Cover We're listing the best things you can eat, drink, and do in Whampoa (Photo: @hei_bor/Instagram)

Spend a day exploring this flourishing neighbourhood––from shopping at a boat-shaped mall, to feasting on delicious food, and unwinding at the promenade, we break down what to eat, drink and do in Whampoa

Whampoa is a bustling residential neighbourhood in Hung Hom. No longer under the radar, thanks to the MTR station opening and the ferry service to Central resuming––locals and tourists alike are flocking to this off-the-beaten-path destination.

The neighbourhood is the largest private housing estate in the district and was built on the site of the former Whampoa Dockyards. The estate's urban design is inspired by the Garden city movement, a method of urban planning where communities are surrounded by "greenbelts" which combines residences, industry, and agriculture.

Conveniently located near downtown Hong Kong, Whampoa is home to one of the most unique shopping malls out there and offers a variety of dining options with incredible sea views. To discover more of this thriving neighbourhood, we're breaking down the best things to eat, drink, and do in the area.

See also: The Tatler Guide To Hong Kong's Neighbourhoods

What To Eat And Drink

Beerliner German Bar & Restaurant

With travel on hold, you don't have to go all the way to Germany to get a taste of its food––you can have it right here in Hong Kong at Beerliner German Bar & Restaurant. There are a number of branches across the city but each one boasts a large open kitchen and a modest bar that resembles a microbrewery in Germany offering a casual dining spot complete with stylish surroundings. The restaurants serve an array of traditional German delights including roasted pork knuckle, Lachs Flammkuchen, and sausage platter. There are plenty of drinks available from classic German draught beers to schnapps and speciality cocktails.

Shop G10, G/F, Deli Place (Site 4), The Whampoa, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; facebook.com/BeerlinerGermanBarAndRestaurant

Wing Lai Yuen

This Michelin-recommended restaurant draws crowds because of its signature and much-loved Sichuan Dan Dan noodles. But on top of these scrumptious noodles, you can also dip into other Sichuan delicacies on top of their Shanghainese offering. If your tastebuds aren't made for spicy food, you can order the signature dish in non-spicy serving. Helmed by Mr Yeung Din-wu, whose ancestors were apprentice chefs of the Qing dynasty, give the food a little extra touch. Other favourites include the deep-fried marinade duck, sliced lion in spicy Sichuan sauce and steamed wax gourd with chicken soup.

Shop 102-105, 1/F, Site 8, Whampoa Gourmet Place, Whampoa Garden, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; winglaiyuen.com.hk

Sushi Man

A trip to Whampoa isn't complete without trying out the plethora of Japanese food it has to offer. And you can't go wrong with Sushi Man and its omakase dining. You can expect an intimate 10-seated counter in front of an L-shaped show kitchen. Get your hands on fresh seafood of the exquisite quality, prepared and served right before your very eyes. The restaurant is easy to miss because of its minimalistic entrance that blends in with the surroundings but it's just right across the MTR station. Afterwards, you can also browse through the many high-class Japanese goods over at AEON to complete your day filled with all things Japanese. 

Shop G22A, G/F, Site 11, Whampoa Garden, 6 Tak Hong Street, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; facebook.com/sushimanhk

NOC Whampoa

Coffee with a view? Head over to NOC Whampoa, a coffee shop blessing you with wonderful views of Victoria Harbour. Located near Hung Hom Ferry Pier, this coffee shop features an elevated island coffee bar––giving you a 360-degree view of how your coffee is brewed. The interior houses a selection of plants, which serves as a stark contrast to the minimalist palette of white, grey, and light wood. Try their signature No.18 House Blend or their seasonal single-origin espresso together with their line-up of nutritious and wholesome brunch serving.

Shop G42, G/F, Site 9, Whampoa Garden, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; noccoffeeco.com/en

Dockyard

Don't know what to order? Dockyard, Kerry Hotel's food court-esque styled dining area is the answer. Here, you'll be spoilt for choice because you get a bit of everything, from local Hong Kong classics, South East Asian dishes, healthy options, to savory desserts. After a great meal, have fun at the games area––foosball, billiards, and darts galore. Topping it all off is an outdoor area where you can dine or admire the stunning seaside views, perfect after chowing down a delicious meal.

Level 1, 38 Hung Luen Road, Hung Hom Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong; dockyardhk.com

Red Sugar

Another recommended spot at Kerry Hotel is Red Sugar which is a great choice for imbibing with a spectacular view. The restaurant-bar echoes the vibrant life of the city and pays homage to the local culture in its design––envisioned by famed architect, Andre Fu—by incorporating elements that spark Hong Kong nostalgia from metal shutters to custom-made bronze scaffolding. The expansive outdoor terrace features a good amount of greenery against the urban landscape. As you enjoy the beauty of Hong Kong's skyline, grab a tipple or two from the robust selection of whisky, barrel-aged cocktails, and craft beers.

7/F, Kerry Hotel, 38 Hung Luen Road, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; shangri-la.com/hongkong/kerry/dining/bars-lounges/red-sugar

K-Bap Korean Cuisine

Those looking to get their Korean food fix, K-Bap Korean Cuisine will satisfy your cravings. This authentic Korean restaurant serves all Korean comfort foods––from delicious finger-licking fried chicken, classic bibimbap, and of course, Korean barbecue. As with Korean food, expect some top-notch side dishes of good portion. For cheese lovers, you're in for a treat because they have a separate cheese menu just for you. Get the melted cheese on a hot plate complete with assorted selections on the top or the simple yet delicious cheesy kimchi fried rice.

G/F, 16 Man Siu Street, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; facebook.com/kbaphk

& Green Cafe

Tucked away in Hung Hom, & Green Cafe is the perfect place to unwind and chill. Exerting a cosy vibe, this three-function complex serves as a cafe, an events venue, and a working space. The cafe is big on sandwiches, curry rice and appeitising pancake, on top of a good selection of coffee and tea. The interiors are spacious and showcase a Japanese fused design coupled with some decorative artworks and green plants that give off a relaxing ambience. As an extra added treat, the cafe occasionally holds workshops and events such as free Japanese tea tasting.

Shop1B, G/F, Harbour Place, 8 Oi King Street, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; greencafe-coffeeshop.business.site

Moreish & Malt

"Our food is Moreish," is this restaurant's motto. And by that, they mean that the food is so good, you just want more. True to that, this restaurant located on the first floor of Hotel sáv serves impressive American-inspired dishes for anyone to enjoy. Their interiors mirror their two identities, dining (Moreish) and drinking (Malt). The food also doesn't disappoint with some American favourites including buffalo wings, your classic cheeseburger, Aglio Olio and a fine number of drinks from beer, wine, and signature cocktails. Whether you're looking for food to fill up your stomach or just need to sit down for a cup of coffee, Moreish & Malt is for you.

1/F, Hotel sáv, 83 Wuhu Street, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; moreishandmalt.com

What To Do

The Whampoa

Whampoa's most recognisable site, the large ship serves as the landmark to The Whampoa, a shopping complex that stretches over 1.4 million square feet. The large ship is a homage to Whampoa's former glory as one of the largest and busiest shipping docks in Asia.

Home to over 300 shops, The Whampoa is one of the largest shopping, dining, and entertainment centres in Kowloon. It comprises a combination of themed worlds–named accordingly to what they offer––Whampoa Gourmet Place, Fashion World, Home World, Treasure World among others. These separate shopping areas offer an array of fashion, beauty, entertainment, and dining facilities. The ship is mostly occupied by AEON, a Japanese grocery market that sells all the Japanese treats you can think of.

10 Shung King St, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; thewhampoa.com/en/index.html

Jockey Club Innovation Tower

This Avant-grande building designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect, Zaha Hadid is arguably one of Hong Kong's most impressive structures. Home to the creative talents of Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s School of Design, the building is an artistic and architectural paradise. Not only does it flaunt Hadid's postmodernist style, but it also adds colour to Kowloon's stale landscape with its exteriors are just as amazing as its interiors. Head over here for a photo shoot or visit one of its special exhibitions that are host by artists or students of the school.

Hong Kong Polytechnic University, 11 Yuk Choi Rd, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; sd.polyu.edu.hk/en/j.c.-innovation-tower/the-architecture

Hung Hom Promenade

Take a scenic stroll at the Hung Hom Promenade and take in the beautiful harbour views. In for a workout? Start your run at the promenade which leads all the way over to Tsim Sha Tsui––one of the best running trails in the city. If you want to head over to Central or North Point or just want a relaxing ferry ride, the Hung Hom Ferry Pier is just a stone's throw away from the promenade.

Hung Hom Ferry Pier, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Kwun Yam Temple

There are a number of Kwun Yam temples in the city but the one in Hung Hom is the most famous. Built in 1873, the temple is dedicated to Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy. During World War II, Hung Hom suffered two rounds of bombing causing heavy casualties. However, the people who sought refuge at the temple were left unharmed and locals came to believe that they were spared thanks to Kwun Yam. The temple is designed in traditional Chinese architecture with the front hall shaped like a Chinese pavilion.

15 Station Lane, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Thunder Bowl

After a day of eating and indulging yourself with scenic views, head indoors and stretch your muscles at Thunder Bowl. Opening its doors in 2004, it's the first bowling alley in Hong Kong. Whether you're a novice or have plenty of experience, Thunder Bowl is a great hangout spot for a game. You can either bowl in one of the 22 modernised lanes or book a private room and play a round of pool. There are also two VIP rooms available complete with two lanes for exclusive party use. If you're an avid player, tournaments are held regularly.

Basement B1, Whampoa Gourmet Place (Site 8), Whampoa Garden, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; thunderbowl.com.hk

Lux Theatre

Take a trip down memory lane at Lux Theatre—the only remaining theatre in the city that still operates on a manual ticketing system so you can't reserve your tickets in advance, or online as they have to be bought in person. The ticket selection is made by choosing your seats on a printed seating plan that's taped to the counter instead of a computer screen.

The cherry on top might have to be the old equipment that was used during the 1960s–1970s that's still on display. The theatre opened in 1971, mostly showing Mandarin kung-fu films but now have expanded to English language films.

2J Bulkeley Street, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong; facebook.com/LuxTheatre

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