Coffee Lovers
Since the last decade, coffee shops have been emerging in various Hong Kong districts. Locals from all ages—from the young university students to the middle class workers and elite—have embraced the thriving coffee culture in the region. Around 250 specialty coffee shops are also situated here, according to statistics provided by the Hong Kong Professional Coffee Association. By “specialty cafés,” the association refers to coffee shops that are not part of major commercialized chains (typically Western in nature) established around. Tourists will truly see how much coffee is loved by many and how much coffee-roasting is taken seriously here.
Coffee shops here are considered by locals as go-to places when one wants to relax and converse with friends and family members too. Hence, entrepreneurs have conceptualized great cafés for them; it also makes tourists observe and appreciate Chinese culture, specifically their take on this popular drink.
Coffee lovers, you will never run out of coffee shops to visit in Hong Kong. To make things easier, below are a list of coffee shops that already have established reputations of serving delicious and perfectly crafted coffee as well as hearty meals and lovely desserts.
Coffee shops here are considered by locals as go-to places when one wants to relax and converse with friends and family members too. Hence, entrepreneurs have conceptualized great cafés for them; it also makes tourists observe and appreciate Chinese culture, specifically their take on this popular drink.
Coffee lovers, you will never run out of coffee shops to visit in Hong Kong. To make things easier, below are a list of coffee shops that already have established reputations of serving delicious and perfectly crafted coffee as well as hearty meals and lovely desserts.
The Cupping Room
Even before the coffee movement first became evident in Hong Kong, The Cupping Room was already one of the main pioneers of serving quality coffee. This independent coffee shop was opened by Dereck Chui, a widely known barista who won first runner-up in the Hong Kong Barista Championship 2011. Its original shop was located in Stanley, and now has branches in Sheung Wan and Wan Chai. Not only does The Cupping Room offer great coffee—breakfast and lunch sets are available here as well.
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The Cupping Room might be quaint yet its popularity should not be underestimated. It is often packed with people despite the long queues. The roast coffee and other flavors such as the Flat White and Cappuccino are considered as bestsellers. The Flat White has less milk compared to the Cappuccino, so those who want strong coffee flavor should try this out. Its velvety smooth texture is truly delectable. The ambiance and the chic wooden overall look of the coffee shop will remind you of quaint, homy cafes in Sydney. With friends who are whether health conscious or up for “carb loading” or the sugar intake, The Cupping Room is a must-visit as its menu has food and drinks that cater for all kinds of coffee-shop goers. The trendy and healthy avocado on toast with poached egg, ricotta cheese and radish are served here to the delight of breakfast lovers. For the sweet tooth, the café’s Belgium chocolate waffle does not disappoint. Pair it with iced or hot coffee and you will be assured that the combination will not fail your expectations. One can expect a wide array of baked goods displayed at the counter. You may order their Twice Baked Almond Croissant and other pastry-related food such as the delicious Brioche French Toast with Caramelized Bananas and Maple Syrup. This is served with a crispy surface and a fluffy center too, just the way its frequent customers love it. All in all, this is a cozy coffee shop that has various food and drinks in its menu that are worth the try. The coffee beans are sourced from across the globe and are roasted with precision to acquire a distinct taste that only The Cupping Room can serve. The ordered coffee beans from different places are also only roasted when these are in season to ensure quality. TIPS
BASIC INFORMATION
Hong Kong, Central, Queen's Road Central, 287-299號Shop LG
Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm
Saturday & Sunday: 9am - 6pm 
Sai Ying Pun Station
Mansons Lot Coffee House
Coupled with great service, the goal of the ones behind Mansons Lot Coffee House such as Davyd Wong is to offer high quality coffee by DiGabriel from Sydney, tea and food that is cooked fresh on-site. In 2011 and 2012, its coffee won as Australia’s Best Espresso, becoming one of the country’s most awarded coffee roasts. Sam Gabrielian is the coffee house’s master roaster; he is the one who ensures that only the highest grade Arabica beans are used in creating the distinct espresso blends here. You can also order baked goods such as cookies and cakes as well as full meals for brunch, lunch and late afternoons.
