Affordable excellence

Ayra Wang

Nine Hong Kong restaurants showcasing a mix of Chiu Chow cuisine, braised snacks, local desserts, Taiwanese noodles, Thai street food and Mediterranean dishes have made it to the Michelin Bib Gourmand's 2025 list for the first time.

The list, revealed yesterday, highlights 66 Hong Kong eateries that offer exceptional value for money, with prices more accessible than their Michelin-starred counterparts.

There are 11 on the list from Macau.

Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide, praised the culinary diversity and vibrancy of the two SARs.

"The Bib Gourmand list not only reflects the richness of Hong Kong and Macau's dining cultures but also offers food lovers diverse opportunities to enjoy high-quality, affordable meals," he said.

Among the new honorees is Art & Taste, a Taiwanese restaurant in Central famous for its braised beef noodle soup that features ribs, tendon, shank or a mix. Its cheese and egg crepe is another must-try, according to the guide.

Another standout is Banana Boy, a Yuen Long food stall celebrated since 2019 for its Thai-style banana roti that has a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful filling.

Two Chiu Chow restaurants joined the list: Chiu Ka Banquet in Sheung Wan and Hung's Delicacies in Causeway Bay.

Chiu Ka Banquet, once a chamber of commerce clubhouse, serves authentic Chiu Chow dishes like braised goose, pork tripe soup and fresh seafood specials.

Hung's Delicacies, founded by chef Lai Wai-hung, who has over 50 years of experience, earned a Michelin star for five consecutive years before relocating.

Its new outlet serves classics like sliced braised goose, braised goose liver, and whole braised goose - "all bursting with flavor and vibrant colors."

Winners include Juno, a Mediterranean gem, Keung Kee, known for its glutinous rice with preserved meat, and Heartwarming, a dessert shop famous for black sesame soup and ice cream.

Others are Lulu Baobao, a Shanghai-style eatery, and Thai Pai Dong, which serves authentic Thai street food.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com