📑 Table of Contents
Hotpot: The Top Choice for Hongkongers Heading North
When it comes to what Hongkongers love most about heading north, hotpot definitely takes the top spot. With a huge variety, great value for money, and fresh ingredients, it's an experience that's hard to find in Hong Kong.
- Mala hotpot: Sichuan/Chongqing style; if you can't handle the spice, go for a yin-yang pot
- Chaoshan beef hotpot: Fresh beef sliced to order, with a light and sweet broth — perfect for Hongkongers who prefer milder flavors
- Congee-based hotpot / coconut chicken: A lighter option; great for seafood or chicken pot
A quick tip: Many hotpot restaurants in Shenzhen offer group-buy deals — a set meal for two can cost half of what you'd pay in Hong Kong. Be sure to check Meituan or Dianping first.
BBQ & Skewers: The Late-Night Pick
Craving a late-night snack? Shenzhen's BBQ (skewers) culture is thriving — you'll find it down every street and alley.
- Lamb skewers, beef skewers, grilled eggplant, grilled chives... so many choices it's dizzying
- Some BBQ joints stay open until the early hours, perfect for Hongkongers who've been out late
- Northeastern BBQ and Xinjiang BBQ each have their own flair — try them out for different flavors
Tea Drinks & Desserts: Must-Haves for Strolling Around
Shenzhen is the home base of handcrafted tea drinks. When you're tired from walking around, you can grab a cup just about anywhere.
- Hand-shaken lemon tea: A huge trend lately, and it really suits Hong Kong tastes
- Milk tea / fruit tea: Brands like Heytea and Naixue originated in Shenzhen — there are so many options you'll never run out of things to try
- Dessert shops: Sweet soup shops, ice rooms, and cake stores — when you're worn out from street food hopping, sit down and have a bowl of sweet soup
💡 Many tea drink shops offer member perks when you order through their app, and first-time buyers often get a "new user coupon" — don't forget to use it.
Money-Saving Tips: Know Your Group Buys
If you want to save money dining up north, you absolutely need to know how to use group buys:
- Meituan / Dianping: Search the restaurant name — there's usually a group-buy set meal or voucher, often 30–50% off
- Check reviews: Before picking a restaurant, look at the ratings and recent reviews to avoid a dud
- Avoid peak hours: Some restaurants' lunch sets are much cheaper than their dinner ones
- Watch for credit card perks: Some Hong Kong credit cards offer rebates on spending in mainland China
— Compiled by the HKSZ Life editorial team, your guide to living up north. Information is subject to the latest official announcements.
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