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Most wanderers would consider Mansons Lot Coffee House as one of Hong Kong’s best coffee shops because of its quaintness and charm. It can also cater to both amateur and expert coffee-tasters because detailed descriptions regarding the various coffee flavors are provided in the menu. Coffee connoisseurs may also see (and taste) for themselves its special brewing process and the distinct taste of the drinks here. The ambiance of the coffee shop is inviting as its interior design gives a cozy and comfortable vibe to every visitor. The walls have warm colors and the booths inside are made of lush leather. If you want to know more about old-school coffee, you may even ask the staff about its collection of coffee paraphernalia that are displayed in the walls. Mansons Lot Coffee House’s “milk coffees” are well-known to the locals of Hong Kong. You can never go wrong with ordering the Flat White or Cappuccino coffee flavors. Your day will definitely start right with the drinks offered here. TIPS
BASIC INFORMATION
15 Swatow St, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Monday - Friday: 8am - 6:30pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8am - 7:30pm 
Gresson Street Light Rail Station
Knockbox Coffee Company
Knockbox Coffee Company is one of Hong Kong’s bizarre coffee shops that offer a recreation of traditional coffee house culture. For Patrick Tam, the café’s founder, his cafe includes the absence of comfortable sofas without plugs and WiFi encouraging people to have meaningful conversations with each other without distractions—just like the good old days. Here, coffee lovers will have an “enlightening” coffee experience as they will not see people charging their phones or relaxing on cushioned seats with eyes fixed on gadgets. Compared to other coffee shops, one can point out that in Knockbox Coffee Company, people come for meaningful and deep talks.
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Back in Taipingshan Street of Sheung Wan in 2011, it started as coffee corner with a single group machine, a kettle, and a few cups. Slowly but surely, the framework of a modern coffeehouse that still pays tribute to traditional coffee shop culture took shape as further steps were made; after a few months, the owner acquired a 2-grouper, a 1-kilogram roaster and an extra boiler. Now, Knockbox Coffee Company is a successful coffee house that is frequently visited by locals and tourists. It is known as a welcoming cafe in Hong Kong that one must not miss. More than the interior design, this coffee shop is known for its Knockbox brew—it uses a wide range of beans for every preference of customer. Tam, an advocate of direct trade and high quality coffee, goes to countries as far as Nicaragua to visit the café’s supplier’s farm, which he documented in a hardcover photo essay. What is commendable with the process of acquiring its coffee beans is the fact that the proceeds of the documentation sales will go straight to the coffee farm development. Every Friday night, a night coffee premiere also takes place here. It is a special and bustling social evening where the week’s new brews and roasts are displayed. Once you opt to try being here for the premiere, you will be offered a unique coffee experience. For $80 HK, you can have unlimited specialty coffee as they will provide you a shot glass. TIPS
BASIC INFORMATION
Ground Floor, 21 Hak Po Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Monday - Sunday: 11am - 9pm
Mong Kok Station
Why 50
If you are asking about the concept of the number “50” in this coffee shop’s name, here is the answer: baristas use fifty coffee beans here to make a single espresso shot. Coffee scientist Keith Fong is behind this café that has both a hipster and classy ambiance. Fong is also behind Bloom Coffee House in Macau, another well-known café for its great coffee, so you are also assured that Why 50 does not disappoint. The coffee beans in Why 50 are roasted with a Slayer coffee machine too, and coffee machines from this coffee industry brand are known for setting a new standard for the craft of espresso-making.
