Cooking may be more varied in Hong Kong than anywhere else in the world: Cantonese, Chinese, and Shanghainese cuisine is joined by foods from nearly every other region on earth. The Chinese love of good food extends to global cuisine. One of the best rewards to visiting Hong Kong is the chance to try dim sum, a Cantonese dish served only for breakfast or lunch, but never dinner. Eating dim sum should be done in a group. It consists of many separate dishes, each basket typically containing four identical pieces.

Hong Kong has an extraordinary culinary vitality with the city offering numerous fantastic eateries but do not expect to find many old neighborhood restaurants turning out dreamy dishes. Be aware that when you get your bill in some Chinese restaurants, you may be charged for everything, including tea, rice, and even side dishes placed automatically on every table, which are often mistaken for complimentary snacks. Tips are generally expected, even if the bill includes a service charge.

Diners often patronize hotel restaurants where the service and food quality is excellent, and wine selection more varied than in many independent restaurants.