Egg tarts. One of my favorite snacks growing up. What's not to love about snappy crust and wobbly egg pudding?! Yes pudding, not custard like the real Portuguese pastéis de nata (i'll save the review of that for my Lisbon post).

Anyway, during my last trip to Hong Kong, i did an impromptu taste test of 2 famous egg tart brands Honolulu and Tai Cheong since they were both within walking distance from my hotel! Here's the low down. 

Color

Something you wouldn't notice unless you place both tarts together. Honolulu is on the left and Tai Cheong on the right. The radioactive yellow of Tai Cheong's egg tarts could be attributed to a higher egg yolk content (so i heard) and given that it's sweeter, i suspect there's some glaze to it. 

Tart Base & Egg Custard

Honolulu's base is dense and crunchy at the bottom but the edges are more of a layered airy puff pastry. The style is more similar to the Macao-Portuguese egg tarts. The egg filling was rather wet tasted very much like a mixture of soft boiled eggs.

Tai Cheong's crust is something i'm more familiar with. Don't you love snappy shortcrust pastry? Well i do. This is what i'd call a sugar crust. If you like butter cookies, you will love this type of crust. The egg custard was denser, more curdy and can be sliced clean. 

Fragrance
Scent-wise, Honolulu's tart is more savory (lardy) while Tai Cheong's tart smells like a dessert. After the first bite of Honolulu's tart, my throat felt rather uncomfortable and there's an oily aftertaste. It was less noticeable after a few more bites.

I definitely preferred the eggy fragrance of Tai Cheong's tart.

Verdict! I preferred Tai Cheong's egg tart obviously. It's perfect for breakfast, or that afternoon snack, or pre-bed supper. Then again, if i were to take part in an egg tart eating competition, i'd probably pick Honolulu's since it's more savory and i could possibly eat more of them. FYI, Jr prefers Honolulu's.

Did i get that egg tart craving going? Well well, thankfully both Tai Cheong and Honolulu's egg tarts are available in Singapore! Go grab yours now.

XOXO
Travelerintransit

There was a time when Yung Kee was the go to for roast goose in Hong Kong. But as predictable as HK TVB dramas, a family feud resulted in a winding up order end 2015. Well, truth be told, the falling standard and the rising prices have made it an unpopular choice and i sought other alternatives on my subsequent trips. This time, we compare the "successor" of Yung Kee- Kam's Roast Goose and hole-in-the-wall cranky Yat Lok, both of which have been earning the 1 Michelin Star badge since 2015. 

Kam's Roast Goose (KRG) was started by the third generation of the family that started Yung Kung. Within a year of opening, they earned their first Michelin star, a feat that Yung Kee did not even managed. KRG knew to stick with the winning formula and kept the family recipe (sauce and marinade techniques), goose supplier, and chef (formerly at Yung Kee) the same. 

Of course, KRG must have improved something along the way. How else could we explain the consecutive Michelin star that they have clinched from 2015 to 2017. They are so successful that they have even opened an outpost here in Singapore (read the review of Kam's Roast Goose Singapore here).

The 30 seater store at Wan Chai is perpetually packed. Be prepared to queue or you may miss out on their signature roast goose leg on rice. Well we went at 3pm and had to order half a goose in order to enjoy the juicy leg. To be honest, i'm not a fan of roast goose, i find them too fatty and would rather have roast duck or char siew instead. I was a bit disappointed at the roast goose at Kam's as the skin wasn't very crispy and the fats weren't quite rendered enough to flavor the meat. 

I also made the mistake of not ordering the char siew!! Well, i was seduced by the lap cheong because we don't get the cured goose liver sausage in Singapore. That obviously didn't turn out too well and i ended up having to stuff my face with the incredibly seasoned and strong-flavored sausage and not having space for that glorious fatty caramelized meat. I was hoping that the blood sausage would be as good as the version that i had at Man Fu Yuan (they serve it with the stuffed suckling pig). 

Decent fare at KRG. The noodles are super springy and i'd pick that over the rice. Next time, i'll stick to char siew, and their suckling pig.

