Chaiwanese: Western Comfort Food In Hong Kong’s Eastern District

Chaiwanese is a play on the neighborhood’s name, Chai Wan.

Hidden away on the 13^th floor of an industrial building in Hong Kong Island’s grungy East side is a cool and casual hangout, Chaiwanese (permanently closed). The name is a play on the neighborhood’s name, Chai Wan, and it is an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon with delicious salads and sandwiches. While finding the café can be a challenge for those not familiar with the area, involving a hidden entrance through a parking garage and a ride in a warehouse elevator, visitors’ efforts are certainly rewarded.

Chaiwanese is a comfortable and modern space with mismatched tweed couches, massive windows with views of an industrial port below, and an open kitchen. Chaiwanese describes itself as a “lounge concept” with art magazines and comfortable seating encourages diners to spend the afternoon lounging, chatting – a luxury which is somewhat uncommon in other Hong Kong hotspots at the same price level.

Food here is Western comfort food with unique twists. Try the roast pork loin sandwich with sharp cheddar and sweet onion marmalade on rye, the roast duck linguine, or carrot soup. Entrees ordered as a set come with a hot drink and soup or salad. The ice drip coffee is an excellent addition to any order. Finally, finish off with a piece of the light and simple chocolate and orange zest cake. Food items are made from fresh ingredients, to be ordered in front of customers with extremely reasonable price points.

Take the chance to travel off of the beaten path and visit one of Hong Kong’s lesser known but rewarding culinary destinations.

Anton Walker

Born in Aarau, Switzerland and grew up in San Diego, Anton always goes for a run in a new city - it's the best way to explore and see areas that sight-seeing routes won’t cross. As a huge car person, he always tries to pick up car magazines in different countries that he visits as souvenirs.