Hong Kong Foodie Tours

Hong Kong Foodie runs food walking tours that combine tastings with stories about local life, history and culture. Its best-known walk, the Central and Sheung Wan Foodie Tour, is promoted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and is a good introduction to the city's everyday food for first-time visitors.

The tour visits six tasting locations across Central and Sheung Wan. Along the way you sample some of the dishes that define Hong Kong eating: wonton noodles, barbecued pork with rice, dim sum and daan tat, the local egg tart, washed down with fresh juice and Chinese tea. Between stops, the guide explains the history of the neighbourhoods and how Hong Kong people eat, which helps make sense of the menus you will meet later in your trip.

The Central and Sheung Wan tour starts at 2.15pm from Tuesday to Saturday and meets in Central. The tourism board's listing gives the length as around two and a half hours in one place and three and a half hours in another, so allow the afternoon and check the time when you book. Tours are conducted in English. Tickets are bought online through the company's website.

The tour suits first-time visitors, solo travellers and anyone who would like help ordering in busy local eateries. Come hungry, as the tastings add up to a meal. Let the company know about dietary requirements before booking, as many traditional dishes contain pork, seafood or wheat, and vegetarian substitutes may not always be possible.

A food tour early in your trip is particularly useful, as it gives you the confidence and vocabulary to order these dishes yourself in other noodle shops, roast meat restaurants and bakeries for the rest of your stay. Keep space for dinner later, or plan a light evening, as the tastings add up. Allow time afterwards to explore Central and Sheung Wan on your own, revisiting any stops you particularly enjoyed.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the route is on foot, and bring water and an umbrella or sun protection depending on the season. Booking ahead is wise, particularly at weekends and during holidays. The company can be contacted by phone with questions about availability, private tours and group bookings.