Kam’s Roast Goose 甘牌燒鵝

Po Wah Commercial Centre, 226 Hennessy Rd, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Tel: +852 2520 1110

Daily: 11.30am – 9.30pm

I will always remember my first Yat Lok experience. I was exploring Sheung Wan on my own and i couldn't decide on what to have for dinner (because i ruined it with Tim Ho Wan's char siew bo lo bao for tea, and i was also down with a cold). The Michelin guide told me there's a 1 star roast goose place in the area and i ended up eating a meal because it was empty (at 8ish pm) and the food is quite cheap. FYI they have also clinched a 1 Michelin star from 2015 - 2017.

It was late and Yat Lok had already ran out of roast goose leg so i went for the meat and another side of char siew on rice. I only wanted to have a taste because my throat was protesting from an inflammation, but i ended up polishing the entire plate of rice. That was how good it was.

The skin was thin and crispy with a thin layer of fats that melt in your mouth. The meat was succulent and well flavored and that sauce was amazing! I wasn't expecting much when the dish was presented to me but that light colored sauce added so much more flavor to the fluffy rice. Even though the char siew looked a little pale and not caramelized enough, it was a great accompaniment to the glistening roast goose.

The environment is not as comfortable as Kam's Roast Goose and I heard that the service can be pretty curt but i'll bear with that for their delicious meats.

Yat Lok
34-38 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2524 3882

While writing this article, i was a little confused on whether Yung Kee has reopened. I didn't bother checking it out when i was in Hong Kong this year but it seems like they are active on their social media accounts. If that's the case, perhaps there's a need to check them out again to make a comparison.

Yung Kee

32-40 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2522 1624

Daily: 11am - 11.30pm

The winner of the Michelin Star Hong Kong Roast Meat goes to... YAT LOK! If they can make a sick girl with an inflamed throat wolf down a plate of roast meat on rice, you can bet that it's worth your calories.

Share with us your other favorite roast meat places in Hong Kong and we'll check them off the next time we visit.

XOXO
Travelerintransit

Think it's about time to make a short getaway back to Hong Kong to update my dimsum list (read my top Hong Kong dimsum list here) and possibly check out the brand new The Olympian Hong Kong, a 32-room boutique hotel in the heart of West Kowloon. 

Why? Well, i honestly have no idea where else to find such spaciousness in a Hong Kong hotel, especially in the Kowloon area. I'm already dreaming of soaking in this tub and enjoying the view of the changing lights over Victoria Harbor and the HK skyline. 

Space is not a luxury here with rooms and suites ranging from 43sqm to 75sqm, each featuring a 3.3m floor-to-ceiling windows and even a kitchenette. Personalized service begins once you step off the Airport Express, or even better, the chauffeured Rolls Royce service available at the hotel.

Shopping is right at the doorstep with the Olympian City hub where dining, shopping, and entertainment are readily available. If not, join the mad crowd at Mongkok, which is just a short ride away. 

In celebration of the opening of The Olympian Hong Kong, the hotel is offering a special introductory room rate from HKD1,600 per night, available until 30 April 2016.

Time for some dimsum! 

The Olympian Hong Kong

18 Hoi Fai Road, West Kowloon, Hong Kong 

T: +852 3199 8888

Of the countless times i've been to Hong Kong, i've only tried Mak's Noodle during my latest trip. It seems timely enough as Mak's Noodle is opening in Singapore, right smack in Orchard Road at The Centrepoint. The restaurant was supposed to open 29 Jun 2015 but it seems like they cannot make up their mind on their actual opening date. The 'not-so-grand' Grand Opening is scheduled for media preview on 7 Jul 2015, that is if they open, for real.

Since i can't make it for the media preview grand opening, i might as well share with you my experience at the Hong Kong Central outlet, which is where Cantonese Grand Wanton Master Mak Woon-Chi's son, Mak An works at (there are several outlets around HK). 

First thing first, the serving size is damn blardee small (it's a Chinese porcelain bowl size) even for this skinnyfat girl. Good news is that it fits perfectly into any packed HK food itinerary because you get to save some tummy space. The portions are small because wanton was originally a snack in Canton, and not a main dish. I'm not sure how that is going to work out here in Singapore since we are pretty used to having wanton mee as a main meal. I wouldn't mind that thought but that's just me. 

