The island's dining scene is among the world's most diverse, and we are certain you would not disagree with that! However, it sadly lacks commitment to environmental sustainability. Though there are some game-changers, there is still plenty of room for improvement. Today, we look at the five most eco-friendly restaurants in Hong Kong's culinary scene.
1. TREEHOUSE
Shop 1, G/F, The Steps ‧ H Code, 45 Pottinger Street Central
In keeping with their motto of being "One with nature," Treehouse has made it a point to be as eco-friendly as possible, even if it's located in the heart of Hong Kong. This eatery sources its ingredients from organic farms within a 10-hour radius of the city — this is especially impressive considering most goods in Hong Kong have to be imported. Most menu items are organically grown or made of plant-based ingredients, ensuring that the food is completely free of additives, preservatives, or additives. On top of that, they send back leftover plant material to farmers to use as compost.
This restaurant is gracefully furnished with recycled wood and boasts a fast-casual atmosphere while serving fresh, natural food. It offers both gluten-free and raw options, among other allergy-free options. Its house specialties, cold hiyashi kelp ramen, and bibimbap are highly recommended on the menu. Their menu includes naturally fermented items, such as probiotic-rich kombucha, digestible sourdough flatbreads, and organically produced burger buns.
2. ROGANIC
Sino Plaza, UG/F 08, 255 Gloucester Rd, Causeway Bay
A commitment to sustainability is apparent in every aspect of Roganic's operations, from local ingredients to their filtration system. To combat food wastage, the restaurant uses techniques such as dry-aging and curing and uses the entirety of poultry to create their meals. Roganic uses Evogro technology to grow microgreens in their kitchens to make the process even more eco-friendly. Besides offering fresh produce and a sustainable menu, Roganic also sponsors several environmental causes in the local community. One such effort was a Locavore Badge tour, which involved a hands-on demonstration of growing vegetables and an engaging discussion on sustainable F&B. The Roganic team is actively trying to promote awareness to everyone, especially the students, about the principles of organic farming.
3. LOCOFAMA
9-13 Fuk Sau Ln, Sai Ying Pun
The eco-friendly restaurant has been a hit among the local hipster crowd, and it has recently opened a branch in Sai Ying Pun. Locofama also collaborates with other like-minded restaurants, such as Sohofama, and is best known for serving organic and locally sourced food. The restaurant has a hydroponic cocktail bar where you can sample a variety of fruits and vegetables. Highlights include the Cajun tiger prawn with roasted veggies and cumin chickpeas bowl, pan-fried wild-caught salmon, coconut organic chicken with cauliflower and quinoa, and much more.
4. MA...AND THE SEEDS OF LIFE
H18 CONET, Shop no. 11, 1/F, 23 Graham St, Central
Ma...and the Seeds of Life is one of Hong Kong's eco-friendly restaurants. The chefs, who include a fashion designer and an environmentalist, reinvent animal-based dishes. Dishes like vegan sushi and faux-gras aren't just delicious; they are also more nutritious and less inflammatory than their meat-based counterparts. This translates to a greener and healthier dining experience for your body and the planet.
5. AMBER
7F The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central
Amber, a contemporary French restaurant in Hong Kong's Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel, aims to provide diners with a sustainable fine dining experience. It has been running with two Michelin stars for 14 years and will soon gain its first green star. In addition to serving organic produce and meat-free dishes, Amber is committed to using plant-based ingredients and recyclable packaging. Chef Richard Ekkebus's concept is one of the most eco-friendly in Asia, and this commitment has earned it two Michelin stars.
