Western District - insiders' favourites

Written by LUXE City Guides, Images by Harold de Puymorin

Hong Kong’s Western District is a microcosm of the city’s urban evolution. Gaze at relics from Imperial times, shop from traditional craftsmen, enjoy a high-end meal at a sushi bar; Western District contains experiences that span both eras and cultures.

Here are some of our top picks.

Sai Wan Swimming Shed

At the bottom of a set of steep stairs off Victoria Road in Kennedy Town is a green shack originally built some 50 years ago for swimmers to change into bathing costumes. It is said to be Hong Kong’s last swimming shed Get me there {{title}} {{taRatingReviewTotal}} {{taRatingReviewText}} Address {{address}} Website {{website}} More info , one that’s still used by a few hardy souls before taking a dip in the sea. Though nowadays, it is one of the city’s worst-kept-secret spots for sunsets.

Tak Kee Chiu Chow Restaurant

Tak Kee Get me there {{title}} {{taRatingReviewTotal}} {{taRatingReviewText}} Address {{address}} Website {{website}} More info has been around for decades, and is a Kennedy Town institution for a deliciously authentic family dining experience that is popular with the Chiu Chow community. Brightly lit and noisy, diners flock here for the food, not the decor. The extensive menu includes specials pasted up on the restaurant walls, so it helps to have someone who can read Chinese; you won’t go wrong with braised meats, especially the goose. Crisp oyster pancake and fried duck with taro puree are also safe bets, though plenty of offal is available for adventurous eaters.

Ping Pong Gintoneria

Few places embody the hip side of Sai Ying Pun like Ping Pong Gintoneria Get me there {{title}} {{taRatingReviewTotal}} {{taRatingReviewText}} Address {{address}} Website {{website}} More info . A scarlet-red door conceals a serious basement watering hole, in what used to be a ping-pong parlour. Interiors are a study in modern-industrial chic, with concrete floors and pillars, high ceilings, neon signs and edgy contemporary art. Wine and beer are available, and drinkers can graze from the tapas menu, but you’re really here for the gin, and Ping Pong has an extensive selection of boutique and speciality bottles you won’t find elsewhere.

14 South Lane Get me there {{title}} {{taRatingReviewTotal}} {{taRatingReviewText}} Address {{address}} Website {{website}} More info

This healthy, homey brunch spot in Shek Tong Tsui serves a wholesome mostly veggie menu to nourish your body and soul. Don't miss the fresh-baked pastries and colourful Mexican and Middle Eastern grain bowls — then up your vitamin intake with some fresh juices and smoothies on the side.

Tuck Chong Sum Kee Bamboo Steamer Company

Mention dim sum and people think of delectable morsels steamed in bamboo baskets Get me there {{title}} {{taRatingReviewTotal}} {{taRatingReviewText}} Address {{address}} Website {{website}} More info . The reality is that most of these baskets are now factory-made in the Mainland, but one workshop remains on Hong Kong Island that continues to make them — as well as a heap of other bamboo utensils — by hand. Like many of the city’s artisan businesses, the workshop was in danger of closing, but renewed interest in local craftsmanship has boosted the profile of this outstanding family business. The baskets make excellent gifts, and custom orders can be arranged.

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