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Header image courtesy of Francis
Is there anything like the inviting spiced aroma of shakshuka, with its mix of tomatoes and herbs, enclosed around plump rounds of poached eggs? A simple yet flavourful Maghrebi dish, the shakshuka has made itself known across the globe as a beloved breakfast that is as warming as it is delectable. Grab a piece of pita or bread and graft a mouthful of deliciousness from one (or all) of these shakshuka platters that you can find in Hong Kong.
Chef Asher Goldstein draws up flavours from the streets of Tel Aviv, transplanting them to the tables of Francis on Star Street. Its brunch menu ($280 per person) features shakshuka as the main dish option, and his spiced rendition elevates the dish with pieces of lamb kofta, which pairs fantastically with simmering heat from the harissa.
Served on weekends between 12 pm to 3 pm, the brunch spread also includes a selection of four mezze items to share, with options like hummus, Francis’s signature beef cigars, and baked halloumi coated in vibrant spices. Dessert is also on offer as part of the meal, and the creamy coconut dream is definitely a highlight. Round it all off with a refreshing cocktail or a glass of orange wine—a rare find in Hong Kong.
Francis, 4–6 Francis Street, Wan Chai | (+852) 3101 9521
A citywide favourite for tipples, casual meals, and—most importantly—brunch, Oolaa is a reliable spot to enjoy great food with good company. Its versatile brunch menu features the classic baked eggs shakshuka ($135) that will delight both vegetarians and carnivores alike with its velvety mouthfeel. Served with crusty sourdough baguette, with the option to switch to gluten-free bread for an additional $10, spending lazy weekends huddled over this skillet of deliciousness is just the way to do it. For the full Middle Eastern-inspired experience, sip on a peppermint Dilmah tea afterwards.
Although Bakehouse is known and loved for its delectable pastries, the Wan Chai location also offers dine-in service that revolves around fresh fusion eats, as well as baked items. As part of its brunch line of egg dishes, the Bakehouse shakshuka ($108) keeps things simple with a base of spicy tomatoes and added chorizo for that extra level of savoury goodness.
Cutting through the thick scrumptiousness is goat cheese, which entices the palate with a bit of lightness and a distinct twang. After tucking into a full brunch meal, be sure to load up on Bakehouse’s famed sourdough egg tart ($12) on your way out.
Bakehouse, 14 Tai Wong Street East, Wan Chai
At first glance, the connection between the proliferation of coffee culture in Hong Kong and the popularity of the Maghrebi shakshuka might seem shaky at best. However, as most of the menus on our round-up have shown, this humble egg dish has carved out a spot for itself as one of the most sought-after brunch dishes, leading to an appearance on the all-day menu of Sai Kung’s ever-popular Little Cove Espresso.
Offering a healthier interpretation, the shakshuka ($120) stirs in a mixture of capsicum and Aleppo pepper into the tomato sauce before being dusted off with feta crumbles. Heap up a spoonful atop the accompanying sourdough rye and revel in the gratifying flavours amidst the calming air of this charming coastal neighbourhood.
Little Cove Espresso, Shop 1 & 2, G/F, Block A, Siu Yat Building, Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung
Past a flight of stairs along Graham Street is Falafel TLV, a no-frills chophouse that dishes up homely servings of Middle Eastern fast food. Its shakshuka ($98) is how your grandma would make it, with added sprinklings of olives and the option to switch to mozzarella for an extra hearty bite. While you are there, give the boureka ($75) a try, as the contrasting crunch of the pastry against the potato or cheese filling is simply heaven-sent.
Falafel TLV, G/F, 47 Graham Street, Central | (+852) 6553 1984
Knowing that the classics don’t need meddling, the shakshuka ($95) at Mr Wolf is lusciously simple, yet by no means lacking. For a unique riff, try the Egyptian eggs ($140), made with beetroot purée and topped with avocado, feta, rocket, and pistachio. Both are offered as part of the breakfast menu that’s served daily between 8 am to 11.30 am.
Mr Wolf, 5/F, Crawford House, 70 Queen’s Road, Central | (+852) 2526 0838
A hipster hotspot and one of Sheung Wan’s best hangouts, this craft-beer peddling gastropub showcases perhaps the most novel version of shakshuka on our list. With a rotating menu that spotlights the flavours of North American cuisine, Blue Supreme’s brunch selection features the kimchi shakshuka ($140). Don’t knock it until you try it—the surprising amalgamation of feta, green olives, yoghurt, and fermented cabbage headliner ties together the dish’s multicultural influences in a flavourful way like no other.
Blue Supreme, 21 Tung Street, Sheung Wan | (+852) 5998 3088
Always down for an adventure, Alisa’s general approach to life (and anything, really) is to “just go with the flow.” She believes that the most unforgettable moments are the most spontaneous ones. One thing she will always be certain of, however, is her love for the band My Chemical Romance and potato-based food.
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