Your Guide For Muslim-Friendly Wan Chai, Hong Kong

muslim-friendly wan chai

Being a commercial and cultural hub, Wan Chai offers an eclectic mix of Hong Kong – from the old to the new. Slices of Hong Kong history are still very much alive in the neighbourhood such as the Blue House and the city’s iconic trams. Amongst these historic elements, new life blooms into the neighbourhood with the arrival of indie shopping areas and skyscrapers. This dynamically evolving neighbourhood is a must-visit when in Hong Kong.

If you need one more reason to pay this district a visit, well it’s because it is also Muslim-friendly! Firstly, one of Hong Kong’s largest and most visited mosques, the Ammar Mosque, is located right here in Wan Chai. Also, the neighbourhood is teeming with Halal food. In fact, about one-third of Hong Kong Island’s Halal-certified establishments can be found in Wan Chai!

Don’t know where to start exploring the coolest neighbourhood in Hong Kong? Here’s a curated guide on what to eat, see and do in Wan Chai to kickstart your journey:

What to eat muslim-friendly wan chai

Islamic Centre Canteen

No trip to Hong Kong would be complete without feasting on some dim sum! Located within the Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre, the Islamic Centre Canteen serves up mouth-watering and affordable dim sum during lunch hours.

But not to worry, if you miss out on the dim sum, the restaurant still offers delectable Chinese dishes such as Shrimp Wanton in Noodle Soup and Deep Fried Chicken with Sweet & Sour Sauce.

Address: 5/F, Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre, 40 Oi Kwan Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Weekdays, 11am – 9pm; Weekends, 10am – 9pm
Contact: +852 2834 8211

Wai Kee

Image credit: hasib

Halal authentic roasted duck rice is hard to come by, but you can put your quest to rest in Hong Kong by hitting up Wai Kee. You can look forward to sinking your teeth into the marinated crispy duck skin and succulent meat. Simply heavenly!

Although the Roasted Duck Rice is the most popular dish from the eatery, other flavoursome menu items include Wonton Noodles, the Signature Mutton Curry Rice and Soy Sauce Chicken Rice.

Address: Shop 5, Bowrington Road Cooked Food Centre, 1/F, Bowrington Road Market, 21 Bowrington Road, Wan Chai
Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 11am – 6pm
Contact: +852 2574 1131

Big Pizza

Image credit: Openrice

True to its name, Big Pizza claims to serve the biggest pizzas in all of Hong Kong! Besides being big in size, the pizzas are also big on flavour. Some of their delectable flavours include Margarita, Pepperoni, Hawaiian and Chicken Tikka. Since they open throughout the night, you know where to go for some supper in Wan Chai.

Address: Shop 5, G/F, Wanchai Central Building, 89 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 10am – 6am; Fridays and Sundays, 10am – 7am, Closed on Saturdays
Contact: +852 2153 3363

Ebeneezer’s Kebab & Pizzeria

Image credit: Ebeneezer’s Kebabs & Pizzeria

Being one of the most successful kebab chains in Hong Kong, Ebeneezer’s Kebab & Pizzeria is the go-to place for some of the best kebabs in the country. Besides selling succulent kebabs and delicious pizzas, Ebeneezer’s also sells salads, Fish-N-Chips, and Indian food such as curries and biryanis.

Address: (1) Shop 4, G/F, Wanchai Central Building, 89 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island; (2) G/F, 52 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Weekdays, 10am – 6am; Weekends, 10am – 7am
Contact: +852 2529 3738/+852 2157 0009

Himalaya Restaurant

Image credit: Himalaya Restaurant Wanchai Hong Kong

Himalaya Restaurant takes pride in their authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine using a blend of exotic spices, herbs and aromatics. Some of their most popular dishes are Himali Lamb Sekuwa, Himalaya Lamb Rack and Chicken Tikka Masala. Don’t forget to end your Himalayan meal on a sweet note by sampling their unique desserts such as Gulab Jamun and Rass Malai.

Address: Shop A, 1/F, 22-30 Tai Wong East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Daily, 1.30am – 2.45pm & 5.30pm – 11pm
Contact: +852 2527 5899

India Gate Restaurant 

Image credit: India Gate Restaurant

Indian Gate Restaurant is a popular place among the locals to get their Indian food fix. Their super affordable lunch set comes with one meat or vegetable dish, rice or naan, poppadom, a drink and soup. You can also ask for more curry from the friendly staff if you don’t have enough for the generous portion!

Address: Unit A, 1/F, Hundred City Centre, 7-17 Amoy Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Daily, 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Contact: +852 2382 6588

Jo Jo Indian Cuisine

Image credit: JoJo Indian Restaurant in Wan Chai

Located in the heart of Wan Chai, Jo Jo Indian Cuisine is a great restaurant to drop by for Indian food. Don’t miss out on their lunch buffet where you can feast to your heart’s content without breaking the bank. Some dishes you have to look out for are the Lamb Chop Masala, Garlic Naan and Lamb Rogan Josh.

Address: 2/F, David House, 37-39 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Daily, 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 10.30pm
Contact: +852 2527 3776

Masala Train

Image credit: Masala Train

The founder of Masala Train, Tiena Sekharan, opened the restaurant to debunk the misconception that other cuisines are healthier than Indian food. Masala Train is committed to serving light and fresh Indian dishes such as Paneer Tikka Wrap and Chicken Shorba. They also sell guilt-free authentic Indian desserts, like Kheer and Gajar Halwa, that have no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Be sure to add Masala Train on your to-eat list if you’re on a diet!

