These traditional Hong Kong drinks will take you on a flavorful journey, guiding you from breakfast to supper.
Hong Kong is a city that never sleeps, and its vibrant beverage scene is no exception.
For first-time visitors or seasoned travelers, exploring the iconic drinks of Hong Kong is essential to experiencing the true essence of the city.
Top 5 Must Try Hong Kong Drinks
From refreshing sodas with a local twist to comforting teas, these beverages tell the story of Hong Kong’s unique culture and history.
For American visitors, these drinks offer a taste of something both familiar and uniquely Hong Kong.
Here are the top 5 must-try Hong Kong drinks that will make your visit unforgettable.
Contents
HK Coke with Lemon
A Refreshing Twist on a Classic American Favorite
For many Americans, Coca-Cola is the go-to drink when in need of a refreshing pick-me-up.
But in Hong Kong drinks like this classic drink gets a refreshing upgrade with the addition of fresh lemon.
Known locally as “HK Coke with Lemon,” this fizzy, citrusy beverage is popular, especially during Hong Kong’s humid summers.
The lemon’s tartness balances the soda’s sweetness, creating a refreshing and cooling drink perfect after a long day of sightseeing.
It’s a drink you’ll easily relate to, with that special Hong Kong twist you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
The unusual HK Coke with Lemon – a popular and refreshing Hong Kong drink, combining fizzy Coke and citrusy lemon for the perfect summer treat.
Hong Kong-Style Milk Tea
Smooth, Rich, and Irresistible
Next up on your Hong Kong drink adventure is the iconic Hong Kong-style milk tea.
For tea lovers, this beverage is a must-try.
Made with strong black tea leaves, the tea has a bold, tart flavor.
Then, the tea is combined with evaporated or condensed milk, creating a rich, creamy texture.
This perfectly balanced drink is a staple in cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong’s traditional tea restaurants).
Here it’s often enjoyed alongside meals like scrambled eggs on toast or Hong Kong-style French toast.
For many American visitors, drinking tea with milk feels familiar, but the brew’s strength and silkiness are uniquely Hong Kong.
It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Hong Kong-style milk tea, a must-try beverage on your Hong Kong adventure.
Yuenyeung
The Perfect Coffee and Tea Blend
A little bit of coffee, a little bit of tea—Yuenyeung is a classic Hong Kong drink that combines the best of both worlds.
This drink combines strong coffee and smooth milk tea.
The result is a delightful, energizing blend.
It’s also incredibly comforting.
Yuenyeung is beloved by Hong Kong locals.
It’s often enjoyed with a pineapple bun for breakfast or as a midday pick-me-up.
Yuenyeung combines coffee and tea in one cup.
It’s a delightful twist for those who drink them separately.
The flavors create perfect harmony.
It’s a must-try drink that highlights the city’s love for both coffee and tea in one refreshing beverage.
Yuenyeung – a delightful fusion of coffee and Hong Kong-style milk tea.
Soy Milk
A Nutritious and Traditional Start to the Day
If you’re looking for something light, healthy, and satisfying, soy milk is a great option.
Soy milk is a protein-rich, plant-based alternative to dairy milk, made from soybeans, and is perfect for dairy-free diets.
It’s commonly served either hot or cold and is a favorite breakfast drink in Hong Kong.
Often paired with crispy dough sticks (yau ja gwai) or rice rolls, soy milk is both a nutritious and comforting option to kickstart your day.
For those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, this is a great local alternative that you can enjoy without missing a beat.
Herbal Tea
A Cooling Remedy for Hot Hong Kong Days
Herbal tea, or “leung cha,” is one of the most popular Hong Kong drinks choice for staying cool during Hong Kong’s hot and humid summer months.
Locals swear by its refreshing and cooling properties, making it a must-try drink for visitors.
Made from herbs, flowers, and roots, these teas are believed to have medicinal properties.
They can cool the body, detoxify, or aid digestion.
One popular herbal tea is Gui Ling Gao.
This herbal jelly drink has a slightly bitter taste and is known for aiding digestion.
For visitors, herbal tea provides a glimpse into Hong Kong’s wellness culture, where food and drink promote healing and balance.
Conclusion
These Hong Kong drinks reflect the city’s culture, health-conscious habits, and unique culinary traditions.
When your next in Hong Kong, skip the usual drinks and try these local favorites.
Experience the authentic taste of Hong Kong’s vibrant beverage scene with these must-try drinks.