Cover Find out what to eat, drink and do in Tung Chung (Photo: @findmyrey/Instagram)

More than just a neighbourhood near the airport, Tung Chung offers a plethora of dining options and spectacular scenery very much worth a day trip

This article was originally published on December 30, 2020 and was updated on February 16, 2022.


You might know Tung Chung as “that place near the airport” and while that’s true, it’s not the only thing you should know about this neighbourhood. Tung Chung offers the best of both worlds—skyscrapers and modern malls that blend in with the lush, green mountains—scenes that we normally see once we’ve touched down in Hong Kong.

While it’s easy to brush off this neighbourhood as being a place too far because of its close proximity to the airport, it’s (surprisingly) just a 25-minute ride from downtown Hong Kong, which leaves you no excuses not to explore it. From its myriad of restaurants ranging from Italian delights, Korean comfort food to delicious desserts; countless options for retail therapy at Citygate and its offering to admire its surrounding nature by biking, sunset shopping or seeing the Big Buddha. All these make Tung Chung an ideal weekend getaway or day trip—that's not one of the outlying islands or seaside towns.

To help you find your way around Tung Chung, we break down the best places to eat, drink and what to do in this buzzing neighbourhood.

Editor’s note: Social distancing measures are currently enforced in Hong Kong. Before you embark on your journey, please check the opening hours of each placed included in this best to ensure that they are open.

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What to Eat

Nha Trang

For your fair share of Vietnamese delights, look no further than Nha Trang. This restaurant prepares authentic Vietnamese food with fresh prime ingredients. Boasting over 15 years of culinary experience, all food is made with the comfort of home in mind, you’ll want to come back for more. There’s a lot on offer but we recommend the beef pho—a must when eating Vietnamese food. This national pride of a dish uses the best ingredients for its filling soup, noodles and beef.

Nha Trang, Unit G25, G/F, Citygate, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2234 9199, nhatrang.com.hk

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Cinnabon

Anyone with a sweet tooth should get their hands on the cinnamon rolls at Cinnabon. This finger-licking goodness is available in a variety of sizes so you can always munch it either as a snack or for breakfast. All the delights on offer are freshly based in house using only Makara cinnamon from West Sumatra and complete with creamy frosting. But if something sweet is not up to your alley, you can also get some of their savoury dishes such as the cheese panini rolls.

Cinnabon, Unit 298, Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, facebook.com/CinnabonHK

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Banchan & Cook

No need to book that flight to South Korea to get your Korean comfort food fix. Here at Banchan & Cook, you can enjoy its offering of combined street food and modern Korean cuisine. This light meal restaurant makes use of classic small dishes and mixes them with the main dishes. Since its introduction in Korean royal court, small dishes have become a central part of Korean cuisine and true to that, "banchan" means small dishes in Korean. You can enjoy omurice, Korean pasta, Korean rice and bread made in Korean style here. We recommend their delicious omurice with house beef sauce, Angus steak bibimbap and of course, Korean style fried chicken.

Banchan & Cook, Shop 334, 3/F, Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2668 1802, banchanandcook.com

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Moon Lok Chiu Chow

As Hongkongers, our tastebuds definitely favour local dishes. At Moon Lok Chiu Chow, you can get classic Chinese dishes from dim sum to Chiu chow favourites. There’s a lot to choose from but our recommendations include the deep-fried Bombay duck fish with spiced salt, braised pork belly with preserved vegetables and stir-fried chicken with crispy loosestrife in Sichuan peppercorn. But no matter what you choose, you're sure to leave the restaurant feeling satisfied.

Moon Lok Chiu Chow, Shop 22, G/F, Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, +852 2116 8149

Read also: 6 Heritage Venues to Enjoy Dim Sum in Hong Kong

Handi Indian Restaurant

You know you’re in good hands because this restaurant is spearheaded by two people who really love Indian food. Opening in 2006, Handi Indian Restaurant focuses on North Indian style, also known as Punjabi style dishes. The owners and the chef both have a passion for this cuisine and make sure to cater to vegetarian food for Jains and Buddhists as well. Since its inception, the restaurant has garnered a local following but also spread to non-Lantau residents. A plethora of dishes are available from barbecue, lamb, chicken to notable side dishes and includes favourites such as curry, naan, chicken tikka and so much more.