Well, the most famous dish at Mak's is their Wanton noodles, which features thin springy and crunchy noodles in a clear powdered dried flounder, dried shrimp roe and pork bones soup. While i enjoyed the texture, i did not like the overly alkaline taste of the noodles and that affected the taste of the broth as well. 

The wantons were pretty tiny too. In comparison to the Crystal Jade Kitchen, or Noodle Place at 313 Somerset in Singapore, i thought our local outlets fare better in terms of the plumpness of the prawns. SURPRISE! So so so.. Mak's Noodle HK is pretty much hyped up, probably by people who have not had better shrimp wantons. That said, i thought their shrimp dumplings were quite delish when i gave Mak's a second shot at their Jordon Parkes Street outlet. The dumplings were more satisfying with the pork, black fungus, and shrimp mix. Also, they were not tainted by the bitter alkaline aftertaste from the noodles. 

I'll be sure to give Mak's Noodle in Singapore a taste soon, just to see how it compares to the Hong Kong outlets. Fingers crossed on the queue though! 

Mak’s Noodle 麥奀雲吞麵世家

#01-63/64 The Centrepoint

176 Orchard Road Singapore 238843 

G/F, 77 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong (Central MRT exit D2)

Tel: +852 2854 3810

Daily: 11am – 9pm

I'm a foodie and caffeine addict before a traveller and as such, travel planning always involves scouring through food guides, blogs, forums and buzz from the local-sphere. For me, food is indicative of culture and an important way of life for the people and hence, one of the best ways to understand and experience a country. In countries where a coffee/cafe culture is prevalent, I would certainly be cramming cups of caffeine into my system and then taking sleeping pills to combat all that hyperactivity at night.

While i was in Hong Kong, autumn of 2012, i decided to check out their coffee culture. I believe we all know about the Yum Cha and Cha Chan Teng landscape but the third wave movement has taken on a more dynamic development in recent years (very much like Singapore). Here is my list of Artisan Coffee places to check out in the Fragrant Harbor.

Iced Yuan Yang (coffee+tea) for breakfast at Mido Cafe, practically a tea house institution.

The Godfather- Knockbox

It all started with Knockbox Coffee Company, and they are serious about their coffee. From the coffee bean origins, to roasting their own beans (in their outdoor roaster just behind the shop), and finally the meticulous brewing (special attention to temperature of water), their passion is reflected through it all. The coffee comes at a price though; a cup of specialty coffee easily sets you back by HK$60 but you get to choose the beans and brewing method.

Affogato (HK$40)

If an espresso could be creamy, this golden elixir is it (even without the ice cream). The light acidity of the espresso was nicely neutralized by the smooth ice cream that was added to it. Godfather Knockbox is and it doesn't disappoint.

G/F, 21 Hak Po Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon

The Austrian- Café Loisl 

Cafe Loisl entered the scene at around the same time as Knockbox in 2011, serving authentic Viennese coffee. Other than the regular espresso with cream or milk, give the Maria Theresia or Mozartkaffee a shot. The first is an espresso with orange liqueur and whipped cream while the latter is a double espresso served with cherry brandy, pistachio brittle and whipped.

Pair that with some Austrian traditional Sacher Cake if it suits you or perhaps an Apple Strudel or Cherry Poppy Seed Cake to complete the experience.

G/F, 8 Tai On Terrace, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

The Alley Cat- Barista Jam 

This cooler than thou industrious coffee shop is tucked away in a small Sheung Wan side street. The grunge atmosphere and rough edges are nothing indicative of the smooth Australian-style coffee that they brew. Director William So is a coffee geek and he surrounds himself with coffee equipment, which he's happy for you to bring back home (with a price of course). If you're not the DIY sort, hang out by the bar and watch the baristas perform. 

Shop D, G/F, 126-128 Jervois St, Sheung Wan

The Mad Scientist- Rabbithole Coffee and Roaster

A trip down the Rabbit Hole will bring you into the fantasy land of caffeine induced ecstasy. Or a science lab full of gadgets and apparatus meant for brewing that special cuppa. Take your pick from the various single origin beans and dictate how you want it brewed. The Mad Hatter will meet your every demand. Or if you wish, take one of their coffee classes to better appreciate the aroma and flavor. Who knows you may discover the barista in you. 

