For visitors and locals alike, one of the most memorable things about visiting Hong Kong is the food. Hong Kong cafes serve a variety of both traditional Asian, as well as Western dishes - often at very reasonable prices. But be warned - dining in Hong Kong is a bit different than in mainland China and other parts of Asia. Here are three rules to keep in mind.
Rule #1 - Prepare To Share
Unlike dining in many western countries - where each person gets their own plate and individual servings, dining in Hong Kong is all about sharing. Often many dishes of food will ordered. Once delivered to the center of table and you and the other guests will sample it together.
You might want to try and remember not to bring the food directly from the serving dishes to your mouth. Instead, take some from the center, place it on your plate first, and then eat from your plate.
Rule #2 - Honor Your Host
If you have been brought out to eat by someone else, it pays to show your respect. First, make sure you eat whatever is placed in front of you - especially if you host serves it to you. If you are served something you absolutely can't eat - do your best to eat around it.
Whatever you do - please don't finish the last serving of any dish either. This is because it can embarrass the host who may feel he or she didn't order enough.
Rule #3 - Don't Skip The Tip
Unlike mainland China and Japan, tipping is customary and welcomed in Hong Kong. Some cafes may automatically include a 10-15% service charge. Otherwise, feel free to leave coins on the table, or round up your bill to include the tip you feel is deserved.
Of course, this only applies if you are the one paying the bill. It would be extremely rude if your host paid the bill and then you left a tip as well.
Dining in Hong Kong is meant to be a celebration - so don't be too worried about getting everything right. Instead, enjoy the experience, the food and the company of those you are dining with. If you follow the simple rules listed in this article, you will be able to enjoy yourself - and not have to worry about making any embarrassing cultural mistakes.
Rule #1 - Prepare To Share
Unlike dining in many western countries - where each person gets their own plate and individual servings, dining in Hong Kong is all about sharing. Often many dishes of food will ordered. Once delivered to the center of table and you and the other guests will sample it together.
You might want to try and remember not to bring the food directly from the serving dishes to your mouth. Instead, take some from the center, place it on your plate first, and then eat from your plate.
Rule #2 - Honor Your Host
If you have been brought out to eat by someone else, it pays to show your respect. First, make sure you eat whatever is placed in front of you - especially if you host serves it to you. If you are served something you absolutely can't eat - do your best to eat around it.
Whatever you do - please don't finish the last serving of any dish either. This is because it can embarrass the host who may feel he or she didn't order enough.
Rule #3 - Don't Skip The Tip
Unlike mainland China and Japan, tipping is customary and welcomed in Hong Kong. Some cafes may automatically include a 10-15% service charge. Otherwise, feel free to leave coins on the table, or round up your bill to include the tip you feel is deserved.
Of course, this only applies if you are the one paying the bill. It would be extremely rude if your host paid the bill and then you left a tip as well.
Dining in Hong Kong is meant to be a celebration - so don't be too worried about getting everything right. Instead, enjoy the experience, the food and the company of those you are dining with. If you follow the simple rules listed in this article, you will be able to enjoy yourself - and not have to worry about making any embarrassing cultural mistakes.
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