{"id":230072,"date":"2025-08-11T09:00:38","date_gmt":"2025-08-11T01:00:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thehoneycombers.com\/hong-kong\/?p=230072"},"modified":"2025-08-15T10:04:45","modified_gmt":"2025-08-15T02:04:45","slug":"honey-reviews-venner-hong-kong","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thehoneycombers.com\/hong-kong\/honey-reviews-venner-hong-kong\/","title":{"rendered":"Honey Review: Venner, a Nordic coffee cove in Sheung Wan"},"content":{"rendered":"

As a certified coffee lover, I\u2019m always on the lookout for an exceptional cuppa around town, from locally roasted beans<\/a> to new cafe openings<\/a>. My recent favourite is Venner<\/a>, a Nordic-inspired neighbourhood cafe in Sheung Wan<\/a> that\u2019s won me over with quality brews, interesting Nordic sweet treats, and a laid-back ambience that offers a welcome respite from Hong Kong\u2019s fast-paced life.<\/p>\n

An honest review of Venner<\/h2>\n

The location<\/h3>\n
\"venner
Photography: Johanna Yan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Founded by romantic and<\/em> work duo Elin Fu<\/a> and Nelson Htoo<\/a>, 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.<\/p>\n

The concept<\/h3>\n
\"concept\"
Photography: Johanna Yan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Venner, meaning \u201cfriends\u201d in Norwegian, is a space Fu and Htoo cultivate to promote slow living in Hong Kong, where everything happens at lightning speeds. \u201cOur concept is all about hanging out, meeting with friends, and catching up in the middle of the city,\u201d Htoo explains. \u201cI think when someone walks into Venner, we just want to make sure they feel like they belong here.\u201d<\/p>\n

While locals are more familiar with grab-and-go coffee concepts, there\u2019s a growing appreciation for slower-paced coffee houses like Venner. As Fu shares, \u201cIn Nordic cafe culture, when you grab a coffee, it\u2019s not so much about a quick coffee run. You go there to actually see your friends and to hang out.\u201d<\/p>\n

The drinks<\/h3>\n
\"venner
Photography: Celia Lee (left), Johanna Yan (right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As a big fan of Hjem\u2019s unique drinks menu, I\u2019m personally excited to see a few signatures carry over to Venner\u2019s core offerings. The vibrant Honey Golden Oat Latte<\/strong> 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\u2019s new signature, Matcha Coconut<\/strong>, that seamlessly marries the velvety richness of matcha and the refreshing kick of coconut water \u2013 a perfect summer drink.<\/p>\n

The rich and smoky aromas of coffee permeate every corner of Venner. It\u2019s 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<\/a> in Kwai Chung.<\/p>\n

The food<\/h3>\n
\"cinnamon
Photography: @vennerhk (via Instagram) (left), Johanna Yan (right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As someone who\u2019s 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<\/strong> is a must-try \u2013 a soft, pillowy sourdough creation where every bite packs a spicy punch unmatched by other bakeries<\/a> 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\u2019re gone!<\/p>\n

Another highlight for me is the Cheesecake<\/strong>. This savoury delight is gooey, indulgent, and pairs exceptionally well with Venner\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Venner: Your urban retreat<\/h3>\n
\"venner
Photography: Celia Lee<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I\u2019ve rushed by Venner\u2019s aesthetically pleasing facade many times before finally stepping in \u2013 and I\u2019m glad I did. It had been a particularly demanding week when I visited, and the cafe\u2019s soft decor with warm hues, wooden accents, and attentive service offered a much-needed respite, allowing me to pause, reflect, and return to work<\/a> with clarity and enhanced productivity. Whether you\u2019re seeking a caffeine fix, a glass of wine, or simply a cosy spot to decompress, stop by Venner when you\u2019re in the neighbourhood!<\/p>\n

Venner<\/h4>\n

Must-try items<\/strong>: Golden Honey Oat Latte, Matcha Coconut, Cinnamon and Cardamom Bun, Cheesecake
\nOpening hours<\/strong>: Sun \u2013 Wed, 8am \u2013 6pm; Thur \u2013 Sat, 8am \u2013 late
\nAddress<\/strong>: Venner, 161 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong<\/p>\n

Venner Instagram<\/a><\/p>\n

Which spot should I review next? DM @honeycombershk<\/a> on Instagram or drop me an email at celia.lee@thehoneycombers.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>

What is the best time to visit Venner to secure a table or try the popular Cinnamon and Cardamom Bun?<\/h3>

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.<\/p>\n<\/div>

What are some of the most unique and must-try items on Venner's menu?<\/h3>

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.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Does Venner take reservations, and is it a good spot for working?<\/h3>

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.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>