GBA Lifestyle News
In Hong Kong, there’s no better way to spend a sunny weekend by the water. From laid-back, welcoming beachside eateries to restaurants by the waterfront offering beautiful views, these are the best beachside and waterfront restaurants in Hong Kong:
Artisan pizza bar Amalfitana brings a touch of the Amalfi Coast to Repulse Bay Beach, complete with aperol spritz cocktails aplenty. There’s a vacation vibe to the place, thanks to unbeatable ocean views and a friendly atmosphere — on weekends, though, the place really comes to life in the evenings. Order the signature Amalfitana (buffalo mozzarella, parma ham, tomato, porcini mushrooms and rocket), or choose from a range of classics. Just want a little something to go with your sundowner? Nibble on charcuterie and cheese platters.
Shop 105, G/F, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2388-7787.
Mavericks has seen a steady stream of city escapees, surfer dudes/chicks and hungry hikers ever since it opened its doors in 2014. The Pui O joint ticks all the right boxes for a perfect day out: craft brews, sliders/burgers and seafood dishes, and even a DJ deck — all right on the beach. Open on weekends only.
Pui O Beach, South Lantau Road, Lantau Island, 5402-4154.
Shek O Beach mainstay Cococabana offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu in an alfresco setting. Grab a table on the terrace outside and go to town on seafood dishes like grilled sea bream and piri piri prawns, as well as salads and hors d’oeuvres platters. An ideal spot to re-energize after a day in the sun — or for a drink or two at sunset.
G/F, Shek O Beach Building, Shek O Beach, Shek O, 2812-2226.
Taking up a Grade III-listed structure built in 1951, The Boathouse stands out from its surroundings thanks to its iconic pubhouse-like façade, painted bright blue. The restaurant, which stands on Stanley Main Street, is just by the waterfront — where a cheerful crowd tends to gather on weekends. Seafood dishes are particularly popular, while other dishes from the international menu include African chicken and pork belly tacos. Truth be told, the restaurant is a little touristy — but it still makes for a solid, low-key dining option. Last year, it was announced that the building would be demolished in order to make way for a hotel, so you should check it out while you still can.
88 Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2813-4467.
For those living outside of Lantau, it’s a little out of the way — but the journey to the Beach House is well worth it. Expect fusion dishes like Thai marinated baby poussin, crowd favorites like burgers and prawns, and a selection of classic cocktails — plus prime seaside views and direct access to a quiet beach.
32 Lower Cheung Sha Village, South Lantau, 2504-4788.
Italian restaurant Gia Trattoria takes up the spot that Giando, which is now on Star Street, used to occupy. It might not be the most easily accessible location, but the unique views from Fenwick Pier and the rustic Italian dishes on offer make it worth the trek. Chef Gianni Caprioli — who continues to helm Giando — runs the show, bringing antipasto classics like buffalo mozzarella with eggplant and beef carpaccio; a selection of pastas, including specialties from northern, central and southern Italy; plus pizzas and grilled meats aplenty.
1/F, Fleet Arcade, Fenwick Pier, 1 Lung King Street, Wan Chai, 2511-8081.
If you love the idea of eating on a sampan on water, look no further than Shun Kee at the Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter. Rather than some sort of tourist trap, though, Shun Kee is in fact an old school eatery that has been around for decades, serving up authentic shelter-style seafood dishes. You are taken to your very own sampan, where you sample generously portioned dishes from a set menu featuring the likes of typhoon shelter crab, steamed razor clams and a very satisfying bowl of sampan congee at the end. Don’t expect spectacular service, but do take time to admire the awesome views of the harbor.
Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter, Causeway Bay, 8112-0075. Access through underground car park and tunnel at The Excelsior, 281 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay.
From the plethora of seafood restaurants by the water, you’ll notice Chuen Kee — there are two branches across Sai Kung Square. Grab a table out front and tuck into Cantonese seafood classics like stir-fried clams, poached whelk, and deep-fried mantis shrimp.
87-93 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2792-6938.
