15 Best Cheap Eats in Hong Kong 2026: Local & Authentic

Why Hong Kong is a Budget Foodie's Paradise

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a corporate expense account to eat like royalty in Hong Kong. While the city's housing prices are astronomical, the competitive nature of the street food scene keeps prices incredibly low and quality remarkably high. In 2026, the "Cheap Eat" is not just about survival; it's a badge of honor for locals who know that the best *Char Siu* often comes from a shop with plastic stools and neon lighting.

From the bustling markets of Sham Shui Po to the hidden basement canteens of Central, we've curated the 15 definitive spots that offer an authentic taste of the 852 for under HK$100.

Legendary Dim Sum for Less

Tim Ho Wan (The Original Vibe)

Forget the global franchises; visiting the Sham Shui Po branch is a pilgrimage. It's loud, it's fast, and the **Baked BBQ Pork Buns** are still life-changing.

Price: HK$30-50 per basket Sham Shui Po

Saam Hui Yaat

A traditional tea house in Sai Ying Pun where elderly locals read papers and the steamed ribs with black bean sauce are legendary. No English menu, but just point at the trolleys!

Price: HK$25-40 per basket Sai Ying Pun

Cha Chaan Teng Masterclass: The Local Cafes

The Cha Chaan Teng is the heartbeat of Hong Kong. Part British cafe, part Cantonese kitchen, these are the places where East truly meets West over a cup of silk-stocking milk tea.

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The Order

Milk Tea (Hot or Iced) and a Pineapple Bun with a thick slab of cold butter.

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Table Etiquette

Dap Toi: Expect to share your table. If someone sits opposite you, just keep eating.

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Top Spot

Australia Dairy Co. in Jordan. The fastest service and fluffiest eggs in the world.

Street Food Gems: Sham Shui Po and Beyond

Hop Yik Tai

Legendary rice noodle rolls (Cheung Fun) drenched in sweet sauce, sesame seeds, and peanut sauce.

Tai Cheong Bakery

The former Governor's favorite. Famous for its shortcrust egg tarts that melt in your mouth.

Yat Lok

Michelin-starred roast goose at street-food prices. The skin is like glass and the meat is pure juice.

Survival Guide: How to Order in Local Eateries

Common Cantonese Phrases

M'goi "Thank you" (for service) or "Excuse me"

Maai Daan "The bill, please"

Yat Gor "One of this" (helpful for pointing at menus)

Paying with Octopus

The **Octopus card** is the king of HK. Almost every cheap eat accepts it, and it saves you dealing with sticky coins. Ensure your auto-reload is set up before a food crawl.

Tipping Culture

Simply put: there isn't one. In local eateries, tipping is not required and often confused for you forgetting your change. Just pay the exact price or leave small coins if you wish.

Cheap Eats FAQ

Q1. How much does a meal cost at a local eatery?

Expect to pay between HK$40 and HK$80 for a full meal with a drink. Street snacks like fish balls or egg waffles are usually HK$20-30.

Q2. Can I find vegan cheap eats in HK?

Yes! Look for Buddhist vegetarian shops, often marked with a 卍 symbol. They offer incredible "mock meat" sets for very low prices. See our vegan guide for specific spots.

15 Best Cheap Eats in Hong Kong: Authentic & Affordable 2026