China
A really chilled out restaurant in Wahchai. Great for Sunday brunch. Fabulous old building and close to Wanchai MTR.
62 Johnston Road, Hong Kong
+852 2866 3444
Google map: bit.ly/sEZ6NY
This Chinese Restaurant is in North Point, a stone's throw from Wing Hing Street and the public toilet and refuse tip, but don't let that put you off. It's in a side street and under a bridge and doesn't look much from the outside, but the food is terrific and cheap too. They serve decent wine that's not expensive and is full of locals. Try the beef with peppers and onions in black bean sauce.
9 Tsing Fung St Tin Hau
+ (852) 2571 0913
Google map: bit.ly/pg1D5Q
The views are amazing. It's on the 118th floor of the Ritz Carlton and although the prices for a glass of wine are London prices, you can nurse a glass all evening and enjoy spectacular views of Victoria Harbour as the sun goes down.
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/HongKong/Dining/ozone/Default.htm
International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong
+(852) 2263 2263
Google map: bit.ly/nPeS5I
This beautiful wooden nunnery, nestled up against lush green hills and looked down on by Hong Kong's ubiquitous tower blocks, was - apparently - constructed without using a single nail. It also serves up a mean plate of veggie noodles. Saunter round the immaculate gardens, keeping your eyes peeled for the waterfall. Find your way behind the cascades of water for a delicious meat-free set meal. Don't forget to seek out the gift shop before you leave, choc-full of nunnery produced goodies.
Chi Lin Vegetarian, Nan Lian Garden, 60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Kowloon
+852 2329 8811
www.nanliangarden.org
Diamond Hill MTR station
A scenic tram trip to the top of the island, Coca-Cola, vegetarian food and serenity - all for a reasonable price.
Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Walk up if you're able or take the Ngong Ping 360 Tram.
www.np360.com.hk/
Google map: tinyurl.com/34x3uoa
Music, color, laser lights and all for free. wayfarersall.net/2010/07/13/the-symphony-of-lights-victoria-harbor/
8 p.m. every night
Best place to watch: Victoria Harbor, Kowloon
Google map: tinyurl.com/3yc2n8p
It's got a spectacular view of Kowloon - both by day and also at night - when the neon signs light up the Tsim Sha Tsui shopping district. Part of the top floor health club for guests, this is a great place to relax, unwind and keep fit when enjoying a visit to Hong Kong, and it gives a fresh perspective on the place.
8 Peking Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
hongkong.langhamhotels.com
Tel: (852) 2375 1133
Google map: tinyurl.com/32kacuf
I had seen this restaurant recommended for its crispy Peking Duck on the Grauniad website and in a couple of books. Went twice when I was in Hong Kong recently. Fantastic place with a great atmosphere and friendly staff and the duck really is to die for.
Full of locals which is generally a good sign. Advance booking recommended - turned up on spec one night and couldn't get in.
42 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Nearest MTR station Tsim Sha Tsui East)
Most visitors to Hong Kong would be forgiven for thinking that this "Special Administrative Region" of China is entirely urbanised. The New Territories actually make up the majority of the land area, of which vast areas are lush woodlands.
Sai Kung Town is located in the east of the region. It is famous for its seafood, which is impressively displayed outside the harbourside restaurants and on the small fishing boats, some of which offer paid fishing trips. The town has a much more laid-back feel than its urban cousin and is a welcome retreat.
Sai Kung region, New Territories
First went there in the 70s and again in the noughties. Fantastic, authentic food with crispy duck to die for
42 Mody Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Nathan Rd.)
Hong Kong
2723-3637
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