NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE

Sai Wan Ho

Charmaine Ng explores the Eastern District neighbourhood

Located on the northeastern shore of Hong Kong Island, Sai Wan Ho is a primarily residential area flanked by Quarry Bay and Shau Kei Wan. It offers a plethora of hidden delights to explore, with a bustling street food scene and a film archive celebrating Hong Kong’s rich cinematic heritage.

Things to do

Sai Wan Ho Harbour Park

After a meal at one of the many restaurants in Soho East, take a stroll along Sai Wan Ho Harbour Park. Part of Quarry Bay Promenade, the park stretches from North Point all the way to Shau Kei Wan. It offers panoramic sea views and is especially popular with joggers and dog walkers.

Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery

The fireboat Alexander Grantham went into service in 1953, serving as the flagship of the Hong Kong Fire Services Department’s fireboat team. After nearly 50 years of conducting rescue operations, it was decommissioned in 2002 and refitted into a gallery in 2007. Today, it showcases firefighting artefacts and offers multimedia information on marine rescue work in Hong Kong. lcsd.gov.hk

Ride the Coral Sea Ferry

You’ve sailed across Victoria Harbour from Central Pier plenty of times, but have you sailed from Sai Wan Ho before? Operated by Coral Sea Ferry, the pier has three ferry services to Kwun Tong, Sam Ka Tsuen and Tung Lung Chau. Hop on for an alternative way to travel across the city.

Hong Kong Film Archive

Standing at five storeys with a net floor area of 7,200 square metres, the Hong Kong Film Archive is dedicated to preserving old works and used for screening, exhibition, offices and other public functions. It has an impressive collection of local films, books, magazines and audio materials that can be viewed in the archive itself or borrowed to enjoy at home.

filmarchive.gov.hk

Where to eat

Soho East

Soho East is exactly as its name suggests – Soho, but on the eastern end of Hong Kong Island. It consists of a handful of classy waterfront restaurants, bars and cafés, all of which offer outdoor seating and welcome pets. From western delights at The Salted Pig to Thai delicacies at Mint & Basil, there’s a restaurant to suit every taste in this tightknitted hub. sohoeast.com.hk

Tai On Building

In contrast to Soho East, Tai On Building is a cramped, chaotic building that houses multiple street food stalls. But don’t let that put you off – the 1960s-style residential block has long been a favourite amongst Hongkongers for authentic local delicacies such as fish balls, siu mai, egg waffles and more. For a full sit-down meal, we recommend Lam Kee Cart Noodles and Zeppelin Hot Dog Shop.

Wo’s Restaurant

For the quintessential cha chaan teng experience, head over to Wo’s Restaurant. The original restaurant was founded in the 1980s and is now run by a second-generation owner. With two locations in Hong Kong, Wo’s Restaurant is a tried and tested establishment for local classics such as ham macaroni, spam and egg sandwich and Hong Kong-style French toast.

C’s Bakery

If you enjoy café hopping, then a visit to C’s Bakery is a must. The café’s minimalist, light blue interiors make it a great place to take some artsy shots for your ‘Gram. But it’s not all about appearances – C’s Bakery also serves up a mouthwatering all-day menu featuring artisan bread with scrambled eggs, croissant with smoked salmon and black truffle pasta.

How to get there

From Central, take the MTR Island Line to Sai Wan Ho Station. You can also take bus 720, 722 or A12. Alternatively, enjoy a slow and leisurely ride on the eastbound tram.