Handi Indian Restaurant, 8 Ha Ling Pei Villiage, Tung Chung Road, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong, +852 2988 8674, handi.com.hk

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Sixa

Sixa is a quaint restaurant in Tung Chung, with dishes and aesthetics inspired by the gracefulness and gentility of Chinese celadon, channelling the simple spirit and good feelings of the 1960s. With traditional Cantonese food on offer, combined with ingenious elements, Sixa leaves Tung Chung diners hungry for more. While the easiest food to order are the classic Cantonese favourites, they also have occasional modern fusions such as the adorably-wrapped shrimp dumplings and sesame rolls which deserve a spot on your Instagram feed. The interiors are also adorned with contemporary decor complete with a wide terrace view.

Sixa, Shop 601, 6/F, Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2382 8633, sixa-hk.com

Oolaa

Already offering stylish and sophisticated service at SoHo and Wan Chai, Oolaa extends that to Tung Chung. For a dose of dessert after a tasty meal or if you’re looking for a breakfast spot, be sure to put this place on your list. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or ice-cold drinks together with a sweet muffin or pancakes. It’s the best place to start or end your day. But if savoury food is more for your palette, you can also get steak, fillet and pasta.

Oolaa, Unit G30, G/F, Citygate Outlets, 18–20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2319 2008, oolaagroup.com

See also: The Best Cafes and Bakeries For Vegan Desserts in Hong Kong

Yue

Another restaurant offering Cantonese dishes is Yue, located in Sheraton Tung Chung. Yue boasts authentic Cantonese favourites with a contemporary and creative flair whether it’s the delicately prepared dim sum, Southern Chinese stir-fry dishes or premium Chinese teas. The restaurant also has its own wine cellar, boasting a fine selection of wines from around the world. The interiors also mix the new and the old, with contrasting mahogany wood finishes, Chinese artwork and paintings.

We recommend getting the chilled spicy abalone in spicy sauce for starters, the shredded chicken with black truffle sauce or steamed lobster with egg white and caviar for the mains. Alternatively, the braised cod fish with chilli sauce in Sichuan style as well as the diced beef and duck liver are also worth trying.

Yue, 2/F, Sheraton Tung Chung, 9 Yi Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2535 0028

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Midam Korean Restaurant

If you’re looking for a big Korean feast, look no further than Midam Korean Restaurant. Located close to the Ngong Ping 360 Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal, this Korean restaurant offers not only great food but also amazing views—think natural sunlight coming in through the tall ceiling. What’s even better is that the owner is Korean herself so you know you’re in good hands. Some of the signature dishes include the Korean kimchi wraps with pork belly as well as the ginseng and chicken soup. You can’t go wrong with their kimbap as well.

Midam Korean Restaurant, Tat Tung Road Garden, Tung Chung, +852 2698 9007

Where to Drink

The Tavern

The Tavern is the go-to drinking spot for Tung Chung locals. This rustic gastropub features a wide range of craft beer and comfort food. Here, you can watch a sports game all while treating yourself to some post-workout drinks.

The Taven, Shop 9B, G/F, Coastal Skyline, 12 Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2907 6822, facebook.com/thetaverntc

A Tavola Bar & Grill

Just like its name, A Tavola invites you to eat, but also to drink. A commonly used Italian phrase, A Tavola means “Come eat, your meal is ready” or in a more literal sense, a table. Those looking for a share of Italian delights—from pizza, salad, burgers to al dente pasta—should head over here. But that’s not to say it’s not a great place for a drink. Choose from either indoor or outdoor seating and be spoiled by their drinks menu ranging from draught beer, cider, vodka, tequila, whisky, wine and so much more.

A Tavola Bar & Grill, Shops E & F, G/F Seaview Crescent Plaza, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2321 5500, atavola.hk

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Moccato

Those in need of their daily caffeine fix can head over to Moccato to enjoy a wide range of coffee from latte, mocha to classic Americano. If you visit once a month, you can make use of the monthly coffee special. If coffee's not enough, they also offer delicious oven-baked pastry to go with coffee.

Moccato, Shop 225, 2/F, Novotel Citygate, 51 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 3502 8838, novotelcitygate.com

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Sunset Grill

Enjoying a great view with a drink in your hand? Sunset Grill has got you covered. This rooftop restaurant and bar on the 19th floor of Sheraton Tung Chung is both a meat and seafood lover’s paradise as well as those looking for innovative cocktails. With its open kitchen, dry-aged beef and charcoal grill, Sunset Grill offers some of the best cuts in town. Pair that with their unique drinks, inspired by the community in Tung Chung such as the shrimp paste that is made in the area.

