How to navigate this fast-paced, 21st-century metropolis? Three movers and shakers reveal their go-to spots.
The Artist: Li Jiabo
Principal dancer, Hong Kong Ballet.
Moved from Shanghai in 2003.
What's Underrated: You always hear about Lan Kwai Fung or Soho, but there’s a lot to explore in Tsim Sha Tsui, which has several stylish shops and Victoria Harbour views. You can’t miss the Hong Kong Space Museum and its cool white dome.
In-Town Escape: I love hitting the beach on Lamma Island, partly because there are no cars! I sometimes forget I’m in Hong Kong—it’s that peaceful.
Local Icon: The Hong Kong String Orchestra was founded by Jue Yao, a violinist who, like me, spent her childhood in Shanghai studying her craft.
The Tastemaker: Joanna Gunn
Chief brand officer, Lane Crawford.
Moved from London in 1997.
Favorite Hangouts: I love the cocktails at Stockton, a cheeky old-world whiskey bar in Central. In Sai Ying Pun, Ping Pong Gintonería has a cool-friend’s-basement vibe and serves the best gin and tonics in town.
Hotel Pick: The Pottinger is a boutique hotel with a beautiful and subtle Chinese aesthetic, tucked away in the heart of the city.
Where to Shop: Tai Ping Shan Street—green, relaxed, walkable—is lined with independent shops and studios. I often find myself at Ellermann Flower Boutique nearby. last great meal I enjoyed the fish tacos, whole sea bass, and sweet- potato fries at Repulse Bay’s newly opened Limewood. Go during the week, when it’s quiet.
The Chef: Jowett Yu
Chef, Ho Lee Fook restaurant.
Moved from Sydney a year ago.
Quintessential Hong Kong Bite: The goose leg lai fun from Yat Lok (852/2524-3882) is crispy and aromatic. The grease seeps into the noodle soup, making it rich and delicious.
Up-and-Coming Restaurant: On a backstreet of Wan Chai Market, Serge et le Phoque (852/5465-2000) specializes in French “bistronomy” and is run by chef George Scott-Toft, who cooks with confidence and flair.
After Work, I'm Usually... Playing darts and drinking bourbon at White Horse (852/3426-4818), a bar in Causeway Bay that stays open late. Canto-pop music blares through the speakers while nineties Chinese movies play on the big screen.
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