Herr Kwong

Tucked between the impressive brick buildings of Hamburg’s historic Kontorhaus district, Herr Kwong feels a little like a hidden piece of Hong Kong that quietly found its way into the city. Since I spent several years studying in Hong Kong myself, I’m probably more particular about Cantonese cuisine than most — especially because truly good Cantonese restaurants are still surprisingly rare in Germany. That’s exactly why Herr Kwong was such a pleasant surprise: suddenly finding the same flavors you’d normally expect from small BBQ shops in Hong Kong or the streets of Kowloon. The Char Siu in particular — classic Cantonese BBQ pork — is, in my opinion, one of the most authentic versions you can find here.

The menu focuses heavily on traditional Cantonese craftsmanship and classic siu mei specialties. Roasted duck, crispy pork belly, and glossy slices of Char Siu often hang visibly in the window, making it difficult to decide what to order. Alongside that, there are dim sum favorites like Ha Gao and Siu Mai, as well as wok classics ranging from beef and broccoli to spicy Mapo Tofu. Not only is the ingredient quality impressive, but also the unmistakable “wok hei” — that smoky aroma from an intensely hot wok that restaurants outside Asia rarely manage to recreate properly. One thing I still miss, though, is the clay pot rice they used to serve, just like in Hong Kong. Hopefully, it will eventually make its way back onto the menu.

Located right in the Kontorhausviertel, surrounded by the district’s iconic red-brick architecture, Herr Kwong feels refreshingly understated. The interior is modern, simple, and functional — reminiscent of the busy deli-style restaurants you’d find in Hong Kong or London’s Chinatown. Behind the restaurant is a family with deep roots in Hamburg’s Chinese food scene: the Kwongs are also connected to the legendary Dim Sum Haus near the central station and have shaped the city’s Cantonese dining culture for decades. We’re convinced this is the place to come when you’re looking for authentic Cantonese cooking without watered-down compromises — honest, skillful, and surprisingly close to the real Hong Kong experience.