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【素食18區】Veggie Eats: Sham Shui Po


"Eating vegetarian in Hong Kong must not be easy"


For anyone who is a vegan/vegetarian, I don't doubt this statement is one you have heard on a regular basis.


"I would try being vegetarian, but I love meat too much!"


Usually, this is what they will follow up with. Personally, I believe that most people who make such a statement haven't fully explored the possibility of trying vegetarian food and realised just how many amazing options there are and the wonderful variety of cuisines and flavours available across the city.


Eating Plant-based is easier than ever in Hong Kong, and each month I'll be sharing some suggestions of places to check out in different districts.


Being my stomping ground for almost 4 years, it makes sense for me to start this list in Sham Shui Po.


Not only is Sham Shui Po a cultural hub, it is a haven for vegetarian food. Although some places are a little hidden away, I would wholly recommend trying at least one of them on your next trip to the area.


素食工房 Veggie Factory

8/F, Food Court, Dragon Centre


Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ambiance: ⭐⭐

Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Overall Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐



Of course we have to start the list for Sham Shui Po with a "Three Dish Rice" 三送飯 (also known as "this, this, rice"). Living across the road from the Dragon Centre, this place was a life saver on days when I really didn't feel like cooking. I mean, anywhere you can choose three items, get a sizeable portion of rice AND soup all for the incredibly low price of $40 has got my vote.


The tofu and aubergine (eggplant for the Americans) dishes are by far my favourite, but the spicy sliced potato, wheat gluten and green beans are also amazing.


The only downside is that the restaurant is in a food court, so don't be surprised to find it's quite noisy. During peak hours, it's also not easy to find a seat, so make sure you're with a friend who can reserve a place to sit down!


YEARS | 素年

Fuk Lung Building, 191-199 Fuk Wa St, Sham Shui Po


Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Overall Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐



When I first moved to Sham Shui Po, I don't believe this store was even open. Since then, they have multiple branches across the city, but I believe this is the first one that was opened. Not only do they have a wonderful variety of food, from Japanese curries to burgers that even the staunchest meat eater will be forced to admit taste amazing, but they also run various activities, spreading kindness and educating people on building a more sustainable community and raising the awareness of environmental protection.


I will admit, I am a very close-minded person. If I try a restaurant and I like the dish I got the first time, I am always scared to try something different in case I risk ordering something I dislike. Coming to YEARS, I find myself feeling confident that no matter what I order, I will be pleasantly surprised! I will admit I still haven't tried their salad, yet, but that is purely because I am stubborn and tell myself I would never pay for something I can easily put together at home (which I never do, because honestly, I hate salads 😂).


The decor is very modern and minimalist, the staff are friendly, and overall, I would rate this place quite highly. The only drawback for me is the price, which is still somewhat reasonable, at around $100 for one dish, it may not suit individuals on a tighter budget. For a special occasion or a date, it's definitely a must visit!


Fat Yau Yuen Vegan 佛友源素食

Fung Cheng Building, 340 Un Chau St, Cheung Sha Wan


Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Overall Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐



Another "This, this, rice" but this one is pure buddhist. The restaurant is small and quaint, and it really is a great example of a Hong Kong style restaurant. The tables and chairs are scattered around in the open space where people walk through, so you get a very immersive experience. The clientele are most definitely all going to be in their 50's or above, it's just that kind of restaurant.


If you do not read Chinese, you will be at a slight disadvantage, however if you can use Google Translate to get the gist of the menu, you can simply order with the numbers that correspond, saving you a lot of hassle. There's also refillable congee and rice containers, so help yourself and enjoy a really unique dining experience!


I would recommend the "lemon duck" which is made of rolled up tofu skin. You know 100% it's not duck, but the flavour is so nice that you most likely will enjoy it for what it is and not care that you don't get the duck taste.


Black Window 黑窗里

83 Tai Po Rd, Sham Shui Po


Food Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Overall Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐



NOTE: As of writing this blog I have been informed that Black Window is closing down due to higher rents from January 24th, 2025. Make sure to go while you have a chance!


This one is the most recent one I have visited on this list. I was recommended it by my friend Lauren, so we decided to check it out.


We tried their Palestinian inspired curry and a spicy sesame udon. Both were so rich in flavour and were just two of a wide variety of choices spanning cuisines from all over the world. I doubt I would get bored with their dishes, not only because of the variety, but because they have new items on the menu on a regular basis. Some of the dishes are made with locally-sourced ingredients, which is also a bonus!


As this is one I have yet to try more than once, I would love to get your feedback on the options. The cakes look amazing from what I have seen online, so be sure to give them a try!


Not looking for a full meal? Why not try some snacks!


"Veggie Sushi" - 知味駅 (Romanised: Zi1 Mei6 Zaam6)

Shop 33, Food Court, 8/F, Dragon Centre, 37K Yen Chow Street, Sham Shui Po


A nice selection of vegetarian sushi, perfect for a little snack whilst exploring the hundreds of quaint stores in Dragon Centre and the surrounding area


Ah Yat Tofu Pudding 阿一豆花

38G1 Kweilin Street, Sham Shui Po (next to Sham Shui Po MTR exit C2)


Like Marmite in the UK, I find that Tofu Pudding (dau6 fu6 faa1) is very hit and miss with people. Personally, I enjoy it, but only with a very (and I mean very) generous helping of sugar on top. A perfect treat during the hot summers, this store is super cheap, the food is good quality, and it's right next to the Apliu Street Flea Market.



Kung Wo Beancurd Factory 公和荳品廠

118 Pei Ho St, Sham Shui Po


Also selling Tofu Pudding, this place also has noodles and various soya bean drinks. Snacks and drinks that are vegetarian are clearly marked, so you can easily see which ones are suitable! It's incredibly famous, so expect a wait during peak hours!



Do let me know if there are any places you think are worth mentioning! I would like to start these regular posts by saying I am not affiliated with any restaurants, I simply just love food and would love to share these places with you all!


Let me know which area I should cover next! I look forward to hearing your views and whether you have been to the restaurants mentioned in the article!

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