Waso Cafe started as a humble village secret called “Yau Wo Ice Room” in Yuen Long and has since evolved into one of the most celebrated cha chaan teng brands in Hong Kong.
While the original shop remains a pilgrimage site, the brand has successfully expanded with popular outlets in Tsim Sha Tsui (super, super-crowded) and this branch on Jaffe Road in Wan Chai.
It is a spot I rediscovered through the Taste Hong Kong 香港好味 campaign – which also includes many other worthy and nostalgic cha chaan teng to visit.
I visited both outlets, and found the atmosphere in Wan Chai to be more local, maintaining its ‘bing sutt’ vibes.
The TST outlet is more fast-paced and crowded, with a livelier, tourist-driven crowd who are here to da ka 打卡.
The café offers an array of honest Cantonese comfort staples, particularly famous for its variety of “Bun & Sandwich” options.
They provide six distinct choices, including the Signature Pineapple Bun (HKD 23), Egg Salad Toast (HKD 25), Pork Chop Bun (HKD 29), Ham & Butter Pineapple Bun (HKD 23), and Butter & Condensed Milk toast (HKD 18).
The Signature Pineapple Bun (HKD 23) is easily the most famous item on the menu.
Unlike the standard version, this one is filled with a thick slab of cold butter, a fried egg, and a fresh tomato slice.
I noticed many recommending the Corned Beef Cheese & Egg Bun (HKD 25) on online reviews.
It is a slight messy and salty-sweet affair where the savoury corned beef is sautéed with melted cheese, creating a gooey centre that almost spills out from the toasted sweetened soft bun.
For those exploring the heartier side of the menu, the noodle dishes are a major draw and actually my favourite part.
Recommended picks include the Pork Chop and Chicken Wing on Tomato Soup Macaroni (HKD 68), Satay Beef Noodles (HKD 53), Pork Chop Laksa (HKD 66), and the Beef & Pork Liver Mixian (HKD 66).
You can choose from various bases like Rice Vermicelli, Mixian, or Macaroni, with an option to upgrade to Instant Noodles or Udon for an extra HKD 3.
The obvious pick for me is the Pork Chop and Chicken Wing on Tomato Soup Macaroni (HKD 68).
I found the thick tomato broth to have a concentrated tanginess that pairs well with the macaroni, which acts as a great vehicle for the soup.
The pork chop was so well-seasoned and tender, while the chicken wings pulled away from the bone with ease.
To wash it all down, their Iced Milk Tea is exceptionally smooth and intense, providing a strong caffeine boost without being too diluted by melting ice.
Whether you are after a quick breakfast or a sit-down afternoon tea, this is the type of place that delivers a true local favourite dining experience.
Taste Hong Kong 香港好味
Waso Cafe is just one of the many incredible spots highlighted in the Taste Hong Kong 香港好味 guide.
This massive celebration of the city’s food culture features over 250 restaurants recommended by more than 50 Master Chefs, serving as an expert roadmap for anyone looking to discover the most authentic flavours across every district.
Head over to tastehk.discoverhongkong.com to explore the full guide and find your next favourite local haunt.
If you find a favourite while you’re out there, make sure to share and tag #TasteHongKong so we can all join in the feast!
Waso Cafe 華嫂冰室
272 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Opening Hours: 8am – 8:30pm (Mon – Sun)
Google Maps – Waso Cafe 華嫂冰室 Wan Chai
Waso Cafe 華嫂冰室
G/F, Grandmark, 10 Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Google Maps – Waso Cafe 華嫂冰室 Tsim Sha Tsui
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* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Hong Kong Tourism Board.