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Why 50 definitely has something ideal or suitable for all kinds of coffee shop goers. Either for a caffeine fix or a hearty meal, this coffee hub has food and drinks that will boost your mood and gear you up to start the day’s itinerary or bucket list. Order its famous Slayer coffee if it is your first time here, and you can even get a double shot if you want a more caffeine kick. If you are a fan of almond milk, try its delicious Spicy Chai Latte. Another distinct drink one can order here is the Lavender Latte that has fresh flowers that satiates those who are up for combining coffee and flora. Also, locals have their favorite breakfast meals here. From Rawnola Fruit Yogurt to Cubano, Why 50 satisfies the health-conscious customers with hearty and invigorating food. Moreover, check out its smoked salmon with eggs tartine—one of its bestsellers. For those who do not drink coffee, it also has a wide tea selection that features flower and fruit flavors. In Why 50’s entrance, a cement wall is made available for Hong Kong’s local artists who want to express themselves thru painting on it. It is a fascinating and commendable fact that this coffee house finds the creative expression of local artists as significant and valuable. TIPS
BASIC INFORMATION
Fu Fai Commercial Centre, Shop E, G/F, Fu Fai Commercial Centre, 27 Hillier St, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Monday - Friday: 8am - 6pm. Saturday & Sunday: 8:30am - 6pm
Western Market Terminus
18 Grams Specialty Coffee
This coffee shop is special because it is one of the first cafes that brought barista coffee to Hong Kong locals. Its first branch (as a premium espresso bar) opened in Causeway Bay, and since then, it has eight branches under founder John So and his team. They have established a thriving coffee shop brand that is more experimental and interactive in the craft of brewing and roasting coffee compared to other popular coffee shops. Each branch also has its own house blend and all in all, the convenient and relaxing vibe is well-maintained up to now.
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The house blend in every branch is based on the demographic. For example, the Black Sheep roast in Causeway Bay’s branch has a smooth and creamy texture while the one at Sheung Wan has more of a kick. This shop assures you of a unique coffee intake experience that you will not forget. Its Flat White and Piccolo Latte make you come back the next day. Both hot and cold drinks are also appreciated by coffee goers here. Its Iced Cappuccino is ideal for summer afternoons when you just want to be revitalized thru a caffeine kick. The Wan Chai Roastery Lab Blend, the brew that was created when 18 Grams Specialty Coffee opened, is indeed a must-try. It gives that taste of sentimental value because of its part in the shop’s history. The aim of this coffee shop is to bring affordable premium local roast coffee to the Hong Kong community. This is made possible by using quality coffee beans grown in farms from around the globe. The 18 grams special coffee also strives to keep the coffee’s freshness as they roast it with precision and make sure that baristas are trained well in the craft of coffee-making. If you are not convinced enough, do know that it has already received various awards and publicity because of its great coffee and dining experience. TIPS
basic information
3 Mercer St, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Monday - Sunday: 8am - 6pm
Mei Foo Station
Lof10
For a laidback coffee shop experience, check out Lof10. It has a minimalist interior design that pays tribute to Hong Kong culture as well as a spacious area. Located between Poho and Ladder Street, Lof10 offers coffee with an emotional touch. Founders Eugene Chan and Marcus Lui believe that an ideal coffee experience means knowing after one has drank a good cup of Joe, the coffee’s taste has stayed in his or her heart. Indeed, the hot and cold drinks at Lof10 is a perfect spot for those who want meaningful coffee shop memories.
