Though Hong Kong is spread over 250 islands, much of the action is located on the bustling metropolis of the central district. Still trying to figure out where to eat, sleep, and drink? We’ve detailed our favorite Hong Kong recommendation, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey!

STAY

J Plus by YOO is Hong Kong’s first boutique hotel, offering a lively, chic atmosphere for visitors looking to relax in style. Equipped with a gym, meeting spaces, cafés, and open-air terraces, J Plus is the perfect place to call home for the duration of your stay. Located in the bustling area of Causeway Bay, this hotel’s central location is ideal for first-time visitors to Hong Kong.  

TUVE is an iconic marriage of Hong Kong cool and Scandinavian design. Modeled after the snowy Swedish landscape, Tuve is sleek and impressive in its minimalism, while still retaining a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. The hotel also boasts a restaurant and amenities that include a minibar and devices with unlimited international data access. Located in Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay, the hotel is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city’s streets.  

For a taste of old-world charm, look no further than The Pottinger, which heralds memories of Hong Kong as it was in the 1950s. Bright and airy, the hotel is characterized by graceful architecture, thoughtfully-placed flower arrangements, and attentive employees. Situated in the heart of Hong Kong’s central district, the Pottinger is the perfect spot for visitors who are looking to be in the thick of the action but also want to return to a haven that serves as a wistful reminder of what the city once was.

FOOD

For the ultimate culinary experience in Hong Kong, visit Amber. It’ll be a pricey visit, but well-worth the extra money. Guests can choose from a degustation menu or an à la carte menu, and offerings include tiny, ornate, and extremely unique dishes (think oysters with plankton gel, or seawater and lemon jello). The restaurant also caters to vegetarians with an entire herbivore-friendly menu.

In search of the best wonton noodles in Hong Kong? Look no further than Mak’s Noodle, located at Wellington Street Central. Mak’s is rooted in Hong Kong’s history — the restaurant is run by family members of the famous Mak Woon Chi who was the first to introduce wontons to Hong Kong from their place of origin in Guangzhou. Lauded by many (including Anthony Bourdain) for their exemplary wonton, Mak’s is not to be missed.

Visiting Hong Kong without ordering seafood is a huge mistake. You’ll find exemplary dishes at Ronin, where seafood takes center stage and is prepared in a more traditional Japanese way. Dimly lit with rich colors and a mysterious vibe, dining at Ronin is an experience. Try the fried lotus root, taro, pumpkin, and turnip, then move onto the Shigoku oysters with cucumber water and Yuzukoshō. The saba mackerel sashimi with persimmon is also a great bet.  

SHOPPING

Shoppers looking to find brands sold exclusively in Asia will have a field day at Good Vibes Only Store, located in the industrial district of Kwun Tong. Head to the quirky space for collections of clothes, outerwear, and home goods from brands like Cashmerepullover, Nueden, ACU, and Approved. You’re sure to find a slew of fun outfits, or at least a few souvenirs to bring back home.

Athleisure (athletic gear + leisure wear) is having a moment, and Hong Kong seller Caelum Greene is well aware. Located on the well-trodden Hollywood Road, the Caelum Greene store brings a funky athleticism style to the population of this growing, modern city. Caelum Greene is the perfect place to pick up apparel that can easily transition from exploration to business casual.

DRINKS

If you’re looking to visit one of the best bars in Asia, Lobster Bar is your best bet. Go for the perfectly poured cocktails, elegant atmosphere, excellent service, or Sunday (lobster) brunch. If you decide to pop in for cocktails (and you should), sit at the curved bar, enjoy the ambiance set by nightly jazz performances, and browse their cocktail menu that harkens back to the heyday of hotel drinking.

For a cozy, casual night, Stone Nullah Tavern is the perfect place for a drink, date night, or outing with friends. Home to an assortment of American food, wines, and whiskeys, Stone Nullah briefly transports visitors back to the United States. Warm wooden interiors, soft lighting, and a well-stocked bar will make patrons feel right at home.