2/F, 26 Cochrane St, Central, Hong Kong

The Breakfast Place- 18Grams

Another espresso cafe (chain) serving locally roasted coffee beans but i do love their food menu. Who can say no to All Day Breakfast! I had a hard time trying to locate their Mongkok outlet and the walking around in the hot sun was killing the flu-ridden me. FYI, it is in the G/F of Gala Place.

The Eggs Benedict (HK$72) was absolutely deli even with my exceptionally dull taste buds. The smoked gammon (ham), sauteed spinach and egg were nicely coated with the rich, creamy and cheesy Hollandaise sauce. It's the less acidic sort, which also happens to my preferred type. One of the best Eggs Benny i've tasted. There are other eggs available, as well as pasta, soup and salads available.

My iced mocha was very satisfying as well. Mind you this was a rich cocoa (not syrup) with strong and intense coffee. The coffee art really put a smile on my sniffly face too. Thumbs up for 18grams.

Shop B04, 56 Dundas Street, Gala Place Basement, Mong Kok, Kowloon
Shop 3001-G (Minor Portion), Level 3, Gateway Arcade, Harbour City,
3-27 Canton Road Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Unit C, G/F, 15 Cannon St, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

Mr. Bookworm- Kubrick

Books and coffee couldn't go any better. Spend your time browsing or lounging at this obscure book cafe just next to the super old school art house cinema Broadway Cinematheque. The cinema still uses the cut and paste method of highlighting show times. Of course, the same kind of obscure books, magazines and films can also be found at Kubrick.

I love the airiness of the place with the floor-to-ceiling windows washing the entire space. Spend some time contemplating about life in the peaceful silence at Kubrick. 

H2 Chun Fat Garden, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon

The Hole in the Wall- Espresso Alchemy

Espresso Alchemy meets all the criteria for being an indie third wave coffee place. Obscurity, specialty beans, local roasting check check check. Throw in a rare licensed coffee grader cum barista and you will be assured of a magical cup of coffee. Espresso, siphon, hand drip, you name it, they have it.

Shop 8, G/F, 4-6 Hoi Wan Street, Ka Wing Building, Quarry Bay

The Award Winning- The Cupping Room

How far would you go for award winning coffee? If the answer is 'to the moon and back', then you should head down to the idyllic Stanley beach. This coffee haven is opened by Derek Chiu, 2nd place winner of the Hong Kong Barista Championship in 2011. The long road there also reminds you to take things slow and enjoy your cuppa. 

Specialty beans are sourced around the world and then roasted to order to ensure you only the best taste. The only Synesso machine in Hong Kong is also used here. 

Shop 207, 2/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Rd, Stanley

The Popular- Caffe HABITU

This boutique cafe is started by the HABITU group and it focuses on the Italian lifestyle just like its sisters Habitu Ristorante and caffe HABITU the table. It is no wonder why it is a to-see-and-be-seen place for the trendy Hong Kong crowd.

The convenience and consistency of this cafe and bar draws the crowd in like bees. It was a 30 minute wait even on a weekday afternoon. The coffee here is definitely better than your regular Starbucks (cringes). Food and cocktails are also available and perfect for those nights when you wanna unwind with your friends. 

Several Locations around HK. I went to Caffe Habitu the table at G.O.D. Causeway Bay. 

This coffee list is by no means comprehensive. Coffee Assembly is also another that i would wanna check out when i head to Hong Kong. Something i've discovered is that most of the artisan cafes are located on Hong Kong island, specifically the Sheung Wan and Central area. So which is your favorite Hong Kong cafe? Tell us about it. 

When i think of Dim Sum, 點心, i'll naturally relate it to Hong Kong. The Hongkongers do these bite sized portions of steamed goodies and baked pastry pieces the best. The delicate edible art is not the only thing that draws us in, it's also the raucous and energetic atmosphere in the traditional tea houses that contributes to the overall delightful Yum Cha  (loosely translated as drink tea) experience. Regardless of the time of the day, these 點心 will literally warm your hearts and tummies after a long tiring day of shopping in the bustling harbor. 