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Lof10’s logo is also fascinating; it is shaped similar to an old Hong Kong neon light. Also, it has a retro storefront sliding door that welcomes every guest. You can expect a wide range of flavored coffee and non-coffee drinks and some fascinating flavors are the Rose Latte and its unique Earl Grey Tea. Those with a sweet tooth should also try its Iced Citrus Matcha Tea—a popular drink in Lof10, especially during summer. Its bestseller is the LA’s Handsome Coffee. The name of the flavor is fascinating itself, and it is ordered by almost every customer because of its delectable taste. Pair it with an ice cream cookie sandwich at any time of the day or night. If you want a more basic coffee, its Iced Latte is also great. A plus factor worthy to be mentioned here would be Lof10 being a dog-friendly area. Customers can bring pets inside and bond with these furry pals. In conclusion Lof10 is an ideal coffee shop for anyone who wants to relax and order great coffee and non-coffee drinks, noodles, all-day breakfast meals, cakes, and sandwiches. tips
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1 U Lam Terrace, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Monday - Sunday: 10am - 7pm
Queen Street Light Rail Station
Hazel & Hershey Coffee Roasters
Hazel & Hershey is a favourite for various locals in Hong Kong which was established in 2009. More than serving great coffee, it also serves as a one-stop shop for those who want to buy barista tools, aprons, coffee cups and coffee beans from Hong Kong regions. You will also be fascinated here as it is a training hub for those who desire to be talented baristas someday. Known for its alfresco vibes, Hazel & Hershey offers both delicious food and drinks as well as coffee-related paraphernalia.
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Some of the key brands that Hazel & Hershey partners with are the following: Kalita, Bonavita, Hario, Mahlkonig, Ditting, Anfim, Mazzer and Nuova Simonelli. These are famous brands, so it already gives you an assurance that it serves great products. Moreover, the coffee shop is well-known for its black coffee that has a rich and nutty flavor. Its Matcha Latte is also considered as one of the best versions of the drink available in Hong Kong. Compared to the usual matcha lattes that has artificial flavor with huge amounts of sugar, you will enjoy an authentic matcha taste in Hazel & Hershey. For the adventurous coffee lover, this is a must-visit coffee shop. It offers various beans from different countries—the beans used in its famous Japanese drip coffee are one of the bestsellers. The shelved products and the placement of chairs and tables are organized in a way that is pleasing to the eye. One can expect a well-maintained cleanliness inside also. One of the interior’s great features is the huge Dali-inspired clock that is attached to the ceiling, adding great character to the café. The overall peaceful vibe gives a sense of comfort and home. You can also chit-chat with the friendly baristas here who are willing to share their experiences in coffee-making and their knowledge in anything coffee-related. They work professionally and ensure that the best quality drinks are served to every customer. tips
basic information
Shop 3, 69 Peel, Central, Hong Kong
Monday - Sunday: 10am- 7pm
Western Market Terminus
N1 Coffee & Co.
Looking for great coffee, great latte art, and great desserts? Then go to N1 Coffee & Co. It has a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, hence the locals consider this as a cool café they likely recommend to tourists. Situated at East Tsim Sha Tsui border, it is a nice place to have a lovely coffee as well as a hearty breakfast. Friends and families can chill out in this quaint hipster café over drinks and desserts too.
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Locals would say that one can find the best coffee in Tsim Sha Tsui here. Its Iced Latte and Americano are some of its bestsellers. Another fascinating flavor is its soy coffee with a distinct delicious rich taste that other coffee shops has yet to beat. It is important to note that N1 is an affordable place. Prices are not that high; travelers with a budget will not have a problem. The coffee shop has it all, and no wonder it is always full of people—a mix of locals and foreigners. If you come here to have snacks after a long day of touring around, you may opt for N1’s delicious sandwiches and pair it with their great coffee. Western food such as bagels, bacon, fried eggs, among others are also available here. With a shot of espresso from its espresso bar or a few sips of its chamomile or English breakfast tea, you will truly be amazed with the luscious flavors that are offered in the coffee shop. For breakfast, it serves one of the best poached eggs in the area as well as a full English breakfast. Because N1 is located near to one of the subway exits in Tsim Sha Tsui, it is an ideal place to standby and relax before taking the train. Coffee is served here fast, so those who are in a hurry will not have to wait long for their order. The baristas and other staff members are also friendly and knowledgeable about anything coffee-related. tips
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Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui, Mody Rd, 34號Shop G
Sunday - Thursday: 8am - 7pm
Friday - Saturday: 10am - 10pm 
Tsim Sha Tsui Station
Elephant Grounds
Elephant Grounds is a trendy coffee shop in Hong Kong that sources local ingredients for its drinks. It offers fine Brazilian and Sumatran java for the delight of coffee lovers who love to try local caffeinated flavors distinct to other countries. A go-to place for both locals and foreigners, it has expanded into five outlets (Sheung Wan, Causeway Bay, Wanchai, Central and Shatin).
