Hong Kong-style milk tea, or “lai cha,” is a staple of the city’s rich culinary culture, cherished for its smooth texture, robust flavor, and perfect balance of tea and evaporated milk. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, finding the best milk tea spots is a must to experience the authentic flavors of Hong Kong.

Best milk tea in Hong Kong

1.Lan Fong Yuen

Lan Fong Yuen, established in 1952, is a renowned cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style tea restaurant) located at 2 Gage Street, Central, Hong Kong. It is widely credited with inventing the iconic “silk stocking” milk tea, a beverage characterized by its smooth texture and robust flavor. 

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/75Ug9cDW4VMb3SvC6

2.Kam Wah Cafe

Kam Wah Cafe, located at 47 Bute Street in Mong Kok, Hong Kong, is a renowned cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style tea restaurant) celebrated for its traditional pastries and beverages. Established in 1973, it has become a culinary landmark, attracting both locals and tourists seeking authentic Hong Kong flavors. 

Signature Offerings:

• Pineapple Bun (Bo Lo Bao): Despite its name, this classic pastry contains no pineapple. It features a sweet, crumbly crust atop a soft, fluffy bun, often enjoyed with a slab of cold butter inserted in the middle, known as “bo lo yau.” 
• Egg Tart: Kam Wah’s egg tarts are praised for their flaky crust and smooth, creamy custard filling, making them a popular choice among patrons. 
• Milk Tea: A staple in Hong Kong’s tea culture, the cafe’s milk tea is known for its rich and smooth taste, perfectly complementing their baked goods. 

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cPnUsFPGdhLFm2GV7

3.Tai Hing

Tai Hing is a prominent Hong Kong-based restaurant chain renowned for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, particularly its signature roasted meats. Established in 1989, the brand has expanded significantly, operating over 200 outlets across Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Macau. 

Signature Offerings:

• 5-Star Roast Pork: A hallmark of Tai Hing, this dish features succulent pork with crispy skin, reflecting traditional roasting techniques. 
• Chilled Milk Tea: A refreshing beverage made with a blend of strong black tea and evaporated milk, served chilled for a smooth and rich flavor. 
• Sweet and Sour Pork: A classic Cantonese dish combining tender pork pieces with a tangy and sweet sauce, exemplifying the balance of flavors in Chinese cuisine. 

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YswN28cz6ugaSZS98

4.Cheung Hing Coffee Shop

Cheung Hing Coffee Shop, located at 9 Yik Yam Street in Happy Valley, Hong Kong, is a cherished cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style tea restaurant) that has been serving patrons since 1951.  Renowned for its nostalgic ambiance, the café retains original features such as wooden booths and patterned floor tiles, offering a glimpse into Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage.

Signature Offerings:

• Egg Tarts: Freshly baked with a flaky crust and smooth custard filling, these tarts are a must-try for visitors seeking authentic flavors. 
• Pineapple Buns (Bo Lo Bao): Known for their sweet, crumbly crust atop a soft, fluffy interior, these buns are often enjoyed with a slab of butter, creating the popular “bo lo yau.” 
• Milk Tea: A classic Hong Kong beverage, Cheung Hing’s milk tea is praised for its rich and smooth taste, perfectly complementing their baked goods. 

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/92gjC6mMq78vAEk28

5.Mido Cafe

Mido Cafe, established in 1950, is one of Hong Kong’s oldest and most iconic cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong-style tea restaurants). Located at 63 Temple Street in Yau Ma Tei, it has been serving traditional Hong Kong cuisine for over seven decades. 

Signature Offerings:

• Baked Spare Ribs with Rice: A hearty dish featuring tender spare ribs baked over a bed of flavorful rice, topped with a rich tomato-based sauce. 
• French Toast (Sai Dor Si): A thick slice of bread dipped in egg batter, fried until golden, and served with butter and syrup—a sweet treat that pairs perfectly with their milk tea. 
• Milk Tea: Brewed using traditional methods, Mido Cafe’s milk tea is known for its strong, aromatic flavor and smooth texture, making it a must-try beverage for visitors. 

Summary

Whether you’re a resident or a traveler, exploring the best milk tea spots is essential for tasting the true essence of Hong Kong’s flavors.