With so many Dim Sum places peppered all over the island, i always find it extremely difficult to make space and time for them. As i consulted the many Best Dim Sum lists, i realized that while many hole-in-the-wall places sound fantastic, they aren't the most convenient for tourists who are hard-pressed for time. So here is my list of easily accessible and tasty Best Dim Sum for Tourists on a short Hong Kong trip. Coincidentally, they are mostly on the Hong Kong Island side. Now get your handkerchiefs out and be ready to wipe that drool off. 

The 1 Star Wonder

Tim Ho Wan

I've failed to try this massively crowded 1 Michelin star place at its original location in Mong Kok when i visited last year. The phenomenal two hour wait is a daily occurrence at any time of day. I was over the moon when Pui Gor, former Lung King Heen chef, expanded his business to Sham Shui Po and Hong Kong Station! Granted that the Hong Kong station outlet may not be the most atmospheric but you could have top quality Hong Kong dim sum at rock-bottom prices almost immediately after you step off the plane (and then Airport Express train).

Their Honey BBQ Pork buns (Char Siew Bo Luo Bao) is simply out of this world. This lovely sweet and slightly milky crunchy sugar crust perfectly envelops the juicy and wonderfully roasted meat inside. You'll also enjoy that fluffy pillowy bun sandwiched between the crispy exterior and moist center. Best CSBLB in Hong Kong i swear. 

Their Steamed Malay Cake, Cheong Fan (steamed rice rolls), Har Gao (steamed prawn dumplings) and Panfried Carrot cake are also up to mark on the flavor and texture scoreboard.

I especially love the Osmanthus jelly which has the light fragrance of the flower and wolfberries. This sweet cool jelly left me wanting for more after the first bite. Quite the perfect way to end the meal. Best 1 Michelin star restaurant i say!

2-20 Kwong Wa Street, Mong Kok, +852 2332 2896
9-11 Fuk Wing Street, Sham Shui Po, +852 2788 1226
8 Finance Street, IFC Mall, Podium Level One, Shop 12A, Hong Kong Station, +852 2332 3078.
Daily: 10am - 10 pm

The Old School
Lin Heung Teahouse
This eatery has been serving old fashioned Guangzhou specialties since 1918 and it guarantees the most authentic and traditional Cantonese flavors. If you want to experience Hong Kong breakfast like the locals do, this is where you should head. Grab what you want off the dim sum trolleys pushed by grumpy old ladies. Traditional Siu mai (steamed meat dumplings) topped with pig's liver anyone? Don't expect fantastic service during the busy Dim Sum service (6am - 3.30pm) for the waitresses can be impatient and intimidating all at once.

160-164 Wellington Street, Central +852 2544 4556

The Cinematic
Luk Yu

Central's Luk Yu Teahouse is a time warp in itself. Walk through the building's colonial facade and it's like time has stopped at the pinnacle of Hong Kong golden years. Let the nostalgia wash over you as you taste the menu from years long gone. This is another rare place where you can still find Pig Liver Siew Mai and deep fried dumplings in soup.

It seems like there's a Luk Yu in Ion Orchard Singapore as well. Not quite sure if this is a branch. Will check it out soon.

24 Stanley Street, G/F-3/F, Central, +852 2523 5464
Daily: 7am- 10pm; dim sum till 4pm

The Convenient Chain
Lei Garden
This relaxed and unpretentious Dim Sum restaurant is popular for its tasty Cantonese dishes. Dim sum is highly popular and has more hits with a few slight misses. I would expect no less of a Michelin star restaurant. What's great is also their warm service, and that is always a plus point. Their hospitality and service also applies to the Singapore branch.

Expect fat Har Gaus (steamed prawn dumplings) that are fresh and flavorful, fluffy Char Siew Bao (Honey BBQ steam buns) and nice Siu Yuk (Roast meats). Dishes cost between HK$30 and $50.

Multiple locations. See www.leigarden.hk for details.

