Luk Yu Tea House is is one of Hong Kong’s oldest and most iconic tea houses, with a history dating back to 1933. Located at 24 Stanley Street in Central, it has long been a popular destination for tea lovers, dim sum enthusiasts, and those who appreciate traditional Chinese culture.
The tea house was named after the Tang Dynasty poet Lu Yu, who is often referred to as the “Sage of Tea” due to his comprehensive writings on tea culture, particularly his book The Classic of Tea.
And it is a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant too !
Luk Yu Tea House : Early Years
Luk Yu Tea House was established during a time when Hong Kong was experiencing significant social and economic changes. The tea house quickly became a meeting place for local intellectuals, artists, and business people, who gathered there to discuss ideas, politics, and culture over cups of fragrant Chinese tea. The design and atmosphere of the tea house were meant to reflect a more refined and traditional way of life, which resonated with Hong Kong’s elite at the time.
The interior of Luk Yu Tea House has largely remained unchanged since its opening. Its wood-paneled walls, intricately carved wooden screens, marble tabletops, and stained-glass windows evoke the elegance of old Hong Kong, giving patrons a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. This nostalgic charm has helped maintain its status as a beloved local institution.
The Post-War Period
After World War II, Luk Yu Tea House grew in reputation and popularity. The post-war period saw an influx of immigrants to Hong Kong, many of whom brought their own culinary traditions and influences. However, Luk Yu remained true to its Cantonese roots, preserving a sense of authenticity and tradition. It continued to attract prominent figures from different walks of life, including government officials, business tycoons, and celebrities.
Today, Luk Yu Tea House stands as a symbol of old-world Hong Kong, offering patrons a chance to experience tea culture in a setting that harks back to the city’s past. The tea house still serves traditional dim sum, often delivered on trolleys, and provides an extensive menu of premium Chinese teas, such as Pu’er, Oolong, and Chrysanthemum.
Its focus on quality tea and classic Cantonese dishes, alongside its rich history, has made it a landmark for both locals and tourists. The tea house is often featured in travel guides as a must-visit for those looking to experience authentic Hong Kong dining with a touch of nostalgia.
Luk Yu Tea House has long attracted many famous patrons, including followers of Sun Yat-sen who gathered there to discuss politics, and business magnates like Sir Run Run Shaw. It was also a favorite spot for artists and writers, such as Louis Cha (Jin Yong), the renowned martial arts novelist. Martial arts legend Bruce Lee is rumored to have visited, and entrepreneur Sir David Tang was a known regular. Government officials, politicians, and international celebrities have dined at Luk Yu, adding to its iconic status. Additionally, it has been featured in Hong Kong films, making it a cultural and cinematic landmark.
Hong Kong Stone Slab Street
While walking from the famous Man Mo Temple Hong Kong 文武廟 to Luk Yu Tea Shouse, we passed by Hong Kong’s Stone Slab Street, also known as Pottinger Street.
This is a historic and famous street in Central, Hong Kong. The street is known for its granite stone steps, which have been preserved since the 19th century, giving it the nickname “Stone Slab Street.” The street is named after Sir Henry Pottinger, the first Governor of Hong Kong. And the site of MANY TVB shows 🙂
Stone Slab Street : Historical Significance
Pottinger Street was built in the mid-1800s during the early colonial period of Hong Kong. Its uneven stone slabs were designed to help with drainage during rain, a clever feature for the city’s hilly terrain. Over the years, it has become a symbol of old Hong Kong, standing in contrast to the modern skyscrapers surrounding it.
Luk Yu Tea House Menu
So cute menu…
The Authentic Environment
Really very “tea house feel”. It is a very different feel from other dim sum places such as London Chinese Restaurant Hong Kong. It feels more up class dim sum versus London. So you can imagine the clients here many years ago vs the clients at the more down to earth local dim sum restaurants.
The Food We Ordered
As we had a heavy breakfast, we did not order much but nevertheless it was a nice experience. We ordered some usual dim sum stuff including a very nice BAO !
The Siew Mai and Har Gao are good too.
But if you are there, you MUST TRY THIS. The Pork Liver Siew Mai was brilliant !
And of course a nice pot of TEA.
Luk Yu Tea House : To Go or Not To Go
If you are in Central and wants a leisurely breakfast, why not ! Take a walk along the Stone Slab Street, feel the vibrancy of colonial Hong Kong and then go to Luk Yu tea house for some dim sum and tea to finish off a nice morning.
