Dai Pai Dong Food Stalls

Taste authentic Hong Kong street food at Temple Street’s dai pai dong stalls, famous for clay pot rice and spicy crab.

Brief History: Dai pai dongs (street-side food stalls) flourished after WWII when the government granted licenses to war veterans. Temple Street soon became a hub for these open-air kitchens, many of which have been family-run for generations. Notable Features: These stalls use simple, functional setups—metal tables, plastic stools, and handwritten menus. Dishes are cooked fresh and served fast. Signature items include clay pot rice, stir-fried noodles, deep-fried squid, and spicy crab. Fun Fact or Unique Angle: Some stalls have earned Michelin recommendations. Eating at a dai pai dong is considered a cultural rite of passage for foodies visiting Hong Kong. Current Use or Visitor Info: Open nightly until late. Many stalls don’t accept credit cards, and seats fill quickly. Sharing tables with strangers is common and part of the experience.