Quarry Bay is one of the oldest districts in Hong Kong, and it’s only recently become more industrialized with a crop of new restaurants, offices and things to do. As one of the more underrated spots on bustling Island side, Quarry Bay comes with a quieter, humble aura, making it a perfect destination for weekend afternoons. It’s also become a thriving business district since the openings of office complex Taikoo Place. Here are the best things to do on a trip to Quarry Bay…

Crowd Favorites

Monster Building

Photo takers flock here to take shots of the iconic ‘Monster Building’ (in Chinese, Yik Cheong Building). The dense residential block comprises five interconnected buildings and is the backdrop for many movie shootings, advertisements and social media feeds. There’s usually a crowd here waiting for their turn to get their winning photo – so be patient but don’t forget to respect the residents by keeping low disruption.

Yick Cheong Building, King’s Road, Quarry Bay, 2562-1151.

Eat here

Enoteca

From the same brains that brought us The Conservatory and The Picture House in Sai Kung, Enoteca is the group’s Quarry Bay venture, with a focus on wine and pizzas. The Italian joint offers a breezy al-fresco front, which makes it particularly popular during lunch hours for office workers to get some fresh air. Feel the vibrancy of an Italian town piazza and order a sophisticated glass of wine to soak in the atmosphere – you’ll feel like you’re no longer in Hong Kong.

G/F., 35, 37, 39 & 41 Tong Chong Street and 31, 33, 35 & 37 Hoi Wan Street, Quarry Bay, 2744-6000.

Mr & Mrs Fox

Following its recent makeover, Mr and Mrs Fox reopened to discerning diners and remains an ultimate crowd favorite. The SWIRE-owned restaurant serves tantalizing European delicacies with hand-crafted cocktails in an upbeat setting. Whether you’re in a large crowd or on date night, the eatery caters for all. Plus, it spans over three floors, including an outdoor terrace, so take your pick.

23 Tong Chong Street, Quarry Bay, 2697-8500. Open Monday to Saturday, times vary.

Little Nyonya

For something a little more casual, Little Nyonya is a bolthole for Malaysian-Singaporean crowd favorites. Many come here to try the laksa – and understandably so, the juicy broth is well worth the hype. Don’t forget to order some sharing dishes while you’re here and be sure to bring a crowd.

Drink here

Sugar

Housed at EAST Hotel Hong Kong, Sugar is a rooftop bar that serves scrumptious cocktails in a chic environment. With stunning views of the city, it’s no wonder that this glamorous gem is popular among urbanites looking for a secluded alternative to the downtown hustle. Sprawl yourself across the lounge chairs and order tropical drinks to get into the holiday mood.

32/F, EAST, 29 Taikoo Shing Road, Taikoo Shing, 3968-3738. Open every day, times vary.

FRITES

Belgian beerhouse FRITES needs no introduction, with its seven locations all across the city. The Quarry Bay outpost is frequented after work hours, a great spot to grab a pint to unwind after a day at the office. FRITES is also loved for its meat feasts on the food menu, so come hungry and you won’t be disappointed by the hefty portions.

G/F Oxford House, Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, 3950-9000. Open every day.

Do this

Walk along Quarry Bay Promenade

Catch views of the harbor – before or after your meal – for a scenic vantage point of Hong Kong’s skyline. The peaceful promenade connects Tai Koo Shing park with Quarry Bay park. Children, families and couples come here for a walk – or in some cases, skate, jog or rollerblade.

A workout at H-Kore

Work up a serious sweat with H-KORE, a motivating strengthen-and-stretch class designed for all levels. The unique training environments has over 150 classes to choose from over its Quarry Bay and Central locations, while ensuring each experience is personalized and comfortable for every individual. Mid-day workout. Why not!

12/F Dorset House Taikoo Place, Quarry Bay, 3107-1144. Open every day 7:00am to 10:00pm.

Stay at EAST Residences

Spend the night at Quarry Bay to fully experience the neighborhood morning, afternoon and night. EAST Hong Kong by SWIRE Hotels is an intimate, stunning hotel that gives you the time and space you need in the center of the district. Discover nearby gems and dine at EAST to try the rooftop bar and restaurant for an urban staycation.

29 Tai Koo Shing Road, Quarry Bay, 3968-3968.

Around the Block…

Only a few stops away by MTR, Kwun Tong is another underrated waterfront district popular for its plethora of restaurants, bars and offices. Swing by to try the best of Hong Kong’s next up-and-coming business hub.

Read our neighborhood guide for Kwun Tong here

Getting here