If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to enjoy Chinese New Year, Hong Kong is the place to be. This vibrant city comes alive with dazzling lights, lively festivals, and a deep sense of tradition — but one of the true highlights is the food. From savory dumplings to sweet rice cakes, the traditional holiday foods give you even more to celebrate during the holiday season. Check out our list of must-try Chinese New Year dishes to enjoy while you’re celebrating in Hong Kong.
First, What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most important traditional holidays in Chinese culture. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar year and is celebrated with family reunions, dragon dances, fireworks, and elaborate feasts. Celebrating with traditional foods during Chinese New Year is important because each dish carries symbolic meaning, representing hopes for prosperity, happiness, and good fortune in the year ahead.
Now, on to the food:
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Nian Gao
Nian Gao is a popular Chinese New Year cake. It is made of glutinous rice flour and is chewy, sticky, and semi-sweet. Nian Gao represents prosperity and growth. There are different variations of Nian Gao depending on the family or region. Some include red bean paste, others dates, or even black sesame. Nian Gao is usually steamed but can also be pan-fried. We recommend checking out various bakeries and markets close to the New Year to try them. The Peninsula Boutique, with locations in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan, also offers a "Spin Into Prosperity" collection featuring classic Nian Gao.
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Tangyuan
Another popular Chinese New Year dessert is Tangyuan. Tangyuan is made of glutinous rice, shaped into balls, and sometimes stuffed. The balls can be fried, boiled, and served in syrup. They can also be savory and served in broth. Tangyuan symbolizes being together as a family. Head over to Fook Yuen in North Point, Hong Kong, to try these!
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Yi Mein
Craving something else? Yi Mein or longevity noodles are usually part of Chinese dishes for the New Year or other celebratory events. It is essential not to cut the noodles since their length symbolizes long life! Check out Yau Kee Noodles in Wan Chai or Sai Wan to experience delicious homemade noodles.
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Fish
Steamed whole fish is another typical Chinese New Year dish. Preparing the fish whole is essential here, as its body, from head to tail, represents a good start and finish to the year and prosperity. Try visiting the Ap Lei Chau Market on Ap Lei Chau island for fresh steamed fish.
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Dumplings
Eating dumplings for Chinese New Year is also very common. Dumplings represent wealth as they are shaped like old Chinese currency (ingots). There is a wide variety of dumpling fillings to enjoy, and making them is an excellent way for families to bond. Here are a few places to try:
- Amaze Dumplings for creative flavors like Mala chicken
- Dim Sum Library to enjoy them as part of a dim sum experience
- Wang Fu for Pekingese dumplings
Keep in mind that some shops close to celebrate the New Year, as many spend time reuniting with family and cooking at home, so make sure to plan accordingly! A lot of the food listed in this article can still be found at that time and enjoyed all year round.
Chinese New Year is full of dishes and desserts with meaning, tradition, and delicious taste! Other popular foods include spring rolls, fruits, and more. Enjoying them in Hong Kong is an experience like no other.
If you're ready to travel and try these dishes locally, you’ll want to make sure you stay connected while you explore and share mouthwatering food pics with friends and family. That’s where an eSIM will come in handy. Airalo gives you access to affordable eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions, including Hong Kong! Spend more time eating and less time worrying about roaming fees.
You can also learn more about traveling to China in our travel guide: China Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know
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