The Hidden Secret
Che's Cantonese Restaurant 

Locals in the know would head to this smart Cantonese restaurant that is well concealed at the 4th floor of an office building in the middle of Wan Chai. The restaurant though small is elegant and classy. Their Char Siew Bo Lo Bao (baked crispy porn buns) comes close to Tin Hou Wan's! 1 bun is never enough. The egg tarts are fabulous with its wobbly custard center and flaky puff pastry. What makes Hong Kong egg tarts so special is the lard they use in place of butter (uhoh!) Skip the Liu Sha Bao (Salted Egg Yolk Custard Bun), it is way too oily and bland. 

I was surprised by the flavors in the Steamed Lotus Glutinous Rice- the saltiness of the meat, smokiness of the Chinese dried mushrooms and the faint aroma of the lotus leaves. I unknowingly finished the rice even though i was thoroughly stuffed. Other than the dim sum, the other Cantonese dishes are stellar too. The soy pigeon is a must try over here. It doesn't look appetizing at all, in fact it looks scary, but the meat is well flavored with soy and chinese spices. Make sure you book a table before showing up. Che is only hidden, it's not unknown.

54-62 Lockhart Rd, 4/F, The Broadway, Wan Chai, +852 2528-1123

The Classic

Maxim's Palace City Hall

Overlooking the Victoria Harbor, 1 Michelin Star City Hall Maxim's Palace provides diners with a grand view and a posh environment for enjoying their breakfast. Well dressed waitresses pushing fully laden trolleys will fill your tummy up with goodies while you soak in the elegant air.

Start with the smooth Century Egg and Pork Congee (comes with crispy crackers) and make sure you order the Siew Mai and Har Gao which are plump and fresh with succulent pork bites. The Bo Lo Bao is also very decent, though not as good as Tin Hou Wan (that's the only standard). All dishes are executed perfectly. 

The only way to beat the weekend crowd is to arrive early or make a reservation for this is one of the most famous dim sum spots in town. If not, try your luck at the sister restaurant, The Square at Central but chances of getting a table is also pretty low. Dim sum is served till 3pm and they open at 9am instead of the usual 11am on Sundays.

5-7 Edinburgh Place, 2/F, City Hall, Central, +852 2521 130

Luxurious Decadence

Fook Lam Moon

If you are willing to pay HK$60 for a basket of Dim Sum, then this is the place for you. Wealthy customers are known to hop off their Rolls Royce to dine at the Wanchai outlet. The friendly staff would turn on their 1000 Mega Watt charm for every customer regardless of the horsepower of your ride though. This 1 Michelin star restaurant is expensive but the dim sum is quite fabulous. Barely-there translucent rice flour skin wraps fresh meat and locks in the flavorful juices till the time you pick them up and send them into your mouth. The salted egg yolk custard in their Steamed Liu Sha Bao will spill readily when the thin bread casing is pierced so be ready for the explosion.

35-45 Johnston Rd., Wanchai, +852 2866 0663 (for reservations)
63 Nathan Road, 29/F iSQUARE, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. 

Daily: 11am - 3pm, 6-11pm

Top of the WorldTin Lung Heen

No other dim sum establishment can beat the view of 1 Michelin Star Tin Lung Heen. Located on the 102nd floor of the Ritz Carlton at the ICC, Tin Lung Heen offers a bird's eye view of Asia's financial hub. The floor to ceiling windows with breathtaking view will complement your gold dusted shrimp dumplings with bamboo shoots and asparagus, caviar siew mai and bird nest custard tart.

1 Austin Rd. West, 102/F Ritz Carlton, West Kowloon, +852 2263 2270

Weekdays: 12 - 2.30pm

Weekends: 11.30am - 3pm 

Daily: 6pm - 10.30pm

Star Studded Opulance
Lung King Heen

Lung King Heen is one of the three restaurants that has been awarded 3 Michelin stars in Hong Kong. Executive Chef Chan Yan Tak is the brain behind the intricately decadent menu here. Expect only the best ingredients like foie gras, black truffles, abalone and the likes. This is fine dim sum dining at its best. Everything from the texture, flavors and presentation will excite you. Be in for a treat.

