Not Sure Where to Eat Next, These Hong Kong Restaurants Are Perfect for January

If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling endlessly, saving restaurants you never quite get around to visiting, this one’s for you. From polished Japanese dining inside Tai Kwun to comforting sukiyaki, sunny Mediterranean plates, and brunch spots you’ll want to return to weekly, these are restaurants that feel easy to recommend and even easier to enjoy. No hype chasing, just genuinely solid places that deliver on food, atmosphere, and that “we should come back” feeling.

Shiro Central

Set within Tai Kwun’s historic Armoury Building, Shiro Central brings a sleek, contemporary take on Japanese dining inspired by Tokyo’s most iconic neighbourhoods Ginza, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. The menu leans refined but approachable, balancing pristine sashimi and signature crystal sushi with inventive rolls and polished cocktails.

What really elevates Shiro is the sense of space and pace. Between the airy 1/F dining terrace and the relaxed Mango Tree terrace overlooking the Parade Ground, it’s a place that encourages lingering; whether that’s over lunch in the sun or cocktails that stretch well into the evening.

‍Book a table and enjoy Japanese dining in the open air.
Address: G/F Armoury Building 02, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central
Hours: Monday to Friday: 11:30am - 10:00pm; Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 am - 10:30pm

Here Thai by Chef Lenk

Here Thai by Chef Lenk brings the spirit of Bangkok’s street food into Central with confidence and clarity. Led by Chef Lenk, formerly of Asia’s No.3 restaurant NUSARA, the menu explores Thai comfort dishes through a modern lens from boat noodles and hot pots to Thai-style BBQ and playful small plates.

It’s bold, flavour-forward food that’s meant to be shared, paired with drinks, and talked over. The energy stays lively without tipping into chaos, making it an easy choice for group dinners, spontaneous nights out, or introducing friends to Thai food beyond the usual classics.

‍Address: 50 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 11:30am - 3pm | 6pm - 10pm

Mason Pocket

Mason Pocket feels like a neighbourhood bakery done just right. Bright, welcoming, and quietly confident, it’s a go-to for good coffee, freshly baked bread, and pastries that focus on comfort rather than theatrics.

The Portuguese egg tarts are already earning their own following, but it’s the all-day ease that makes this place special. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick takeaway or settling in with a book and a flat white, Mason Pocket has the kind of calm energy that invites repeat visits.

‍Address: Queen’s Terrace, 1 Queen Street, Sheung Wan
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00am - 7:30pm

Kansai One A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki

Kansai One focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well: Kansai-style sukiyaki built around premium A5 Kuroge Wagyu. Each set is cooked at the table, turning dinner into an interactive, unhurried experience that rewards patience and good company.

The flavours are rich but balanced, with delicate vegetables and a deeply savoury broth that brings everything together. It’s indulgent without feeling heavy ideal for date nights, celebrations, or anyone wanting a comforting Japanese meal that still feels special.

Book ahead to secure a sukiyaki table.
Address: 26 Hollywood Road, Central
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30am - 10pm

Carmela

From the team behind FRANCIS, Carmela delivers Southern Mediterranean cooking with warmth and restraint. The menu leans into fresh produce, olive oil, handmade pastas, and grilled seafood; food that feels generous, familiar, and deeply satisfying without overcomplication.

The light-filled space sets the tone for long, relaxed meals, whether you’re catching up with friends or easing into dinner after work. Carmela is the kind of restaurant where time naturally slows down, and that’s very much the point.

Reserve a table for an easy Mediterranean evening.
Address: Shop G06, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road Central
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 5pm - 10pm

Borgovivo

At Borgovivo, Italian cooking is treated as storytelling. Each dish draws from regional traditions and family-style recipes, from carefully prepared antipasti to handmade pastas that showcase simple ingredients done well.

There’s a warmth to the room that makes it feel instantly familiar, whether you’re stopping in for lunch or settling in for a long dinner with wine. It’s honest Italian hospitality relaxed, welcoming, and quietly confident.

Book a table and let Italy set the tone.
Address: 40 Hollywood Road, Central

Choosing where to eat doesn’t always need to feel like a big decision. From refined Japanese dining and bold Thai flavours to comforting sukiyaki, neighbourhood bakeries, and Mediterranean plates made for sharing, these Hong Kong restaurants are places you can confidently return to again and again. If you’re wondering where to eat next, this is a very good place to start.

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Note: The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication. The header image is courtesy of Here Thai by Chef Lenk.