Shenzhen: The Foodies’ Weekend Haven for Hong Kong Dwellers

SHENZHEN, China — Shenzhen has emerged as a prime weekend destination for Hong Kong residents, lured by its vibrant food scene and easy accessibility. With half of Hong Kong seemingly crossing the border, locals are discovering countless culinary gems across the city.

Traveling to Shenzhen is a breeze, particularly via the MTR East Rail Line, which stops at the less congested Lok Ma Chau station. Trains depart every 10 minutes from Admiralty, making the 50-minute ride a perfect window to catch up on the latest fashion trends. For those who prefer the luxury of speed, High-Speed Rail services whisk passengers to Futian in a mere 14 minutes, though travelers are advised to arrive at least 20 minutes early.

For a more personalized journey, many travelers opt for private car services, costing around HKD800 from Hong Kong Island and HKD700 from Kowloon. This option provides door-to-door convenience and comfort, catering particularly to group travelers.

Once in Shenzhen, navigating the cashless culture is imperative. Downloading Alipay and WeChatPay is essential since most establishments don’t accept traditional credit cards. Additionally, transferring HKD to a WeChat wallet to pay in RMB minimizes transaction fees, enhancing the food adventure experience.

In exploring Shenzhen’s culinary landscape, the app Dianping serves as a powerful ally. Often described as OpenRice’s more sophisticated counterpart, Dianping not only helps diners discover new restaurants but also facilitates reservations and home delivery for everything from coffee to late-night snacks. Meanwhile, its competitor Meituan offers aggressive deals that add to the savings.

Aside from dining logistics, food offerings in Shenzhen are worth noting. At a local favorite, the coconut chicken is a must-try: marinated overnight and cooked to perfection, offering a delightful crunch on the outside and tender meat inside. Diners rave about the intricate flavors infused in every bite.

Another recommended spot is a late-night Chaoshan-style beef hotpot, popular for late-night diners seeking premium beef cuts until 2 AM. With a selection of cuts like 三花趾 and 吊龙, patrons find each option presents a unique texture and taste profile, promising a culinary experience unlike any other.

For guests who crave a more exotic broth, a coconut chicken hotpot restaurant allows diners to see their coconut broth being freshly prepared at the table. The restaurant prides itself on using local ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor.

Lamb lovers will also revel in a location that has perfected the charcoal-grill technique, offering lamb leg served in three delectable stages. The multilayered preparation highlights varying flavors and textures, catering to even the most discerning palates and staying open until 4 AM for those late-night hunger pangs.

For a change of pace, a cozy yakitori spot serves perfectly grilled chicken skewers in an inviting atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind. Alternatively, a notable dish includes a tantalizing take on char siu alongside comforting fish tofu—culinary experiences that feel reminiscent of home.

Among the must-tries, the biang biang noodles in lobster soup stand out, gaining popularity despite being a birthday special. Those who venture to taste the stinky tofu and crispy fried fish fillet will leave with unforgettable memories of their Shenzhen dining experiences. Each bite promises to send taste buds on an adventure worthy of a weekend escape from Hong Kong.