Sunset Grill, 19/F, Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung, 9 Yi Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2535 0025

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Cabana Breeze

Another alternative for great views and great drinks is Cabana Breeze, which is also located in Sheraton Tung Chung. With views overlooking the sea and the airport—so you can watch planes land and take off—Cabana Breeze also offers Tiki-inspired cocktails, drinks and wines along with an international all-day dining menu. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Hong Kong but still long for an al fresco dining experience, this is the place to be.

Cabana Breeze Bar & Grill, Shop G12–15, Sheraton Tung Chung, 9 Yi Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2777 8980, cabanabreeze.hk

What to Do

Shop at Citygate Outlets

Citygate Outlets is a shopaholic’s paradise. Being Hong Kong’s largest outlet mall, you’ll definitely shop till you drop here. Housing over 90 international brands from fashion, homeware, beauty and more, there'll be at least one of them you’ll like. The mall draws in so many shoppers (and diners) that it can be really packed on the weekends.

Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, citygateoutlets.com.hk

Ride a bike

Hopping on your bike might be the best way to explore Tung Chung. We recommend the route from Tung Chung to Sunny Bay where you can enjoy a relaxing and scenic seaside cycle. It’s also one of the easier routes as you just need to follow the train tracks. Be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding landscape from the coastal views down to the gleaming tall buildings.

Read also: Tatler’s Guide to Cycling in Hong Kong: The Best Trails For All Abilities

Go hiking

If you really love nature, then hiking is the best way to go. There are plenty of hike options at Tung Chung Station to choose from, so no matter which trail you take, you won’t be disappointed. For those who want to really see the best of Tung Chung, we recommend taking the Big Buddha hike and then continuing on to Lantau Peak to be rewarded with panoramic views of Lantau Island. Or if you're up for a challenge, you can always hike all the way to Tai O, Mui Wo, Discovery Bay and more.

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Explore Ngong Ping 360 and Big Buddha

Did you really visit Tung Chung without seeing the Big Buddha, exploring Ngong Ping Village and taking the cable car? Since we can't fly much these days, your next best (free) bet to see a bird’s eye view of Hong Kong is by riding Ngong Ping 360. A visit to the Big Buddha isn’t just a must in Tung Chung, but also a must in the city given that it's one of our most iconic landmarks.

Ngong Ping Road, Lantau Island

1960s-themed Hong Kong Market

Visiting this 1960s-themed Hong Kong Market in Tung Chung is the least touristy and more local thing you can do in the neighbourhood. Located in Yat Tung Estate, the market features vintage memorabilia and decors of old Hong Kong such as a British post box, overhead signs and even an old rickshaw cart. While these are all just for aesthetic purposes, it’s a great way to see what it was like in the past. Besides, it’ll be a very unique experience when you're just out and about buying fresh produce or meat but feel like you’ve travelled back in time.

Hong Kong Market (Yat Tung), G/F, Yat Tung Shopping Centre, 8 Yat Tung Street, Tung Chung, Hong Kong

Tung Chung Battery and Fort

Speaking of travelling back to the past, there’s another one you must visit in Tung Chung and that’s the Tung Chung Fort. This historical relic of the past was constructed in 1817, even way before the British landed in Hong Kong. The fort has witnessed a lot, from battles that happened in Hong Kong, a former police station and even a school.

Tung Chung Battery, 402 Tung Chung Road North, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Read also: 10 Unexpectedly Revitalised Historic Sites in Hong Kong: Now and Then

Enjoy a staycation at Sheraton Tung Chung

Looking for a relaxing stay away from the bustling metropolis? Sheraton Tung Chung is a great option. It will not only show you a greener side to Hong Kong but also allow you to see the residential community around it. Given its close proximity to the airport, you can even see aeroplanes land and take-off—which is a sense of comfort these days given how travel has been on hold for a while now.

Other than that, you can also take in the scenic mountain and sea view and dine at their selection of restaurants, whether you’re looking for western delights, Cantonese dishes, afternoon tea or all-day dining.

Sheraton Tung Chung, 9 Yi Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 2535 0000, marriott.com

Sunset at Chek Lap Kok South Perimeter Road

What better way to end your trip to Tung Chung than admiring the beautiful sunset over at Chek lap Kok South Perimeter Road? Travel might be on hold now so there are less frequent aeroplanes flying around but if you're lucky, you might see one up close against a stunning sunset backdrop.

Since the location is a bit remote, we recommend you to plan ahead.

Chek Lap Kok South Perimeter Road, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong

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