The Cha Chaan Teng is an intangible cultural heritage in Hong Kong and a unique facet of Hong Kong’s dining scene, serving affordable and filling meals for the masses complete with brash, speedy service.
Check out my CNA Story for some local favourites.
Everyone has their own favourite Cha Chaan Teng, and rating a best is subjective and unjust. Unlike Michelin guide ratings, these local diners don’t merit a detour to visit. Over the decades, these local diners have also served as many movie set locations given that it’s an integral part of Hong Kong life.
The speedy surly service is all part of the experience – embrace it! I’ve been yelled it for being slow to sit down, to eat, chatting and not hurrying up to slurp my noodles, taking too much space with my bag, and for being indecisive and taking too long to order. Don’t take it personally, it’s part of daily life in Hong Kong. To be fair, they are a little more patient when I have my kid with me, even kindly offering a smaller bowl for him to eat the noodles as we share a bowl.
