viewing platform to capture the panoramic vistas of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island.
Our other fave picnic spots in Hong Kong deserve a visit, too.
Kai Tak Cruise Terminal Park, 33 Shing Fung Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong
3. Airside
As the first landmark shopping mall to open in the neighbourhood, Airside pays homage to the old Kai Tak Airport in several ways. Not only does the name allude to flying, but you’ll also find plenty of installations and features around the mall that honour the area’s rich aviation heritage. Additionally, Airside houses a diverse range of shops and entertainment facilities such as Groundswell, an indoor surfing centre.
The best thing? Airside is pet-friendly! Take your pooch to these pet-friendly shopping malls in Hong Kong for a cute day out together.
Airside, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Hong Kong, p. 2686 0333
4. Kai Tak East Sports Centre
Want to play a few games of basketball or squash with your friends, but don’t want to splurge on rent for a sports venue? Kai Tak East Sports Centre might be just the place for you. This sports centre is managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), which means you can rent each facility by the hour at budget-friendly prices. Plus, there’s an indoor climbing wall for all aspiring Peter Parkers out there. You can book the venue online through LCSD’s booking site, Smartplay.
Here are more climbing gyms for you to conquer!
Kai Tak East Sports Centre, 30 Luk Hop Street, San Po Kong, Hong Kong, p. 2326 9940
5. The Twins I and II
A brand new shopping mall has just landed in Kai Tak! Expect The Twins to become a landmark in East Kowloon. The Twins Tower I opened in early November 2024 and houses a new Sogo, as well as a beauty-centred shopping area aptly named “Beauty Academy”. On the other hand, The Twins Tower II aims to offer a dynamic retail experience with a focus on lifestyle goods. It will highlight family-friendly brands and a diverse range of F&B outlets.
The Twins, 12 Muk Chui Street, Kai Tak, Hong Kong
