From the aromatic steam of hand-ground sesame paste to the comforting chew of fresh glutinous rice balls, traditional Chinese desserts—known locally as “tong sui”—remain the soul of Hong Kong’s late-night food culture. As we move into 2025, the city’s dessert scene continues to balance ancestral recipes with modern flair. Whether you are seeking a Michelin-recommended classic or a contemporary vegan twist, these six iconic establishments represent the pinnacle of Cantonese confectionery.
1. Kai Kai Dessert: The Celebrity Staple
A Jordan landmark since 1979, Kai Kai Dessert has earned its place in the Michelin Street Food Guide for eight consecutive years. Renowned as a favorite haunt of movie star Chow Yun-fat, this institution relocated to Ningbo Street to accommodate its growing queues. Their signature offerings include remarkably smooth Black Sesame Soup and Ningbo-style Ginger Soup with Glutinous Rice Balls. The dedication to traditional grinding techniques ensures a velvety texture that mass-produced alternatives simply cannot replicate.
2. Grindie: Modern Stone-Ground Innovation
For those seeking a contemporary edge, Grindie (located in Tsim Sha Tsui, Sha Tin, and beyond) has revitalized the category with its low-temperature stone-grinding process. Their Sicilian Pistachio Paste is a viral sensation, offering a vibrant green hue and intense nuttiness that is entirely vegan. The shop also caters to health-conscious diners by offering adjustable sweetness levels across their menu, which ranges from traditional walnut dew to innovative fruit-based “parfaits” and cloud pancakes.
3. Fook Yuen: The Art of the Hand-Rolled Tangyuan
Specializing in what many consider the city’s finest Handmade Glutinous Rice Balls, Fook Yuen in North Point is a testament to the power of focus. For over 30 years, they have perfected just two fillings: roasted sesame and peanut. The skins are exceptionally thin and elastic, giving way to a rich, “lava” center. At approximately $22 HKD for a bowl of authentic craftsmanship, it remains one of the most accessible Michelin-recommended treats in town.
4. Tei Mo Koon: The Pride of Sha Tin
A beloved neighborhood gem, Tei Mo Koon is famous for its Almond Tea and Walnut Paste, both noted for their thick, fragrant consistency. For those who prefer a textural contrast, their Mango Pomelo Sago is generously portioned with fresh fruit chunks. Don’t miss their Lei Sa Tangyuan—dry glutinous rice balls coated in a flavorful mixture of crushed peanuts and sugar.
5. Orchid Garden Dessert: Traditional Healing
Steeped in history, Orchid Garden in Prince Edward was founded by a family with roots in Chinese medicine. Their menu emphasizes wellness, featuring Guilinggao (Herbal Tortoise Jelly) made from an ancestral recipe. However, it is their Pistachio Paste—vibrant green and free from artificial flavorings—that keeps enthusiasts returning. They also offer an array of preservative-free Chinese puddings, such as Coconut Red Bean and Rose Cranberry cakes.
6. Yuen Kee Dessert: A Century of Heritage
Yuen Kee is one of Hong Kong’s oldest dessert names. After a brief hiatus in 2023, it was revived by its fourth-generation successor in Tin Hau. It remains the gold standard for rare traditional items like Mulberry Herbal Tea with Lotus Seeds and Double Egg and their signature Steamed Egg Sponge Cake.
Essential Local Pairings
To experience these shops like a local, consider the following:
- Balance: Pair a “hot” fried snack from a nearby street stall with a “cooling” mung bean soup.
- Customization: Many shops allow “half-and-half” bowls (e.g., Sesame mixed with Almond) for those who can’t choose just one flavor.
- Timing: To avoid the longest lines, visit during the mid-afternoon or late after the dinner rush (post-10:00 PM).
These establishments do more than serve sugar; they preserve the craft of Cantonese “tong sui,” ensuring that Hong Kong’s culinary heritage remains vibrant and delicious for another generation.