Address: G/F, Yuen On Building, 146 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Sundays to Thursdays, 11.30am – 10pm; Fridays – Saturdays, 11.30am – 12am
Contact: +852 2415 3000

Istanbul Turkish Kebabs and Grills 

Image credit: Istanbul Turkish Grills and Kebabs

If you’re craving for Middle Eastern food in Hong Kong, Istanbul Turkish Kebabs and Grills will definitely satisfy that craving. Their well-seasoned grilled doner meat is absolutely tasty. You can choose from three kinds of protein – chicken, beef and lamb – and have them as a pide or wrap, or pair them with a salad or fries. They also serve a nutritious lentil soup and sweet baklava for those looking for a complete meal.

Address: Unit A, 1/F, Hundred City Centre, 7-17 Amoy Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 11am – 11pm; Fridays to Saturdays, 11am – 11.30pm; Sundays    12pm – 11pm
Contact: +852 2382 6588

Also Read: Halal Food in Hong Kong: 20 Places to Visit When You’re Hungry

What to see muslim-friendly wan chai

See Hong Kong’s Muslim community at Masjid Ammar

Image credit: Evengkwand

Ammar Mosque and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre – simply known as Wan Chai Mosque – is one of the biggest mosques in Hong Kong. The Islamic Centre got its name from the mosque’s designer, Ramju Sadick, who is a Chinese Muslim. Besides being a place of prayer, this eight-story complex also houses an Islamic Centre, a canteen and a library. This mosque is definitely a must when visiting Wan Chai!

See Hong Kong’s History at The Blue House Cluster

Image credit: BobMocarsky

When you stroll along Stone Nullah Lane, you simply cannot miss a cluster of colourful houses. The Blue House Cluster is made up of three interconnected buildings – the Blue House, the Yellow House, and the Orange House – which are aptly named after their vibrant-coloured exterior. Besides being the perfect spot for Instagram shots, these buildings also represent a piece of Hong Kong’s history.

Image credit: Gloriashek91

The most significant of the three is the Blue House, which is one of the few remaining examples of a tong lau, a type of residential building with balconies as a notable feature. This architecture is popular in the 1920s – blended both Chinese and Western features. This well-preserved building was given the Award of Excellence in the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2017, which is the highest level of its kind!

See Hong Kong’s Culture at Wan Chai Market

Image credit: Mark Lehmkuhler

There’s no better place to experience the culture of a country than at a market. And out of all the markets in Hong Kong, Wan Chai Market is said to be one of the best. One part of the market is the wet market where you can get fresh produce and catch a glimpse of the locals’ way of life.

Another section of the market is called the Wan Chai Street Market. Also called “Wan Chai Toy Street”, the street market is the best place to get affordable souvenirs. From traditional Chinese toys to novelty trinkets, there is bound to be a perfect gift for your loved ones here.

See Hong Kong’s Skyline at Bowen Road

Image credit: Marc van der Chijs

When seeking for the best view of Hong Kong’s stunning skyline, most tourists would flock to the famous Victoria Peak. You can avoid the crowds and get an alternative perspective of Hong Kong by hiking up Bowen Road. Imagine being surrounded by lush greenery while having a great view of densely-packed skyscrapers. You’re getting the best of both worlds!

Also Read: Finding Halal Food Overseas: 7 Food Apps to Help You

What to do muslim-friendly wan chai

Shop at Star Street Precinct 

Image credit: hkcm

If Singapore has Haji Lane, Hong Kong has the Star Street Precinct. The Star Street Precinct – comprised of Star Street, Moon Street and Sun Street – is every millennial’s shopping paradise. The hip area is packed with quaint shops that sell a variety of unique items such as perfume, handicrafts and even coffee. The walls of the streets are also decorated with a kaleidoscope of murals that’ll be the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos.

Chill at Sau Wah Fong 

Image credit: jouerhk

As the Star Street Precinct is gaining popularity, you may want to seek respite at Sau Wah Fong. Tucked away from the bustling neighbourhood, Sau Wah Fong is a quaint lane that offers both the old and new, as it is lined with charming cafes and old-school businesses. Take your time to window shop or have a chat with your friends over coffee. Sau Wah Fong is the place to take a breather from the fast-paced city.

Ride a tram through Wan Chai

Image credit: Fongs Gomyeal 260

Although the iconic trams in the picture above run throughout Hong Kong Island, the tramways within Wan Chai – especially along Hennessey Road, Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road – are some of the busiest. The trams are also best photographed in Wan Chai, as colourful buildings and flashing neon signs provide an excellent backdrop that embodies Hong Kong.

These trams are locally known as “Ding Ding” trams because of the unmistakable sound their horns make. Hop on a tram and hear it in action for yourselves! With over 100 years of history, these trams aren’t exactly the fastest mode of transportation. Nonetheless, it is an excellent way to immerse in history while having plenty of time to take in the sights and sounds of Wan Chai.

Take the Star Ferry from Wan Chai Pier

Image credit: edwin.11

Did you know that there’s more than one way to experience Hong Kong’s skyline? Other than from the top, enjoy the views of Hong Kong from the water! Come on-board the Star Ferry at Wan Chai Pier and take a round trip to Tsim Sha Tsui. The best time to make the trip is during sunset as you get to catch the gorgeous golden hour and witness Hong Kong come to life at night as the lights are switched on.

With so many things to eat, see and do in this Muslim-friendly neighbourhood, wan day might not be enough to fully discover Wan Chai! From the old to the new, Wan Chai is without a doubt one of the best places to start your Hong Kong adventure.

Hong Kong Tourism Board has recently launched a microsite to provide more information and travel tips for Muslim travellers. So if you need more travel inspiration or wish to jazz up your itinerary with exciting things to do, then be sure to visit Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Muslim-centric website for the latest ins and outs of Hong Kong.

Brought to you by Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB).