Tim Ho Wan baked pork buns
Most definitely a highlight of our Hong Kong trip was the visit to Tim Ho Wan. Located between Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok stations – and a pain to actually locate if you can’t read Chinese – is the Michelin-star-rated-but-unsure-whether-it-still is Tim Ho Wan.
A friend suggested we visit this place, and, unable to locate the long queues we were expecting, ended up walking around the block a couple of times before asking some locals.
The only thing to suggest this place is really popular outside of peak period is the dias outside with the only English notice stating something along the lines that you shouldn’t block the entrance.
We rocked up to this establishment before 5PM, so there was no queue and we were seated immediately (tip: if you are on holiday go outside of peak meal times and you will be seated immediately). During our half hour stay, a line quickly formed outside and fully congested the footpath.
The interior of Tim Ho Wan looks like a takeaway shop. There is nothing to suggest the quality of the food. Were were seated in the corner by the door next to a lady who was sitting counting cash and collating receipts. We required some interaction with her, and while she was attentive, she didn’t look up from what she was doing at any point, except to bark a few things at the man who was seating patrons.
This place is really small – if you’re looking for somewhere to spread out and dine then this is not the place. Tables were continually turned over – pulled back and forth to let the smaller guests with backs to the wall out of their seats as they came and went.
We chose 4 or 5 dishes, the highlight being the baked pork buns. While you normally expect slightly sticky steamed pork buns, these are baked and beautiful. A light somewhat-crispy exterior (but not uncomfortable crispy like toasted bread) dissolves to reveal the sweet interior that is heaven in a bun.
Our trip to Tim Ho Wan set us back $16AUD in total (two people, 4-5 dishes). We tipped to round it up to $20AUD as we felt a bit embarrassed paying so little for so much goodness.