Explore the bustling district of Mong Kok––from the best craft beers, al fresco dining, working out at a Korean-inspired gym to trying your hand at pottery, we break down what to eat, drink, and do in the neighbourhood
Packing an average of 130,000 people into every square kilometre, Mong Kok holds the crown as the world's busiest and most densely populated district. It comes as no surprise that it's highly recommended in every guidebook for a taste of Hong Kong.
True to its title, Mong Kok in Cantonese means "crowded corner" and the district itself is a blend of multi-story structures and residential buildings. Because of this, it has appeared in several Hong Kong movies and reimagined as the setting for dystopian or sci-fi films thanks to its vibrant neon lights and busy streets.
Being a famed shopping destination with its giant shopping malls and long street markets, the neighbourhood is home to plenty of dining options, from the best coffee shops, to restaurants offering impeccable views and dessert shops.
As the centre of youth subculture, the neighbourhood is the perfect place for artsy individuals and hipsters alike, but also welcomes people from all walks of life with its diverse range of things to do including historic sites, fitness centres, and record stores.
With so much on offer, we've condensed the best of what to eat, drink and do in the neighbourhood.
Where To Eat And Drink
Chuan Palace
Chuan Palace is one of the best places to try Sichuan food––a cuisine that is getting more and more popular. While not everyone's tastebuds and tolerance for the spice is the same, it's still worth a try especially the restaurant's signature Sichuan-styled stewed ox tongue. Other recommended dishes include Sichuan peppercorn stewed mandarin fish, chilled poached chicken in Sichuan style, and fried prawns with pepper in casserole.
Compared to other places that serve Sichuan delicacies that uses striking red colours, Chuan Place tones down with Prussian blue carpeting and matching banquettes emitting a cooler atmosphere which seems to contrast the spicy food that you'll be having.
Shop 501, 5/F Moko, 193 Prince Edward Road East, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong; +852 2339 1900; moko.com.hk/dinings/chuan-palace