Weekend trip ideas: Where to find best stir-fried beef noodles in Hong Kong

There are only two reasons you’d endure endless queues at Sun King Yuen. First, the famous curry pork chop. Second, an if-you-know-you-know favourite, the stir-fried beef noodles. The humble cha chaan teng is a widely known Wan Chai institution that’s been around for three decades. The noodles here are always a deliciously decadent serve of generous portioned noodles, tossed in the wok just long enough for the distinct “wok” aroma.

You can expect Mott 32’s take to be a little more indulgent than the usual cha chaan teng order. Following the exquisite dining room’s contemporary Chinese brief, the stir-fried beef noodles here toss together familiar ingredients. These include bean sprouts and flat noodles with AAA Canadian beef for a fully satisfying bite. They even have an alternate, plant-based version. But be rest assured, the classic savoury, unctuous flavours are all the same.

At JIA Group’s beautifully decorated, fine-dining Cantonese venue, Duddell’s, the humble dish of stir-fried beef noodles takes on a similarly elegant character. Thick ribbons of flat rice noodles are generously coated in the deep-brown soy and wok-tossed over a roaring fire for the smokey, “wok hei” aromatics. Woven in between are thick strips of Angus beef, lightly coated with a drizzle of X.O. sauce for an appropriate, flavoursome heat. There’s also a branch at the airport if you need to try it one last time.

Ho Hung Kee is better known for a steaming bowl of wonton noodles. That’s what puts them on the Michelin Star map anyway. But many stop by for their stir-fried beef noodles, too, touted by local food critics as one of the city’s best. The Cantonese staple here is as classic as can be. Complete with a balanced mix of beef rump, bean sprouts and spring onions vigorously tossed in a wok, the flat rice noodles are finished off in a searing hot oil for extra dry and glistening—never oily—strands.

The stir-fried beef noodles at Luen Wah Cafe live up to the humble dish’s easily affordable, gloriously indulgent name. It comes with generous chunks of tender beef and noodles and only costs an easy 50-something. It is made with the usual helping of fresh leeks, and spring onions, along with crunchy bean sprouts, all sautéed in the wok for a satisfying smokiness. It’s saucier than usual, but no complaints at all—just makes slurping down a full plate that much more enjoyable.

For a five-star serving of stir-fried beef noodles, look no further than Mandarin Oriental. Of course, the price is on the higher end but what you get is that delicious wok-fried beef noodle. Complete with soya sauce and crunchy flat noodles, you can either have it as an a la carte at Cafe Causette or let it fuel you for the day at Clipper Lounge, available during the breakfast buffet. Or better yet, enjoy it in the comfort of your home via delivery, prepared fresh by the culinary team.

Visitors swear by the warm hospitality and affordable food at this humble restaurant. Eastern Delights, also known as Mr. Wong’s, is also frequented by exchange students and expats looking to have a local dining experience. It’s not surprising given the range of local dishes available here. It can be a rather ‘love it or hate it’ affair but the genuine experience makes it a standout. And while there’s plenty on offer, the stir-fried beef noodles are perfect for sharing. Dining at Eastern Delights is better with a large group—the more, the merrier. Chew down the beef noodles with some beer while you’re at it.

As you can guess from this restaurant’s name, congee and wonton noodles are the signatures. However, this dim sum place also offers a wide variety of dishes. Stir-fried beef noodles are a classic and won’t disappoint unless the flat noodles run out and they use the thin type. So, make sure you come early for the truly authentic dish. The ifc mall location is also very convenient for those looking to eat before heading to the airport or are in town for a quick layover. Otherwise, there are plenty of branches all over Hong Kong.