Restaurants that serve up Hong Kong nostalgia

Tai Lung Fung

This neighbourhood bar channels 1960s Hong Kong, with a pink neon sign and decor made from vintage Big A plastic toys. Even the name evokes nostalgia – it’s an old-fashioned expression that literally means ‘big dragon phoenix’, but actually refers to making a scene. 5-9 Hing Wan Street, Wan Chai

HAY!

Alongside a menu of regional Chinese specialities, the decor here brings to mind a vintage cha chaan teng with added old-time flourishes like tin letterboxes, mosaic tile floors, louvered windows and red market lamps.

Shop G01, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai

Cross Cafe

Expect classic cha chaan teng fare – think oxtail tomato soup, pineapple buns, scrambled eggs and milk tea. But the decor is a cut above the usual neighbourhood joint, thanks to a design inspired by Hong Kong’s Trappist Dairy. 

Shop 12, G/F, Hang Sing Mansion, 48-78 High Street, Sai Ying Pun

Lo Yi Faateng

This cafe feels like the home of a particularly eccentric uncle. It functions as a kind of shrine to vintage Hong Kong style, from hand-painted minibus destination signs to plastic lampshades and iron windows. The wistful atmosphere does not extend to the menu, which leans Western with dishes like prawn risotto and cheesecake.

2/F, 80-82 Shantung Street, Mong Kok

Hero image: Stephanie Teng