Ho Lee Fook

Ho Lee Fook – Edgy Cantonese in Central’s Soho

Ho Lee Fook (1–5 Elgin St, SoHo, Central) is a bold, late-night Cantonese restaurant brimming with attitude—and pho—celebrated for its irreverent menu, Hong Kong heritage, and a spectacular design by Sean Dix. With its iconic wall of waving lucky cats, vintage Canto-pop soundtrack, theatrical open kitchen, and mural-ceiling booths, it’s a living embodiment of the city’s creative, electric spirit :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

What to Expect at Ho Lee Fook

• Neon-Jungle Vibe: Rich reds, mirrored ceilings, gilded decor, and mahjong-tile patterns set the tone. The atmosphere feels part nightclub, part modern tea house :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
• Chef-Driven Cantonese: Under Executive Chef ArChan Chan, the menu reinvents classics with edge—upgraded dumplings, wok-fired meats and spice-dusted seafood, with veggie and vegan options :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
• Lively Late-Night Spot: Open from 6 pm until 10:30 or 11:30 pm, it’s a bustling night-out destination with a party-like atmosphere :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

Must-Eat Dishes

• Mom’s Mostly Cabbage Dumplings: Hearty and comforting, with a nostalgic nostalgic twist :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
• Three-Yellow Chicken: Crispy heritage chicken served with sand-ginger dip—savory and textured :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
• Wagyu Short Rib: Rich and tender, often featuring jalapeño and umami-packed sauces :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
• Raw Hokkaido Scallops: A delicate, refined counterpoint to the bold flavors of other dishes :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
• Breakfast 2.0: Quirky dessert with Horlicks ice cream, cornflake honey joy, dried longan, evoking childhood nostalgia :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

Drinks & Cocktails

• Cantonese-Spiced Sours: Notably the Sichuan-Spiced Sour, blending whisky, lemon, honey, and numbing peppercorn :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Asian Spirits: A well-selected lineup of Japanese and Taiwanese whiskies, sakes, and Chinese rice liquor :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Funky Mixes: House cocktails like Pocari Sweato or Yakult Gin Fizz play with playful, nostalgic flavors :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

Tips for Visiting

• Book Ahead for Groups: Reservations available for parties of five or more; walk-ins welcome but get crowded after 7 pm :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• Go with Friends: Dishes are shareable, so bring a small group to taste across the menu.
• Expect Bold Flavours: The menu plays with strong spices, funky sauces, and nostalgic twists—embrace the adventurous spirit.
• Enjoy the Ambience: The theatrical design, open kitchen, and upbeat soundtrack make it more than just a meal—it’s a full cinematic experience.

Final Thoughts

Ho Lee Fook is a must for anyone seeking a culturally immersive, playing-with-fire take on Cantonese cuisine. With its visually arresting interior, inventive dishes, and electric energy, it offers a rare taste of modern Hong Kong—flavorful, fun, and unapologetically bold.