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Kevin Poon and Fed Tan, two entrepreneurs who are behind the success of this café, were tired of mainstream watered-down coffee as well as the tendency of baristas who over roast coffee beans and use stale beans. Hence, they started a small coffee counter that was situated at the back of WOAW! Concept store that Poon also owns. In Hong Kong’s thriving coffee culture, Elephant Grounds has indeed become one of the frontrunners of its cultivation. By setting the standard for a unique and quality-driven coffee-roasting, it has led consumers to look for quality, attention to detail and delicious taste in every cup of coffee instead of just the aesthetic. Locals can attest that the food and drinks served here are refreshing. You should try its Smoke Milk Affogato that features a one-of-a-kind taste of Elephant Grounds’ double-shot espresso. Another bestseller is the House-Churned vanilla ice cream that also has a subtle smoke infusion. Creamy and light, you will definitely come back here for more. You may pair your hot or cold drink of choice with its wide array of handcrafted bread as well. Elephant Grounds provides a unique coffee experience because it ensures that the source of coffee beans are credible when it comes to maintaining quality, that the roasting of the beans are perfectly done, and that the prepared coffee arrives to the customers on time. Every morning, you will find customers telling the baristas on grind adjustments and modifications to specify their preferred coffee brewing. Visit this lovely coffee shop and rest assured that you will taste the most delicious cup of coffee that reaches your standards. tips
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61 Caine Road, Mid-Levels, Central, Hong Kong
Monday - Friday: 8am - 9pm
Saturday - Sunday: 9am -8pm 
Hillier Street Light Rail Station
Barista Jam
Barista Jam is a small two-story coffee shop with only a few bar stool seats and a small coffee table or two. Nevertheless, do not be misled by the coffee shop’s compactness. Barista Jam is a great place with its signature drip coffee as well as the Japanese siphoned coffee. Either by French press, hand grinders, Aeropress or Moka pots, one may choose his or her preferred method of brewing coffee here.
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Two of its signature drinks are the Flat White and Piccolo Latte Coffee. For an affordable price of $33 HK, you can enjoy the rich nutty flavor of the Barista Jam latte. Barista Jam’s espresso is inspired by Hong Kong’s traditional brewing style that produces a strong, acidic, and citrusy finish. Their espresso is a local favorite; it gives enough kick for those who need a caffeine push during the day. The food offerings are also worth a try. Choose from a selection of linguine pesto pastas, vegetarian sandwiches and a beef sirloin salad among others. You will love the breakfast meals here. The eggs and bacon served are cooked perfectly and is best paired with the fried tomatoes and sourdough toast. The pesto chicken pasta is another delicious meal included in the menu. For desserts, try their popular muffins. Operating a modestly sized coffee shop leaves little room for inadequacy. Although not mentioned in the menu or on their website, most of Barista Jam’s single origin coffee beans are in fact roasted by the owner himself: William So. This small coffee shop takes pride in its house blend with its perfect ratio of milk to coffee. After checking out the other coffee shops that are featured in this list, go to Barista Jam for your next caffeine fix in Sheung Wan. Visiting this quaint coffee shop will not leave you in regret because it is often viewed by locals as home to Hong Kong’s best coffee. tips
basic information
G/F, Shop D, 128 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tuesday - Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday: 10am - 6pm Sunday: 11am - 6pm Monday: Closed 
Queen Street Light Rail Station
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Date Modified: 01/10/2019