8 Finance Street, 4/F, Four Seasons Hotel, Central, +852 3196 8888
Daily: 12-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm

Of course, there are many other stellar dim sum establishments in Hong Kong and this list barely scratches the surface. Do share with us your favorites in Hong Kong. Yum Cha! 

As promised, here is part 2 of my invited media tasting by Irvin's Live Seafood House.

LeBan HK Café just began operation last month (June 2012) and is located just beside Irvin's at 2 Jalan Leban. The food served is very different from the parent restaurant. LeBan focuses on the Hong Kong Cafe style of simple snacks and dishes. I would consider this to be quite the perfect supper hangout because they open till 2am daily! The place was packed by the time we finished dinner at 10pm! Very popular with the Thomson crowd i must say and it's obviously for a good reason.

Hong Kong cafes are famous for their thick toasts but there's the option of a Crispy Butter Bun with Condensed Milk (S$4.00). The buns were nicely toasted all around which gives it that nice brown crust and the delightful crunch with each bite. Ok now i feel like having some condensed milk toast!! Argh.. should never write about food at night!

Savoury French Toast Bites with Ice Cream (S$4.90). This is one of my favorites at LeBan! Deep fried breaded cubes served with a scoop of New Zealand Natural ice cream. Immediate stamp of approval! See those awesome black specks of vanilla beans? Oooh yea. I love the pillowy texture of the bread and how it soaks up the creamy vanilla. Perfect combination of hot and cold. There's quite a selection of ice cream flavors- Choc Fudge Brownie, Cookies n Cream, Vanilla Classic, Green Tea, Boysenberry Dream, Mango Sorbet and Strawberry Surprise. Greedy me asked for more ice cream to go with the bread cubes. 

Potato with Corned Beef Hash and Egg (S$5.50) is that sort of simple home cooked dishes that goes extremely well with porridge. I've never had Corned Beef before this. We usually do luncheon meat at home. :P So anyway when it was served, i thought it's the black carrot cake at the hawker centers. Doesn't it look like that? This is quite a savory dish and it doesn't taste bad but definitely not something that i'd order on its own. 

Seafood Baked Rice in Cream Sauce (S$9.80). The prawns were plump and crunchy but i think they could be a little more generous with the seafood. Though i must say that we should set our expectations right with the price as well. I like that it's fried rice instead of plain rice so that it's more savory. The cream base is a little bland but there's a nice light hint of corn in the sauce (which i love). Cheese lovers would love this one. Tomato base is also available.

Sizzling Crispy Noodles with Jumbo Prawns (S$8.50) from Leban. I love my Crispy Seafood Egg Noodles but this is not that. If you love the Sweet and Sour Pork sauce, you'd love this one but i didn't like it. The sauce was really overpowering and sweet for my liking. Melissa finished the whole thing though! While the noodles are really crispy, it felt too airy and lacked in the texture aspect. 

You can give the Cheese Fries a miss as well. There wasn't enough sauce on ours and the fries were a little stale (perhaps all that food photography spoiled it). I thought it was too dry and the cheese hardened too quickly.

The Sun Fried Ice Cream (S$4.00) is a must eat over here. Huge fried breaded ice cream topped with chocolate rice, hot on the outside, cold on the inside. I like how there is a mix of textures. Again, quality ice cream from NZ Natural is used here. You get to choose from a selection of Vanilla, Cookies n cream, Green Tea and Choc Fudge Brownie. The green tea flavored one wasn't very intense though. I think the Japanese does it better.

Another great dessert to have is the Affogato (S$4.80). I'm not sure about the coffee beans used here but the creamy ice cream really helped in making this a smooth dessert. My original plan was to have 1 by myself but the everyone decided to share it. :( Should have asked for another one. Loved this dessert. And that's Derrick sneakily finishing off the dessert! HOR! 

Food: 4/5 Most of the dishes that we tried were good. Should have ordered my usual instant noodles though. That's like my must eat at HK cafes.

Another discount special for my readers!
Quote "Funky Food" when making payment and be entitled to 10% discount at Leban HK Cafe. Available from now till end July 2012. Ngom ngom ngom!

LeBan HK Cafe
2 Jalan Leban, Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 577547
Daily: 4pm- 2am
Tel: +65 6257 8801