What to eat in Hong Kong in August: Seasonal delicacies
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Dim sum
Dim sum are bite-sized Cantonese dishes, from shrimp dumplings and siu mai to rice rolls and steamed cakes, usually shared over tea in the late morning. Families treat weekend dim sum as a social ritual. Try old-school trolley service at Lin Heung Tea House or budget Michelin baskets at Tim Ho Wan in Sham Shui Po.
Choosing live seafood from tanks and having it cooked to order is a classic Hong Kong experience. In coastal towns like Sai Kung, open‑air restaurants prepare steamed fish, typhoon shelter crab and clams in black bean sauce, while Temple Street’s dai pai dongs focus on stir‑fries. Prices are by weight, so always confirm cost before ordering.
Wonton noodles pair springy egg noodles with shrimp-filled wontons in a clear, fragrant broth made from dried seafood and pork bones. Locals eat it as a quick meal at any time of day. Mak’s Noodle on Wellington Street is a famous stop for compact bowls, while Ho Hung Kee in Causeway Bay offers a more modern, air‑conditioned setting.
Hong Kong-style milk tea blends strong black tea with evaporated milk, served in cha chaan teng diners and paired with snacks like egg tarts, pineapple buns and curry fish balls. Try milk tea with freshly baked egg tarts at Tai Cheong Bakery off Lyndhurst Terrace, then sample skewered fish balls from nearby street stalls in Central or Mong Kok.
Hong Kong’s bar scene ranges from casual craft beer pubs to experimental cocktail dens. Spots like Quinary in Central reinterpret local flavours such as milk tea into modern drinks, while beer bars pour local and imported brews. Prices include a service charge in many venues, and tipping beyond that is optional rather than expected.
Typhoon shelter crab is stir-fried with garlic, chili, and fermented black beans. Originally linked to fishing communities, it is now a staple of Cantonese seafood restaurants. While available year-round, it is commonly eaten during cooler evenings.
The pineapple bun contains no pineapple; its name comes from the crackled sugar crust resembling pineapple skin. Served warm with a thick slice of butter, it is a staple of Hong Kong bakeries and cha chaan teng cafés year-round.
August is the height of typhoon season, with sweltering heat and frequent storms. Tourism remains low, but cultural events like the Hungry Ghost Festival add unique experiences. Many attractions stay open in rain.
Pro tips for visiting Hong Kong in August
Typhoons can cause sudden closures—monitor weather and check attraction status.
Around the seventh lunar month’s 15th night, communities in Kowloon and the New Territories hold Chinese opera shows on bamboo stages and burn offerings for wandering spirits. The biggest celebrations in Kowloon City are recognized as intangible heritage. Visitors can watch performances and rituals but should keep a respectful distance from altar areas.
This indoor summer festival combines international e-sports tournaments, VR zones and evening concerts. Gamers watch live finals for titles such as PUBG or League of Legends, while families explore retro game exhibits. Tickets are required for entry and popular sessions can sell out, but it is fully air-conditioned, making it attractive in August heat.
For roughly two weeks in August, many Hong Kong restaurants join Restaurant Week, offering set menus at fixed prices. It is a chance to try mid‑range and fine‑dining spots, including some Michelin-listed venues, at reduced cost. Reservations are almost always required, and popular time slots book up quickly on the central booking platform.
On selected Friday and Saturday nights in August, The Grounds at AIA Vitality Park hosts open-air film screenings on a large LED screen. Guests sit in reserved pods with food and drinks available for order. Tickets are limited and weather-dependent, so check schedules and refund policies if storms are forecast.
Plan ahead: must-visit experiences for Hong Kong in August
